The Samurai’s Tale
Presentation I Chapters 1-16
Erik Christian Haugaard
Pre-Reading Activities
About the Author
Erik Christian Haugaard
Erik Christian Haugaard was born April 23rd in Frederiksberg, Denmark. When the Nazis invaded his homeland in 1940, he fled to the United States. During World War II, he served in the Royal Canadian Air Force.
His first book for young adults, Hakon of Rogen’s Saga, was set during the time of the Vikings—it received an ALA Notable Book award. The Little Fishes received several awards, including the Boston Globe Horn Book Award, 1967, the Jane Addams Award, 1968, and the Danish Cultural Minister’s Prize, 1970.
In 1978, his translation of Hans Christian Andersen’s Complete Fairy Tales and Stories was published to critical acclaim for its faithfulness to Andersen’s original stories.
— Vicki Palmquist
Squad Activity
The Samurai’s Tale is filled with figurative language. Before reading this text it will be important to review the “Figurative Lesson” lesson.
Squad Activity
Squad Activity
Whole Class Discussion
This book takes place in Japan during the 16th century when Japan was fractured into many local clans fighting for control. Watch the two videos below to get some historical context around the time and a Samurai. �
Squad Activity
Historical Fiction
IN PROGRESS
Finding the Gist
The language used in this book is unlike the spoken English you use today. When reading a difficult text, you may not know every word in the paragraph, but if you can get a gist of what the author is saying it will help you to understand the story.
IN PROGRESS
Part 1
Chapters 1-6
Preface - Chapter 1
In Blood We Are All Born
Discussion Question
Provide a short character description for each:
Discussion Question
Why did Taro’s mother dress him in stable boy clothing and tell Yone to claim him as her little brother? Provide evidence to support your claim.
Discussion Question
When Taro finds his mother dead in their house (p.5), why do you suppose Taro’s mother is wearing her only “[kimono] of silk” that she “seldom wore”?
Discussion Question
What can you infer stopped the soldiers from killing Taro?
Discussion Question
Thinking back on the Social Hierarchy in Japan; how has Taro’s social class changed in this one incident?
Discussion Question
What point of view is this story written?
Who do you think will become the protagonist of this narrative?
Protagonist: The central character in a story; a hero
Guided Activity
As we progress throughout this book, you will encounter a number of characters.
Independent Activity
In your Vocabulary Packet:
Chapter 2
The Journey to Kofuchu
Discussion Question
On page 14 you will see some figurative language. Name the type of figurative language and explain the meaning. Add to your Figurative Language Journal.
"He is a wasp in Autumn. He stings without reason.”
Use the lesson as a reference for deciding what type of figurative language it is
Discussion Question
When describing Lord Shingen’s son, what do you think was meant by the soldier on page 15 when he said, “For him you cannot bow low enough, and if he should kick you, remember to thank him.”
Discussion Question
What can you infer might happen once Yone and Taro are taken to the Castle of Takeda Shingen? How do you know?
Discussion Question
Read the sentence below. Use context clues to infer the meaning of the bold word.
He was a man older than the rest, but his age had gained him no respect, for the others treated him with contempt.
Guided Activity
Swift as the Wind, Silent as a Forest, Fierce as Fire and Immovable as a Mountain
Independent Activity
Think: Takeda’s war banner states, “Swift as the Wind, Silent as a Forest, Fierce as Fire and Immovable as a Mountain” and this motto is used to motivate his troops
Write: Imagine you are leading a military operation. In your Samurai’s Tale Packet, write an inspirational motto for your troops and explain in one paragraph why you chose it. Must be half a page. Minimum 6 sentences.
Chapter 3
The “Dog” Taro
Discussion Question
Taro says on page 17, “In everyone’s life there are certain people who have helped to form his character and given a direction to his life; they are like big stones in a river that force the water to alter its course.”
There are similarities between metaphor, simile and analogy. Which of the three do you think this statement is? Use the Figurative Language Lesson to help you defend your choice. Add to your Figurative Language Journal.
What does this piece of Figurative Language mean?
Discussion Question
In this chapter how does Togan act as a “big stone” in Taro’s life? Who would you consider to be a “big stone” in your life?
Discussion Question
On page 18 Togan says, “Impoliteness marks you as a fool, for it takes away from you an advantage and gives you none in return. On the other hand, excessive meekness and modesty may make others distrust you and suspect you of being a schemer not worthy of their confidence.”
Use the close reading checklist (slide 4 in the close reading lesson) along with a dictionary to unpack this statement and determine the meaning. Restate this statement as a piece of advice using the example below.
Example:�You should….because...
