The Fir Tree | Christmas Reader's Theater Script

This script adaptation is based on The Fir Tree By Hans Christian Andersen (1845).

This script should take about ~40 minutes to read depending on your classroom's level. Extra time for discussion, vocabulary or short answer comprehension questions should be planned.

This product includes a zip file consisting of:

• Grades 3~5 Version (~25 Characters, 1300 words, 25 pages)
• Grades 6~12 Version (~23 Characters, 1600 words, 23 pages)
• Student & Teacher Reader's Theater Tips & Notes
• 10 Comprehension Short Answer and 10 Vocabulary Words
• 10 Themes & Discussion Question Prompts
• Note: All files are in editable DOCX format
• Character Note: Some characters only have 1 or 2 lines, if necessary one student can read multiple lines. Likewise some of the main characters can be read by multiple students.

General Tips for Using this Resource:

1. Print one, double-sided script for each student
2. For digital classrooms, upload the MSWORD DOC version and convert to Google docs
3. Character roles can be adjusted based on class size; characters can be combined or split as needed

Get this script in a bundle and save 40%

Differentiated Reader's Theater Script Bundle (6)

This script includes 2 acts:

Act 1: The Forest Life and the Journey Begins

The story begins in a lush forest where a young Fir Tree stands among taller trees. Despite the beauty around it, the Fir Tree is unhappy because it longs to grow tall and see the world. It ignores the birds, the sun, and the admiration of children who find it cute. Seasons pass, but the Fir Tree remains discontented, envying the taller trees. One day, woodcutters come and take the taller trees away. The Fir Tree learns they are used for grand purposes like building ships. As Christmas approaches, people come to select trees. The Fir Tree hopes to be chosen and, to its delight, it is cut down and taken to a grand house. There, it is decorated beautifully with candles, ornaments, and sweets. The Fir Tree feels overjoyed and important during the grand celebration.

Act 2: The Height of Happiness and Realization

During the celebration, the Fir Tree basks in admiration as children and adults enjoy its presence. It listens to stories and feels truly happy for the first time. However, after the festivities, the tree is taken to a dark attic and left alone. Feeling confused and lonely, it misses the warmth and attention. Mice visit the Fir Tree, and it shares stories of its grand night. But when the mice stop visiting, the Fir Tree feels even more isolated. Eventually, it is taken outside, hoping for more excitement, but realizes it is being discarded. As children pass by without admiration, the Fir Tree regrets not appreciating its life in the forest. It understands that true happiness was in enjoying the present moment. The story ends with the Fir Tree being used as firewood, reminding us to cherish what we have.