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Chapter 14

Charlotte's Web

Scouts · 1st–3rd

Copywork

Doctors are supposed to understand everything. But I don't understand everything, and I don't intend to let it worry me.

Read the passage aloud. What does the doctor admit about himself in these two sentences?

Discussion

Narration Tell what happened in the kitchen with Fern and her mother, then at Dr. Dorian's office, in order. Slow down at what the doctor says about the web.

1. Mrs. Arable says Fern is making things up, but then asks, "What finally happened?" What does that tell you about her?Character

2. Dr. Dorian says he is ready to believe Fern about the talking animals. Is that wise? Why or why not?Moral reasoning

3. Dr. Dorian says, "How enchanting!" when he hears about the barn. Does he sound serious, or does he sound amused? What tells you?Tone

4. Dr. Dorian says the web itself is a miracle. Do you agree? What makes you think so?Theme

5. Dr. Dorian asks whether Fern looks well, eats well, and sleeps well, then says, "Then don't worry." Why might the author write the scene that way?Author's choice

Make a Connection Tell about a time you did not understand something and what you did about it.

Vocabulary

Crossword
123
45
6
7
8
Across
  • Across 1. Expected or meant to.
  • Across 4. In a nervous, worried way.
  • Across 7. Glad that a worry is gone.
  • Across 8. Very interesting.
Down
  • Down 1. In a strict, serious way.
  • Down 2. Charming and delightful.
  • Down 3. Moved about restlessly.
  • Down 5. To plan to do something.
  • Down 6. To spend time with.
The words in the chapter
  • supposed Doctors are supposed to understand everything.
  • intend and I don't intend to let it worry me.
  • sternly said her mother sternly,
  • fascinating Don't you think that's fascinating?
  • enchanting "How enchanting!" he said.
  • uneasily Mrs. Arable shifted uneasily in her chair.
  • fidgeted Mrs. Arable fidgeted.
  • associate Let Fern associate with her friends in the barn
  • relieved She felt greatly relieved.

Critical thinking

1. Mrs. Arable begins by scolding, but ends up agreeing with Fern twice. What does Fern say that wins her over? Give two reasons.

2. Fern says she is not alone in the barn, and her mother says she spends too much time there alone. Who is right? Give two reasons.

3. Dr. Dorian says Fern will always love animals but may not spend her whole life in the barn. What does that show about him? Give two reasons.