It's a delightful story of Mr. Rabbit, who worried (perhaps terrified) about his new neighbors who just moved into his woods – the otters!
Fortunately, he has a wise owl for a friend who wakes him up from his worried frenzy with a wise saying: ‘Do unto otters as you would have others do unto you'.
We of course know it as ‘The Golden Rule'.
How to Use it in Your Classroom
Mr. Rabbit takes the words of wisdom from the owl and starts pondering how he would like the otters to treat him. This is the perfect story use to inspire your new students to follow the Golden Rule, which in turn will foster a safe, caring classroom community from the start.
BEFORE READING: Making Predictions & Accessing Schema
- Does the title remind you of anything you have heard before?
- What do you think this story might be about?
- What do you know about rabbits?
- What do you know about otters?
- How are rabbits and otters different?
- How are otters and rabbits alike?
- Even though rabbits are different in many ways, how are they alike? (They have many of the same needs.)
- Do you have new friends that are different from you? Do they have some of the same needs?
DURING READING: Making Connections & Reflections
AFTER READING: Making Reflecting & Applying
After reading, discuss with your students how they want others to treat them. Encourage them to refer to the anchor chart or flap book that they filled out while you were reading the story.
EXTENDING LEARNING
This fun story can provide great motivation to learn in other academic areas! I love to start with a story because the students' imaginations have been activated, which enhances learning!
I have included two bump games in the FREE download for you! These games are so much fun your students will forget they're practicing math. Plus, there's no grading required!
My name is Peggy Means. I am a child of God and a retired elementary teacher. I loved teaching and creating engaging resources for my students. Now, I love sharing my resources and ideas with busy teachers around the world.
