The Call of the Wild

The questions inside

One per chapter, across all 7 chapters — every question is editable before you print.

1. In Chapter 1, how does Buck's life change from Judge Miller's home to the North, and what does he learn from the man with the club?
2. Chapter 2 uses the idea of the "law of club and fang." What do you think this phrase means, and how does Buck begin to follow this law?
3. In Chapter 3, how does Buck change as he competes with Spitz, and what does this show about Buck's personality?
4. After Buck becomes lead dog in Chapter 4, what does he do to prove he can lead the team? Use details from the chapter.
5. In Chapter 5, the new owners do not understand the dogs or the trail. What lesson do you think this chapter teaches about listening to advice and caring for animals?
6. In Chapter 6, why is Buck's bond with John Thornton so strong, and which moment best shows their friendship?
7. By the end of Chapter 7, Buck chooses the wild. What do you predict Buck's life will be like after he answers the call of the wild, and why?

Example answers

Printed at the front of the booklet, so your reader can see what a strong answer looks like.

Chapter 2 uses the idea of the "law of club and fang." What do you think this phrase means, and how does Buck begin to follow this law?

I think the "law of club and fang" means that life in the North is ruled by strength and survival. The club stands for humans having power, and the fang stands for the dogs fighting to live. Buck begins to follow this law by watching the other dogs and learning quickly. He learns that he must be tough and smart if he wants to survive.

In Chapter 5, the new owners do not understand the dogs or the trail. What lesson do you think this chapter teaches about listening to advice and caring for animals?

I think this chapter teaches that people should listen to advice from those who know more than they do. Hal, Charles, and Mercedes do not understand how hard the trip is for the dogs. They pack too much, feed the dogs badly, and do not treat them kindly. This shows that animals depend on humans to be responsible and caring.

In Chapter 6, why is Buck's bond with John Thornton so strong, and which moment best shows their friendship?

I think Buck's bond with John Thornton is strong because Thornton saves him and treats him with love. Buck has had many owners, but Thornton is the first one who seems to truly care about him. The moment that best shows their friendship is when Buck saves Thornton from the river. Buck risks his own life, which shows how loyal he is.