Read the condensed version of "The Tortoise and the Hare". Explain to students that the story's moral that "plodding wins the race" is also sometimes stated as "Slow and steady wins the race." Ask: What does this moral, or message mean?

Core Activity:

*Discuss the characteristics of the tortoise and the hare.

*Have students use one of the two Mapping the Characters diagrams to compare two characters, you may wish to provide sample answers on the board.

Reflection Activity

*To give students a better sense of the term persisting, give them multiple opportunities to define for themselves. Use the persisting Word Splash worksheet to further this goal.

*Encourage volunteers to show their word splashes to the class. Extend this by having students tell or write a story with a character or characters who demonstrate persistence.

Extension Activity:

*Encourage students to look for examples of persisting in stories, on the news, or among friends and family.

*Invite students to report examples back to class.

Assess how students have done with this section: Exploring Meanings   

3.0 Most of the time*.... Is skilled at:
Persevering; "Hanging in There!"

Keeps trying and seeks help until the task is completed.

*Development of Habits of Mind is a life-long, continuous process.