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Use these questions or activities to help gauge students’ familiarity with and spark their interest in the context of the work, giving them an entry point into the text itself.

Short Answer

What factors, past and present, contribute to identity? How might someone’s experiences change their identity in significant ways?

Teaching Suggestion: This Short Answer prompt introduces one of the text’s key themes: The Possibility of Change and Growth. Chase Ambrose, the protagonist, falls from the roof of his house and develops amnesia. His memory loss erases his identity and creates tensions within the school and his family. Before students begin, consider discussing the connection between memory and identity. To help students generate ideas, you might also discuss how significant life events contribute to change.

• “Why Identity Matters and How It Shapes Us” from Verywell Mind describes the factors that contribute to individual identity and explores the importance of having a developed sense of self.
• This 5-minute TED-Ed video explores the ways in which change affects personal identity.

Short Activity

Consider important elements of your life, such as your interests, experiences, and relationships. Then create a digital collage using related pictures that represent your identity. Reflect on the following questions as you begin: