Touching Spirit Bear, 16 Research Projects, PBL, SEL, Rubrics, Novel Study

Are you ready to transform your Touching Spirit Bear novel study into an unforgettable learning experience? This Project-Based Learning (PBL) Unit is packed with hands-on, creative, and rigorous activities that dive deep into the novel’s powerful themes of justice, healing, empathy, and transformation. Perfect for upper elementary and middle school ELA classrooms, this unit will keep students engaged, thinking critically, and excited to learn.

Transform your Touching Spirit Bear novel study with this powerful Project-Based Learning unit! Includes 16 hands-on ELA and SEL projects—from Circle Justice reenactments to totem pole creation, theme illustrations, character reflections, research activities, and more. Deepen comprehension, build empathy, and explore Native American culture through creative, standards-aligned learning.

What’s Included:

This bundle features 16 engaging projects that align with key chapters and standards-based learning goals:

ELA Skills & Literary Analysis

• Editorial Opinion Writing Projects (SEL + persuasive writing)
  
• Author’s Craft Analysis (figurative language, symbolism)
  
• Theme Illustration Projects (visual interpretation of text)
  
• Conflict & Character One-Pagers and Graphic Organizers

Critical Thinking & Reflection

• Postcard Metaphors Project (symbolic thinking)
  
• Cole’s Transformation Reflection Activity
  
• At.óow Symbolism Project
  
• Cole’s Stubbornness Comic Strip
  

Cultural Awareness & Research

• Alaska Setting Exploration
  
• Native American Tlingit Infographic Research
  
• Cold Plunging, Circle Justice, and Spirit Bear Articles
  
• Informational Article Jigsaw Collaboration Activity
  

Collaboration, Presentation & Creativity

• Circle Justice Scene Reenactments
  
• “How to Survive a Bear Attack” Presentation
  
• Island Shoebox Diagram
  
• Totem Pole Creation Project
  
• Create a Dance Project (healing through expression)
  

Skill Areas Covered:

• Reading Comprehension
• Literary Elements (Theme, Conflict, Character Development)
• Writing and Composition
• Research and Informational Literacy
• Symbolism and Figurative Language
• SEL (Social-Emotional Learning)
• Collaboration & Presentation Skills
• Cultural Studies (Tlingit People & Indigenous Perspectives)

Perfect For:

• Novel Studies
  
• Literature Circles
  
• SEL-Integrated ELA Lessons
  
• End-of-Unit Projects
  
• Writing Blocks
  
• Research-Based Learning
  
• Gifted & Talented or Enrichment Programs
  

Formats:

• Printable PDF files
  
• Editable Google Slides™ links included
  
• Printable PowerPoint

"This has been super helpful towards the end of the year for students that have finished our novel early. I love that it includes options for sites to use and everything else anyone could think of. Highly recommend! "

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