Lesson Topic

Comparing fictional wolves with real wolves

Proficiency/Grade Level

High Beginner to Intermediate ESL, Grades 2-8

Goal and Standard

Goal 2, Standard 2

Content Concepts and Skills

Students will demonstrate understanding of the difference between real and fictional wolves through critical reading and comparisons while using a Venn Diagram.

Materials

Story of the The Three Little Pigs by James Marshall; The True Story of the Three Little Pigs by Jon Scieszka, nonfiction books on wolves, Venn diagram.

Instructional Sequence

• Read or tell a version of the "Three Little Pigs" that is suitable for the ages and English language abilities of your students.
• Read and discuss the "True Story of the Three Little Pigs." Have students discuss whether they think the wolf is guilty or innocent.Explain "point of view" to students. Compare the two stories using a Venn Diagram.
• Brainstorm with students what they know about real wolves. When given a fact, ask the student how they know this information.
• Give students some nonfiction books about wolves. Have them look at the books and ask them how this book is different from "The Three Little Pigs." Introduce the terms "fiction" and "nonfiction."
• Read Martin Berger's Call of the Wolves or another simple nonfiction book about wolves. Ask students to compare the real wolves in this book with the wolf in the "Three Little Pigs."
• Elicit information about real and fictional wolves by asking students questions such as:

1. Do wolves live alone or do they live in packs?
2. How do wolves feed their young?
3. Do wolves hunt other animals because they are mean?
4. Are wolves smart?
5. Do wolves "talk" to each other? Can they speak human languages?

• Have students compare real and fictional wolves by completing the Venn diagram. Students in grades 2-3 may need help.

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