Niagara Falls or Does It? is the first book in Henry Winkler and Lin Oliver’s Hank Zipzer series. Hank Zipzer is inspired by the challenges that Henry Winkler (best known as the Fonz!) faced as a boy with undiagnosed Dyslexia. Henry’s undiagnosed Dyslexia made him a classic underachiever and gave him anxiety about all aspects of going to school.
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The Hank Zipzer series is about Hank’s funny adventures while highlighting the inner thoughts, doubts, and fears that living with learning differences poses. Henry himself, along with his co-author, Lin Oliver, explain their inspiration for the series here:
I loved the quote from Lin Oliver, ” The most important part for us in creating the series is to speak to kids and let them know that inside each one of them they have a unique and special contribution that they can make to the world.” Kids that face learning challenges, among them Dyslexia, often face depression and low-self esteem, thinking they are dumb or less than their peers. The series gives kids the voice to know that they aren’t “stupid” that they are just wired in a different way, and in many ways, this makes them even more talented in certain things.
As a parent of a child who deals with similar learning challenges, I find Henry Winkler and his character Hank Zipzer so inspiring. I was so happy to be able to give this book to my son in third grade so that he could read a book which had a character that he could relate to to inspire, knowing he is smarter than he may feel. Add the humor. and this kid was hooked. It’s great that there are sixteen more books in the series to keep kids reading.
I’d like to share another video from Henry Winkler, where he discusses Dyslexia and shares his experiences. He is an inspiring role model for kids with learning challenges, and if you have someone in your life struggling, be it a student or your own child, please share this with them as well.
Benefits of Using Niagara Falls, or Does It? in Your Classroom:
Offers aRelatable Protagonist: Hank Zipzer, the main character of the book, is a relatable figure for many students. Hank struggles with Dyslexia, a learning difference that affects his academic performance and self-esteem. His journey resonates with students who may face similar challenges, offering them a character they can identify with and providing a platform for discussions about diversity, empathy, and resilience.
Promotes Literacy and Empathy: Niagara Falls or Does It? not only entertains but also promotes literacy skills and empathy. As students follow Hank’s adventures, they are exposed to rich vocabulary, descriptive language, and engaging storytelling. Additionally, the book fosters empathy as readers gain insight into Hank’s experiences and emotions, encouraging them to understand and appreciate differences in others.
Explores Important Themes: This novel touches on various themes that are relevant to students’ lives, such as friendship, family dynamics, overcoming challenges, and the importance of perseverance. By exploring these themes through Hank’s experiences, teachers can initiate meaningful discussions and activities that encourage critical thinking and personal reflection.
ProvidesMultidisciplinary Learning Opportunities: Niagara Falls or Does It? provides ample opportunities for multidisciplinary learning. Teachers can incorporate activities related to geography, history, science, and even mathematics, making the book a versatile addition to various subject areas. From exploring the geography of Niagara Falls to conducting experiments related to water flow, the possibilities for cross-curricular integration are endless.
Encourages a Growth Mindset: Hank Zipzer’s journey exemplifies the power of a growth mindset – the belief that abilities can be developed through dedication and effort. Despite facing numerous obstacles, Hank perseveres and learns to embrace his strengths and weaknesses. By highlighting Hank’s growth mindset, teachers can inspire students to adopt a positive attitude towards challenges and view mistakes as opportunities for learning and growth.
Supports Inclusivity and Diversity: In today’s diverse classrooms, it is essential to include literature that reflects the experiences of all students. Niagara Falls or Does It? celebrates diversity through its portrayal of characters from different backgrounds and abilities. By featuring a protagonist with dyslexia, the book promotes inclusivity and encourages acceptance of individual differences.
Niagara Falls or Does It? offers a wealth of educational benefits that make it a valuable addition to any classroom curriculum. From promoting literacy and empathy to fostering a growth mindset and celebrating diversity, this novel has the power to engage students on multiple levels while imparting important life lessons. Teachers who incorporate Hank Zipzer into their classroom instruction will not only enrich their students’ learning experiences but also cultivate a culture of empathy, resilience, and inclusivity.
