"Catnip" by Robert Bloch | Supernatural Horror Story Quiz, Analysis Worksheet & Vocabulary Games

This bundle covers the short story "Catnip" by Robert Bloch, author of the classic horror novel Psycho. A reading comprehension quiz, literary analysis activity, vocabulary worksheet, crossword puzzle, word search game, and answer keys are included. Given its incorporation of witch lore and animals with seemingly supernatural qualities, "Catnip" is an excellent addition to any high school short fiction unit, especially during the fall and Halloween seasons. By engaging with these materials, students will:

• Bolster vocabulary skills.

• Identify the narrative's dominant conflict.

• Apply knowledge of literary devices (e.g., foreshadowing, hyperbole, invective, metaphor, and pun).

• Analyze characterization (e.g., the mother's lack of awareness).

• Cite textual evidence in support of claims (e.g., how the protagonist demonstrates a desire to impress others).

• Articulate the greater significance of given details (e.g., the fact that the black cat watched the protagonist and "licked its jaws" and the symbolism associated with the black cat).

• Make evidence-based inferences about the author's intentions (e.g., whether or not the author wants readers to feel strong pity and sympathy for the protagonist).

Plot synopsis: "Catnip" is a psychological horror story with dark humor elements about a bully whose recklessness leads to devastating consequences.

The materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. (Alternatively, a Google Drive option is available.)

Resources are available for teaching short stories of various genres:

• Christmas Fiction - Google and printable

• Coming-of-Age Fiction - Google and printable

• Fantasy - Google and printable

• Halloween Fiction - Google and printable

• Horror - Google and printable

• Psychological Fiction - Google and printable

• Science Fiction - Google and printable

• Valentine's Day Fiction - Google and printable