A Wrinkle In Time
Table of Contents
Novel Study Title Page for Students................................................................................................... 3
Before Reading............................................................................................................................................ 4
Who was Madeleine L’Engle?................................................................................................................ 5
My Character Chart................................................................................................................................... 6
Dictionary Detective! Chapters 1 – 2.................................................................................................. 8
Vocabulary Study Chapters 1 – 2......................................................................................................... 9
Understanding the Story Chapters 1 – 2.......................................................................................... 10
Chapter Summary Chapters 1 – 2....................................................................................................... 11
Dictionary Detective! Chapters 3 - 4.................................................................................................. 12
Vocabulary Study Chapters 3 - 4......................................................................................................... 13
Understanding the Story Chapters 3 - 4........................................................................................... 14
Chapter Summary Chapters 3 - 4........................................................................................................ 15
Dictionary Detective! Chapters 5 – 6.................................................................................................. 16
Vocabulary Study Chapters 5 – 6......................................................................................................... 17
Understanding the Story Chapters 5 – 6.......................................................................................... 18
Chapter Summary Chapters 5 – 6....................................................................................................... 19
Dictionary Detective! Chapters 7 - 8.................................................................................................. 20
Vocabulary Study Chapters 7 - 8......................................................................................................... 21
Understanding the Story Chapters 7 - 8........................................................................................... 22
Chapter Summary Chapters 7 - 8........................................................................................................ 23
Dictionary Detective! Chapters 9 - 10................................................................................................ 24
Vocabulary Study Chapters 9 - 10....................................................................................................... 25
Understanding the Story Chapters 9 - 10........................................................................................ 26
Chapter Summary Chapters 9 - 10..................................................................................................... 27
Dictionary Detective! Chapters 11 - 12............................................................................................. 28
Vocabulary Study Chapters 11 - 12.................................................................................................... 29
Understanding the Story Chapters 11 - 12...................................................................................... 30
Chapter Summary Chapters 11 - 12................................................................................................... 31
Time for a Test!............................................................................................................................................ 32
Reading Log................................................................................................................................................. 34
Answer Key................................................................................................................................................... 35
Common Core State Standards............................................................................................................ 49
© The Book Umbrella
A Wrinkle
In Time
by Madeleine L’Engle
A Novel Study by:
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:_________________________________________
Before Reading
Title of Book:
Author of Book:
Have you read anything by this author before? If so, what was it?
Look at the front cover. What hints do you think it gives about the story?
Read the back cover. What do you learn about the story from the back cover?
Based on the front and back covers, do you want to read this book? Why or why not?
A Wrinkle in Time
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:____________________________________________
Who was Madeleine L’Engle?
Use the internet and other resources to research the author of A Wrinkle In Time, Madeleine L’Engle.
Before Researching
1. What do you already know about Madeleine L’Engle?
2. What do you want to find out about Madeleine L’Engle?
After Researching
3. What have you learned from your research?
4. Where did you get your information?
A Wrinkle in Time
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:_____________________________________
My Character Chart
Draw a picture and record important information about each important character as you read the text.
A Wrinkle in Time
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:_____________________________________________
My Character Chart (Cont’d)
A Wrinkle in Time
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:_______________________________________________
Dictionary Detective!
Chapters 1 – 2
Using a dictionary, find the definitions for the words below.
delinquent
Definition:
crevice
Definition:
sulkily
Definition:
concept
Definition:
dilapidated
Definition:
assimilate
Definition:
A Wrinkle in Time
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:____________________________________________
Vocabulary Study
Chapters 1 – 2
Match Up
Match the words in the left column to their definitions in the right column.
delinquent •
• a thought or idea about how something works
crevice •
• to really understand or learn something properly
sulkily •
• a narrow crack or gap
concept •
• in a way that is quietly angry or upset
dilapidated •
• a young person who breaks the rules or the law
assimilate •
• in bad shape; old or rundown
Fill in the Blank
Complete each sentence by filling in the blanks with the provided vocabulary.
delinquent
crevice
sulkily
concept
dilapidated
assimilate
1. Sarah __________________________________ went to her bedroom after her mom yelled at her.
2. The teacher gave us new information to __________________________________ before the test.
3. The __________________________________ spray painted the outside of the cafeteria at school.
4. Light filtered through the __________________________________ under the basement door.
5. The __________________________________ old barn looked spooky in the moonlight.
6. Kelsey has no __________________________________ for how microwaves warm up food.
A Little
Extra!
A Wrinkle in Time
On the back of this sheet, write a short description of what a
dilapidated house might look like. Use at least two similies in your
description.
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:____________________________________________
Understanding the Story
Chapters 1 – 2
Multiple Choice
1. How does Meg feel at the beginning
of Chapter 1?
2. What is Meg’s father’s job?
(a) Like she does everything wrong.
(a) Astronaut.
(b) Like she needs to eat something.
(c) Like she will make her mother proud.
(d) Like she is lost and confused.
(b) Physicist.
(c) Custodian.
(d) Zoologist.
Short Answer
3. Describe the character, Meg Murry, based on what you have learned about her in Chapters
1 and 2.
Long Answer
4. Why do you think Meg becomes so angry when the principal, Mr. Jenkins, talks about her
father in Chapter 2?
A Little
Extra!
A Wrinkle in Time
Do you agree or disagree with the way Meg behaves in the principal’s
office? How would you have behaved if you were in Meg’s shoes?
