Island of the Blue Dolphins

Use these questions or activities to help gauge students’ familiarity with and spark their interest in the context of the work, giving them an entry point into the text itself.

Short Answer

1. What do you think of when you hear the words “survival” and “self-determination”? What dangers might someone encounter if they had to survive on their own, such as on a deserted island? What potential benefits could someone gain from this situation?

Teaching Suggestion: This question connects to the theme of The Struggle for Survival and Self-Determination. If students have a difficult time imagining the potential benefits of island life, you might prompt discussion by asking them what skills or positive qualities they might gain from the challenge of surviving alone. For example, this could be an opportunity to explore the concept of self-determination and discuss how needing to survive on one’s own could result in greater independence and decision-making skills. In addition, David Glasheen’s true story (referenced below) can make the concepts of survival and self-determination more concrete for students. After giving students time to provide their responses to the Short Answer question, you might opt to show students the brief documentary about David Glasheen. Then, students might consider the pros and cons of a lifestyle such as his.

• This entry in the Merriam-Webster Dictionary explains the meaning of the word “self-determination.”
• This 11-minute documentary explores the life of David Glasheen, an Australian man who chose to live alone on an island for decades.

Content Warning: Please note that Glasheen discusses difficult moments in his life, including his divorce and his daughter’s suicide.

2. What do you know about the Indigenous peoples who lived in North America during the 1800s? Specifically, what groups lived on the Channel Islands off the coast of California? What were their lives like before and after the Europeans’ arrival?

Teaching Suggestion: Students can draw from prior knowledge to answer the first question, but they will likely need to conduct some research before answering the subsequent questions. You might ask students to pause after answering the first question and then give them time to consult the resources listed below or other sources before attempting to answer the remaining questions.

To provide context for this Short Answer question and the resources below, consider explaining that Island of the Blue Dolphins is based on the story of a historical figure known as the Lone Woman of San Nicolas (or Juana Maria).

• This brief article provides information about the native inhabitants of the Channel Islands, their traditional way of life, and the effects of European colonization.
• This site by the National Park Service provides information about the geography and culture of San Nicolas Island and places the woman who inspired Karana’s story within a cultural and historical context.

Personal Connection Prompt

This prompt can be used for in-class discussion, exploratory free-writing, or reflection homework before reading the novel.

Have you ever had an experience that made you feel inspired by or connected to nature? Describe the experience with specific details that show what you saw, heard, and/or felt. What did you learn from this experience? How do you think connecting to nature benefits people in general?

Teaching Suggestion: This prompt connects to the theme of Learning from Nature. Students can reflect on an experience with a sunset, a park, rain, etc. If students struggle to pinpoint an example in their own lives, you could ask them to imagine and describe a peaceful nature scene instead. In addition, you might consider allowing students to pair up to discuss the last question.