Monday, March 8, 2010

What's the Big Idea?

Finding the Main Idea in Gary Paulsen's "Storm"

Yesterday we read "Storm" by Gary Paulsen. You might have learned something from the story, and you might not have, but either way Paulsen intended to get a point across, and that's the Main Idea. Remember, we've talked a lot about the Main Idea for the last week or two, so you shouldn't have too much trouble figuring it out, but just in case - here are a few to choose from:

  • Humans and animals have a special bond.
  • There are many things about animals that humans can't explain.
  • Animals may understand humans better than humans understand animals.
  • Humans can learn from their animal friends.
Your task is as follows:

  1. Choose the main idea that you feel best describes "Storm." If you also read "Where the Heart Is" then you may complete this activity using that story instead.
  2. Provide TWO (2) examples (with page numbers!) from the text that support the main idea. (For example: maybe you read a story that included a dog who, on page 487, ran around the house making sure all the kids were tucked tightly into bed every night before finally laying down in his dog bed. In your analysis you would say that the main idea of the story is that humans and animals have a special bond, and this was proven when, on p. 487, Fido ran around the house making sure everyone was tucked in tight.)
  3. Finally, you will post your analysis (in the format I provided to you on your planning sheet/handout) as a comment on this post. (Please check your spelling and make sure you're using proper grammar/tone. Last time we had a few students forget that particular reminder!)

Once you have finished posting your analysis, please head over to Tween Tribune and complete the activity I've detailed for you under the post above this one, labeled, Summarizing the News.

No comments:

Post a Comment