Is Raven A Thief Or A Hero?
created by Meredith Henry
Grade: 2 - 4
Critical Task: Students will form their own opinions, with evidence, on whether Raven is a thief or a hero.
Overview: The students will read several Haida legends where Raven is the main character. The students will discuss the question in pairs, then write one paragraph on what they decide, using supporting details from one or more of the legends read.
Requisite Tools:
Background Knowledge:
- Knowledge of Raven's actions in numerous legends.
Criteria for Judgement:
- Take a position and use details from the legends to support their position.
- Express their opinion in a paragraph.
Critical Thinking Vocabulary:
Thinking Strategies:
- Pair discussions
- Paragraph writing
- Graphic representation
Habits of Mind:
- Open-mindedness
- Critical/inquiring attitude
Learning Activities:
STEP A: Gain the necessary background knowledge
- Students will hear stories that feature Raven and become familiar with Raven's characteristics.
- Students will do activities, such as literary report cards, to deepen their understanding of the stories.
- Students will discuss the concepts of "thief" and "hero", and consider how they might apply to Raven.
STEP B: Forming a judgement
- Students will listen while teacher reads from Raven Steals the Light (can send for NFB video to back this up).
- Students break into pairs and share with their partners what they know about Raven.
- Students make their own judgements on whether Raven is a thief or a hero.
- Students take one of the legends about Raven and find information in it that will support their judgement.
STEP C: Evaluation of critical thinking:
- Students each write a paragraph that states their judgement and the supporting details.
Grade 2/3, Grade 4
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