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:__________________________________________
Chapter Summary
Chapters 1 – 2
1. If you were to give a title to this section of the book, what would it be?
2. What happens in these chapters?
3. What is your favorite part of this section of the book?
4. What new words did you learn
in these chapters?
A Wrinkle in Time
5. Draw a picture of something you think
represents these chapters.
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:_______________________________________________
Dictionary Detective!
Chapters 3 – 4
Using a dictionary, find the definitions for the words below.
gamboled
Definition:
decipher
Definition:
dubiously
Definition:
tangible
Definition:
ineffable
Definition:
ephemeral
Definition:
A Wrinkle in Time
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:___________________________________________
Vocabulary Study
Chapters 3 – 4
Which Word?
On the provided lines, write the matching vocabulary word for each definition.
gamboled
decipher
dubiously
tangible
ineffable
ephemeral
1. To figure something out, like a code.
_____________________________
2. Real; able to be felt or touched.
_____________________________
3. To run or skip around; play around in a lively way.
_____________________________
4. Too wonderful to be described.
_____________________________
5. Lasting for a short time.
_____________________________
6. In a way that is doubtful or uncertain.
_____________________________
Making Sentences
Make a sentence for each word below.
1. Gamboled: ___________________________________________________________________________________
2. Decipher: ____________________________________________________________________________________
3. Dubiously: ___________________________________________________________________________________
4. Tangible: _____________________________________________________________________________________
5. Ineffable: ____________________________________________________________________________________
6. Ephemeral: __________________________________________________________________________________
A Little
Extra!
A Wrinkle in Time
Make a list of at least five adjectives which you feel best describe the
character Calvin O’Keefe.
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:____________________________________________
Understanding the Story
Chapters 3 – 4
Multiple Choice
1. Who does Charles Wallace tell Meg
and Calvin it is time to find?
2. Who does Calvin seem to especially like?
(a) Mrs. Who and Mrs. Whatsit.
(a) Meg’s brothers.
(b) Calvin’s parents.
(c) Mr. Murry, their father.
(d) Fortinbras, their dog.
(b) Meg.
(c) Mrs. Murry.
(d) Mr. Murry.
Short Answer
3. Describe how Meg feels about her father.
Long Answer
4. Using examples from the book, describe the dark shadow which appears at the end of Chapter 4.
A Little
Extra!
A Wrinkle in Time
Meg, Charles Wallace, and Calvin leave quite suddenly at the end of
Chapter 3. Imagine that Meg wrote a good-bye note to her mother
before leaving. What would the note say? Pretend that you are Meg
and write the good-bye note on the back of this sheet.
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:__________________________________________
Chapter Summary
Chapters 3 – 4
1. If you were to give a title to this section of the book, what would it be?
2. Summarize this section of the book.
3. What is your favorite part of this section of the book?
4. What new words did you learn
in these chapters?
A Wrinkle in Time
5. Draw a picture of something you think
represents these chapters.
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Dictionary Detective!
Chapters 5 – 6
Using a dictionary, find the definitions for the words below.
serenely
Definition:
dissolution
Definition:
indignant
Definition:
anticlimax
Definition:
myopic
Definition:
precipitously
Definition:
A Wrinkle in Time
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:___________________________________________
Vocabulary Study
Chapters 5 – 6
Match Up
Match the vocabulary words with their synonyms!
serenely •
dissolution •
• letdown
• nearsighted
indignant •
• disintegration
anticlimax •
• calmly
myopic •
precipitously •
• suddenly
• angry
Best Word
Circle the word which works best in each sentence.
1. I ( dissolution / serenely ) consoled the crying child until his mother came to find him.
2. All of our planning for the surprise party will be an ( anticlimax / myopic ) if the birthday girl
doesn’t show up!
3. Pouring the powdered drink mix into water causes its ( dissolution / indignant ).
4. Joe ( precipitously / serenely ) left the party when he realized he had forgotten to bring a gift.
5. Taylor was ( anticlimax / indignant ) when his sister used his computer without permission.
6. Jeff is ( myopic / precipitously ) so he has to wear glasses.
A Little
Extra!
A Wrinkle in Time
Choose three vocabulary words from this section and write down an
antonym for each.
Vocabulary word: ________________________ Antonym: ________________________
Vocabulary word: ________________________ Antonym: ________________________
Vocabulary word: ________________________ Antonym: ________________________
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:____________________________________________
Understanding the Story
Chapters 5 – 6
Multiple Choice
1. Why are Meg and her friends traveling
with Mrs. Who, Whatsit, and Which?
2. What does the Happy Medium do?
(a) To save the world.
(a) She shows scenes of the universe in her ball.
(b) To destroy the Earth.
(c) To save Meg’s father.
(d) To free the planet Uriel.
(b) She gives the travelers a magic potion.
(c) She directs the Powers of Darkness.
(d) She fights against the light to help the
Power of Darkness.
Short Answer
3. Describe a tesseract.
Long Answer
4. In Chapter 6, Mrs. Who gives each child a special gift or instruction in order to help them.
What does she give or say to each child?
A Little
Extra!
In Chapter 5, Mrs. Who recites a Spanish quote which translates, “Experience
is the mother of knowledge.” Explain what the quote means and share how
you think it relates to Meg’s experiences in the book.
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
A Wrinkle in Time
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:__________________________________________
Chapter Summary
Chapters 5 – 6
1. If you were to give a title to this section of the book, what would it be?
2. What happens in these chapters?
3. What is your favorite part of this section of the book?
4. What new words did you learn
in these chapters?
