Definition:

The ability to read body and facial language that shows when others are feeling hurt, and demonstrating the desire to try to help them with their troubles. 

In short: 

Feel what others feel.

Summary:

A young girl rescues a crane that is wounded by a hunter’s arrow. She and her grandfather take care of the crane and he fits in perfectly with his new family. Feather, the crane,  follows Lotus to school and wins the hearts of her classmates. He becomes a hero when he warns the villagers of  a flood. Sadly one day Feather joins a flock, flies far away, and is greatly missed by everyone, especially Lotus. Fortunately, Feather eventually returns with his new family and hundreds of cranes, and the villagers are happy to see so many beautiful birds living near their village. 

Lesson Objectives: 

1. This story can accompany a science unit on migration and the interactions, both positive and negative, between humans and birds. 
2. Students will demonstrate more interest in birds and other species. Teachers can emphasize the need for environmental protection and share about related projects in which students can get involved. 

Guiding Questions: 

1. Lotus’s classmates rejected her in the beginning of the story but she was able to make friends eventually. What helped her? 
2. What did Lotus do to show compassion? 
3. What did Lotus enjoy doing with her grandfather? 
4. What did Feather do to win the hearts of the students and the villagers? 
5. Feather migrated with his flock. Can you explain what migration is? If you don’t know, ask someone. 
6. What can you do to show compassion for animals? 
7. Have you ever rescued an animal? If so, share your story. 
8. Share about some experiences you’ve had in nature. Where did you go? What did you see? 
9. How do you feel when you’re in the woods, by the water, at a park, or somewhere in nature? 
10. Do you wish that animals could talk? Imagine having a conversation with your favorite animal, what would you like to talk about?