LIT 105 Charlotte’s Web Notes

Design a creative project for a third-grade class.

Why is Charlotte’s Web the most successful children’s book of all time (at least according to sales)?

What is the narrative point of view (LfC, 37+)? Is White’s choice effective? Why?

How would you characterize the plot (38+)?

What is the central conflict? How is it resolved? Are there any minor conflicts? (LfC, 41+) Who is the protagonist? Who is the antagonist? What circumstances or conditions change the way readers might feel about Wilbur’s fate?

Does your understanding of rural culture change the way you read the book? How do you think a child who has never seen a farm, let alone a “runt,” might respond to the story? What other assumptions does an adult reader from a rural state bring to the table? Field trips aside, how would you provide context for urban readers?

What is the theme (42+)?

How would you characterize the tone?

Find an example for each of the four ways character is revealed (35+).

Who are the supporting characters? What role do they play? Are they round or flat?

Describe the setting. Find an example of details White uses to enrich the setting. Create a hands-on activity that uses an example of White’s language.

What role do seasons play in the story? What role does nature play?