1. Essential Question: ‘The Giving Tree’: Tender Story of Unconditional Love or Disturbing Tale of Selfishness? Close Reading Activity

2. Step One  Have students draw lines to separate stanzas

3. First Read – Read the Poem for fluency and enjoyment  Read the poem The Giving Tree  Teacher may read aloud or students can read independently.

4. Second Read  In the left margin, have students summarize the first and second stanzas in less than 10 words.  Guided Question: How has the boy changed from the first stanza to the second?  Have students share out their responses. Third Read  Have students circle words that are repeated throughout the text (key words)  Guided Question: Is this poem a tender story of unconditional love or disturbing tale of selfishness? Underline reasons for your answers.

5. Extension Activity: Opinion Piece  In your opinion, was the tree selfless or selfish? Be sure to include reasons for your answer based on evidence from the text.  Discuss your opinion with your group/partner before you begin your writing.