Lesson flow
5 min
Opening Hook
Ask pupils if they have ever said they did not want something after they could not get it. Discuss why people might do that.
15 min
Story Exploration
Read the story aloud, acting out the jumps. Stop before the ending and ask what the Fox might say next.
15 min
Analysis Exercises
In small groups, pupils decide what the Fox really thinks about the grapes, and how we know from his actions.
10 min
Application/Reflection
Pupils write a more honest ending, where the Fox admits how he feels.
5 min
Assessment Strategy
Ask pupils to give an example of "sour grapes" from a game, a lesson or a story.
STORY OVERVIEW
- Title and Moral: The Fox and the Grapes - "It is easy to dislike what you cannot have."
- Plot Summary: A hungry fox fails to reach a bunch of grapes, then walks away telling himself they were sour anyway.
LESSON FUNDAMENTALS
- Learning Objectives:
- Explain why the Fox changes his mind about the grapes.
- Identify the moral and connect it to everyday life.
- Understand the phrase "sour grapes".
- Discussion Questions:
- Why does the Fox say the grapes are sour?
- Do you think the Fox believes what he says?
- Why is it sometimes hard to admit we cannot do something?
- Required Materials:
- Copies of the story
- Whiteboard and markers
- Paper for notes and reflections
Original text available on the story page.