I offer a complete novel study to accompany Niagara Falls, or Does it? for use in the classroom or homeschool. The unit includes both a printable format and a Google Drive™ format for use in a paperless classroom or with Google Classroom.
Try a free sample of the novel study for Hank Zipzer: Niagara Falls, or Does It?
You can purchase this novel study at the following locations:
Once you’ve moved through the Hank Zipzer series another great book that comes from the voice of a character with Dyslexia which I highly recommend for kids in grades 4-6, is Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mulally Hunt.
Are you interested in reading about and sharing ideas with other educators on using children’s literature in your classroom? My goal is to bring together teachers and homeschoolers who teach grades 3-8 and use novels with their students. I’d love for you to join me to learn, share, and grow together!
In the world of literature, there are a few timeless classics that have captured the hearts and minds of students and teachers alike. One such novel is Holes by Louis Sachar. This remarkable novel, filled with mystery, humor, and life lessons, is an ideal choice for educators looking to engage and inspire their students.
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Benefits of Using Holes in Your Classroom:
Promotes Critical Thinking: One of the key benefits of using Holes in the classroom is its ability to promote critical thinking skills. The novel’s intricate plot and complex characters encourage students to analyze, make connections, and draw conclusions. This can be especially beneficial in developing higher-order thinking skills that are essential for success in any field.
Teaches Resilience and Perseverance: Through the trials and tribulations faced by the protagonist, Stanley Yelnats, Holes teaches students about resilience and perseverance. The characters’ struggles in the face of adversity provide valuable life lessons that can inspire and motivate students to overcome their own challenges.
Fosters a Love for Reading: Louis Sachar’s storytelling prowess shines in Holes. The book’s intriguing narrative, witty dialogue, and unexpected twists make it an enjoyable read for students of all ages. By introducing students to such an engaging novel, teachers can help foster a lifelong love for reading.
ContainsDiverse Themes for Discussion: Holes is rich in themes that can spark meaningful classroom discussions. From justice and friendship to family dynamics and social inequality, the novel provides ample opportunities for teachers to explore these topics with their students, fostering both empathy and critical thinking.
Aligned with Curriculum Standards: Holes aligns seamlessly with curriculum standards in language arts, making it an excellent choice for classroom use. The novel can be integrated into various lesson plans, including those related to character development, plot structure, and literary analysis.
Accessible to Diverse Readers: Holes appeals to a wide range of readers, making it suitable for diverse classrooms. Its accessible language and compelling story ensure that students of varying reading levels can engage with the material, promoting inclusivity.
Incorporating Louis Sachar’s Holes into your classroom can be a transformative experience for you and your students. Its ability to promote critical thinking, teach life lessons, foster a love for reading, and align with curriculum standards make it a valuable addition to any teacher’s toolbox. So, dive into the world of Holes and watch your students’ imaginations and love for reading take off.
I offer a complete novel study to accompany Holes for use in the classroom or homeschool. The unit includes both a printable format and a Google Drive™ format, for use in a paperless classroom or with Google Classroom.
You can purchase this novel study at the following locations:
Are you interested in reading about and sharing ideas with other educators on using children’s literature in your classroom? My goal is to bring together teachers and homeschoolers who teach grades 3-8 and use novels with their students. I’d love for you to join me to learn, share, and grow together!
Would you choose to live forever if you had the option? That is the key question in Natalie Babbitt’s novel, Tuck Everlasting. Tuck Everlasting in the classroom enriches the curriculum and provides a platform for exploring deep philosophical concepts and nurturing the intellectual and emotional growth of students.
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Benefits of Using Tuck Everlasting in Your Classroom:
ContainsThemes that Resonate: Tuck Everlasting delves into profound themes such as the circle of life, the meaning of immortality, and the consequences of choices. These themes provide a rich tapestry for classroom discussions, allowing students to explore complex ideas and develop critical thinking skills.
