Draw a picture to show others how you visualize such a scene. Look for clues in the pictures. Talk about how what you do differs from Ruthie's experience. When Mama and Ruthie went up the mountain to get their tree, Ruthie became frightened. Have the students retell the story and decide on six main events.
Number storyboards one through six.
Have students form small groups and choose a main event. Papa comes home Christmas night and Ruthie gets her beautiful doll. Watch the Reading Rainbow Video of this book. As an extension into art, provide students with black or deep blue construction paper, white or ivory construction paper, and white or ivory paint. White markers or crayons could also be used.