The One and Only Ivan

What does Ivan mean when he says, “In my size humans see a test of themselves” (p. 4), and “I am too much gorilla and not enough human” (p. 7)? Why does the sign for the Big Top Mall show Ivan as angry and fierce? Why doesn’t Ivan express any anger in the beginning of the story?

Tags

CCSS.RL.4.3

CCSS.RL.5.3

CCSS.RL.1.9

CCSS.RL.2.6

CCSS.RL.3.6

What are the characteristics of Stella and Bob that make Ivan call them his best friends? Why is each of them important to Ivan? What do Ivan and Stella have in common? How are they alike, and how are they different? What does Stella mean when she says, “Old age is a powerful disguise” (p. 31)?

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CCSS.RL.4.3

CCSS.RL.5.3

CCSS.RL.2.1

CCSS.RL.1.3

CCSS.RL.K.3

Discuss the special bond between Julia and Ivan. Why is she different from all the other children who come to see his shows? Why do people pay for Ivan’s drawings if they don’t recognize what he has drawn? Why is Ivan’s art important to Mack? Why is it important to Julia?

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CCSS.RL.4.3

CCSS.RL.5.3

CCSS.RL.1.9

CCSS.RL.2.6

CCSS.RL.3.6

What is the importance of the television in Ivan’s cage? What does he learn from watching the television? Why does he like Westerns, and what does he learn from the nature shows? What do you learn from television? What would you say is the most important thing television has taught you?

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CCSS.RL.2.1

CCSS.RL.3.1

CCSS.RI.1.1

CCSS.RI.2.1

CCSS.RI.3.1

What words would you use to describe Ivan?

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CCSS.RL.4.3

CCSS.RL.5.3

CCSS.RL.2.1

CCSS.RL.1.3

CCSS.RL.K.3

Pretend you are Ivan and draw the beetle.

How is Bob’s life different from other animals at the Big Top Mall?

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CCSS.RL.4.3

CCSS.RL.5.3

CCSS.RL.2.1

CCSS.RL.1.3

CCSS.RL.6.3

Describe Julia. What makes her different from the other humans in the story?

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CCSS.RL.3.1

CCSS.RL.3.3

Pretend you are Ivan and draw the refrigerator for Ruby. If time, draw a banana for her.

In human age, how old would Ruby be? Give reasons for your answer.

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CCSS.W.3.1B

CCSS.W.3.1C