where the red fern grows / Lesson Plan

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Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to analyze the themes and characters in the novel "Where the Red Fern Grows" and make connections to your own life experiences.

Materials and Prep

  • Copy of the novel "Where the Red Fern Grows"
  • Pen or pencil
  • Notebook or loose-leaf paper

Before starting the lesson, make sure you have read the first few chapters of the novel to familiarize yourself with the story and characters.

Activities

  1. Read Chapters 1-3 of "Where the Red Fern Grows" silently or aloud. Take notes on any important events, characters, or themes that stand out to you.

  2. Discuss your observations and thoughts with a family member or friend. Share your favorite part of the story so far and explain why it resonated with you.

  3. Choose one character from the novel and create a character profile. Include details about their appearance, personality traits, and their role in the story. Use evidence from the text to support your descriptions.

  4. Write a journal entry from the perspective of one of the characters in the novel. Reflect on a significant event or moment and express the character's thoughts and emotions. Be sure to use descriptive language and incorporate dialogue if appropriate.

  5. Take a break and engage in a fun activity related to the novel. This could be drawing a scene from the story, creating a collage of images that represent the themes, or even acting out a short scene with family members.

  6. Wrap up the lesson by discussing the themes of friendship, loyalty, and determination in the novel. Share your thoughts on how these themes are relevant in your own life and provide examples from your personal experiences.

Seventh Grade Talking Points

  • "Where the Red Fern Grows" is a coming-of-age story set in the Ozark Mountains during the Great Depression. It explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the power of determination.
  • The main character, Billy, is a young boy who dreams of owning two hunting dogs. He works hard to save money and eventually fulfills his dream.
  • The novel highlights the strong bond between Billy and his dogs, Old Dan and Little Ann. They face various challenges together, including hunting competitions and encounters with dangerous animals.
  • Throughout the story, Billy learns important life lessons about perseverance, sacrifice, and the value of true friendship.
  • The setting of the Ozark Mountains plays a significant role in the story, as it provides a backdrop for Billy's adventures and reflects the beauty and harshness of nature.
  • "Where the Red Fern Grows" has been praised for its emotional impact and its ability to resonate with readers of all ages.