EnhancesCharacter Development Analysis: The novel introduces a diverse cast of characters, each with their own motivations and struggles. From the immortal Tuck family to the inquisitive Winnie Foster, the characters offer students an opportunity to analyze and empathize with different perspectives. This can lead to discussions about character development, empathy, and the impact of choices on one’s life.
Offers a variety ofLiterary Devices and Style: Natalie Babbitt’s writing style and use of literary devices provide an excellent opportunity for language arts exploration. Teachers can guide students in analyzing metaphors, similes, and symbolism, fostering a deeper understanding of the author’s craft.
Integrates with Other Subjects: Tuck Everlasting seamlessly integrates with various subjects, making it a versatile choice for cross-curricular activities. Teachers can incorporate science discussions on the concept of immortality, history lessons on different time periods, or art projects inspired by the novel’s vivid descriptions.
Is Relevant to Real-World Issues: Despite being a fantasy novel, Tuck Everlasting addresses real-world issues such as the consequences of human actions on the environment and the ethical implications of immortality. Teachers can use these themes as a springboard for discussions on environmental stewardship and ethical decision-making.
Encourages Critical Thinking: The novel’s open-ended conclusion invites students to think critically about the choices made by the characters and reflect on their own beliefs. This ambiguity can spark engaging classroom debates and encourage students to articulate and defend their viewpoints.
Fosters a Love for Reading: Tuck Everlasting has the power to captivate students and instill a love for reading. Its compelling narrative and thought-provoking themes can inspire students to explore other literary works, contributing to the development of lifelong readers.
Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt is a versatile and enriching novel with timeless themes, cross-curricular potential, and the ability to stimulate critical thinking making it an invaluable resource for teachers. By incorporating this novel into your classroom, you can not only ignite a passion for reading but also nurture the intellectual and emotional growth of your students.
I offer a complete novel study to accompany Tuck Everlasting for use in the classroom or homeschool. The unit includes both a printable format and a Google Drive™ format for use in a paperless classroom or with Google Classroom.
Try a free sample of the novel study for Tuck Everlasting
You can purchase this novel study at the following locations:
Are you interested in reading about and sharing ideas with other educators on using children’s literature in your classroom? My goal is to bring together teachers and homeschoolers who teach grades 3-8 and use novels with their students. I’d love for you to join me to learn, share, and grow together!
Rick Riordan’s The Lightning Thief, is an engaging and impactful novel that will captivate your students’ interest. This novel, part of the Percy Jackson & the Olympians series, offers a unique blend of mythology, adventure, and relatable characters.
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Benefits of Using The Lightning Thief in Your Classroom:
Contains Relatable Characters: Percy Jackson, the protagonist, is an ordinary, modern teenager with extraordinary challenges, making him highly relatable to students. The character’s struggles with dyslexia and ADHD provide opportunities for discussions on learning differences and the strengths that can arise from them.
PromotesLiteracy Skills: The Lightning Thief is a page-turner that encourages students to develop and enhance their reading skills. The novel’s engaging plot and diverse characters can stimulate discussions on character development, plot structure, and literary elements.
Fosters Critical Thinking: The story’s numerous twists and turns prompt students to think critically about characters’ motivations and the consequences of their actions. Discussions on morality, choices, and consequences can arise, fostering critical thinking and ethical reflections.
RaisesCultural Awareness: The diverse cast of characters in the novel introduces students to various cultural backgrounds and perspectives. Exploring different mythologies and their impact on cultures broadens students’ understanding of the world and encourages empathy.
Encourages Creativity: The Lightning Thief invites students to imagine and create their own stories within the rich framework of Greek mythology. Creative projects such as writing alternate endings or designing new characters can enhance students’ imaginative and artistic skills.
Builds a Love for Reading: The fast-paced narrative and humorous elements in the novel make it an engaging read for students who may be reluctant readers. Creating a positive reading experience can contribute to cultivating a lifelong love for literature.
Modernizes Greek Mythology: The novel seamlessly weaves Greek mythology into a modern-day setting, making it a fascinating and accessible introduction to ancient stories for students. Connecting ancient myths to contemporary issues helps students see the relevance of classical literature in today’s world.
