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Na m e : ___ Date: _
Directions: The words at the bottom of the page are missing from the story. 1. Write the meaning of
the word. (You may use a dictionary.) 2. Fill in each word in the correct blank in the story.
Reading Comprehension • Saddleback Educational Publishing ©2002 3 Watson, Irvine, CA 92618•Phone (888)SDL-BACK•www.sdlback.com
Tribal Masks
In looking at the variety of African tribal masks,
it is easy to appreciate them as an art form. But,
unlike other art forms that are created for
_________________________ alone, the tribal masks of
Africa often serve a purpose as well. They are used as
symbols of status and for specific functions in
ceremonies and rituals. Often spiritual beliefs are
attached to a particular mask. The wearer of a mask
may not only be displaying ____________________, but
may be believing he is protecting himself from
unwanted forces as well. A certain mask may be worn
during a ritual to protect the group from danger,
honor the dead, or celebrate good fortune. Masks are
used in entertainment as well—the___________________
points in many theatrical skits and dances.
Tribal masks possess a ___________________of
symbolic meanings in a tribe’s physical and spiritual
lives. In addition to their artistic beauty, they are an
______________________part of many tribal cultures.
myriad: _____________________________________________________________________________
focal: ______________________________________________________________________________
aesthetics: _________________________________________________________________________
integral: ___________________________________________________________________________
prestige: ___________________________________________________________________________