The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
Genre: Fictional
Grade Level: K-6
Summary: This story depicts the relationship between a young boy and an apple tree. Everyday the young boy would visit the tree. He would swing on the branches and slide down the trunk. As the boy grew older, he continued to visit the tree which continued to give back to him. He even cut it down to use for a boat in order to sail away and they were both happy.
Theme/Skill: Generosity
Pre-reading activities: Have students tell a partner about someone or something that means a lot to them. Compare the Walt Disney Pocahontas movie with the grandmother willow tree. Ask: "Why does this person/thing mean so much to you?" Do you spend a lot of time with him/her? Reverse it by saying: "What could you do to help this person/thing?"
Post-reading activities: Write a letter to the person whom you have a close relationship with and include why they mean so much to you. Describe various qualities they may have.
Extended question: What would you do if you had your own giving tree?
Assessment: Students create their own giving tree, and on each branch they will identify a quality possessed by the tree or young boy. They can also add characteristics of the individual/thing who is closest to them.
Britt, I like how you used a classical Dr. Seuss Book to connect it to someone who means a lot to students. I think they will really take the time to write a letter to someone special. You could actually have them send a final copy of the letter to the person they wrote it to.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely love this story! It always makes me so sad, but it truly helps students understand what it means to give until you have nothing left, or take until there's nothing there. Great assessment!
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