A Wrinkle in Time
5. Draw a picture of something you think
represents these chapters.
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:_______________________________________________
Dictionary Detective!
Chapters 7 – 8
Using a dictionary, find the definitions for the words below.
unsubstantial
Definition:
bravado
Definition:
requisition
Definition:
proposition
Definition:
transparent
Definition:
pedantic
Definition:
A Wrinkle in Time
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:____________________________________________
Vocabulary Study
Chapters 7 – 8
Match Up
Match the words in the left column to their definitions in the right column.
unsubstantial •
• a show of bravery to impress others
bravado •
• able to be seen through, clear
requisition •
• lacking in some way; weak
proposition •
• overly concerned with tiny details; dull
transparent •
• an official order or request for something
pedantic •
• a proposal, plan, or idea
Fill in the Blank
Complete each sentence by filling in the blanks with the provided vocabulary.
unsubstantial
bravado
requisition
proposition
transparent
pedantic
1. Our teacher must submit a __________________________________ whenever she needs supplies.
2. My phone is made of __________________________________ plastic. You can see all the wires inside.
3. I accepted Amy’s __________________________________ to trade her donut for my cookies.
4. Without any vegetables or meat in it, the thin soup tasted __________________________________.
5. To please my __________________________________ instructor, every detail of my report had to be
absolutely perfect.
6. Jack scared off the bullies with a show of __________________________________.
A Little
Extra!
A Wrinkle in Time
Write a sentence using two vocabulary words from this section:
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:____________________________________________
Understanding the Story
Chapters 7 – 8
Multiple Choice
1. What do the children notice about
the other kids in Camazotz?
2. Whose mind does the man with
the red eyes try to control?
(a) They ride bikes in the same direction.
(a) Meg’s.
(b) They all practice gymnastics.
(b) Charles Wallace’s.
(c) They jump rope for hours.
(c) Calvin’s.
(d) They bounce their balls in the same rhythm.
(d) Meg’s father’s.
Short Answer
3. Why does Charles Wallace think the turkey dinner tastes like sand?
Long Answer
4. Towards the end of Chapter 8, Charles Wallace says, “On Camazotz we are all happy because we
are all alike. Differences create problems.” Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Why?
A Little
Extra!
A Wrinkle in Time
Imagine you are Calvin and are trying to help both Meg and Charles Wallace
at the same time. What are you thinking? What would you do differently?
_________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:__________________________________________
Chapter Summary
Chapters 7 – 8
1. If you were to give a title to this section of the book, what would it be?
2. What happens in these chapters?
3. What is your favorite part of this section of the book?
4. What new words did you learn
in these chapters?
A Wrinkle in Time
5. Draw a picture of something you think
represents these chapters.
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:_______________________________________________
Dictionary Detective!
Chapters 9 – 10
Using a dictionary, find the definitions for the words below.
cloven
Definition:
brusquely
Definition:
translucent
Definition:
frigid
Definition:
illusion
Definition:
imperceptible
Definition:
A Wrinkle in Time
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:___________________________________________
Vocabulary Study
Chapters 9 – 10
Which Word?
On the provided lines, write the matching vocabulary word for each definition.
cloven
brusquely
translucent
frigid
illusion
imperceptible
1. In an abrupt way._____________________________
2. Unfriendly, uncaring._____________________________
3. Split; divided into two parts.
_____________________________
4. Something with a deceptive appearance.
_____________________________
5. Unable to be seen or noticed.
_____________________________
6. Allows light to pass through, but is not see-through.
_____________________________
Making Sentences
Make a sentence for each word below.
1. Cloven: ______________________________________________________________________________________
2. Brusquely: ___________________________________________________________________________________
3. Translucent: __________________________________________________________________________________
4. Frigid: ________________________________________________________________________________________
5. Illusion: ______________________________________________________________________________________
6. Imperceptible: _______________________________________________________________________________
A Little
Extra!
A Wrinkle in Time
Using the last paragraph of Chapter 9 as a guide, imagine what you think
is going on in Meg’s mind as she tessers with her father. On the back of
this sheet, draw an outline of Meg’s head and fill it with her thoughts.
These can be words, phrases, or complete sentences. Include at least ten
thoughts in all.
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:____________________________________________
Understanding the Story
Chapters 9 – 10
Multiple Choice
1. What does Meg use to help rescue her father?
2. Who gets left behind on planet Camazotz?
(a) A magic phrase.
(a) Mr. Murry.
(b) Charles Wallace.
(b) Calvin.
(c) Mrs. Who’s glasses.
(c) Meg.
(d) Calvin’s powers of communication.
(d) Charles Wallace.
Short Answer
3. What does Meg try to do in order to fight off IT?
Long Answer
4. In Chapter 10, the reader learns about what happened to Meg’s father, Mr. Murry. In order, relate
the events of Mr. Murry’s travels that lead up to his imprisonment on Camazotz.
A Little
Extra!
A Wrinkle in Time
The book A Wrinkle in Time explores the idea of traveling through time and
space. If you could travel through time and space, where would you go? On
the other side of this sheet, describe the place or time you would visit. How
would it be different from your life today? Who or what would live there?
What would you see or experience? Be creative!
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:__________________________________________
Chapter Summary
Chapters 9 – 10
1. If you were to give a title to this section of the book, what would it be?
2. Summarize this section of the book.
3. What is your favorite part of this section of the book?
4. What new words did you learn
in these chapters?
