Characters
Who is the main character of The Lottery?
Tessie Hutchinson
What is the “lottery” in the story?
A yearly drawing to select a person for sacrifice.
What object is drawn in the lottery?
Slips of paper (one with a black dot).
How does the story make the reader feel uneasy?
By describing normal town life mixed with a deadly ritual.
Predict what Tessie might do if she ran away.
She might escape temporarily, but would still face consequences.
Name one town official involved in the lottery.
Mr. Summers
What happens after everyone draws a slip?
Tessie’s family is selected.
What is unusual about the box used for the lottery?
It’s old, worn, and has pieces missing
What word or phrase signals suspense in the story?
“Nervously,” “uneasy,” “the black box.”
What might happen if Mr. Summers skipped the lottery?
Town traditions would be broken; consequences unknown.
How does Tessie react when her family is chosen?
She protests, saying it’s unfair.
What part of the story creates the biggest surprise?
When Tessie herself is picked.
Find a line that shows townspeople expect the lottery.
“The people began to gather…”
How does the story’s tone change at the end?
From calm and normal to tense and violent.
Predict how a family member might react differently if chosen.
Could protest, panic, or try to run.
Compare Tessie and Mr. Summers. How are they different?
Tessie is fearful and reactive, while Mr. Summers remains calm and in control.
Describe the final event of the story.
Tessie is stoned by the townspeople.
Name a small detail that builds suspense before Tessie is picked.
The black dot is revealed slowly.
What makes the ending shocking?
The townspeople kill Tessie unexpectedly.
Imagine a different ending—what might change the story?
If Tessie survived, the story could explore justice or rebellion.
How might Tessie’s behavior show a theme about tradition versus fairness?
She questions the lottery, showing tension between following tradition and standing up for oneself.
What could happen if the lottery were not held?
The story could explore the consequences of breaking tradition or change the ending entirely.
Quote a line that hints the lottery has a deadly outcome.
“Although the villagers had forgotten the ritual… it still had power.”
How does foreshadowing appear in the story?
Clues like nervous townspeople hint at danger.
How might the story be different if told from a child’s perspective?
Could focus on fear, innocence, or misunderstanding of tradition.