05/20/2026
Our 5th graders celebrated finishing “Where the Red Fern Grows” by Wilson Rawls with an unforgettable literary party full of hands-on activities inspired by life during the Great Depression and themes from the novel. Students sampled fresh peanut butter bread made from a Depression-era recipe and learned practical skills that children like Billy may have used, including darning socks, patching jeans, and sewing on buttons. The students gained a new appreciation for the resourcefulness of families during that time period. To bring the excitement of the story to life, students also played a fun outdoor chase game inspired by Billy, his loyal hunting dogs, and the raccoons from the book. The activity had everyone running, strategizing, and cheering each other on! It was a wonderful way to celebrate literature by connecting history, life skills, and active learning. We are so proud of our readers for their thoughtful discussions, enthusiasm, and participation throughout this unit.
