Vocabulary
This word refers to a belief, custom, or way of doing something that is passed down from generation to generation.
Tradition
In this Spanish festival, participants engage in a massive food fight by throwing tomatoes at each other. What is the name of this tradition?
La Tomatina
What do you think a lottery is used for in a small town?
Example: To raise money for community projects or to give someone a prize.
Who wrote story The Lottery?
Shirley Jackson
This is a game of chance in which people buy tickets and winners are selected by random drawing, often to win money or prizes.
Lottery
Many cultures have traditional dances performed during important festivals or ceremonies. Can you name one famous traditional dance from any country?
Example:
The Hula dance from Hawaii, the Flamenco from Spain, or the Kathak from India, etc.
Name two reasons why people might keep traditions.
Example: To maintain a sense of community and to honor their ancestors or history.
When was The Lottery first published?
1948
This term describes a formal ceremony or a series of actions performed in a set way, often for religious or cultural purposes.
Ritual
What is the main purpose of a coming-of-age ceremony, such as the Quinceañera in Latin America?
To celebrate the transition from childhood to adulthood, often symbolizing new responsibilities and social status.
What might happen in a story called “The Lottery”?
Example: Someone might be randomly chosen, possibly for a prize or a surprising outcome.
What was happening in the U.S. or world around the time when the story The Lottery was written?
The aftermath of World War II and the beginning of the Cold War
This word means giving up something valuable for the sake of someone or something else, often out of love, duty, or religious belief.
Sacrifice
What is the traditional practice where families, rather than the individuals, select marriage partners—something many people today question or choose not to follow?
Arranged marriages
What emotions do you expect the story to explore?
Example: Tension, fear, surprise, and maybe sadness.
What is Shirley Jackson known for?
Writing psychological and suspense stories that explore human nature and societal norms.
This term refers to a person or group who is unfairly blamed for the problems or mistakes of others.
Scapegoat
During New Year’s celebrations in Japan, people visit a shrine for the first time of the year to pray for good fortune. What is this tradition called?
Hatsumode
Why do you think the townspeople continue to hold the lottery even if some of them might not agree with it?
Example: They may keep it because they fear breaking tradition, worry about what would happen if they stop, or feel pressured by the community.
What themes often appear in Shirley Jackson’s work?
The dark side of human nature, conformity, tradition versus change, etc.