A Wrinkle in Time
5. Draw a picture of something you think
represents these chapters.
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Dictionary Detective!
Chapters 11 – 12
Using a dictionary, find the definitions for the words below.
emanate
Definition:
trepidation
Definition:
pungent
Definition:
oppressive
Definition:
ministrations
Definition:
singularly
Definition:
A Wrinkle in Time
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:___________________________________________
Vocabulary Study
Chapters 11 – 12
Match Up
Match the vocabulary words with their synonyms!
emanate •
• strong
trepidation •
• radiate
pungent •
• care
oppressive •
• cruel
ministrations •
• remarkably
singularly •
• nervousness
Best Word
Circle the word which works best in each sentence.
1. Warmth and kindness ( singularly / emanate ) from her easy smile.
2. When the King’s ( oppressive / trepidation ) rule finally ended, the people rejoiced.
3. With ( ministrations / trepidation ), Will entered the principal’s office and sat down.
4. My new coat is ( pungent / singularly ) well-made and will keep me very warm this winter.
5. A ( pungent / emanate ) chemical smell spread throughout the laboratory.
6. The ( ministrations / oppressive ) of Coach Magee made learning to swim fun and safe.
A Little
Extra!
Choose your favorite character from the book. Choose three
adjectives which describe the character and three adjectives which do
not describe the character.
Character’s name: __________________________________
He/she is: ________________________ ________________________ ________________________
He/she is not:
________________________ ________________________ ________________________
A Wrinkle in Time
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:____________________________________________
Understanding the Story
Chapters 11 – 12
Multiple Choice
1. How is Meg affected by the Black Thing when
she lands on a new planet in Chapter 11?
2. In Chapter 11, the beings on the new
planet where the travelers land are:
(a) She is blinded.
(a) Dark and dangerous.
(b) She is paralyzed.
(c) She dies.
(d) She can’t hear well.
(b) Cold and aloof.
(c) Kind and helpful.
(d) Intelligent and uptight.
Short Answer
3. Who is Aunt Beast and what does she do for Meg?
Long Answer
4. What ultimately defeats IT in Chapter 12? Why is this weapon so powerful?
A Little
Extra!
A Wrinkle in Time
Of your friends and family, who do you think would enjoy reading this
book the most? Why?
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:__________________________________________
Chapter Summary
Chapters 11 – 12
1. If you were to give a title to this section of the book, what would it be?
2. What happens in these chapters?
3. What is your favorite part of this section of the book?
4. What new words did you learn
in these chapters?
A Wrinkle in Time
5. Draw a picture of something you think
represents these chapters.
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:___________________________________________
Time for a Test!
A Wrinkle In Time
Part A – Multiple Choice
1. Who comes to visit the
Murrys in the middle of the
night dressed like a tramp?
2. Who does Charles Wallace
decide to take along to meet
Mrs. Who in Chapter 2?
3. What do the children need
in order to breathe in Uriel’s
atmosphere?
(a) Mrs. Whatsit.
(b) Mr. Jenkins.
(c) Mrs. Smitherson.
(d) Uncle Charlie.
(a) His dog.
(b) His two brothers.
(c) Calvin and Meg.
(d) His father.
(a) Oxygen masks.
(b) Flowers from a tree.
(c) Mrs. Who’s cloak.
(d) Nothing at all.
4. What does the Black Thing
turn out to be?
5. What is Charles Wallace
ordered to do before entering
the town in Chapter 6?
6. Where in the city must the
children go on the planet
Camazotz?
(a) A black hole.
(b) An alternate universe.
(c) A dark star.
(d) Pure evil.
(a) Stay with Meg and Calvin.
(b) Go alone to find his father.
(c) Hide that he is intelligent.
(d) Never return home.
(a) The International Library.
(b) CENTRAL Central
Intelligence Building.
(c) Market Center Terminal.
(d) The Institutional Educational
Assembly.
7. What does Meg discover ‘IT’
is in Chapter 9?
8. What ‘power’ does Meg
possess that ‘IT’ does not?
9. Where does Meg end up
after rescuing Charles Wallace?
(a) A dark shadow.
(b) A brain.
(c) A robot.
(d) A wizard.
(a) Vision.
(b) Hatred.
(c) Love.
(d) Tessering.
(a) Back at home.
(b) At Calvin’s house.
(c) On Camazotz.
(d) On planet Ixchel.
A Wrinkle in Time
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:__________________________________________
Time for a Test!
A Wrinkle In Time
Part B – Short Answer
1. Why is this novel called A Wrinkle in Time?
2. A Wrinkle in Time is an example of science fiction. What are three elements found in this novel
that are commonly found in the science fiction genre?
3. The climax is the most exciting or emotional part of a story. What part of the story would you say
is the climax of A Wrinkle in Time? Why?
Part C – Long Answer
1. The main protagonist of A Wrinkle in Time is Meg Murry. Describe Meg and explain why you
think the author chose to tell the story from her perspective.
2. A theme is a central idea or topic of a story. Some common themes include: good
versus evil, man against nature, love and sacrifice, family, etc. What do you think a theme of A
Wrinkle in Time is? Use examples from the story to support you answer.
A Wrinkle in Time
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Reading Log
Record information about the books you read on this chart.
