Visualizing the Ending of “The
Stolen Party”
Activity
2.11
SUGGESTED LEARNING STRATEGIES: Marking the Text, Rereading,
Visualizing, Sketching
Reread the final paragraphs of this story, when Señora Ines tries
to hand Rosaura money instead of a gift like all the other children
received.
“Rosaura felt her arms stiffen, stick close to her body, and then she
noticed her mother’s hand on her shoulder. Instinctively she pressed herself
against her mother’s body. That was all. Except her eyes. Rosaura’s eyes had a
cold, clear look that fixed itself on Señora Ines’s face.
Señora Ines, motionless, stood there with her hand outstretched. As if she
didn’t dare draw it back. As if the slightest change might shatter an infinitely
delicate balance.”
This is a very powerful moment as all three characters appear to be
frozen in time and space. How do you imagine this final scene in the
story? Regardless of your artistic abilities, one of the most important
reading skills to learn and practice is visualizing what you read. On
separate paper, draw what you imagine this final scene looks like.
You can focus on whatever you think is most important.
© 2011 College Board. All rights reserved.
Next, review your drawing and look back at the excerpt from the story.
What particular words and phrases helped you create your picture?
Now, imagine what might happen immediately after the scene you have
just drawn. If the story were to contain one more scene, what would it
look like? Consider what might happen to the money. Who, if anyone,
would end up with it? Think through these things; then draw your scene
on separate paper.
Writing Prompt: After creating your scene, write a continuation of the
narrative to match your vision. Be sure to continue the conflict and
perhaps devise an alternative resolution. Use dialogue if possible.
Unit 2 • Defining Style 117