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.

 

*NOTE: Instruct students to print out the Character Analysis chart and bring it to class because they will be filling it out during class. Also, tell them to bring the coloring page. (Younger students who can’t do the character chart can just color.)*

Coloring Page:

(Optional) Video Links:

  • County Fair Trailer:

 

Theocratic Connections:

Since this chapter explores the character traits of the selfish rat Templeton, encourage students to explore the following comic on selfishness after class:

Activity 1 – Reading Chapter 18 (15 minutes):

Open the story in the Bookclub bookcase and have students take turns reading. Assign character roles if appropriate.

Activity 2 – Discussion (10 minutes):

Ask students the following questions:

  • “How does Fern feel about her time at the fair?”
  • “Why is the word ‘Humble’ the right word to describe Wilbur? Is it his personality, body, or both?”
  • “How do you think Mrs. Arable felt when she saw Fern with Henry Fussy? Why?”
  • “On page 142, when Wilbur asks Charlotte if she thinks that Mr. Zuckerman will let him live, what does Charlotte say that makes him feel better?”
  • “How does Templeton’s behavior at the fair reflect his character? What does his attitude toward helping Charlotte and Wilbur tell us about him?”
  • “What do you think will happen in the next chapter?”

Activity 3 – Character Chart: Templeton (10 minutes):

Have students fill out the Character Analysis chart with information about the character Templeton.

Activity 4 –Watch and Discuss: County Fair Trailer Video (Optional):

Watch and discuss the video if you have enough time. After watching the video, ask students the following questions:

  • According to the man in the blue plaid shirt, why do we have county fairs? (Answer: To learn about agriculture/farming.)
  • Have you ever been to a county fair? What was your favorite thing about the fair?

Assessment:

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