[mana98]

Scholastic is selling Old Yeller for $1, I would like to buy a class set. I have never read this book before and was wondering if it would be appropriate for fourth grade. IF you have read this book with your class what are some activities you have done with your class?
TIA

[kmob]

I read this book every year with my 5th graders. We all love it and then we watch the movie to do a compare/contrast. I have some files I've created at school, I'll post them in the a.m.

I think they should be able to handle it, most public libraries have the CD or MP3 download so your lower level readers can listen and read.

[Sam5]

I read Old Yeller with my fifth graders every year, and they love it. However, realize it is a common book to be on fifth grade lists. I really do think it is more appropriate for fifth graders. It, of course, is really really sad. Also, it is not an easy book and does have quite of blood and guts in it.

[kmob]

I agree with the PP that you should check with the 5th grade teachers to make sure it isn't covered. Here's a good web-link for some ideas to go along with this book. http://library.thinkquest.org/CR0211...old_yeller.htm

[artsyteacher]

Have you ever noticed how many books about dogs include death? I read Old Yeller when I was in school. A couple of years ago, I bought and read a book called No More Dead Dogs. It parodied all of those dog books out there that, while good, are so sad. Leave OY to the fifth grade teachers. There are sooooo many other good books out there. OY is good, but there are others that teach valuable lessons and aren't nearly as depressing. I'm sure to get flamed on this, but please, no more dead dogs.

[Tulips]

A 3rd grade teacher at my site reads it to his class every year, he says they enjoy it.