Classroom Discussion Guide — A True Story of Saving an Elk

Three levels of thinking — from literal recall to deep empathy — designed to meet every learner where they are.

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Level 1
Literal
Focus: Who, What, Where & When

            1.
            Setting: Where does this story take place?
          

            2.
            Characters: Who are the main people and animals in the story?
          

            3.
            Events: What steps did the rescuers take to save "Hey Baby" after they found him in the snow?
          

            4.
            Outcome: How does the story end for the brave little elk?
          
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Level 2
Inferential
Focus: Why & How

            1.
            Motivations: Why do you think the rescuers decided to help the elk even though it was a difficult task?
          

            2.
            Emotions: How do you think "Hey Baby" felt when he was finally reunited with his family? What clues in the illustrations show this?
          

            3.
            Persistence: What challenges did the elk face during the rescue, and how did he show he wasn't giving up?
          
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Level 3
Evaluative
Focus: Compassion, Empathy & Resilience

            1.
            True Courage: Does being brave mean you aren't scared? How did the rescuers show true courage in this story?
          

            2.
            Personal Connection: Think about a time you had to keep trying even though something was hard. How did you feel when you finally finished it?
          

            3.
            Action: If you were in the story, what is one kind thing you could have done to help the character?
          