Bunnicula: A Rabbit-Tale of Mystery

Analyze Chester’s progression from being suspicious of Bunnicula to becoming emotionally overwrought because of Bunnicula’s presence. Consider these points as you reflect on the text to answer the question.

• What factors influence Chester’s decisions, ideas, and motives surrounding Bunnicula?
• What clues lead Chester to become suspicious of Bunnicula’s motives?
• How does Chester’s behavior change as the novel progresses?
• What are the indications in the novel that Chester is jealous of Bunnicula?

Teaching Suggestion: Students may find it beneficial to work in small groups to answer the questions. Consider assigning each group a “scribe” to record the thoughts of the group, then pose questions one at a time, providing students with the opportunity to discuss and record responses. After discussing, students can share their thoughts as a whole group activity.

Differentiation Suggestion: English language learners, students with dyslexia, and those with attentional or executive function differences may have difficulty sorting through the whole of the novel to identify specific elements to answer the question. Consider providing students with passages or page numbers to assist them in identifying relevant details to support their responses.

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.