I Survived The Attacks of September 11, 2001 Comprehension Questions & Reading Journal

I Survived The Attacks of September 11, 2001 questions by chapter

We know this book well. Every question asks about something that happens in its chapter, a moment, a choice or a character, without giving away what comes next. One question per chapter, across all 15 chapters, and every one is editable before you print. The example answers under 3 of the chapters are the ones printed at the front of the booklet.

1. Chapter 1

   What problem is Lucas dealing with at the beginning of the story, and why is it so hard for him?

2. Chapter 2

   Why does Lucas make the choice to go to New York City instead of going to school, and what does this choice tell you about him?

3. Chapter 3

   How would you describe Lucas’s relationship with Uncle Benny? Use details from the chapter to support your thinking.

   Example answer: I would describe Lucas and Uncle Benny as very close. Lucas looks up to Uncle Benny because he is brave, kind, and understands him. Uncle Benny also listens to Lucas in a way that makes Lucas feel important. Their relationship feels more like best friends than just uncle and nephew.

4. Chapter 4

   The day begins like a normal morning for many people. What details make the setting seem ordinary before everything changes?

5. Chapter 5

   The word “concussion” is important in Lucas’s story. What does it mean, and how does it connect to Lucas’s choices?

6. Chapter 6

   How do Lucas and the people around him react when they first realize something terrible has happened at the World Trade Center?

7. Chapter 7

   What dangers do you think Lucas might face now that he is near the Twin Towers? Explain your prediction using clues from the story.

8. Chapter 8

   How does Lucas show courage in this chapter, even though he is scared?

   Example answer: I think Lucas shows courage because he keeps going even when he is frightened. He does not pretend that everything is okay, but he still tries to make safe choices. To me, that is real bravery because he feels fear and acts anyway. This makes him seem stronger than he was at the start of the book.

9. Chapter 9

   What do the firefighters’ actions show about helping others during an emergency?

10. Chapter 10

    How does the author build suspense and make the reader feel worried about what might happen next?

11. Chapter 11

    How are Lucas’s thoughts about football, safety, or family changing as the story continues?

12. Chapter 12

    Describe a moment when strangers help each other. What does that moment show about people during a crisis?

13. Chapter 13

    One theme of the book is that bravery does not mean you are never afraid. How does this chapter show that idea?

14. Chapter 14

    Why do you think it is important for readers to learn about September 11, 2001, through a story like this one?

15. Chapter 15

    How has Lucas changed from the beginning of the book to the end? What lesson do you think he has learned?

    Example answer: At the beginning, Lucas is mostly thinking about football and how upset he is that he might not be able to play. By the end, he understands that family, safety, and being alive are much more important. He has seen how brave people can be when others need help. I think Lucas learns that being strong is not just about sports; it is also about caring for people and making wise choices.