Reading Check and Short Answer questions on key points are designed for guided reading assignments, in-class review, formative assessment, quizzes, and more.

Chapters 1-4

Reading Check

1. Why is it beneficial for Navajo children to attend the boarding school and learn about white culture, according to Kii Yázhí’s uncle?

2. What is the first thing the school children are forbidden from doing?

3. How does the forced haircut make Kii Yázhí feel?

4. What does the school claim is the enemy of progress?

Short Answer

Answer each question in at least 1 complete sentence. Incorporate details from the text to support your response.

1. Why are the Navajo children sent to school dressed in their finest clothing and jewelry?

2. Why does Kii Yázhí’s uncle believe learning English is so important?

3. In what ways is Ned both a model student and a rebellious one?

Paired Resource

“Spiritual Knowledge for a Secular Society”

• This article written by Herbert Benally, a faculty member at Shiprock’s Navajo Community College, unpacks and illuminates traditional Navajo lessons.
• This information connects to the theme of Exile, Alienation, and Navajo Culture.
• How does Ned use cultural teachings to survive boarding school? In what ways do teachers and administrators alienate him from this knowledge?

Chapters 5-8

Reading Check

1.