The Summer of the Swans by Betsy Byars is a great coming-of-age novel to use in your classroom or homeschool for a whole class novel study, in small book groups, or with individual book studies to explore the character’s path to self-acceptance and the growth to understand what is really important in her heart.
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Benefits of Using The Summer of the Swans in Your Classroom:
Offers Themes of Identity and Adolescence: At its core, The Summer of the Swans delves into the universal themes of identity and adolescence. Set against the backdrop of a small town, the novel follows the journey of Sara, a teenage girl grappling with feelings of insecurity and self-doubt. Her struggles with her own identity, coupled with her desire for acceptance, resonate deeply with young readers navigating similar challenges. By exploring Sara’s journey, students can engage in meaningful discussions about self-discovery, empathy, and the importance of embracing one’s true self.
Contains Rich Character Development: Betsy Byars has masterfully crafted a diverse cast of characters in The Summer of the Swans, each with their own unique struggles and complexities. From Sara’s protective older sister Wanda to the enigmatic Charlie, the characters in the novel are richly developed and multi-dimensional. By analyzing and discussing these characters, students can gain valuable insights into human nature, empathy, and the complexities of interpersonal relationships.
Explorations of Family Dynamics: Family dynamics play a central role in The Summer of the Swans, providing ample opportunities for classroom discussions. From Sara’s strained relationship with her older sister to her deep bond with her mentally challenged brother, the novel offers a nuanced portrayal of familial love and conflict. By examining these dynamics, students can explore themes of empathy, forgiveness, and the importance of family support systems.
Connection to Nature: Nature serves as a powerful backdrop in The Summer of the Swans, with the tranquil setting of the lake and the majestic swans playing a symbolic role throughout the novel. By immersing students in the natural world depicted in the story, teachers can encourage a deeper appreciation for the environment and foster a sense of wonder and curiosity. Additionally, the novel provides opportunities for interdisciplinary learning, with themes of ecology, conservation, and environmental stewardship woven throughout the narrative.
Provides Literary Merit and Cross-Curricular Connections: The Summer of the Swans has received critical acclaim since its publication, earning numerous awards, including the Newbery Medal. Its literary merit makes it an ideal choice for classroom use, providing students with exposure to high-quality literature and opportunities for literary analysis and interpretation. Furthermore, the novel lends itself to cross-curricular connections, with potential tie-ins to history, social studies, and art, allowing teachers to integrate multiple subject areas seamlessly.
Incorporating The Summer of the Swansby Betsy Byars into the classroom offers myriad benefits for both teachers and students alike. From its exploration of universal themes to its rich character development and literary merit, the novel provides ample opportunities for engagement, discussion, and learning. By harnessing the power of literature, teachers can inspire a lifelong love of reading and foster empathy, critical thinking, and creativity in their students.
I offer a complete novel study to accompany The Summer of the Swans 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 Summer of the Swans
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!
While having your students physically present offers the best means to gauge their comprehension of a subject and identify the necessity for tailored instruction, circumstances may arise where this isn’t feasible. Increasingly, students equipped with laptops and various devices are transforming traditional “free” snow days into E-Learning days. This shift aims to prevent extending the school year by leveraging technology for remote learning when in-person classes are impractical.
Periodic closures of schools due to natural disasters have been evident in various regions. For instance, in Nebraska, schools grappled with flooding issues both, in the spring and fall, resulting in chaotic interruptions to regular schedules. Additionally, student absences can range from short-term illnesses to prolonged health issues, leading to extended periods away from the classroom.
Furthermore, homeschooling communities often utilize e-learning within their cooperative groups or classes. The diverse array of reasons preventing direct in-person interaction with students underscores the significance of technology. It enables educators to virtually engage with their students during such challenging times, bridging the physical gap through digital platforms.
In my role as a curriculum writer, I prioritize flexibility by integrating numerous choices and options into my educational materials. Having been a teacher myself, I understand the constant influx of various challenges and unforeseen circumstances that a standard textbook isn’t equipped to handle. My educational philosophy revolves around the idea that a student ideally engages with the material using all their senses, transforming learning into solid knowledge. Therefore, all my resources feature a hands-on component—printable and tactile—encouraging collaborative engagement between students and teachers.
Recognizing the limitations of this ideal scenario, I’ve supplemented almost all my products with a Google Drive format, providing educators with alternative options. The Google Drive version encompasses the same content areas but allows for a paperless approach, utilizing Google Drive tools like Slides and Forms.
