Rikki Tikki Tavi's war, that is, fought against the great cobras Nag and Nagaina, in his efforts to protect his new family and become their "house mongoose." This week we are reading the classic tale "Rikki Tikki Tavi" by Rudyard Kipling. We will explore the behaviors that humans and animals have in common; the idea of heroes and anti-heroes in the story; and consider whether this is more than just a simple children's tale. In light of Kipling's background and the time period of the story, students will ponder whether Kipling was trying to paint a picture of colonial England. Could it be that Rikki Tikki represents the British and the cobras represent the Indian people? Or that Rikki Tikki symbolizes the Indian that acculturated and sided with the British? Is it possible that "the great war" was not just between predator and prey in the wild, but between two very different countries and their people?
As we'll be reading and working with this story in class, the only homework this week is to finish reading choice books and completing any overdue responses. It might be a good time, if you haven't done so already, to check Aspen with your child to determine if there is missing work to be completed. As well, I am offering an extension activity for the choice book for any student interested in going the extra mile! I've asked them to see me for instructions, and they are linked below.
Independent Reading Extension Activity
