Hatchet Lesson Plan For Kids

I came up with a Hatchet Lesson Plan For Kids because I just loved this story! In the book Hatchet by Gary Paulsen, we meet 13-year-old Brian Robeson as he heads to visit his father in the Canadian mountains. On the way, he survives a horrible plane crash and is left as the only survivor who now needs to survive alone in the wilderness. So, how will he fare?

Enjoy Gary Paulsen’s story of Hatchet with your child, then consider some of the Hatchet-themed lesson plans and enrichment activities below. Not only can they help you expand on the themes in the story, but they can teach some basic educational concepts in the process. Here is how to get started:

Rules of Survival Hatchet Craft:

Brian quickly learns that there are specific rules you must follow when trying to survive in the wild. Talk about these rules, and then create this hatchet craft below so you can reflect on these rules.

Here is what you will need to create this craft:

– brown, grey, and/or black craft paper
– craft scissors
– pen or marker
– craft glue

Directions:
1. Cut out a simple ax handle from either brown or black craft paper. Just a long, stick shape will do.
2. Create the head of the axe. Grey or black craft paper works well. Cut it into a rectangular shape.
3. You can now attach the head of the hatchet to the handle. A dab of craft glue will do. Just glue and press into place.
4. Now talk about the rules of living off the land: You need to be brave, let go of self-pity, be enduring, stay positive, use your resources, etc. Write these rules onto your hatchet wherever you can fit them.
5. You can now use your hatchet as a bookmark or just a reminder of what is important when times are tough.

Here are a few other ways to enjoy The Hatchet further:

1. Write down the characteristics of Brian that make him a survivor.
2. Pretend you survived the crash with Brian. How could you help? Write a paragraph about how you would have handled the situation and what challenges you may have faced.

Are you ready for an adventure? Explore Hatchet by Gary Paulsen with your child and then give these follow up activities and crafts a try!

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