Making Inferences
What can you infer about the boy's feelings when he first hears the train whistle?
He feels excited and curious about the train.
What is the main setting of "The Polar Express"? Your answer must include the place and time of day/year.
The main setting is a snowy night and the journey to the North Pole.
What does the boy hear on Christmas Eve that starts the story?
He hears the sound of a train whistle outside his house.
What does the word "gleaming" mean in the context of the story?
It means shining brightly.
The narrator mentions "huddled" children on the train. What does "huddled" mean, and why do you think the children were described this way?
"Huddled" means gathered closely together. The children are described this way because they are excited, possibly cold, and seeking comfort in each other’s company.
Why do you think the boy was chosen to board the Polar Express?
He was chosen because he believes in the magic of Christmas.
Who are the main characters in "The Polar Express"?
The main character is a young boy, along with the conductor and Santa Claus.
Where does the Polar Express take the children?
North Pole
How can you tell that the Polar Express is a magical train?
The train travels through snow and has a whimsical, enchanting atmosphere. It moves faster than a usual train and can travel to the North Pole.
The boy says he felt "awe" when he saw the North Pole. What is "awe," and why do you think he felt that way?
"Awe" is a feeling of amazement and wonder. He felt this way because seeing the North Pole and all its magical elements was an overwhelming and incredible experience.
What does the conductor's smile suggest about his character?
It suggests that he is friendly and enjoys his job.
What is the climax (landing) of the story?
The climax occurs when the train arrives at the North Pole.
What gift does the boy choose from Santa at the North Pole? Why?
The boy chooses a silver bell from Santa’s sleigh because he finds its sound magical and meaningful.
What does the phrase "the air was filled with the sound of laughter" imply about the journey?
It implies that the journey is joyful and filled with happiness.
What does the word "expanse" mean when describing the North Pole? How does it help you imagine the setting?
"Expanse" means a large, open area. It helps you imagine the North Pole as vast, snowy, and magical, fitting for a place as extraordinary as Santa’s home.
How does the boy's attitude change from the beginning to the end of the story?
He goes from being uncertain about the journey to feeling joyful and believing in the magic of Christmas.
How does the story end (what's the wrap-up)?
The boy receives a bell from Santa, which only he can hear ring.
What happens to the bell after the boy receives it?
The bell falls through a hole in the pocket of his robe as he’s returning home.
What does the description of the North Pole help you understand about Santa's workshop?
It helps you understand that it is a bustling and magical place where toys are made.
When the boy reflects on the bell's sound, he uses the word "mysterious." What does "mysterious" mean, and why might the sound be described this way?
"Mysterious" means something that is puzzling or not fully understood. The sound is described this way because it holds a magical quality that only believers can experience.
What can be inferred about the significance (importance) of the bell at the end of the story?
It represents belief in the magic of Christmas and the importance of believing, even when you can't see.
What lesson does the boy learn by the end of the story?
He learns the importance of believing in the magic of Christmas.
Why can the boy’s parents not hear the bell ringing?
They cannot hear the bell because they no longer believe in the magic of Christmas.
How do the reactions of the other children help you understand the theme of belief?
Their excited reactions show that belief in Christmas magic is important to them.
Santa is described as having a "solemn" voice when he speaks to the boy. What does "solemn" mean, and how does this word affect your understanding of Santa's tone?
"Solemn" means serious and respectful. This suggests that Santa’s tone was thoughtful and sincere, making the moment feel special and significant.