Process

The first step in this process is to learn about surviving in the backcountry.  What skills and knowledge are critical to surviving in these situations?  As you learn about what it takes to make it alone in the wilderness you will begin to learn what items would make this easier.  Begin by checking out the resources provided in the Hatchet Pathfinder.

Once you have the knowledge it takes to stay alive alone in the forest, the next part of this task is to learn about all the different things you might want to have with you in the wilderness.  As you are considering each of the items be sure to consider not only what it was intended to do, but also what other jobs it might be able to do in a pinch.  For example you might include string in your kit for fishing, but this string could also be used to make a simple snare, or even to help in constructing a shelter.

Now that you have the knowledge and an idea of what equipment would be helpful, your next step is to start making a list of equipment that you plan to include in the kit.  Using Microsoft Excel (or another spreadsheet program) to create a table for your items you will include (see example).  As you make your list you need to record the answers to each of the following questions:

1.     What is the name of the item?

2.    Include a picture of the item.

3.    What does the item weigh?

4.    Will the item fit into the box?

5.    Why are you selecting this item? 

Once you have completed your kit and have all the items listed that you want to include, it is time to put your kit to the test.  Your test is to go back and rewrite three major events from the story as though you are Brian.  Only now Brian is armed with your survival kit rather than just a hatchet.  As you write or journal the event be sure you keep the following points in mind.

1.    How did the events happen in Hatchet the first time?

2.    What item or items from your survival kit are you going to have Brian use?

3.    As Brian revisits each event be sure to include his thoughts and feelings.

4.    Remember you are the author now.  You are NOT answering a question; you are rewriting events from the story.

5.    Be creative and have fun.

6.    Consider the format for your journal.  You may do it as a traditional text document, or visit the class blog and add your journals.

Evaluation 

The rubric will be used for evaluating both elements of this project.  As you go about completing the different parts of this project please keep the rubric in mind, and as always if you have any questions ask right away.  I’ve found it’s much easier and faster to clear things up before you get very far along in a project.