Student Activities for Julie of the Wolves
Essential Questions for Julie of the Wolves
- When do you think it might be better for a person to endure rather than escape a difficult situation? When might it be better to leave or escape difficult circumstances?
- What is your family heritage? In what ways does your heritage influence your life?
- What kinds of relationships can humans have with animals?
- How does setting influence the plot and characters in a story?
- What role do flashbacks play in a story?
Before Reading
Julie of the Wolves contains many meticulously researched details about the Arctic gray wolf. Nevertheless, it is a work of fiction and takes liberties in the depiction of Miyax’s interactions with the wolves. Students may be curious about the accuracy of the story, and might benefit from supplementing their novel study with some science background. Consider having students begin or end the novel by watching a documentary like the one linked below. Students can use this information to inform their reading and compare and contrast real wolves with those in the novel. Other useful scientific pre-reading might include background on plants of the tundra and the unusual pattern of sunlight during the Arctic summers and winters.
In addition to the scientific background, students may also benefit from an introduction to Inuit culture and history. The Inuits belong to an ethnic group that once extended from Siberia, Russia, through Alaska and Canada, and as far as Greenland. For thousands of years, these people survived in the cold Arctic climate through hunting. Their lives began to change with the coming of Europeans and, in particular, with the rise of the whaling industry and introduction of new diseases in the late nineteenth century. The whaling industry eliminated the Inuit trade patterns, forcing many hunters to find a new way of surviving. New jobs, combined with a declining population due to disease, caused many Inuits to resettle on the coast in more populated areas. Although the U.S. government provided support and opportunities for the Inuit population, it also forced assimilation at the expense of Inuit heritage and preferences. The tension between the old ways and the new is one of the most important thematic elements of Julie of the Wolves. For further study of this topic, have students explore the following web page: https://www.everyculture.com/multi/Ha-La/Inuit.html.
Buy Julie and the Wovles on Amazon
How Tos about Julie of the Wolves by Jean Craighead George
Engage students with a classroom Arctic biome simulation
Set up a hands-on activity where students create a miniature Arctic biome using shoeboxes, craft materials, and printed animal images. Encourage creativity and collaboration as they depict tundra plants, the gray wolf, and climate features introduced in Julie of the Wolves. This immersive project helps bring the novel's setting to life and reinforces key science concepts.
Assign students to research and present on an Arctic animal
Have each student select an Arctic animal featured in the novel or biome. Guide them as they gather facts about the animal's habitat, adaptations, and role in the ecosystem, then present findings to the class. This builds research skills and connects literature to real-world science.
Facilitate a compare-and-contrast discussion on fiction vs. reality
Lead a class conversation about differences between the novel's depiction of wolves and scientific documentaries or articles. Prompt students to cite examples from both sources. This sharpens critical thinking and enhances reading comprehension.
Integrate cultural studies through Inuit storytelling
Share a traditional Inuit legend or folktale with the class. Encourage students to identify themes and values in the story, then connect them to Miyax's experiences in the novel. This broadens cultural understanding and deepens literary analysis.
Wrap up with a reflective journal prompt on adaptation and resilience
Ask students to write a journal entry about a time they adapted to a new situation or overcame a challenge. Connect this exercise to Miyax's journey in Julie of the Wolves. This fosters empathy and personal connections with the text.
Frequently Asked Questions about Julie of the Wolves by Jean Craighead George
What is Julie of the Wolves about?
Julie of the Wolves is a novel by Jean Craighead George about Miyax, a young Inuit girl who survives in the Arctic wilderness by befriending a pack of wolves. The story explores themes of survival, adaptation, Inuit culture, and the connection between humans and nature.
How can I teach Julie of the Wolves in my classroom?
To teach Julie of the Wolves, use activities like character analysis, exploring Inuit culture, comparing wolf behaviors in fiction and science, and discussing themes of assimilation and survival. Incorporate multimedia resources and essential questions for deeper understanding.
What are some lesson plan ideas for Julie of the Wolves?
Lesson plan ideas include: researching Arctic wildlife, studying Inuit heritage, analyzing Miyax’s survival strategies, comparing real wolves to those in the book, and exploring the impact of setting on the story. Use storyboards, debates, and creative writing to engage students.
How accurate is the depiction of wolves in Julie of the Wolves?
While Julie of the Wolves features detailed research about Arctic gray wolves, some interactions are fictionalized for storytelling. Supplement lessons with documentaries or scientific articles to compare real wolf behavior versus the novel’s representation.
Why is Inuit culture important in Julie of the Wolves?
Inuit culture is central to the novel, influencing Miyax’s survival skills, values, and identity. The story highlights cultural heritage, adaptation, and the tension between tradition and modernization faced by Inuit peoples.
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