Start the lesson by reading the story aloud to children. After reading, discuss the story with them. Create a large class chart as children offer information about the characters, setting and plot of the story. Give students paper divided into three columns. Have them create an individual chart that describes one character, one setting and one main plot event in greater detail than the class chart.
"Peter Cottontail" contains rhyming text. Depending on the age of the students, have them either identify the rhyming words or create rhyming text in the style of "Peter Cottontail." Have younger students identify sets of rhyming words, write them, then add other words that also rhyme with the ones from the story. Older students can write poetry; instruct them to write a rhyming alternate ending or short sequel to the story.
Thornton Burgess authored some 15,000 stories. Provide students with biographical details about the author, such as his fondness for wildlife. Read additional stories by the author to younger children. Have older children research Burgess to learn more about his life and works. Assign students to write a short biographical report or to read an additional book by the author.
"Peter Cottontail" is known for its whimsical illustrations. Study the black line and color illustrations with children, focusing on the simple forms and shapes they contain. Provide students with long, narrow strips of white paper divided into several sections. Discuss the concept of comic strips with students and show them several. Students then can create a comic strip retelling of the story, illustrated with pictures drawn in the style of the original story.