Parent Guide > Can a Devastating Shark Attack Really Lead to a Better Life?

by Melanie Greenberg 2011

Welcome to the parent guide for this text! Read below to find out about what your child is reading in class and how you can support him/her at home.

This week in class, we’re reading "Can a Devastating Shark Attack Really Lead to a Better Life?" by Melanie Greenberg.

In "Can a Devastating Shark Attack Lead to a Better Life?" a psychologist explores the ways the surfer Bethany Hamilton overcame the trauma of losing her left arm in a shark attack. This informational article outlines concepts like "posttraumatic growth" and "downward comparison."

As we read, we will be discussing the themes of Comedy & Tragedy and Resilience & Success as they relate to the text. We are trying to answer these big questions :

"How does a person overcome adversity?" and "What can we learn from tragedy?"

Ways to support your child:

  • Ask your child about this psychology article at home:
    • What was "Can a Devastating Shark Attack Really Lead to a Better Life?" about?
    • What did you learn about Comedy & Tragedy?
    • What did you learn about Resilience & Success?
  • Watch Video: Bethany Hamilton - The Real Story at home with your child.