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:____________________________________________
Vocabulary Study - Answer Key
Chapters 1 – 2
Match Up
Match the words in the left column to their definitions in the right column.
delinquent •
• a thought or idea about how something works
crevice •
• to really understand or learn something properly
sulkily •
• a narrow crack or gap
concept •
• in a way that is quietly angry or upset
dilapidated •
• a young person who breaks the rules or the law
assimilate •
• in bad shape; old or rundown
Fill in the Blank
Complete each sentence by filling in the blanks with the provided vocabulary.
delinquent
crevice
sulkily
concept
dilapidated
assimilate
1. Sarah sulkily went to her bedroom after her mom yelled at her.
2. The teacher gave us new information to assimilate before the test.
3. The delinquent spray painted the outside of the cafeteria at school.
4. Light filtered through the crevice under the basement door.
5. The dilapidated old barn looked spooky in the moonlight.
6. Kelsey has no concept for how microwaves warm up food.
A Little
Extra!
A Wrinkle in Time
On the back of this sheet, write a short description of what a
dilapidated house might look like. Use at least two similies in your
description.
Answers will vary.
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:____________________________________________
Understanding the Story - Answer Key
Chapters 1 – 2
Multiple Choice
1. How does Meg feel at the beginning
of Chapter 1?
2. What is Meg’s father’s job?
(a) Like she does everything wrong.
(a) Astronaut.
(b) Like she needs to eat something.
(c) Like she will make her mother proud.
(d) Like she is lost and confused.
(b) Physicist.
(c) Custodian.
(d) Zoologist.
Short Answer
3. Describe the character, Meg Murry, based on what you have learned about her in Chapters
1 and 2.
Example - Meg is smart; her mother said that her IQ was very high. She loves her brother
Charles Wallace. She gets upset when others make fun of him and tries to defend him. Meg
gets in trouble at school. Her teacher calls her rude, and the principal says she is belligerent
and uncooperative.
Long Answer
4. Why do you think Meg becomes so angry when the principal, Mr. Jenkins, talks about her
father in Chapter 2?
Example - Meg misses her father very much and life is hard without him. She may feel
embarrassed about other people getting involved in her private life. She may also feel
confused about his disappearance. She also does not like the fact that others assume things
about her and her family.
A Little
Extra!
A Wrinkle in Time
Do you agree or disagree with the way Meg behaves in the principal’s
office? How would you have behaved if you were in Meg’s shoes?
Answers will vary.
© The Book Umbrella
Name:____________________________________________
Date:___________________________________________
Vocabulary Study - Answer Key
Chapters 3 – 4
Which Word?
On the provided lines, write the matching vocabulary word for each definition.
gamboled
decipher
dubiously
tangible
ineffable
1. To figure something out, like a code.
decipher
2. Real; able to be felt or touched.
tangible
3. To run or skip around; play around in a lively way.
gamboled
4. Too wonderful to be described.
ineffable
5. Lasting for a short time.
ephemeral
6. In a way that is doubtful or uncertain.
dubiously
ephemeral
Making Sentences - Answers will vary.
Make a sentence for each word below.
1. Gamboled: ___________________________________________________________________________________
2. Decipher: ____________________________________________________________________________________
3. Dubiously: ___________________________________________________________________________________
4. Tangible: _____________________________________________________________________________________
5. Ineffable: ____________________________________________________________________________________
6. Ephemeral: __________________________________________________________________________________
A Little
Extra!
A Wrinkle in Time
Make a list of at least five adjectives which you feel best describe the
character Calvin O’Keefe.
Answers will vary.
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Name:____________________________________________
Date:____________________________________________
Understanding the Story - Answer Key
Chapters 3 – 4
Multiple Choice
1. Who does Charles Wallace tell Meg
and Calvin it is time to find?
2. Who does Calvin seem to especially like?
(a) Mrs. Who and Mrs. Whatsit.
(a) Meg’s brothers.
(b) Calvin’s parents.
(c) Mr. Murry, their father.
(d) Fortinbras, their dog.
(b) Meg.
(c) Mrs. Murry.
(d) Mr. Murry.
Short Answer
3. Describe how Meg feels about her father.
Example - Meg loves and admires her father. Since his disappearance, she is terrified. No one
knows where he is, and no one seems to be able to explain what has happened to him. Meg is
scared that he is gone forever.
Long Answer
4. Using examples from the book, describe the dark shadow which appears at the end of Chapter 4.
Example - The shadow was dark and struggled to breathe. Meg asked Mrs. Which if the
shadow was what her father was fighting. It seemed to block out everything around it, even
the stars. Its presence frightened everyone. It seemed terrible and evil.
A Little
Extra!
A Wrinkle in Time
Meg, Charles Wallace, and Calvin leave quite suddenly at the end of
Chapter 3. Imagine that Meg wrote a good-bye note to her mother
before leaving. What would the note say? Pretend that you are Meg
and write the good-bye note on the back of this sheet.
Answers will vary.
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Name:____________________________________________
Date:___________________________________________
Vocabulary Study - Answer Key
Chapters 5 – 6
Match Up
Match the vocabulary words with their synonyms!
serenely •
dissolution •
• letdown
• nearsighted
indignant •
• disintegration
anticlimax •
• calmly
myopic •
precipitously •
• suddenly
• angry
Best Word
Circle the word which works best in each sentence.
1. I ( dissolution / serenely ) consoled the crying child until his mother came to find him.
2. All of our planning for the surprise party will be an ( anticlimax / myopic ) if the birthday
girl doesn’t show up!
3. Pouring the powdered drink mix into water causes its ( dissolution / indignant ).
4. Joe ( precipitously / serenely ) left the party when he realized he had forgotten to bring a
gift.
