Before beginning The Things They Carried, class members are asked to use a KWHL chart to record what they know about war, what they want to know, and where they might find answers to their questions. Groups then research to topics of interest and provide a context for their reading of O'Brien's story.

Concepts

reading comprehension strategies, tim o'brien, the vietnam war

Show More Show Less

Additional Tags

english language arts

Show More Show Less

Instructional Ideas

• Compile a list of topics, such as the Tet Offensive, the Massacre at Hue, the My Lai Massacre, the gulf of Tonkin Resolution, PTSD, etc., for groups to research

Classroom Considerations

• Carefully consider the composition of your class and the attitudes of your community before beginning O'Brien's book.

Pros

• The packet includes a rationale for the strategy and step-by-step directions,

Cons

• No template for the KWHL worksheet is included
• No research topics are suggested for those students who have not decided on a topic