1. Write a list of ten qualities that describe who you are. As models, use the lists describing Opal's mother and Winn-Dixie.
See pp. 26-30 and 162-163 for the model lists. As a follow-up, discuss how such a list both reveals and conceals a person's real self.

2. Imagine Miss Frannie the librarian has asked you to tell a story about something amazing that happened to you. Think about something that's happened in your life that would make a great story. Then write your story and share it with the group. Make sure your story has a beginning, a middle, and an end.
This activity would be a good launchpad into writing personal narrative essays, using Opal's story as a model. Students could be encouraged to use dialogue to advance their stories like DiCamillo does.

3. Opal wants to create a dog-care handbook for her class based on her experiences caring for Winn-Dixie. What would the handbook say? Create a handbook and make sure to include tips on feeding, grooming, and other important information.
As a first-time pet owner, Opal didn't have a dog-care guide to figure out how to care for Winn-Dixie, and with this activity students with dogs will enjoy sharing their knowledge about pet care.