5. Taylor was ( anticlimax / indignant ) when his sister used his computer without permission.
6. Jeff is ( myopic / precipitously ) so he has to wear glasses.
A Little
Extra!
A Wrinkle in Time
Choose three vocabulary words from this section and write down an
antonym for each. Answers will vary.
Vocabulary word: ________________________ Antonym: ________________________
Vocabulary word: ________________________ Antonym: ________________________
Vocabulary word: ________________________ Antonym: ________________________
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Name:____________________________________________
Date:____________________________________________
Understanding the Story - Answer Key
Chapters 5 – 6
Multiple Choice
1. Why are Meg and her friends traveling
with Mrs. Who, Whatsit, and Which?
2. What does the Happy Medium do?
(a) To save the world.
(b) To destroy the Earth.
(c) To save Meg’s father.
(d) To free the planet Uriel.
(a) She shows scenes of the universe in her ball.
(b) She gives the travelers a magic potion.
(c) She directs the Powers of Darkness.
(d) She fights against the light to help the
Power of Darkness.
Short Answer
3. Describe a tesseract.
Example - A tesseract is the fifth dimension. A way to shorten up time/ travel through time. It
is like a wrinkle in time. It’s like squaring (mathematically) the fourth dimension.
Long Answer
4. In Chapter 6, Mrs. Who gives each child a special gift or instruction in order to help them.
What does she give or say to each child?
Example - She tells Calvin that his greatest gift is his ability to communicate with all kinds of
people. She recites a portion of Shakespeare’s The Tempest to him and asks him to listen very
carefully. To Charles Wallace, she gives the gift of the resiliency of childhood. She tells him to
remember that he does not know everything. Mrs. Who says that Meg’s greatest gifts are her
faults. Meg is not very excited to hear this. Meg receives Mrs. Who’s glasses and is instructed
to use them only in their greatest moment of danger.
A Little
Extra!
A Wrinkle in Time
In Chapter 5, Mrs. Who recites a Spanish quote which translates, “Experience
is the mother of knowledge.” Explain what the quote means and share how
you think it relates to Meg’s experiences in the book.
Example - The quote means that we learn best when we experience
something for ourselves. It is easy to read something from a book or
watch something in a movie and understand it. But to really, truly learn
something deeply, it must be experienced firsthand.
Second part of the question - answers will vary.
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Name:____________________________________________
Date:____________________________________________
Vocabulary Study - Answer Key
Chapters 7 – 8
Match Up
Match the words in the left column to their definitions in the right column.
unsubstantial •
• a show of bravery to impress others
bravado •
• able to be seen through, clear
requisition •
• lacking in some way; weak
proposition •
• overly concerned with tiny details; dull
transparent •
• an official order or request for something
pedantic •
• a proposal, plan, or idea
Fill in the Blank
Complete each sentence by filling in the blanks with the provided vocabulary.
unsubstantial
bravado
requisition
proposition
transparent
pedantic
1. Our teacher must submit a requisition whenever she needs supplies.
2. My phone is made of transparent plastic. You can see all the wires inside.
3. I accepted Amy’s proposition to trade her donut for my cookies.
4. Without any vegetables or meat in it, the thin soup tasted unsubstantial.
5. To please my pedantic instructor, every detail of my report had to be absolutely perfect.
6. Jack scared off the bullies with a show of bravado.
A Little
Extra!
A Wrinkle in Time
Write a sentence using two vocabulary words from this section:
Answers will vary.
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Name:____________________________________________
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Understanding the Story - Answer Key
Chapters 7 – 8
Multiple Choice
1. What do the children notice about
the other kids in Camazotz?
2. Whose mind does the man with
the red eyes try to control?
(a) They ride bikes in the same direction.
(a) Meg’s.
(b) They all practice gymnastics.
(b) Charles Wallace’s.
(c) They jump rope for hours.
(c) Calvin’s.
(d) They bounce their balls in the same rhythm.
(d) Meg’s father’s.
Short Answer
3. Why does Charles Wallace think the turkey dinner tastes like sand?
Example - Charles Wallace cannot taste the flavor of the turkey dinner because his mind is
blocked to the “thing” trying to control it. Once the “thing” takes over, Charles Wallace is able
to taste the meal.
Long Answer
4. Towards the end of Chapter 8, Charles Wallace says, “On Camazotz we are all happy because we
are all alike. Differences create problems.” Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Why?
Answers will vary.
A Little
Extra!
A Wrinkle in Time
Imagine you are Calvin and are trying to help both Meg and Charles Wallace
at the same time. What are you thinking? What would you do differently?
Answers will vary.
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Name:____________________________________________
Date:___________________________________________
Vocabulary Study - Answer Key
Chapters 9 – 10
Which Word?
On the provided lines, write the matching vocabulary word for each definition.
cloven
brusquely
translucent
frigid
illusion
imperceptible
1. In an abrupt way.brusquely
2. Unfriendly, uncaring.frigid
3. Split; divided into two parts.
cloven
4. Something with a deceptive appearance.
illusion
5. Unable to be seen or noticed.
imperceptible
6. Allows light to pass through, but is not see-through.
translucent
Making Sentences - Answers will vary.
Make a sentence for each word below.
1. Cloven: ______________________________________________________________________________________
2. Brusquely: ___________________________________________________________________________________
3. Translucent: __________________________________________________________________________________
4. Frigid: ________________________________________________________________________________________
5. Illusion: ______________________________________________________________________________________
6. Imperceptible: _______________________________________________________________________________
A Little
Extra!
