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.
Coloring Page:
Video Links:
- Stages of Pig Growth:
- (Optional) Smart Pigs vs Kids:
Theocratic Connections:
Since this chapter explores Fern’s ability to be responsible, encourage students to consider the following article on responsibility after class:
Activity 1 – Reading Chapter 2: Wilbur (15 minutes):
Open the story in the Bookclub bookcase and have students take turns reading. Assign character roles if appropriate.
Activity 2 – Discussion (12 minutes):
Ask students the following questions:
- “Which characters were we introduced to in this chapter?”
- “How does Fern show her parents that she is responsible enough to care for Wilbur?”
- “Why do you think the Arables (Fern’s parents) moved Wilbur from a box near the stove, to a box in the woodshed, to a spot under the apple tree?”
- “How did Wilbur keep warm at night under the apple tree?”
- “Why did Mr. Arable (Fern’s father) want to sell Wilbur when turned 5 weeks old?”
- “Why did Uncle Homer agree to buy Wilbur?”
- “What do you think will happen in the next chapter?”
- “If you had to tell someone what chapter 2 was about, what would you say?”
- “What do you think will happen in the next chapter?”
Activity 3 – Watch: Stages of Pig Growth Video (3 minutes):
Show students this video for context. This will help them to better understand how fast Wilbur must’ve been growing.
Activity 4 – Watch and Discuss: Smart Pigs vs Kids Video (Optional):
If you have enough time watch and discuss the second video exploring how smart pigs are.
Assessment:
Assess student understanding of the story’s moral through participation in discussions, completion of reflection questions, and identification of key concepts presented.