IBD - Big Ideas

We discovered many things about Karana and how she overcame many obstacles while living on the Island of the Blue Dolphins. This book has many Big Ideas interwoven throughout it. In your opinion, what would you say is the Big Idea of this book? What evidence from the book can you use to support your Big Idea? Then, find another Big Idea. How do the two Big Ideas connect to one another and Karana? What is the relationship between them. Use examples from the book to support this relationship.

IBD Literature Analysis (10-19)

Below are different situations found in chapters 10-19. Respond to at least two situations using specific examples from the book. Your responses should be detailed and include evidence from the book to support your response. Type your responses in complete sentences using part of the situation in your response. Remember to think critically, analyze the material, and formulate responses which demonstrate your comprehension of the reading.

Why does Karana feel that she must be prepared to flee from the island? What resourceful steps does she take to be ready to flee?

Were you surprised that Karana rescued the wounded Rontu? In what earlier scene did Karana also decide not to kill a wounded animal? What do these acts say about her?

Why does Karana decide to canoe to the country lying to the east? What causes her to return to the island? Why is she happy after she returns?

How does Rontu change Karana’s life? How does he help keep her safe?

IBD - Motives

A motive is a need or desire that causes a person to act. Sometimes the author clearly states the motives, whereas at other times, you must infer, or figure out, the motive. It is not clearly stated or is ambiguous.

Below are different situations in chapters 1-9. Select at least two situations to respond to. Determine the motive of the characters from the details the author gives. Type your responses in complete sentences and use part of the situation in your response. Are there any patterns, trends, ethical issues, details, unanswered questions, rules, big ideas, language that could support your response? Include at least one depth prompt in your response.


1. Tribe members keep watch over the Aleut ship and Aleut camp.

2. Karana leaps from the ship and swims to shore.

3. Karana vows to kill the wild dogs.

4. Karana burns the village where she had lived with her tribe.

5. Karana makes a spear and a bow and arrow.

Read-A-Thon

After learning about Bibliotech Th'uruchapitas in Bolivia, and Hope House in Washington, D.C., how do you feel about supporting these organizations through the Read-A-Thon? Do you feel more motivated to read, and get sponsors? Why?