My portfolio predominantly includes a blend of printable and Google format materials, ranging from novel studies, social studies, to financial literacy resources. Additionally, I offer ELA and Math centers that are interactive on Google Drive while still being available in printable formats. Each download includes complete printable content and instructions on accessing and integrating the Google format files into your Google Drive, facilitating ease of use for educators.
After clicking on the provided link, your file will be visible in your Google Drive account under the name “Copy of File Name.” You can conveniently modify this title to your preference by clicking on the name box. Subsequently, you can assign these files to your students through Google Classroom.
How to use Novel Studies in an E-Learning Format?
In utilizing novel studies, your students will require a copy of the novel to accompany either the printable or Google Drive format provided. With the book in hand, they can seamlessly navigate through the study, engaging with comprehension questions, vocabulary activities, and extended writing tasks on Google Slides, mirroring the functionality available in the printable version. Teachers can track their progress through Google Classroom and I recommend conducting check-ins with small groups via platforms like Google Talk (or Google Hangouts/Google Chat) or Zoom. These sessions allow for discussions about the material read, ensuring comprehension and encouraging deeper exploration of the novel. It’s akin to the class discussions held in person, bridging the gap using technology.
All my novel studies feature assessments that can be completed through Google Forms. The multiple-choice assessments for comprehension and vocabulary are self-grading, significantly reducing grading time for teachers. However, the writing assessments, being more open-ended, cannot be self-graded. Typically consisting of one to two questions per assessment, these tasks can be submitted via Google Classroom for review and grading by the teacher.
How to use Social Studies and Financial Literacy Activities in an E-Learning Format?
My social studies and financial literacy resources are structured similarly to the novel studies in Google format, but they don’t require any specific books or textbooks. These materials feature Webquest links that offer learning content and include slideshow presentations in all social studies resources to facilitate students’ understanding and completion of activities.
Just like with the novel studies, Google Slides serve as the platform for both the presentations and activity completion. Additionally, in certain financial literacy activities such as the Escape Room exercises, Google Forms are integrated to delve deeper into the content alongside the use of Google Slides.
How to use ELA and Math Centers in an E-Learning Format?
The interactive ELA and Math Centers are designed to be completed using Google Slides. Students engage with the components to practice various skills, and teachers can oversee their progress through Google Classroom.
What can I do if my student doesn’t have access to equipment or the internet?
Many of us assume ready access to computers, laptops, and internet connectivity at home, yet some students lack this accessibility. In public schools, it’s our responsibility to ensure equity among our students. If your school lacks one-to-one capability or if a student doesn’t have home internet access, all my materials are provided in printable formats within the same product download. These activities are identical, just presented on paper rather than on a computer. You can distribute these packets to students for home use. To stay connected, consider communicating via phone calls, Facetime, or Skype for those with access via a parent’s cell phone. The content remains the same, only the format differs.
Technology offers various avenues to engage with students. While I advocate for a multisensory approach to learning—incorporating reading, writing, manipulation, and discussion—I recognize that there are instances where this isn’t feasible. In such cases, I hope my materials offer diverse options for utilization during e-learning scenarios.
Explore these free samples offered in my store, featuring both printable and Google Drive™ formats. They provide an opportunity for you to familiarize yourself with the functionalities of these resources.
Sample from my Wonder Novel Study
Sample Social Studies Activity
In this post titled “Tips for Using Google Drive in Your Classroom,” you’ll discover helpful suggestions on customizing Google Drive products to suit your specific requirements more effortlessly.
As a teacher, you may be looking for ways to engage your students and encourage critical thinking skills. One way to achieve this is by incorporating novels into your classroom curriculum. The Last Battle, written by C.S. Lewis, the last novel in the Chronicles of Narnia series, is an excellent choice for teachers looking to inspire their students.
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Explore the benefits of using The Last Battle in your classroom:
Historical Context: The Last Battle is set during the World War II era and provides insight into the political and cultural climate of the time. This historical context can be used to provide a deeper understanding of the events and attitudes of the time, helping students to make connections between historical events and their contemporary significance.
Character Development: The Last Battle features well-developed characters that students can easily relate to. The protagonist, a young girl named Jill Pole, is faced with difficult choices and must navigate complex moral and ethical dilemmas. This allows students to explore important themes such as courage, loyalty, and personal responsibility.
Multiculturalism: The Last Battle explores the diversity of cultures and the importance of respecting different beliefs and practices. This can be used to promote a multicultural perspective in the classroom and foster an appreciation for different cultures and traditions.
Literary Analysis: The Last Battle is a well-written novel that can be used to teach literary analysis. Students can explore the use of literary devices such as symbolism, foreshadowing, and character development. This can help them to develop their analytical skills and prepare them for higher-level literary analysis in the future.
