Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo, Explanatory Writing Assignment (Day 2)

Directions for Teachers and Students / Guidance for Teachers

The title of this selection is Because of Winn-Dixie. Using your answers from the day one questions and class discussion, explain why this is an appropriate title for the selection. Be sure to clearly cite evidence from the text for each part of your answer.

A proficient answer should have at least two parts:

    • Students should explain - using evidence from the text - how Winn-Dixie looking into the library was the cause of Miss Franny falling, which in turn led to the story about the bear and Opal’s realization that she and Miss Franny were both lonely.
    • They should then relate how Winn-Dixie’s response to Miss Franny (“That dog is smiling at me”) endeared her to Winn-Dixie and led Opal to suggest that they could be friends.

The answer should show a clear understanding of how this progression of events led to the three characters becoming friends. An answer pulling on more from the text would include that Winn-Dixie’s “talent” and “huge heart” were traits that made all this possible.

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