You should not...because...
Discussion Question
On page 19 you will see some figurative language. Name the type of figurative language and explain the meaning. Add to your Figurative Language Journal.
"Had hair as green as the needles on the tree.”
Use the lesson as a reference for deciding what type of figurative language it is
Discussion Question
How would you describe Togan’s personality? Come up with a couple adjectives and find evidence from the chapter to support those adjectives.
Guided Activity
Create: Each member of the group will create a Google Slideshow. You will add to this presentation throughout the book and turn it in as your final book report. �
Independent Activity
Think: Taro says on page 17, “In everyone’s life there are certain people who have helped to form his character and given a direction to his life; they are like big stones in a river that force the water to alter its course.”
Write: Reflecting on the question regarding the “Big Stone” in your life, think about who that person was/is and why. In your Writing Journal, write about who this person is and why they are a “Big Stone” in your life. Be descriptive when giving details. �*Must be half a page in length
Chapter 4
The Death of Togan
Discussion Question
Describe the events of Togan’s death using a Flow Map.
Discussion Question
Who was Togan’s murderer and how did Taro know him? Use details from the text to support your answer.
Discussion Question
“I’ve always reserved my sword for those as brave as myself, or at least as honest. I would not tarnish it by doing Kai the service of removing that house of lies you carry on your shoulders.”
Discussion Question
"Death will always be apart of my life; it is as natural as the seasons. The hot summer will slowly glide into fall and that, in turn, into winter, when the trees stand barren and the cold snow covers the mountains.
But there are those who are cursed to live in times when death seems to come out of season, when the winter of a man’s life may leap upon him in the midst of summer greeness.”
Guided Activity
In the next chapter you will encounter words that relate to horses. Today you will build background to help you understand chapter 5. Take 20 minutes to scan through these resources to help you define the words:
In your journal, write a short definition for each of the words in this list. Compare with your squad and fill in any missing definitions.
Switch/Crop/Whip
Bareback (No saddle)
Independent Activity
Review: The characters you have learned about thus far in the novel
Think: Who are the characters? Why are they important? What role do they play?
Add: In your Book Analysis Presentation, add to the “(Taro)” character slide�*When finished, create a slide for any other characters you find important in this novel (there are many to choose from)
Chapter 5
The Stable-boy Taro
Discussion Question
Using context clues, define rebellion (p.33).
Who are the two leaders of the failed rebellion?
Discussion Question
What shameful thing happens to Lord Obu after the failed rebellion? What punishment did Lord Takeda Shingen give to his oldest son?
Discussion Question
What was meant by the sentence:
If Jiro had resembled a frog blown up with pride, he now looked most of all like a wet cat.
Discussion Question
Why is it important that Matazo has Jiro fetch the food instead of Taro? What does this mean?
Discussion Question
Summarize the event when Jiro, Taro and Matazo were sent down to fetch three horses. Use the “Writing a Summary” lesson if you have forgotten the elements required in a narrative summary (SWBST).
Guided Activity
Independent Activity
Chapter 6
A Night at Toko-ji Temple
Discussion Question
Name two clues that help Taro understand that the trip he is embarking on is a secret one. Cite specific evidence to support your answers.
Discussion Question
Who are Lord Katsuyori’s parents and what was meant when Taro wondered “Was he loyal to her memory or to his mighty father?”
Discussion Question
What is the kaishaku-nin’s part in the hara-kiri ceremony?
Discussion Question
What does Taro think might have happened that night at Toko-ji?
Guided Activity
Independent Activity
Review: Chapters 1-6 and find specific details that describe the setting in Kai, Japan
Add: In your Book Analysis Presentation, add to the “Setting” slide. Be sure to cite specific evidence from the text including the page number along with pictures
Part 2
Chapters 7-10
Chapter 7
Zazen
Discussion Question
What was the reason that Taro wanted to practice Zen?
Discussion Question
What are some Zazen practices described in this chapter?
Discussion Question
Who is the monk with the hairless feet?
Discussion Question
Who were the monk and the samurai loyal to and how could this be dangerous for Lord Akiyama and Lord Shingen?
Discussion Question
Who is Akiyama Nobutora? Why does Taro visit him and where does he send Taro?
Guided Activity
Samurai were not just men of the sword, but they were also expected to be highly cultured and literate. They were to be skilled in the art of fighting and learning. It was common for Samurai to enjoy music, poetry, calligraphy and studying. �
Independent Activity
In your Vocabulary Packet:
Chapter 8
On the Road
Discussion Question
"Mid-morning I stopped by a small shrine surrounded by tall pine trees whose shade invited a traveler to pause on a sunny day.”
