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

Part 1 (September 1997-October 1998)

Reading Check

1. When Caitlin arrives home from school, her mother tells her that the country of Zimbabwe used to be named what?

2. Which group is Martin in when he becomes one of ten students who receives a letter from a pen pal in the US?

3. Which “generous gift” surprises Martin’s mother that Caitlin sends to Martin in the mail?

Short Answer

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

1. Why is it difficult for Martin to reciprocate sharing a photograph with Caitlin? What does this say about the larger differences between their lives?

2. As Caitlin and Martin’s friendship progresses, there are increasing political and economic tensions across the world. How do these hardships affect Caitlin and Martin differently?

Paired Resource

“Timeline – Key Dates in Zimbabwe’s History”

• Beginning in the 1960s, this timeline by the news organization Reuters charts the key moments in Zimbabwe’s modern history.
• This information connects to the theme of Overcoming Privilege.
• Which events during the late 1990s and early 2000s are reflected in I Will Always Write Back?