Story Activities and Visuals for

Black Beauty by Anna Sewell

Black Beauty by Anna Sewell follows the life of a kind and noble horse, detailing his experiences with various owners, both kind and cruel, during Victorian England. Through Black Beauty's perspective, the novel explores themes of animal welfare, compassion, and the hardships faced by working horses. Ultimately, after many trials, Black Beauty finds peace and happiness with a loving family who treats him well.

This classic story can be found in the ReadTopia Curriculum. Here are some activities to use with students when reading this book.

Vocabulary

This story is rich with vocabulary. Write down new words as you read. Add relevant vocabulary to a class word wall.

Play games using and describing these new words.

Characters

Who are the characters in the story?

Make puppets to hold as you discuss and role play characters in the story. Cut out and glue on a craft stick.

Alphabet Knowledge

Talk about the letters B or H.

Phonological Awareness

Smash playdough on the H Words.

Black Beauty is a name that uses aliteration. Can you find other names of popular characters or people that use aliteration?

Comprehension

Ask comprehension questions about the story. Use pictures as needed for pointing to answer.

Science

Learn about horse facts. Research horse anatomy, types, behavior, care, geography, and uses throughout history.

Learn about the different types of horses in this video.

Math

Use vocabulary from the story in math activities.

Art

Horseshoes are made out of metal to protect horses hooves just like shoes protect our feet. How would you design your shoes? How would you design a horseshoe?