Comprehension
What is the setting?
A 3 story residence/apartment complex
Who is Mr. Behrman, and what is his dream?
A resident of the apartment complex;
He wants to paint a masterpiece
What type of irony is shown in this text?
(Verbal / Situational / Dramatic)
Situational Irony
Which type of conflict is present in the story?
vs. Character, vs. Self, vs. Society, vs. Nature, vs. Technology, vs. Fate/Supernatural
Johnsy vs. Nature (sickness/Pneumonia)
Johnsy vs. self (Johnsy fights to believe she can live)
How has the protagonist changed by the end of the story?
Johnsy learned that she had the strength to live all along; she just needed someone to help
Who are the main characters in the story?
Sue, Johnsy, and Mr. Behrman
What does the doctor tell Sue about Johnsy's chances of recovery?
She will likely not make it.
Find an example of irony in the story.
(Insert your example here)
What is the main problem the protagonist faces?
Johnsy does not believe she will survive; thinks she is weak
How does the protagonist attempt to resolve the conflict?
She focuses on the ivy leaves, believing she will last as long as them
What does Johnsy believe is tied to her health?
The presence a singular ivy leaf.
What important action does Mr. Behrman take during the story?
He paints a leaf on the ivy wall.
Describe why the ending was surprising.
(What happened that was not expected?)
Is the conflict internal (within a character) or external (between characters or forces)?
(your answer here)
Does the conflict get fully resolved by the end of the story? How is it solved?
It is solved by the assistance of Mr. Behrman
How does Johnsy's mindset affect her illness?
Her belief in the leaf allows her to survive the illness.
What happens to Mr. Behrman after he helps Johnsy?
He dies of Pneumonia
Were there any clues earlier in the story that hinted at the surprise ending?
(Your answer here)
What specific event first shows the conflict starting to develop? (Provide a short quote from the text and mention paragraph #)
(where does the conflict begin? What is Johnsy dealing with?)
At what point in the story does the resolution begin?(provide a quote from the text and mention paragraph #)
(Where does Johnsy realize they are going to be fine?)
What is the story's main theme?
(Answer may vary)
Belief shapes our future
What is the significance of the "last leaf" in the story?
The last leaf is symbol of hope to Johnsy and a symbol of Mr. Behrman's kindness
How does the irony help reveal a theme or message in the story?
The irony helps to show that belief is what kept Johnsy alive, not a leaf.
How does the conflict help develop the theme or message of the story?
The conflict shows the struggle to find something to believe in when faced with death
Who or what plays the biggest role in resolving the conflict?
Johnsy's belief keeps her strong, but Mr. Behrman provided her with something to believe in.