I Survived the Great Chicago Fire, 1871 is a gripping novel that transports readers back in time. to one of the most devastating events in American history.
The Great Chicago Fire of 1871 destroyed more than three square miles of the city. Over 100,000 people became homeless. The city was left in chaos and destruction everywhere.
But amidst the flames and chaos, there were stories of survival, bravery, and perseverance that continue to inspire us today. This book tells the story of one young boy’s incredible journey through the fire. He fights to save his family and find a way to rebuild his shattered life.
With vivid descriptions and heart-pounding action, I Survived the Great Chicago Fire, 1871 is a must-read for anyone who loves historical fiction or thrilling adventure stories.
I Survived the Great Chicago Fire, 1871 Teaching Activities
Book Unit Samples
You will find the following in this novel study sample:
- Vocabulary Practice
- Comprehension Questions for Chapters 1-2
- Constructed Response Question for Chapters 1-2
Teaching Idea #1 – Interview with the Author
Lessons from History: The Chicago Fire of 1871 contains an interview between Lauren Tarshis and Casey Grant from the National Fire Protection Association.
Teaching Idea #2 – Teaching Resources from Lauren Tarshis
Lauren Tarshis’s website offers several free activities to use with the book. Each of these links goes to DOC files that can be edited to meet the needs of your students.
Teaching Idea #3 – Compare and Contrast Activities
Before and After Photos
- Compare before and after photographs of the fire. This website from Chicago Magazine is a great place to start. Another great source for before and after photos is The Great Chicago Fire & The Web of Memory.
Chicago in 1871 Compared to Today
Have students create a Venn Diagram comparing and contrasting Chicago statistical information from the time of the fire to today. Students should include:
- population
- size of the city compared to other US cities in land area and/or population
- modes of transportation
- means of communication
Teaching Idea #4 – Old Mother Leary Song
Have students illustrate the song “Old Mother Leary”.
Late one night
When we were all in bed
Old Mother Leary
Left a lantern in the shed
And when the cow kicked it over,
|She winked her eye and said,
“There’ll be a hot time
In the old town, tonight.”
Spoken: “FIRE, FIRE, FIRE!”
The song “The Hot Time in the Old Town Tonight” has a disputed origin. Several individuals claim authorship. The earliest known published version of the song was in 1896. It is credited to Theodore August Metz and Joe Hayden. However, there are also claims that the song was written by Charles Hale Hoyt and his brother John. The lyrics have been adapted and modified over the years, with variations in verses and chorus.
The song became associated with the fire and was often played in parades and celebrations commemorating the rebuilding of the city.
Teaching Idea #5 – The Great Chicago Fire Historical Account
- Have students research the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. They can create a timeline of events or a report that explains what happened during the fire and how it impacted the city of Chicago.
- Have students create a map of Chicago, highlighting key locations mentioned in the book:
- O’Leary’s barn
- the Chicago River
- the lakefront
- This short article provides factual information. A set of comprehension questions follow the article.
Teaching Idea #6 – STEM Activity on Fire Safety
Have students research how fires are started and ways to prevent them. They can also discuss the science behind how fires spread and how firefighters combat them.
Fires can be started by a variety of factors, including natural causes such as lightning strikes. Human activity is the main cause of wildfires. Common causes include campfires, cigarettes, fireworks, and power lines.
To prevent fires, it is important to be cautious and follow safety guidelines. You can read the guidelines in the handout found in the blog post activity handout link above.
Teaching Idea #6 – Fire Safety
Fires can be started by a variety of factors, including natural causes such as lightning strikes. Human activity is the main cause of wildfires. Common causes include campfires, cigarettes, fireworks, and power lines.
To prevent fires, it is important to be cautious and follow safety guidelines. You can read the guidelines in the handout found in the blog post activity handout link above.
See the product that inspired this post.
I Survived the Great Chicago Fire, 1871 Book Unit contains graphic organizers for an interactive notebook. Vocabulary, comprehension, constructed response writing, and skill practice are all included. Printable and digital versions are available.
