Hatchet

This novel study guide is designed to use with high-level 4th and 5th grade students, and was specifically designed with gifted learners in mind. The level of depth in questioning and discussion will be at the teacher’s discretion, based on student need and readiness.

This novel study encourages readers to develop their critical thinking skills through rigorous, high level, open-ended questions that force thinking beyond surface level.

Students will develop an understanding of literary elements, themes, character and plot development, and symbolism, while analyzing deep and complex questions in regards to the genre of realistic fiction.

Students will meet objectives for deep thinking using a combination of discussion, independent and/or group reading, and answer questions based on the icons of Depth and Complexity. These questions are designed to be high-level and open-ended, so that students have to think critically to arrive at an answer. Many questions will help students form deeper understandings of global concepts.

Upon completing this novel study, students will have a greater understanding of the genre of science fiction, as well as develop their ability to analyze figurative language, and theme. It is the hope of the author that this novel is an engaging way to deepen students’ thinking about literature and global issues as well.