Exploring the concepts of good luck and how to make wishes come true helps illustrate how the story connects with society and how deeply rooted some superstitions are even in modern times. Ask students to research various good luck charms such as four-leaf clovers and horseshoes, learning the history behind the idea and presenting their findings to the class. As a follow-up or alternative, examine unlucky symbols and their history, such as the number 13.
Students can rewrite the story by changing the second and/or third wishes and examine how the characters, theme and foreshadowing change. If students choose to let Herbert into the house, what would happen then? What would he look and act like? If students change the story to create a happier ending, how can they reconcile foreshadowing elements such as Mrs. White's shudder at the paw, Morris's throwing it into the fire and Mr. White's belief that it twisted in his hand as he made his first wish?
Divide the class in half and have each side construct an argument as to why the paw should or should not be used. Groups then present their argument and rebut each other's points with the teacher as moderator. Another possibility in group work is to ask smaller groups of students to come up with wishes that could not be twisted and so would only have positive outcomes. As groups present possibilities, all students should consider how the wishes might result in trouble for the wisher.
The story begins with Mr. White and Herbert playing chess, which becomes a symbol throughout the story. Teach students the basics of playing chess and allow time for a few practice games so they get a better understanding of the strategy. Then have students apply the game to the story by creating a chart of metaphors. The risk Mr. White takes in chess results in his loss just like the risk of making a wish, and the choices he makes along the way can be connected to moves in a game.
Have students take on the roles and present a production of the story. Various adaptations in play form exist, or you can have students write their own. They could present their result as a stage play or film it and create a movie. Explore themes, characters and plot more fully by setting up "talk shows" for the actors and crew of the production, asking them to explain concepts such as the motivations behind their actions and the purpose behind setting.