Rainbow Fish Reactions
During our study of sea creatures, we read many fiction and nonfiction books. We enjoyed hearing the factual information about these fascinating animals, but we also liked made-up stories.
One of the fictional stories we read was The Rainbow Fish, by Marcus Pfister. We loved his beautiful illustrations, and his story sparked a thoughtful discussion. We questioned whether or not the Rainbow Fish should have been forced to give away his beautiful scales in order to make friends.
We generally agreed that the answer to this question depended on the Rainbow Fish's behavior. If he was rude to the other fish and flaunted his pretty scales, then he should have to share them. If he was nice, and did not act as if he were better than the other fish just because of his scales, then he should get to keep them. In the story, the Rainbow Fish seemed to flaunt his scales. Here are some students' responses to the question "Should the Rainbow Fish give away his scales?"
I think the Rainbow Fish should give away his scales because it is nice.
I think the Rainbow Fish should give away his scales because it would be nice to the other fish.
I think the Rainbow Fish should give away his scales because it is nice to share.
I think the Rainbow Fish should give away his scales because the Rainbow Fish will have lots of friends.
I think the Rainbow Fish should not give away his scales because they shine like the sun.
