Hamlet Close Reading Analysis Worksheets Bundle
Challenge high school students to push beyond basic reading comprehension and exercise close reading analysis skills while engaging with Hamlet by William Shakespeare. Given the objective nature of the multiple choice questions, each close reading activity is rigorous enough for students to find deeper meaning in the text, yet convenient enough for teachers to quickly and efficiently gather data on their students' textual analysis skills. Included are twelve close reading worksheets, each addressing an individual scene, and answer keys. Materials are delivered in Word Document and PDF formats. (Alternatively, a Google Drive bundle option is available.) By the end of the play, students will:
Identify what the text states explicitly and implicitly
Define words and phrases as they are used in the text
Discern the tone of given passages
Determine the functions of given scenes
Analyze plot from a historical perspective
Consider the greater significance of given details
Explore how complex characters think, behave, interact, and develop
Compare and contrast characters
Examine the effect of Shakespeare's narrative techniques with emphasis on the incorporation of figurative language
Apply knowledge of literary devices including metaphor, simile, euphemism, personification, hyperbole, oxymoron, situational irony, dramatic irony, and more
Conduct brief research to answer a question connecting the drama to aspects of Greek mythology
Consider autobiographical parallel, drawing an informed inference about Shakespeare's philosophy on the purpose of dramatic performances based on details provided in a given scene
Explore themes with emphasis on humanity's relationship with the universe
Support claims and inferences with sound reasoning and relevant textual evidence
Write about Shakespearean drama with clarity, accuracy, and precision
Materials in this bundle may facilitate small-group discussions in which students decode language and pose/respond to questions relating to plot, broad topics, and character development. Using these resources for structured guidance, students will improve their ability to present information, conclusions, and supporting textual evidence clearly and convincingly.
Materials are available for teaching a variety of Shakespeare’s plays:
