“Charles” by Shirley Jackson (story included with quiz; Grades 5-8)

Overview:  The classic short story “Charles” is a wonderfully funny example of dramatic irony, with a delicious twist at the end.  Though it s about a five-year old boy, it is recommended for grades 5 and up since younger students may not appreciate the irony and may find the writing style a bit difficult. 

Plot:  The story is told in the first-person point of view by the mother of a five-year old boy named Lawrence (nicknamed Laurie).  Laurie has just started kindergarten, and his mother is worried because he is talking a bit “tough” and doesn’t seem so sweet and innocent anymore.  She thinks that another boy in the class named Charles is a bad influence on her own sweet child.  Laurie tells her every day about the misdeeds of naughty Charles – Charles throws crayons, interrupts adults, and even said a bad word in class.  Laurie’s mom is eager to go to Parent-Teacher night, mainly because she is curious to meet the mother of this mysterious delinquent Charles.  Once there, she cannot find Charles’ mother, but she does chat with the kindergarten teacher.  When the mother asks how her own son Laurie is doing in class, the teacher nervously replies that he has had some adjustment and behavior issues. The mother remarks that his classmate Charles might be the reason for Laurie’s behavior issues.  Surprised, the teacher replies, “Charles?  There is no one named Charles in the kindergarten class.”  That’s the end of the story.  But the conclusion is obvious – and hilarious – for adults and careful readers. We recommend reading this short story aloud together in case some students don’t “get” the ironic humorous ending.  

Included:

·       Copy of the story (now in the public domain; no copyright issues)

·       12-question multiple-choice quiz

Age Level and Length: This is a short story, and it is included in the product.  It should be read in one sitting, and it will take 20 minutes or less if it is read aloud (recommended.) The quiz will take 10 minutes or less.  This classic story is more than 50 years old, and though it still feels fresh and modern, some of the slang is dated.  That is one reason we recommend reading it aloud and discussing it. 

Maturity or Political Issues: None. 

Additional Considerations: This is a great story to use when teaching irony, which is a difficult concept for middle schoolers to master.  It is also good to use when teaching point of view.