Friendship and Loyalty

Lassie, Come Home, by Eric Knight:
Lassie is Joe's prize collie and constant companion. But when Joe's father loses his job, Lassie must be sold. Three times she escapes from her new owner, and three times she returns home to Joe until finally she is taken to the remotest part of Scotland―too far a journey for any dog to make alone . . . but Lassie is not just any dog.
 
Gentle Ben, by Walt Morey:
The Alaskan wilderness is a lonely place for Mark Andersen, especially after the death of his brother. But Mark finds a friend named Ben, who happens to be an Alaskan brown bear. Ben and Mark form a special bond, but the townspeople are determined to destroy it. It is only through the strength of an enduring friendship that Ben—and Mark—have a chance of being saved.
 
What does it mean to be a true friend? Through the heartfelt examples of Lassie, a dog, and Ben, an Alaskan brown bear, students will discover the virtues and benefits of loyal friendship. Meet a dog with the remarkable skill to return home, and the bear who became a great friend.
 
Learning objectives:
Evaluation of geography of Great Britain and Alaska
Emotions in animals (specifically dogs and bears)
Use direct quotes from texts to explain and prove ideas about the reading
Gather information about a topic from multiple sources
Use technology and digital media to further understanding of a topic and to find answers to questions
 
Recommended for: Ages 9+ / Grades 4-5 
Instructor: Eve Babb
Day and Time: Thursdays, 12:45-1:45 PM ET
Duration: 4 classes
Dates: February 8 - 29
Required Materials: 
Lassie, Come Home, by Eric Knight 
Gentle Ben, by Walt Morey