Decide what type of figurative language is being used. Defend your decision if there are mixed opinions at your group.
Then explain the meaning of the statement and add to your Figurative Language Journal.
Discussion Question
Who are Lady Sanjo and Lady Suwa and what are the caretaker’s opinions of both ladys?
Discussion Question
Why doesn’t Taro care for beggar monks?
Discussion Question
On page 58, in the second paragraph, you will find two pieces of figurative language. Identify both and explain what type of figurative language they are and what they mean.
Rice Paddies
Guided Activity
Sometime you read an entire paragraph and wonder, “What just happened?” A Samurai's Tale is filled with figurative and archaic language that needs to be closely read. �
As the rice wine loosened tongues, matters of deep and serious substance were discussed. An old man, with such deep furrows in his face that I thought it must have taken eighty winters to draw them, upheld the power of the Emperor and declared before the first Shogun, when the Emperor had ruled supreme, all had been well in Japan. The innkeeper would not agree with this; what was wrong with the present, he held, was that we had no ruler worthy of the name (p.61).
Independent Activity
Now that we have completed part 1 of the book, let’s take some time to think about emerging themes
Chapter 9
Iida Castle
Discussion Question
What new job does Lord Akiyama give Taro and why does Taro think he may have received the new job assignment?
Discussion Question
How do the messengers at Iida Castle earn extra money?
Discussion Question
Describe Yoshitoki in 2-3 sentences giving evidence of why you chose each characteristic.
Guided Activity
Independent Activity
Review: Chapters 1-8 and find specific details that describe the traditional clothing in Japan
Add: In your Book Analysis Presentation, add to the “Traditional Japanese Clothing” slide. Be sure to cite specific evidence from the text including the page number along with pictures
Chapter 10
Yoshitoki
Discussion Question
Why is Taro “bitterly disappointed” that he will remain at the castle?
Discussion Question
What do Taro and Yoshitoki do for several months while Lord Akiyama is off at battle?
Discussion Question
Find two uses of figurative language on page 70. What type of figurative language and what is the meaning of each.
Discussion Question
Beginning on page 74, summarize the adventure they had traveling with the monks. Use the summary lesson to help you format your answer. SWBST
Discussion Question
On page 74 Taro recites an old adage, “They say that the blade if the sword is a mirror that reflects its owners soul; if that were true, than mine was a sorry one”. What do you think he meant by this saying? Do you think this old saying is accurate?
Guided Activity
Exposition
Resolution
Rising Action
Climax
Falling
Action
Independent Activity
Think: Go back and review your Haiku notes.
Write: On an activity page in your packet, create 2 different Haiku poems. One should talk about nature and its beauty. The other one should talk about something that you enjoy (ex: sports, family, friends, etc..)
Part 3
Chapters 11-16
Chapter 11
In the House of a Ghost
Discussion Question
Why does the old man prefer to live on the mountain as opposed to living in the village?
Discussion Question
Why can you infer about the old man’s refusal to foretell Yoshitoki’s future?
Discussion Question
What three things does the old man foretell about Taro’s future?
Discussion Question
Why do you think the chapter was called In the House of the Ghost?
Guided Activity
Independent Activity
In your Vocabulary Packet:
Chapter 12
A Name, A Name!
Discussion Question
What type of figurative language is used and what is meant by the statement, “To gain the attention of the great, you must handle them like fishes you want to catch”
There are similarities between metaphor, simile and analogy. Which of the three do you think this statement is? Use the Figurative Language Lesson to help you defend your choice. Add to your Figurative Language Journal.
Discussion Question
Why was Taro so desperate to change his name? What is the significance of the new name he is given?
Discussion Question
Look up the word “disgraced”. Describe why Taro had felt disgraced when Yoshitoki leaves with Lord Akiyama?
Discussion Question
What else does Lord Akiyama give Taro, in addition to his new name and why?
Guided Activity
Notes requirements: List the 10 text features. Define the three text features that are the least familiar to you.
Independent Activity
How has Taro moved from one class to another so far in The Samurai's Tale? (minimum 6 sentences)
�*When finished, continue working on Vocabulary Part 3
Chapter 13
Rumors of War
Discussion Question
Decide what type of figurative language is being used. Defend your decision if there are mixed opinions at your group. Then explain the meaning of the statement . If you got this one incorrect explain your error. Add to your Figurative Language Journal.
"It is said that a loose tongue can outrun a horse."
Page 90, chapter 13
Discussion Question
Who is one of Lord Takeda’s greatest enemies? Describe his character.
