A Bad Case of Tattle Tongue

In 3rd grade we read A Bad Case of Tattle Tongue by Julia Cook.  This story tells the journey of Josh who has tattled so often he has alienated himself from his friends.  His mother explains that if he keeps this up he will develop "tattle tongue."  Haunted by this new information, Josh is visited in his dreams by the "Tattle Prince" who teaches him 4 important rules for when it is important to tell an adult.

   

1.  Danger Warnings ONLY! 

Only warn an adult when a person is in danger of getting their body hurt.  

2.  Be a Problem Solver 

If the problem involves you, try to solve the problem yourself first.  

3.  Is this a NOW or LATER problem? 

Can we solve this problem be solved at a private time? 

4.  M.Y.O.B – “Mind your own business”
The problem does not belong to you, don't get involved in it!

We discussed the tattling rules and examined Josh's decisions throughout the story.  Afterward we reviewed the differences between tattling and reporting.  Students were given difference scenario cards and asked to determine what they should do in that situation: report to an adult, do nothing, help, etc.