Lesson 22 — Activity 2: Chapters 3 – 4


Before starting this activity, please read chapters 3 and 4 of the novel. Remember to think about the strategies you can use as you read.


This activity will focus on the development of the novel's plot.

Depending on the length of a story, within the first few chapters, the reader has been introduced to the setting, main character(s), and the problem or conflict with which he or she is faced.

Can you identify the main character(s) and the issue he or she is facing in the novel? Remember, though, your ideas may change as you read further.

Here is a diagram that illustrates how a plot is developed.


Courtesy of ADLC

In the third chapter of the novel, you find out more about why Noah's parents divorced and how it was Noah's mom who wanted him to move to George River for a school term so he could get to know his father better. However, Noah feels as if he's made a big mistake and that he doesn't fit in in his new surroundings. 

However, his dad is determined for Noah to experience new things while he is living in George River, and he talks Noah into going to a storytelling event at the community centre where Noah will learn about Inuit legends.

Noah's dad tells him (page 23):

"I know George River may not seem like much at first Noah, but it's a fascinating place. And the people who live here, well, they're deep. Deeper than a lot of people I know from the city. I'm really gad you're open to this new experience."

However, Noah thinks to himself (page 23):

"That's all bull. I'm not open. No way. What I am is trapped in this frozen hellhole for the next five months. I'm about as interested in Inuit culture as I am in collecting rare stamps."


The fourth chapter of the novel continues to reveal more about the plot of the story. You learn how different Noah's life was back in Montreal where he could go to a hockey game or meet his friends for coffee at the Second Cup whenever he wanted. However, life in George River is very different for Noah, which he realizes while listening to the elder talk about old Inuit legends.

As well, the foreshadowing continues as Noah spots Lenny in the audience at the community centre. Lenny nudges one of his friends when he catches Noah looking at them. Noah thinks that Lenny has a gang of henchmen — just like Roland Ipkins back home in Montreal.


In this chapter, you are also introduced to the hardships that the Inuit people have faced in the past as the Qallunnat — the white men — forced the Inuit people to settle in one town.

Complete the activities that follow and then continue to read chapters 5 to 7 of the novel. Remember, as well, to continue with the vocabulary activity.