This week, the class read the story, "Lingkuan Gorge." After reading, students worked in groups to compose comprehension questions. See the original assignment here.

Morning Class

Group One:

What had impressed the narrator about the boy and his family?

The narrator is impressed by the boy and his family’s attitude about work. For example, the boy says to the narrator that “a man shouldn’t leave his post,” and so the narrator proceeds to his job right away.

Group Two:

How do we see that the family’s love gives encouragement to each member of the family?

For example, the boy feels he is observed by his father and mother, even though they cannot see one another clearly. The boy, through his action (taking care of his baby sister) clearly understands what is needed and does the job necessary.

Group Three:

What do the narrator’s actions imply about his change in attitude near the end of the story.

The narrator goes on to his job and this implies that he has decided that it is important to get to the job site that day and not tomorrow as he thought before.

Group Four:

Why does the narrator (writer) emphasize the cold weather?

The narrator emphasizes the cold weather because it makes the project seem more difficult and the bonds among the family members seem even stronger.

Afternoon Class

Group One:

Why does the man decide to continue his journey at the end of the story when, at the beginning, he decides to quit until the next day?

The man decides to continue his journey because he is touched by the boy’s responsibility for his baby sister. He may feel inspired by the boy and, perhaps, a bit ashamed of himself, an adult, who has less stamina than a little boy.

Why is the narrator on his way to Lingkuan Gorge?

The narrator is on his way to Lingkuan Gorge because he is Materials Department Chief for the work site.

How does the man feel at the end of the story?

The man feels determined to complete his journey and feels he must meet his responsibility. Also, he feels close to the young boy and thankful for his example.

Why does the boy’s family live in a cave without a good door and in poor conditions?

The family lives this way because they are workers and need to live close to the work site and such places are only temporary.

 

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