March: Science Fiction/Fantasy
The Giver
Activity # 1: (SPEAKING) Divide the class into groups of four. Within
each group, one person will represent Jonas, the others will represent the
Council of Elders. Have Jonas explain to the Elders everything that he feels
needs to be changed in the community. The elders will defend the status
quo. Present these debates to the rest of the class for critique and comments.
Activity # 2: (WRITING) Write a descriptive essay with details of the
"Elsewhere" that Jonas escapes to at the end of the novel. Is
it like any place you know or is it more ideal? Describe the physical elements
of Elsewhere as well as the residents and their beliefs.
Activity # 3: (ART) Memories were banned from Jonas's community. Think
of how important your memories are to you - both the happy and sad memories.
Create a kaleidescope of your memories (small fragments all placed carefully
together in a circular frame). You may draw the memories, use photographs,
or attach pictures and objects that represent what you have experienced.
Share your kaleidescopes with your class.
The Giver by Lois Lowry was published in 1993 by Houghton Mifflin
Co., NY NY.
For more information on the author LOIS
LOWRY. | 
