Aesop's Fables



Last updated Wednesday, July 31, 2013

Author: Don Daily
Date of Publication: 2007
ISBN: 0762428767
Grade Level: 3rd    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: May 2013

Synopsis: In The Classic Treasury of Aesop's Fables, there are twenty tales, each told through a series of lush, colorful pictures, which end with the simple moral, evoked in a single sentence. Children will love to see what befalls Aesop’s cast of creatures that includes dogs, mice, and lions, proving that no one is too big or small to learn a thing or two.

Note to readers:
•  The term "ass" is in a few of the stories. Go over it in the vocabulary before reading but be prepared for a few giggles from the children

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  What is a fable? Has anybody ever told you a story with a moral?
•  Have you ever seen an animal speak before?
•  Do you know any animals who can do any special tricks?

Vocabulary:
•  Fable- a fantasy story with a moral
•  Consider- to think about something
•  Ass- another word for donkey
•  Treachery- betrayal, when someone lets you down

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  Why did the fox change his mind about the grapes? (from The Fox and the Grapes)
•  How can little friends become great friends? (from The Lion and the Mouse)
•  Which was your favorite fable? Why?
•  In what ways is telling a fable similar to giving advice?

Craft ideas:
•  Illustrate your favorite fable. Does your fable have the same ending as Aesop's version?
•  Create an animal mask to disguise yourself using construction paper

*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions. You can use them, but you don't have to use them. You can expand upon them, or add your own twist. Remember, though, that the focus of your time should not be on the development and execution of a craft; the focus should be on the read-aloud and the enjoyment of the book!