Students can make spider webs with four twigs and white string. Cross the twigs to look like a spoke wheel and tie them together with string. Cross over each twig and wrap the string around it. Move the string farther out with each rotation. Tie the string to the last twig at the end.
Another project is to collect actual webs. Spray hairspray on black construction paper and lay it over a spider-less web from behind. Gently remove the web from its home and spray it with varnish to preserve it.
Teach the students to create a "wordle" and have them complete one for "Charlotte's Web." A wordle is a word cloud composed of words that center around one single subject. They can be created on the computer using Internet websites. Place students in small groups and have them brainstorm possible words that are associated with the story. Vocabulary words are possible choices but they should not be the only words included. Encourage students to pick words for the wordle that have meaning for them.
Have students work in groups of two to create an interview about the book. One student will be the interviewer and the other student will be the book reviewer. Encourage them to ask meaningful questions based on levels described in Bloom's question hierarchy. The students can present the interview to the class or it can be recorded during recess and played for the class. The interview should contain discussions that show an understanding of the material.
Have students research spiders. Because Charlotte was a barn spider, be certain the students include barn spiders. Look at pictures and discuss the anatomy of spiders. Have students sketch the body, labeling each part. Then give the students craft materials, including pompoms, craft sticks, wiggle eyes, felt and glue. Ask them to create their own versions of a barn spider. Create a bulletin board with webs for the spiders to be displayed on and attach each spider to the board.
If the fair in your state takes place after school begins, take the students to the fair and let them experience the state fair first hand. Be certain to take them to the livestock section, especially the pigs. Choose a time when judging will take place so students will understand the process. Tell them to look around the cages and see if they can find any evidence that a spider may be living in one of the barns.