Reading Graphic Organizer for “Archy and Mehitabel”
For every text we read, there are three levels of questions: 1) Information/Factual, 2) Interpretation, and 3)
Application and Evaluation. Because you are older students now, you are ready to do more challenging thinking
and analysis that goes beyond factual information. These critical thinking skills will help you become even more
effective friends, workers, spouses, and parents.
Level 1: Factual Questions
Question
Who are the main characters in this story?
Response
How does the moth die?
Level 2: Interpretation Questions
Question
Response
What is the philosophy of the
moth?
The moth’s philosophy is that
people should value…
Textual Evidence:
At least 1 quote
“our attitude toward life is come
easy go easy”
because…
What is the philosophy of the
cockroach?
The cockroach’s philosophy is that
people should value…
because…
What do you think the author’s
philosophy of life might be and
why?
I think the author’s philosophy of
life is…..
because….
Level 3: Application and Evaluation Questions
Whose philosophy is more wise and The _________’s philosophy is more
why?
wise because…
“but at the same time I wish
there was something I wanted
as badly as he wanted to fry
himself”
How does the story relate to your
own life?
This story connects to my own life
because it reminds me of…
Give personal example for this.
Enrichment Question
If you were going to join the conversation, what insect would you be and why? What would you say to the moth
and cockroach about how you think life should be lived and why?
Insect
Qualities of the Insect
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Cockroach
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Moth
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Lives a long time
individually (longevity)
Outlives other species
(cockroaches existed before
dinosaurs and have not
gone extinct)
Live in dark places and
avoid being seen
Not a beautiful species,
plain, even repulsive
Seek out light
Do not live a long time
Newer species than
cockroaches
Very visible
Some have beautiful
coloring
Sometimes will fly right into
flames
Characteristics of Humans that
Insect Might Represent
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Choose your own insect that
represents your philosophy of life
Possible Insects
Grasshopper
Bumblebee
Praying mantis
Fly
Mosquito
Ant
Termite
Earthworm
Cicadas
Crickets
Ladybugs
Beetles
Scorpions
Caterpillars
Dragonfly
Firefly (lightning bugs)