Book Study: The Great Fire: Discussion Guide #1

Encourage critical thinking and support literacy development by asking questions as students begin reading The Great Fire. With a focus on the first two chapters of Jim Murphy’s incredible account of the Great Fire of Chicago, this worksheet guides students in thoughtful discussion as they get to know a few survivors of the fire and those first events that set the tragic event in motion. Readers will respond to comprehension and analysis questions about the different experiences of Chicago citizens during the fire and explore the series of mistakes that culminated in this tragedy. Click “View answer key” to see sample student responses and context. For more book-specific activities, be sure to check out our full set of worksheets related to The Great Fire.