Wonder by R.J. Palacio — Reading & Character Analysis Worksheet for 12-Year-Olds

Instructions

Read each section carefully and answer the questions based on your reading of the book Wonder by R. J. Palacio. Think about the characters, their actions, and the important messages in the story.

Part 1: Character Matching

Match the character from Column A with the correct description in Column B. Write the letter of the correct description in the space provided.

Part 2: Understanding Precepts

Mr. Browne's precepts are important life lessons. In your own words, explain what you think the following precepts mean.

1. "When given the choice between being right or being kind, choose kind."
   
2. "Your deeds are your monuments."
   

Part 3: Key Plot Points

Circle the letter of the best answer for each question.

1. Why is Halloween Auggie's favorite holiday?
   • A) He loves getting lots of candy.
   • B) His birthday is close to Halloween.
   • C) He can wear a mask and feel like any other kid.
   • D) He enjoys telling scary stories.
2. What happens during the class trip to the nature reserve that changes how his classmates see him?
   • A) Auggie gets lost in the woods and finds his own way back.
   • B) Older students from another school bully Auggie, and his friends defend him.
   • C) Auggie wins first place in an outdoor survival competition.
   • D) Auggie discovers a rare plant and becomes famous.
3. What is the name of the Pullman family's beloved dog who passes away in the book?
   • A) Bear
   • B) Darth
   • C) Chewbacca
   • D) Daisy
4. At the end of the school year, what special award does Auggie receive for his quiet strength and character?
   • A) The Henry Ward Beecher Medal
   • B) The Best Attendance Award
   • C) The Science Fair Grand Prize
   • D) The Most Improved Student Award

Part 4: A Different Perspective

The story is told from the point of view of several different characters, not just Auggie. Why do you think the author wrote the book this way? How did hearing from characters like Via, Jack, and Summer change your understanding of the story?

Answer Key

Part 1: Character Matching

1. C. The main character, who was born with a severe facial difference.
2. E. Auggie's protective older sister who is starting high school.
3. F. Auggie's friend who struggles with peer pressure but ultimately stands up for what is right.
4. A. The main antagonist who bullies Auggie throughout the year.
5. D. The kind girl who sits with Auggie at lunch on his first day, simply because she wants to be his friend.
6. B. The compassionate and wise director of Beecher Prep.

Part 2: Understanding Precepts

Answers will vary but should reflect a general understanding of the concepts.

1. "When given the choice between being right or being kind, choose kind." - This means that showing compassion and empathy towards others is more important than winning an argument or proving you are correct.
2. "Your deeds are your monuments." - This means that the things you do and how you treat people are what you will be remembered for, more than your words or possessions. Your actions build your legacy.

Part 3: Key Plot Points

1. C. He can wear a mask and feel like any other kid.
2. B. Older students from another school bully Auggie, and his friends defend him.
3. D. Daisy
4. A. The Henry Ward Beecher Medal

Part 4: A Different Perspective

Answers will vary. A good answer will mention that seeing other perspectives helps the reader understand that everyone has their own struggles and feelings. It shows that Auggie's condition doesn't just affect him; it also affects his family and friends. It makes the other characters more complex and relatable and helps us understand their motivations (like why Jack Will initially said mean things about Auggie).