Introduction
Webquest for
Freak the Mighty
A Novel by Rodman Philbrick
Task
You are about to embark on a series of quests to explore the themes and characters of the novel Freak the Mighty.
Begin by completing each “Quest” activity in the “Process” section. All three “Quest” activities are required.
Paper copies of response sheets for each “Quest” activity will be provided in class.
You may choose to extend your learning by completing one or more of the optional “Challenge” activities (not required) in addition to the required “Quest” activities.
Process
Quest #1: Search for metaphors and themes.
Big Questions: Why does Kevin (Freak) identify so strongly with the knights? What themes can you identify in Freak the Mighty?
To help you explore those questions, use the following websites to help you complete the response sheet for Quest #1, which will be provided in class.
http://www.caerleon.net/history/arthur/page2.htm
http://www.historyforkids.org/learn/medieval/literature/roundtable.htm
http://chivalrytoday.com/knightly-virtues/
http://www.lordsandladies.org/knights-code-of-chivalry.htm
Challenge Activity #1 (optional): Create your own “Coat of Arms.” But first, research symbols you could use and their meaning. Consider colors and their meanings as well. On the back of your coat of arms, write a paragraph explaining your choices.
Use this website to help you.
http://www.familytreesandcrests.com/heraldry-symbols.htm
Quest #2: Explore Character Motivation
Big Question: What is it like to live in Kevin’s world?
Kevin faces a big challenge in his life called Morquio Syndrome. Find out more about this challenge at the following websites. Then complete the response sheet for Quest #2 provided in class.
http://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases/morquio-syndrome#.VKl0hSvF-88
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001206.htm
http://www.morquio.com/mariasKitchen.htm
www.morquio.com/nancySalzer.htm
Here’s a link to more stories like those that you may want (but are not required) to read.
http://www.morquio.com/stories.htm (links to more stories)
Challenge Activity #2 (optional): Because of their physical appearances, both Kevin and Max experience bullying. What is your definition of bullying? List four examples of bullying from the novel. List at least four ways that Max and Kevin dealt with bullying. Use the following websites to help your thinking.
http://kidshealth.org/kid/feeling/emotion/bullies.html
Quest #3: Explore Character Motivation (continued)
Big Questions: What is a quest? In what ways does Kevin fit the role of someone on a quest?
To explore those questions, please read and view the following website. Then complete the response sheets for Quest #3 provided in class.
Challenge Activity #3 (optional): Create your own quest. Use the five steps outlined in the website above.
Quest #4: Kenny Kane
Starting in chapter 15, we learn more about Max's dad. Complete the organizer provided in class and use the suggested links below.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_punishments_for_murder_in_the_United_States
http://www.justice.gov/uspc/faqs.html