Explore The Origins

Worksheet Description

This worksheet delves into the exciting world of cliffhangers, a staple of engaging storytelling. Students are introduced to the concept of a cliffhanger as a narrative technique that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, eager to discover what happens next. It traces the term’s origin back to Thomas Hardy’s serial novel “A Pair of Blue Eyes,” where a character, Henry Knight, quite literally hangs from a cliff, an episode that ends abruptly to ensure the readers return for the next installment.

The educational activity encourages learners to engage with their own experiences of cliffhangers in literature or media. It prompts them to recall a specific work that utilized this technique, identify the pivotal moment of suspense, and articulate the unresolved elements that compelled them to continue with the story. This exercise not only helps students understand the mechanics behind cliffhangers but also allows them to appreciate their effectiveness in maintaining suspense and building anticipation, demonstrating the power of this literary device in storytelling.