A Wrinkle in Time
Using the last paragraph of Chapter 9 as a guide, imagine what you think
is going on in Meg’s mind as she tessers with her father. On the back of
this sheet, draw an outline of Meg’s head and fill it with her thoughts.
These can be words, phrases, or complete sentences. Include at least ten
thoughts in all. Answers will vary.
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Name:____________________________________________
Date:____________________________________________
Understanding the Story - Answer Key
Chapters 9 – 10
Multiple Choice
1. What does Meg use to help rescue her father?
2. Who gets left behind on planet Camazotz?
(a) A magic phrase.
(a) Mr. Murry.
(b) Charles Wallace.
(b) Calvin.
(c) Mrs. Who’s glasses.
(c) Meg.
(d) Calvin’s powers of communication.
(d) Charles Wallace.
Short Answer
3. What does Meg try to do in order to fight off IT?
Example - At first, she tries nursery rhymes, but they don’t work because they are too
rhythmical. She tries reciting the Declaration of Independence, the Periodic Table of Elements,
and mathematical facts. Each of those strategies work for a moment, but then Meg gives in.
Finally, she and her father tesser.
Long Answer
4. In Chapter 10, the reader learns about what happened to Meg’s father, Mr. Murry. In order, relate
the events of Mr. Murry’s travels that lead up to his imprisonment on Camazotz.
Example - Mr. Murry was working for a team which was trying to perfect time travel.
Mr. Murry and at least six others were trying to make it practical. One man from the team,
Hank, tried it out first. When he did not return after a year, it was Mr. Murry’s turn. He wound
up on Camazotz where he continually refused IT. That behavior landed him in his prison cell.
He has been gone for about two years, although time on Camazotz’s is very different from
time on earth.
A Little
Extra!
A Wrinkle in Time
The book A Wrinkle in Time explores the idea of traveling through time and
space. If you could travel through time and space, where would you go? On
the other side of this sheet, describe the place or time you would visit. How
would it be different from your life today? Who or what would live there?
What would you see or experience? Be creative! Answers will vary.
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Name:____________________________________________
Date:___________________________________________
Vocabulary Study - Answer Key
Chapters 11 – 12
Match Up
Match the vocabulary words with their synonyms!
emanate •
• strong
trepidation •
• radiate
pungent •
• care
oppressive •
• cruel
ministrations •
• remarkably
singularly •
• nervousness
Best Word
Circle the word which works best in each sentence.
1. Warmth and kindness ( singularly / emanate ) from her easy smile.
2. When the King’s ( oppressive / trepidation ) rule finally ended, the people rejoiced.
3. With ( ministrations / trepidation ), Will entered the principal’s office and sat down.
4. My new coat is ( pungent / singularly ) well-made and will keep me very warm this winter.
5. A ( pungent / emanate ) chemical smell spread throughout the laboratory.
6. The ( ministrations / oppressive ) of Coach Magee made learning to swim fun and safe.
A Little
Extra!
Choose your favorite character from the book. Choose three
adjectives which describe the character and three adjectives which do
not describe the character. Answers will vary.
Character’s name: __________________________________
He/she is: ________________________ ________________________ ________________________
He/she is not:
________________________ ________________________ ________________________
A Wrinkle in Time
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Name:____________________________________________
Date:____________________________________________
Understanding the Story - Answer Key
Chapters 11 – 12
Multiple Choice
1. How is Meg affected by the Black Thing when
she lands on a new planet in Chapter 11?
2. In Chapter 11, the beings on the new
planet where the travelers land are:
(a) She is blinded.
(b) She is paralyzed.
(c) She dies.
(d) She can’t hear well.
(a) Dark and dangerous.
(b) Cold and aloof.
(c) Kind and helpful.
(d) Intelligent and uptight.
Short Answer
3. Who is Aunt Beast and what does she do for Meg?
Example - Aunt Beast is one of the creatures on the new planet Ixchel. She is large and grey
and covered with very soft, fine fur. Meg was hurt by the Black Thing while tessering away;
the Black Thing wanted to keep her. Aunt Beast takes care of Meg and nurses her back to
health. She brings her back from paralysis, feeds her, clothes her, and comforts her.
Long Answer
4. What ultimately defeats IT in Chapter 12? Why is this weapon so powerful?
Example - Meg realizes that her love for Charles Wallace is her best weapon against IT. As she
looks at Charles Wallace crouched beside the brain, she thinks and says over and over, “I love
you. I love you Charles Wallace.” This act is what breaks IT’s hold over Charles
Wallace’s mind. Love is such a powerful weapon because it is strong. When you love a person,
you are willing to forgive a lot of hurts. Really loving a person lets you overlook their faults
and flaws. It takes a lot to lose a person’s love. Love is a powerful emotion.
A Little
Extra!
A Wrinkle in Time
Of your friends and family, who do you think would enjoy reading this
book the most? Why?
Answers will vary.
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Name:____________________________________________
Date:___________________________________________
Time for a Test! - Answer Key
A Wrinkle In Time
Part A – Multiple Choice
1. Who comes to visit the
Murrys in the middle of the
night dressed like a tramp?
2. Who does Charles Wallace
decide to take along to meet
Mrs. Who in Chapter 2?
3. What do the children need
in order to breathe in Uriel’s
atmosphere?
(a) Mrs. Whatsit.
