BDA: Flush

Here are some Before, During, and After activities for Flush by Carl Hiaasen:

Before You Begin Reading…
Complete one of the following activities.

1. What do you know about pollution? What types of things pollute? Who is hurt by pollution? What are some things being done to decrease pollution? Write at least half a page.


2. Is there a cause that you think is worth fighting for? How far would you go for your cause? Some people commit crimes for something they believe in. How far is too far? Complete at least half a page.


3. Make a poster showing what you know about pollution. You do not have to do any research for this project. Just use what you know from your experience.


4. Have you ever had to help a family member who was in trouble? Is there someone in your family that you would do anything for. Describe the person you have helped or someone you would help. Describe why you would help this person. Write at least half a page.

While You Are Reading…
Complete one of the following activities.

1. Keep a chart of all the characters from the book that includes the following information:
   
   • Name:
   
   
   • Description of the person:
   
   
   • How this person is involved with The Coral Queen:
   
   
   • What you think about this character:


2. Write a news story for each chapter, describing just the information that is common knowledge to the public.


3. Illustrate a scene for at least 12 of the book’s chapters. Write a caption for each drawing.


4. Make a list of at least 20 words you are unfamiliar with as you read the story. Complete the following for each word:
   
   • Word
   
   
   • Definition
   
   
   • Page #

When You Have Finished Reading…
Complete one of the following activities.

1. Write a report about one of the following:
   
   • Gambling laws
   
   
   • Pollution laws
   
   
   • Eco-terrorism


2. Make a poster and/or a brochure explaining an environmental concern.


3. Make a scrapbook of newspaper and magazine articles about pollution. Write one page describing what you learned from the articles.


4. Write a minimum of five poems about pollution.


5. Predict where at least 7 of the following characters might be 10 years from now. Write at least one paragraph for each character.
   
   • Dusty Muleman
   
   
   • Noah Underwood
   
   
   • Paine Underwood (Dad)
   
   
   • Donna Underwood (Mom)
   
   
   • Abbey Underwood
   
   
   • Mr. Shine
   
   
   • Jasper Jr.
   
   
   • Bull
   
   
   • Lice Peeking
   
   
   • Shelly
   
   
   • Grandpa Bobby
   
   
   • Luno