This formative checks your understanding of *Flowers for Algernon* (Progress Reports 13–end). You will infer word meaning, analyze how Charlie changes, and evaluate the outcome of the experiment using evidence from the text.
Theme and Final Reflection
In his report, Charlie says the surgery has “little or no practical applicability” for others. Based on the failure of the experiment, what does applicability most nearly mean in this sentence?
Analyze: As Charlie regresses (Progress Reports 13–end), select TWO changes the reader can observe in the writing itself that signal his decline.
Analyze: What pattern does Charlie realize about the experiment’s effect on intelligence? Select TWO statements that best match his realization (Progress Reports 13–end).
Infer: Earlier in the novel, Charlie fully understands that the experiment might be temporary and could be reversed.
Analyze: Near the end, Charlie asks someone to put flowers on Algernon’s grave. What does this request most strongly symbolize?
Analyze: What is the main effect of the story being told through Charlie’s progress reports, especially in the final reports?
Theme and Final Reflection
As Charlie regresses, he says his “motor activity is impaired”. Which TWO pieces of evidence best support that his motor activity is impaired?
Evaluate/Analyze: As Charlie’s intelligence declines, he decides to leave. Which reason best evaluates Charlie’s motive based on Progress Reports 13–end?
Analyze: Which TWO themes are most strongly reinforced by the ending (Progress Reports 13–end)?