Day 1

The Rocking-Horse Winner Lesson Plan

Discussion of Thought Questions

  1. 1

    What does the rocking-horse represent? Why does it have magical abilities? What is its relationship to the horses that Paul and his partners bet on?

    Students will have different opinions on why the rocking-horse has magical qualities. However, strong answers will draw a connection between the object of the rocking-horse and the real horses that become objectified. Both only exist as means for Paul and others to make money, and neither goes anywhere, despite the work that is done with them.

  2. 2

    Throughout the story, it's Uncle Oscar and Bassett who drive Paul's actions. Compare and contrast the two characters. What brings them together?

    Uncle Oscar is repeatedly...

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