1984 Book 2 Chapter 2 Close Reading Worksheet

Help high school students go beyond basic reading comprehension and support the development of critical thinking and literary craft analysis skills with this close reading worksheet covering George Orwell’s dystopian novel 1984. Featuring a brief passage from Book 2, chapter 2, which focuses on how the author’s craft contributes to a fleeting sense of freedom in contrast to the typically brutal setting of Oceania, this activity may be assigned as independent homework or as a collaborative classroom exercise. An answer key is provided. Materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. By completing this close reading worksheet, students will:

• Read for literal comprehension
• Identify textual details that contrast the harshness and abruptness typically associated with totalitarian Oceania
• Consult reference materials to learn and verify word meanings
• Infer the intended effects of the author’s stylistic choices and narrative techniques
• Explore how complex characters think, behave, interact, and develop
• Apply knowledge of assonance and sibilance and analyze how literary devices contribute to text complexity
• Support claims and inferences with sound reasoning and relevant evidence
• Write about fiction with clarity, accuracy, and precision
• Come to class better prepared to discuss literature