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.

(Optional) Video Links:

  • Kids Showing Their Pigs At A State Fair:

Theocratic Connections:

  • N/A

Activity 1 – Reading Chapter 19  Part 2: Pages 149-154 (15 minutes):

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

Activity 2 – Discussion (10 minutes):

Ask students the following questions:

  • ”How did the Arables and the Zuckermans react when they saw the word ‘Humble’ written in the web?”
  • “How did the Arables and Zuckerman’s react when they saw that Uncle had won the first place blue ribbon?”
  • “Why do you think Mr. Zukerman gave Wilbur a buttermilk bath even though Wilbur didn’t win first prize?”
  • “How did the Arables and Zuckerman’s react when the announcer said that Wilbur will receive a special award in twenty minutes? Do you think they expected this to happen?”
  • “Why do you think Templeton decided to go with Wilbur when he saw the men putting Wilbur in the crate?”

Activity 3 – Watch and Discuss: Kids Showing Their Pigs At A State Fair (Optional):

If you have enough time, watch and discuss the Spider eggs sac videos. Ask students the following questions:

  • What are some things the kids do to take care of their pigs?(0:49)(Answer: Feed them twice a day, walk them twice a day, wash them before showing them.) 
  • Why does the girl say to put the pig’s head up when you’re showing them?(1:01)(Answer: Makes them look better.)

Assessment:

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