Language Arts -- Storytelling is important in both Matt and Attean's culture. Matt tells his version of the bear story in the book. Attean is expected to tell his version of the story at the tribe's feasting ceremony. Ask students to think about Attean's version of the story and make preparation to tell it to the class.

Matt accepts the task of teaching Attean to read. The only book that Matt has to offer Attean is Robinson Crusoe, a novel that is entirely too difficult for a beginning reader. Ask the class to discuss how they would go about teaching Attean. Remember that Attean cannot read English at all. Consider, also, that people read best when they are interested in the subject. Make a book that Matt could use in teaching Attean.
 

Social Studies -- Critics have complemented Elizabeth George Spear on the authenticity of her historical novels, particularly The Sign of the Beaver. Speare attributes the accurate historical facts to her thorough research. Have students record the aspects of the novel that Ms. Speare would have had to research. Find out about the author through the Internet links.

The Penobscot Indians originally inhabited the part of the United States that is now the state of Maine. Send students to the library or have them use the Internet links to identify other Native American tribes that originally lived in the New England area. How are the Peobscot Indians related to the Algonquins?

Science -- Matt's father tells him that there were no bees in America until the colonists brought them from England. Ask students to find information that verifies this fact. Students might also want to research the appropriate first aid for a bee sting by using the Internet links.

The Native Americans had to depend on herbs and plants for their medicines. Encourage students to research some of herbs that they used to heal people. What is a person who practices medicine with herbs called today?

Math --How does Matt keep track of time? Ask students to relate his method of keeping time with early forms of math.

Art -- Both Matt and Attean give detailed instructions for making various domestic objects. Ask students to carefully read the directions that the boys give for making instruments for survival, living shelters, or other items. Then, have students draw these items or construct replicas.

Drama -- Ceremony and drama has always been important in the Native American culture. Dramatize one ceremony that the Penobscot Indians might have performed.

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Last updated: Saturday November 29, 2008

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