1. Protagonist’s Traits of Resiliency Resiliency: The ability to become strong, healthy, or successful again after something bad happens. The ability of something to return to its original shape after it has been pulled, stretched, pressed, bent, etc. Directions: 1.How would you describe “the man” that doomed him? 2.With a partner, investigate what traits of resiliency the man posses. Use the characteristics of resilient people chart and find a quote to support your judgment of the Man’s resiliency.

2. Discussion “It was his own fault or, rather, his mistake. He should not have built the fire under the spruce tree.” What is the difference between fault and mistake? How is failure explored in the story? What is the relationship between the man and dog? What role does this relationship play in the story? “His theory of running until he reached the camp and the boys had one flaw in it: he lacked the endurance.” How does one get an accurate sense of their own capabilities and limitations? How often do you test the limits or act against the advice of adults?

3. Free Write Do you think there was something about “the man” that doomed him? Which of his character traits, if any, would have needed to be difference for him to have survived his ordeal?