The Lightning Thief unlocks the love of reading for students. From exploring ancient myths to fostering critical thinking and creativity, this novel has the potential to leave a lasting impact on your students.
I offer a complete novel study to accompany The Lightning Thief that fully encompasses Greek Mythology within the story for use in the classroom or homeschool. The unit includes both a printable format and a Google Drive™ format for use in a paperless classroom or with Google Classroom.
Try a free sample of the novel study for The Lightning Thief
You can purchase this novel study at the following locations:
Are you interested in reading about and sharing ideas with other educators on using children’s literature in your classroom? My goal is to bring together teachers and homeschoolers who teach grades 3-8 and use novels with their students. I’d love for you to join me to learn, share, and grow together!
Phyllis Reynolds Naylor’s novel, Shiloh, is a captivating and impactful novel that engages readers and fosters a love for reading. Shiloh offers a rich tapestry of themes, character development, and ethical dilemmas that make it a fantastic choice for the classroom. Shiloh is a must-read and can benefit both their students’ academic growth and moral development.
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The Benefits of Using Shiloh in Your Classroom:
Contains Relatable Themes: Shiloh addresses timeless themes that resonate with young readers. The story revolves around the bond between a young boy named Marty and a mistreated dog named Shiloh. Themes of friendship, empathy, compassion, and the importance of standing up for what is right are woven into the narrative. These themes provide students with opportunities to explore their own values and ethics, making Shiloh an ideal text for fostering discussions about moral dilemmas.
Explores Character Development: Naylor’s novel offers well-crafted characters, each with their own flaws and virtues. Students can easily relate to Marty’s journey of self-discovery and his determination to protect Shiloh. The characters’ development throughout the story allows for in-depth character analysis, helping students understand how experiences can shape a person’s beliefs and actions.
Builds Vocabulary: Shiloh introduces students to a rich vocabulary that can expand their language skills. Naylor’s writing is both accessible and eloquent, making it a valuable resource for building students’ vocabulary and improving their reading comprehension. Teachers can incorporate vocabulary-building exercises and discussions related to the book’s language throughout the reading process.
Encourages Ethical Discussions: The moral dilemmas presented in Shiloh offer an excellent opportunity for ethical discussions in the classroom. Students can engage in thoughtful debates about topics such as animal rights, honesty, and the consequences of one’s actions. These discussions encourage critical thinking and help students develop their own moral compass.
Enhances Empathy and Emotional Intelligence: Reading Shiloh can enhance students’ empathy and emotional intelligence. They will empathize with Shiloh’s plight and Marty’s internal struggle to do what’s right. This emotional connection to the characters promotes empathy and a deeper understanding of the emotions and perspectives of others, a crucial skill for building positive relationships.
Provides Real-World Relevance: Shiloh also offers a bridge to real-world issues. Students can explore topics like animal welfare, kindness, and the power of advocacy, connecting the fictional story to current events and global concerns. This real-world relevance can make literature more meaningful and engaging for students.
Phyllis Reynolds Naylor’s Shiloh is more than just a heartwarming tale of a boy and his dog, it’s a powerful tool to inspire young minds. By bringing this novel into the classroom, you can explore relatable themes, promote character development, enhance vocabulary, and engage students in ethical discussions. Shiloh also nurtures empathy, emotional intelligence, and real-world relevance while providing valuable assessment opportunities. Introduce your students to Marty and Shiloh’s world—a journey that will leave a lasting impact on their academic and moral growth.
I offer a complete novel study to accompany Shiloh for use in the classroom or homeschool. The unit includes both a printable format and a Google Drive™ format, for use in a paperless classroom or with Google Classroom.
You can purchase this novel study at the following locations:
Are you interested in reading about and sharing ideas with other educators on using children’s literature in your classroom? My goal is to bring together teachers and homeschoolers who teach grades 3-8 and use novels with their students. I’d love for you to join me to learn, share, and grow together!
