Alabama Moon

Use this activity to engage all types of learners, while requiring that they refer to and incorporate details from the text over the course of the activity.

“Homesteading”

Students develop a sustainable design for homesteading in the wilderness in this activity.

Moon initially decides to move to Alaska because it is where his father instructed him to go. As the novel progresses, Moon decides to choose any location where Kit can join him to live off the wilderness.

Research and select a location to design a sustainable homestead for Moon. Consider the character growth of Moon in the novel and the change that may occur following the novel’s conclusion. What amenities might Moon consider acceptable after living in society for 8 years? What resources might Moon have access to if he were living off-grid today? Create a media presentation of Moon’s homestead using details from the text to support your design. Use the list of materials below to guide your presentation.

• Select a remote location.
• Will Moon have a garden?
• Is there access to water?
• How will Moon find food?
• Does Moon hunt or trap food?
• Where will Moon get medication?
• Will Moon use modern amenities?
• Will the home use sustainable energy sources?
• What will Moon use as a shelter?
• Does he trade in town?
• What are the harshest conditions and harshest times of the year?