This document contains a vocabulary practice worksheet and comprehension questions about the short story "The Open Window" by Saki. The worksheet defines 9 vocabulary words used in the story and asks students to match each word with its definition. The comprehension questions ask about key details and plot points in the story, including why the main character Vera told a story about her aunt, when the reader figures out the truth, why one character leaves in haste, and how another character's nervous condition adds to the story's effectiveness.

1. Name:___________________________________ Date:___________
The Open Window (p. 518)
Vocabulary Practice
1. Self-possessed _____
2. Endeavored _____
3. Unduly _____
4. Discounting _____
5. Migrate _____
6. Snipe _____
7. Treacherous _____
8. Falteringly _____
9. Delusion _____
10. Imminent _____
a. A false belief
b. A long-billed wading bird
c. To change location
d. Taking away from
e. Made an attempt
f. Poised; in command of oneself
g. Without need
h. With unsteadiness and stammering
i. About to occur
j. Not worthy of trust
Think It Through
1. Why do you think Vera tried to find out at the beginning of Mr. Nuttel’s visit how much he knew
about her aunt? What story did she tell him about her aunt?
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2. Did you believe throughout most of the story that the aunt had mental problems? Why? At what
point did you figure out the truth?
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3. Why did Mr. Nuttel leave in wild haste? How did Vera explain his strange departure?
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4. How did Mr. Nuttel’s nervous condition dd to the effectiveness of the story?
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5. What do you think parents should do with children like Vera who specialize in “romance at short
notice”? How might Vera’s imagination have hurt both her aunt and Mr. Nuttel?
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2. Write About It
Write as if you were Framton Nuttel, trying to tell about your horrible experience in a letter to your
sister.