This section presents terms and phrases that are central to understanding the text and may present a challenge to the reader. Use this list to create a vocabulary quiz or worksheet, to prepare flashcards for a standardized test, or to inspire classroom word games and other group activities.

1. fair (adjective, adverb):

light-colored hair and/or skin; unbiased, even-handed; good enough

“The boy with fair hair lowered himself down the last few feet of rock and began to pick his way toward the lagoon” (7).

2. asthma (noun):

difficulty exhaling caused by lung spasms; often an allergic reaction to inhaled particles or a symptom of emotional stress

“‘My auntie told me not to run,’ he explained, ‘on account of my asthma’” (9).

3. beast (noun):

a monster or large animal; also the Devil

“‘But there isn’t a beast!’” (37)

4. conch (noun):

a large, spiral-shaped seashell, often used as a horn; in the story, a symbol of power

“Ralph waved the conch. ‘Shut up! Wait! Listen!’” (38)

5. savages (plural noun):

cruelly fierce; uncivilized

“‘After all, we’re not savages. We’re English, and the English are best at everything. So we’ve got to do the right things’” (42).