My Side of the Mountain

Consider the changes that occur in Sam throughout the novel. How do Sam’s motivations for living in the wilderness alter as the novel progresses? What is the progression of learned skills Sam is able to acquire? How do the animals in the novel play a role in Sam’s knowledge?

Teaching Suggestion: Students may find it beneficial to evaluate Sam’s growth by analyzing the novel chronologically. It may be useful for students to use a graphic organizer with three sections to catalog thoughts about Sam’s motivation, his skill set, and his animal knowledge. Consider allowing students to review the novel as they think about the questions.

Differentiation Suggestion: English learners, students with dyslexia, and those with attentional or executive function disorder may find it beneficial to analyze specific passages from the novel rather than evaluating the entire text. Consider assigning students different passages to vary their responses and create meaningful discussions of the topic.