Student Objectives:

  • Take turns reading pages or paragraphs in the book to practice their reading skills.
  • Identify who the main characters and settings of the story are.
  • Understand the moral lessons presented in the book.
  • Be able to summarize the story in their own words.

Video Links:

  • Happy Piglet:

Theocratic Connections:

Since this chapter explores Wilbur’s happiness and quality of life, encourage students to consider the following article on how the Bible says we should treat animals after class:

Activity 1 – Reading Chapter 3 – Pages 13-18 (15 minutes):

Open the story in the Bookclub bookcase and have students take turns reading. Stop after the last paragraph on page 18. Assign character roles if appropriate.

Activity 2 – Discussion (10 minutes):

Ask students the following questions:

  • “Which characters were we introduced to in this chapter?”
  • “Why do the animals in the barn trust Fern?”
  • “Why do you think sitting and watching Wilbur made Fern happy?”
  • “In this chapter, Wilbur says: ‘I’m less than two months old and I’m tired of living,’. Why does he feel that way?”
  • “Do you think they will catch Wilbur?”

Activity 3 – Watch and Discuss Happy Piglet Video (5 minutes):

Ask students the following question:

  • “Why do you think many animals seem happy when humans spend time with them?”

Assessment:

Assess student understanding of the story’s moral through participation in discussions, completion of reflection questions, and identification of key concepts presented.