Charlotte's Web Vocabulary

We're discovering that there is some tricky vocabulary in our literature circle book, Charlotte's Web, along with some unique characters! Here you can post challenging, new, or unusual words you find in the text (along with page number, dictionary definition, and meaning in the story) to help us all understand the story better. Make sure you read what others have posted to avoid duplicate entries.

These posts are part of your literature circle participation grade, so make sure you use proper grammar and spelling. My suggestion is to jot down your ideas before you go to the computer to avoid any careless mistakes.

“Loneliness” (25 – 31) Wilbur's Happiness

Why wasn’t Wilbur happy? Have you ever felt like this? What did you do about it?

“Loneliness” (25 – 31) Wilbur's Loneliness

Why was Wilbur suddenly lonely? List in sequence the events that happened in this chapter. Did any of these events have anything to do with Wilbur’s loneliness?

Chapter 5, “Charlotte” (32-41): Eating Habits

Wilbur was shocked and disgusted with Charlotte’s eating habits. How does Charlotte defend her eating habits? List what Charlotte and Wilbur each eat. Would you rather share a meal with Charlotte or Wilbur? Why?

Chapter 5, “Charlotte” (32-41) Friendship

Wilbur said friendship is a gamble because there are bad characteristics, as well as good characteristics, in every individual. List all of Charlotte’s good points, as well as her bad points. Would you take a gamble and have Charlotte as your friend? Why or why not?

Chapter 5 Prediction

What do you think Templeton will do with the egg? What do you think will happen to the egg? Why do you think this?

Ch. 2 Post: Prediction Time!

Look at the title of the next chapter, "Escape." Who will escape? Why will they escape? What are the reasons for your prediction?

An Unusual Pet (ch. 1)

Wilbur is an unusual pet - not like a cat, dog, or guinea pig. What are the advantages of having a pet like Wilbur? Disadvantages?

Welcome to Your Literature Circle Blog on Charlotte's Web!

Here is where we will discuss and answer questions about the book Charlotte's Web. Be sure to post thoughtful ideas as they come to you at school or at home. You may earn extra credit by going above and beyond or responding to extra questions.

Happy Reading!

Prereading: Connecting to the Themes

Read each of the following. Respond in detail to the one that sparks thought in you the most:

1. Independence: What do you like about growing up? What don't you like about it? When do you like to be on your own? When do you like to have help?

2. Selfishness: With whom do you have to share things? When do you think a kid should be expected to share? When do you think a kid should have the choice not to share? Do you think your parents are fair about what they expect you to share? What does it mean to be "selfish"? Are you ever selfish?

3. Pets: Have you ever had a pet? What are the responsibilities as far as taking care of the pet? What happens if you do not care for your pet?

4. Running Away: Have you ever run away or thought about it? If so, why? What happened? What other solution could you have tried?

5. Loneliness: Brainstorm what enters your mind when you hear the word "loneliness." Has their ever been a time in your life that you've been filled with loneliness? Describe that time. What can make a person feel lonely?

Be sure to label your post, for example, "#3. Pets", or "#5. Loneliness."
For extra credit, respond in detail to a second prompt. Posts are due: Friday, Feb. 2nd.