Discussion Question
Page 92 describes a sect of monks called the Ikko sect. Look up the word sect in the Oxford Dictionary. What does sect mean and do all religions have sects? Provide examples.
Discussion Question
What did Kenmotsu and Yoshitoki disagree about on pages 92 & 93? What does Yoshitoki believe about the different sects? If you were Shogun, would you rule like Kenmotsu or Yoshitoki? Explain.
Guided Activity
This is a two day activity. Read all of the instructions and decide how much you will complete today. Tell your team leader what you decide.
�National Geographic - Mt Fuji
Encyclopaedia Britannica- Mount Fuji
Independent Activity
Review: Chapters 1-13 and find specific details that describe the characteristics of a Samurai
Add: In your Book Analysis Presentation, add to the “Samurai” slide. Be sure to cite specific evidence from the text including the page number along with pictures
Chapter 14
“Master of Rice”
Discussion Question
Who is Wada Kansuke and what is his job?
Discussion Question
Look at the Lesson for Unknown words and find the slide that contains the “Types of Clues List”. What does the word Konidatai mean and what TYPE of clue is given in the paragraph that helps you to understand the meaning of the word?
Discussion Question
"The skin of his face resembled leather that had been creased and worn, his eyes were mere slits.” (pg. 96)
Decide what type of figurative language is being used. Defend your decision if there are mixed opinions at your group. Then explain the meaning of the statement . Add to your Figurative Language Journal.
Discussion Question
What assignment was Harutomo (Taro) given? How do you think Harutomo feels about his assignment and why does Yoshitoki suggest Lord Akiyama gave him this job?
Discussion Question
What does it mean when Yoshitoki says that all soldiers on the winning side are not all winners?
Discussion Question
Look up the word incredulously. Each person in the group must create and share one sentence using incredulously correctly.
Guided Activity
Complete the activity that you started yesterday.
�National Geographic - Mt Fuji
Encyclopaedia Britannica- Mount Fuji
Independent Activity
Think: Harutomo (Taro), has been given many names thus far throughout this novel. Each name he receives comes with new responsibility. Each time you were given the opportunity to have a new job, would you want your name to change?�
Write: In your writing journal:
Chapter 15
The Thief
Discussion Question
Harutomo (Taro) claims, “The men who guided the horses carried heavy burdens themselves.” Burdens can be literal, like carrying rice, or figurative like carrying sadness, What burdens does he say the men carried and are they literal or figurative? If you are unsure of what “burden” means please use the reference dictionary.
Discussion Question
What does Wada Kansuke tell Harutomo to do if he finds anyone selling rice? Why, does he explain, such a grave punishment is necessary?
Discussion Question
Kansuke uses the figurative language, “A man’s life is but the evening breeze that rises at sunset and makes the bamboo sway- it’s nothing at all.”
Decide the type of figurative language used. Defend your decision if there are mixed opinions at your group. Then explain the meaning of the statement . Add to your Figurative Language Journal.
Discussion Question
Who is the rice thief? What is his punishment? Does Kansuke agree or disagree with the thief’s punishment? Why?
Guided Activity
Independent Activity
Review: Previous chapters in Part 2 (Chapters 7-10) to find specific details that describe Zen Buddhism
Add: In your Book Analysis Presentation, add to the “Zen Buddhism” slide. Be sure to cite specific evidence from the text including the page number along with pictures�*Must have at least 3 citations and 3 pictures
Chapter 16
Th Ronin Bandit
Discussion Question
If Lord Oda was to attack the Konidatai, what impact would this have on Lord Akiyama’s Army?
Discussion Question
Why was the Konidatai given soldiers for protection? How does Kansuke feel about the man in charge of their escort?
Discussion Question
Harutomo says to himself, “The answers of a wise man can make a fool angry, but the questions of a fool should not be able to anger a wise man”. What does that mean?
Discussion Question
What does Harutomo mean when he says “I sat on my horse as still as a stone Buddha, listening to the shrill cry of a bird and the drone of the wind through the branches of the trees” ? What type of figurative language does the author use?
Discussion Question
On page 113, the author uses the word ronin to describe the Samurai that Harutomo encounters on the path; using context clues, what is a ronin?
Discussion Question
On page 117, Harutomo says “I do not want his head. He was no enemy of mine or of my lord.” What does this tell us about Harutomo’s character?
Guided Activity
I had just finished drinking from the brook and stood ready to mount my horse, when I saw a young man approach me on a horse.��*Must include dialogue and be a minimum of 5 sentences
Prepare to present to Your workshop
Independent Activity
Catch Up Day!�
Go to Presentation II