“I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.” — L.M. Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables
It is hard to believe that first quarter in my district, and surrounding districts, is already over. The big start of the year doings are a distant memory (at least for the students), and my hot and humid Florida weather has given way to a dryer cool to let me know that Fall has officially arrived. Even if he does not ultimately stay very long. Many homes have open doors and windows, inviting Fall to sit and stay awhile, though I know he won’t.
It’s in the fall that I use some of my favorite short story lessons. I already did a post on Edgar Allan Poe, but here are some other fun and creepy stories to get students thinking critically, dialoguing and in the creepy and creative fall state of mind.
“The Elevator” by William Sleator
“The Elevator” is a fun short story that ultimately has no resolution, but a great climatic ending. It’s great to use for plot and characterization as poor Martin struggles with his elevator phobia.
My unit for “The Elevator” starts with students learning about phobias and ends with students helping Martin to navigate his elevator, and Old Lady, anxiety.
“Click-clack the Rattlebag” by Neil Gaiman
The first thing I read of Neil Gaiman’s was his novel American Gods about 20 years ago. And I remember thinking it had great ideas, but really needed another editing. X) Well, since then, Gaiman has had plenty of time to hone his craft, and I find “Click-clack the Rattlebag” to be a short story masterpiece. Its calm and casual tone easily draws the reader in and makes them feel as though they are walking through the old house, climbing the dusty attic stairs, with the little boy and his sister’s boyfriend, learning about the Click-Clacks.
It is a clever story and creepy story. My unit for it is comprehensive. From beginning probable passage and vocabulary to ending quiz and creative writing activity, it has all you need!
“The Feather Pillow” by Horacio Quiroga
A classic tale of love and loss, but one with an eerie and gross twist.
“The Feather Pillow” is long since out of copyright and so I am able to include the text of the story with this unit. I also start the unit off with a fun web quest where students learn about the peculiarities of Victorian Era medicine, which they generally find quite eye-opening and engaging.
Lastly, if you’re looking for more resources for less money, I have all three of these available at a 20% discount in a creepy bundle!
Happy Teaching!
Happy Fall sweater weather, bonfires and smores! :}
M.D. Saints
Reading the Rapids
Liberty Dog Writing Co.