Saturday, March 5, 2011

The Three Little Wolves and the Big Bad Pig by: Eugene Trivizas (folktale)


This story is another version of the three little pigs, with wolves instead of pigs and a big bad pig instead of a wolf. After mother wolf warns the three wolves about the big bad big, they set off to construct their first house which is made of bricks. Although the brick stands strong through the pig's huffing and puffing, it is no match for his sledgehammer. As their houses grow sturdier with each new attempt, the pig becomes more clever in his tactics to tear them down. Just as the pig thought he had won, the wolves create a house made of flowers that intoxicates the pig so much until he turns a new leaf and befriends the wolves. After the wolves see that the pig is tame, the three little wolves and the big bad pig live happily ever after.

After reading this story, I would conduct a science lesson and experiment with my students. I would gather various materials for students to build their own versions of the wolves house to see which ones are built the best. It is up to the students to decide what materials to use to build the strongest house and one that can withstand the wind. After students are finished building their houses, they can test the sturdiness by first blowing on them with their mouths, then with fans or blow dryers. Have students guess what they think will happen to their houses as well as their classmates houses. Afterwards, discuss what worked well and what didn't, as well as what may have surprised them. Ask student groups to explain how they constructed their models and how they decided what materials to use while the remains are still present. This is a great activity to engage students in the story and have them get creative with their house designs.

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