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A Shady Plot

The document contains a series of competency-based questions related to the story 'A Shady Plot,' focusing on multiple-choice, short answer, analytical, and application-based questions. It explores themes such as the protagonist's struggle with writing, the role of humor, and the relationship dynamics between John Hallock and his wife, Lavinia. Additionally, it prompts discussions on the significance of the ghost character, Helen, and the overall message of the story.

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marigold1234rose
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30 views2 pages

A Shady Plot

The document contains a series of competency-based questions related to the story 'A Shady Plot,' focusing on multiple-choice, short answer, analytical, and application-based questions. It explores themes such as the protagonist's struggle with writing, the role of humor, and the relationship dynamics between John Hallock and his wife, Lavinia. Additionally, it prompts discussions on the significance of the ghost character, Helen, and the overall message of the story.

Uploaded by

marigold1234rose
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Competency Based Questions ‘A Shady Plot’

Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)

1. What is the main occupation of the protagonist, John Hallock?

o a) Ghost hunter

o b) Writer

o c) Detective

o d) Editor

2. Why does John Hallock struggle to write a ghost story?

o a) He lacks inspiration.

o b) He is too busy with other work.

o c) He doesn't believe in ghosts.

o d) He is afraid of ghosts.

3. Who visits John Hallock to demand more ghost stories?

o a) His editor

o b) A ghost named Helen

o c) His wife

o d) His friend

4. What does Helen, the ghost, want from John Hallock?

o a) To stop writing ghost stories

o b) To write more ghost stories

o c) To help her find peace

o d) To tell her story to the world

5. What is the reaction of John’s wife, Lavinia, when she finds out about Helen?

o a) She laughs it off.

o b) She gets angry.

o c) She is scared.

o d) She doesn’t believe him.


Short Answer Questions

6. Explain the significance of the title "A Shady Plot." How does it relate to the story?

7. Describe John Hallock's feelings when he first encounters Helen, the ghost. How does this
encounter affect him?

8. What role does humor play in the story "A Shady Plot"? Provide examples from the text.

9. How does the relationship between John Hallock and his wife, Lavinia, evolve throughout
the story?

10. Analyze the character of Helen, the ghost. How does she contribute to the overall theme of
the story?

Analytical Questions

11. How does the story "A Shady Plot" explore the theme of fear versus reality? Give instances
from the text.

12. Discuss how the author uses irony in "A Shady Plot." How does it enhance the story’s
message?

13. What does the story suggest about the role of a writer and their creative process? How is
this reflected in John Hallock's character?

14. How does the author use the setting to build suspense and tension in the story?

15. In what ways does the story challenge traditional ghost stories? Discuss with reference to
the plot and characters.

Application-Based Questions

16. Imagine you are John Hallock. How would you convince your wife, Lavinia, that you are not
having an affair but are actually dealing with a ghost? Write a short dialogue.

17. If you were in John Hallock’s position, would you continue writing ghost stories after your
encounter with Helen? Why or why not?

18. Create an alternative ending for "A Shady Plot" where John Hallock decides to stop writing
ghost stories. How would this change the overall message of the story?

19. Discuss how the story would differ if it were set in a modern context with technology
playing a significant role.

20. Write a letter from John Hallock to his editor explaining his unique experience with Helen,
the ghost, and how it has affected his writing.

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