(b) Mr. Jenkins.
(c) Mrs. Smitherson.
(d) Uncle Charlie.
(a) His dog.
(b) His two brothers.
(c) Calvin and Meg.
(d) His father.
(a) Oxygen masks.
(b) Flowers from a tree.
(c) Mrs. Who’s cloak.
(d) Nothing at all.
4. What does the Black Thing
turn out to be?
5. What is Charles Wallace
ordered to do before entering
the town in Chapter 6?
6. Where in the city must the
children go on the planet
Camazotz?
(a) A black hole.
(b) An alternate universe.
(c) A dark star.
(d) Pure evil.
(a) Stay with Meg and Calvin.
(b) Go alone to find his father.
(c) Hide that he is intelligent.
(d) Never return home.
(a) The International Library.
(b) CENTRAL Central
Intelligence Building.
(c) Market Center Terminal.
(d) The Institutional Educational
Assembly.
7. What does Meg discover ‘IT’
is in Chapter 9?
8. What ‘power’ does Meg
possess that ‘IT’ does not?
9. Where does Meg end up
after rescuing Charles Wallace?
(a) A dark shadow.
(b) A brain.
(c) A robot.
(d) A wizard.
(a) Vision.
(b) Hatred.
(c) Love.
(d) Tessering.
(a) Back at home.
(b) At Calvin’s house.
(c) On Camazotz.
(d) On planet Ixchel.
A Wrinkle in Time
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Name:____________________________________________
Date:__________________________________________
Time for a Test! - Answer Key
A Wrinkle In Time
Part B – Short Answer
1. Why is this novel called A Wrinkle in Time?
Example - It is called A Wrinkle in Time because the story is about traveling through space and
time. A ‘wrinkle in time’ is also known as a ‘tesseract’. Meg, Calvin and Charles Wallace travel
through the universe by means of tesseract.
2. A Wrinkle in Time is an example of science fiction. What are three elements found in this novel
that are commonly found in the science fiction genre?
Answers will vary but may include: space, space travel, aliens, mind control, advanced
technology, etc.
3. The climax is the most exciting or emotional part of a story. What part of the story would you say
is the climax of A Wrinkle in Time? Why?
Example - The climax of the story is when Meg finds and rescues her father. It is the climax
because it is a very emotional and exciting moment for Meg and finding and saving her
father is what she and the others have been trying to do almost since the beginning of the
novel.
Part C – Long Answer
1. The main protagonist of A Wrinkle in Time is Meg Murry. Describe Meg and explain why you
think the author chose to tell the story from her perspective.
Example - Meg is unique and very smart. She is very loyal, especially to her father and brother.
She is also resilient. She has faith in those she loves and never gives up.
Second part of question - Answers will vary.
2. A theme is a central idea or topic of a story. Some common themes include: good
versus evil, man against nature, love and sacrifice, family, etc. What do you think a theme of A
Wrinkle in Time is? Use examples from the story to support you answer.
Answers will vary.
A Wrinkle in Time
© The Book Umbrella
Common Core State Standards
This novel study is aligned to the Common Core State Standards (U.S.)
Grade 5
RL5.1 Quote accurately from a text when explaining what the text says explicitly and when drawing
inferences from the text.
RL5.2 Determine a theme of a story, drama, or poem from details in the text, including how characters in a
story or drama respond to challenges or how the speaker in a poem reflects upon a topic; summarize the text.
RL5.3 Compare and contrast two or more characters, settings, or events in a story or drama, drawing on specific details in the text (e.g., how characters interact).
RL5.4 Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative language
such as metaphors and similes.
L5.4 Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words and phrases based on grade
5 reading and content, choosing flexibly from a range of strategies.
L5.5 Demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.
Grade 6
RL.6.1 Cite textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn
from the text.
RL.6.2 Determine a theme or central idea of a text and how it is conveyed through particular details; provide a
summary of the text distinct from personal opinions or judgments.
RL.6.3 Describe how a particular story’s or drama’s plot unfolds in a series of episodes as well as how the characters respond or change as the plot moves toward a resolution.
RL.6.4 Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative and connotative meanings; analyze the impact of a specific word choice on meaning and tone
RL.6.5 Analyze how a particular sentence, chapter, scene, or stanza fits into the overall structure of a text and
contributes to the development of the theme, setting, or plot.
RL.6.6 Explain how an author develops the point of view of the narrator or speaker in a text.
Grade 7
RL.7.1 Cite several pieces of textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.
RL.7.2 Determine a theme or central idea of a text and analyze its development over the course of the text;
provide an objective summary of the text.
RL.7.3 Analyze how particular elements of a story or drama interact (e.g., how setting shapes the characters or
plot).
RL.7.4 Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative and connotative meanings; analyze the impact of rhymes and other repetitions of sounds (e.g., alliteration) on a specific verse or stanza of a poem or section of a story or drama.
Grade 8
Cite the textual evidence that most strongly supports an analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as
inferences drawn from the text.
RL.8.2 Determine a theme or central idea of a text and analyze its development over the course of the text,
including its relationship to the characters, setting, and plot; provide an objective summary of the text.
RL.8.3 Analyze how particular lines of dialogue or incidents in a story or drama propel the action, reveal aspects of a character, or provoke a decision.
RL.8.4 Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative and connotative meanings; analyze the impact of specific word choices on meaning and tone, including analogies or
allusions to other texts.
Novel Study
A Wrinkle In Time
by Madeleine L’Engle
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