Lesson 8: Escape
Getting Started
Kino and Juana set forth on their journey to sell the pearl. They must escape those who are pursuing them to steal the pearl and those who want to capture Kino for killing the man who tried to steal his pearl.
Stuff You Need
- The Pearl by John Steinbeck
- colored pencils
- journal
Ideas to Think About
- How do people's ability to control their environment affect their success/happiness in life?
- What role do power and wealth play in a society?
Things to Know
- A verbal phrase begins with a verbal and is followed by one or more words -- together, the whole phrase functions as a noun, adjective, or adverb in a sentence.
- The three types of verbal phrases are gerund phrases, infinitive phrases, and participial phrases.
Skills
- Identify, use, and understand the function of infinitives and participles. (LA)
- Identify, use, and understand the function of adverbial and adjectival phrases in the context of reading, writing, and speaking. (LA)
- Recognize and use commas after introductory words and phrases. (LA)
Introducing the Lesson
Ask your child to predict whether or not Kino will be caught. Discuss whether or not Kino has any other options. Ask your child what fate might await Kino if he doesn't run and what his fate might be if he does run away with the pearl and his family.
Materials: The Pearl by John Steinbeck, journal
Read the last chapter of the novella and then answer the questions below in complete sentences.
Questions
- At the end of the previous chapter, Kino says, "The pearl has become my soul...if I give it up I shall lose my soul." Does Kino lose his soul because he gives up the pearl? Explain.No, Kino loses his family and his life is torn apart because he so desires to keep the pearl. He would have been better off to give up the pearl. At the end of the book, he gives up the pearl to show he is defeated and no wealth on Earth can ever bring back his happiness.
- How does the setting of the story keep the action of the story going?The rocks, paths, and caves make it challenging for Kino and Juana to escape their pursuers and create an environment of suspense.
- Why do you think Kino and Juana return to the village? Why don't they keep running?Answers will vary.
- Kino's quest for wealth and opportunity leads to the destruction of his family. Can you think of examples in history where the quest for wealth and power has led to death and destruction?Answers will vary.
Add examples of effective stylistic devices from the final chapter to your log.