Lazarusie’s Next Moves

Lazarusie encounters a polar bear on the second page of the story. What do you think he will do? Will he run? Will he shoot the bear? Is it smart to run away from a polar bear? Why or why not?

Update the Polar Bear Chart

After reading the first page, ask the students: Where do polar bears typically hunt? Why do polar bears sometimes come inland? Add new information to the class KWL chart.

The Buzz

On page 32, Oonark hears a “buzzing sound in the distance.” What could this sound be?

Oonark and Her Choice

Do you agree with the decision that Oonark made to get off the kamotiq with her daughter and let the others leave her there? Explain your position.

Scarcity

On page 30, the author writes, “The animals and fish had been scarce for too long now.” What does the word “scarce” mean? What are the implications of animals and fish being scarce for Inuit? What should Oonark and her children do?