The Chrysalids
by John Wyndham
About_
This study guide accompanies the opening chapters of John Wyndham’s The Chrysalids, following young David
Strorm as he discovers a hidden telepathic gift and grapples with a rigid, mutation-fearing society. It traces his
friendships with Sophie and Rosalind, the dangers faced by his secret group of telepaths, and their harrowing flight
to the Fringes and beyond. The guide offers comprehension checks, discussion prompts, and creative activities to
deepen students’ understanding of the novel’s themes of conformity, prejudice, and identity. This study guide
contains 65 questions across 5 chapter sections (50 Factual + 15 Critical), 1 Crossword Puzzle (12 clues), and 1
Character Focus Activity.
What’s Included_
This study guide features 5 sets of 10 Factual Questions with an answer key (50 total), 5 sets of 3 Critical Analysis
Questions (15 total), 1 Crossword Puzzle (12 clues), and 1 Character Focus Activity (8 traits + evidence prompt +
critical thinking question).
Target Grades_
Grades 8-10
Teacher Note_
This guide is designed to save you prep time while giving students a structured path through a rich,
thought-provoking text. The factual questions build comprehension and accountability, while the critical questions
push students to grapple with the novel’s tough ethical questions about difference and belonging. We hope it
makes your unit both easier to plan and more meaningful for your class.