The Red Pony
Study Guides
Analyzing the Text
Ongoing Activity
Grades 6–12
Language Arts, History
Small Group, Entire Class, Writing, Research
Study guides are important to understanding a novel; however, they should never replace actual reading and discussion of the book.
Although there are many “study guides” for The Red Pony available on the Internet, the true purpose of such is to complement all the activities found on this site. However, the best study guides are ones created by students themselves. Please refer to Mining for Examples Sample Project for a partial sample of what Merryhill School students in Milpitas, California, created as a study guide for The Red Pony.
Whenever students are involved in creating their own curriculum, they tend to succeed.
The creation of a study guide is ongoing, and the time spent in the classroom is up to the discretion of the teacher.
Before students create their own study guide (in small groups), refer to Mining for Examples, Mining for Examples Sample Project, and the study guides found here.
Students work in small groups to analyze and dissect a reading, then report back to the class. This activity aids students in understanding complex material.
Provide a structure that students of all abilities can utilize to build their analytical skills.
An in-depth, section-by-section breakdown of short writing prompts for use in journal assignments, assessments, and discussion starters.
Students work collaboratively to create an in-depth study guide to understanding key scenes, quotations, and themes in The Red Pony.
Create a “message board” where students can post and comment upon important, entertaining, and interesting passages from The Red Pony.
Understanding the difference between “showing” and “telling” will not only enhance the students’ enjoyment of literature, but will improve their own writing.