The Split Cherry Tree – Extended HOTS Questions

1. When Dave’s father decides to go to his school, he takes a gun with him. What may this teach you about him? Give information from the story to support your answer.

2. Luster Sexton refers to himself as “an old leaf”. What may this tell you about his self-perception? Connect your answer to the theme of the story.

3. How does Pa’s idea of Dave’s school and formal education in general change throughout the story?

4. In your opinion, why does Prof. Herbert choose to punish Dave the way he did? Provide evidence from the text to support your answer.