Imagination and Creativity: The Last Battle is a work of fiction that sparks the imagination and encourages creativity. Students can engage in creative writing activities, such as writing alternate endings or creating their own characters, to further develop their creativity.
The Last Battle is an excellent choice for teachers looking to engage their students and promote critical thinking skills. By exploring the historical context, character development, multiculturalism, literary analysis, and imagination and creativity, students can gain a deeper understanding of the novel and the world around them. Incorporating The Last Battle into your classroom curriculum can help to create a dynamic learning environment and prepare students for success in their future academic pursuits.
I offer a complete novel study to accompany Number the Stars 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.
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!
The Chronicles of Narnia, a classic series of seven fantasy novels written by C.S. Lewis, has been beloved by readers of all ages for over half a century. The Silver Chair, the sixth book in the series, is a thrilling and engaging tale that offers numerous benefits for teachers looking to incorporate it into their classroom curriculum.
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Benefits of using The Silver Chair in Your Classroom:
Stimulates Imagination and Creativity: The Silver Chair is a captivating story that is full of magic, mystery, and adventure. It is set in the imaginary land of Narnia, where talking animals, mythical creatures, and enchanting landscapes abound. The book stimulates students’ imagination and creativity, encouraging them to think outside the box and explore new ideas. Reading The Silver Chair can also help students develop their visual imagination by painting vivid pictures in their minds.
Enhances Reading and Language Skills: The Silver Chairis written in a language that is accessible to young readers, but it also introduces them to more advanced vocabulary and sentence structures. By reading the book, students can improve their reading and language skills, expand their vocabulary, and develop their comprehension abilities. They will also learn how to analyze and interpret the author’s use of language and style, helping them become more effective readers and writers.
Fosters Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving:The Silver Chairfeatures complex characters, intricate plotlines, and ethical dilemmas that challenge students’ critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. The book offers numerous opportunities for students to reflect on the actions of the characters and analyze the consequences of their choices. It also provides a platform for discussing important topics such as loyalty, responsibility, and integrity, helping students develop their moral reasoning skills.
Teaches Cultural Literacy and Historical Context: The Chronicles of Narnia were written in the mid-twentieth century, and they reflect the cultural and historical context of that time. Reading The Silver Chaircan provide students with insight into the social, cultural, and political values of that era. It can also help them understand the literary and cultural traditions that influenced Lewis’s writing, and how those traditions have continued to shape the fantasy genre.
Builds Empathy and Social Skills:The Silver Chair is a book that is rich in character development and relationships. It features a diverse cast of characters who struggle with complex emotions and interpersonal dynamics. Reading the book can help students develop empathy and social skills by encouraging them to relate to the characters and understand their perspectives. It can also provide a platform for discussing important topics such as friendship, diversity, and conflict resolution.
The Silver Chair is an excellent book to include in your classroom curriculum. It offers numerous benefits for students, including stimulating their imagination, enhancing their reading and language skills, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving, teaching cultural literacy and historical context, and building empathy and social skills. By incorporating The Silver Chair into your classroom, you can provide your students with a fun and engaging way to learn important skills and concepts that will serve them well throughout their lives.
I offer a complete novel study to accompany The Silver Chair 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.
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 ever-evolving landscape of education, engaging students in the magic of literature is an ongoing challenge. As educators, we want to ignite the love for reading within young minds, and finding the perfect books to introduce novels can be a daunting task. One series that stands out in captivating the imagination of young readers—Is the Jigsaw Jones series.
James Preller’s, Jigsaw Jones series is a great introduction to chapter books for the younger grades. With its captivating stories, relatable characters, and interactive elements, Jigsaw Jones offers a compelling gateway for young readers into the vast realm of novels.
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Why Teachers Should Embrace Jigsaw Jones Books to Introduce Novels to Students:
Written With Relatable and Endearing Characters: The Jigsaw Jones series, written by James Preller, revolves around an intelligent and curious young detective named Jigsaw Jones and his partner, Mila Yeh. Through their thrilling adventures, students are introduced to relatable characters who exhibit qualities like curiosity, problem-solving, teamwork, and empathy. The lovable characters act as an inspiration for students, encouraging them to develop these essential traits.
Contains Engaging and Accessible Storylines: The Jigsaw Jones books offer captivating storylines that instantly captivate the attention of young readers. The mysteries are carefully crafted with age-appropriate complexity, providing an ideal platform for introducing students to the world of novels. Each book is designed to be self-contained, making it easy for teachers to introduce them individually or as a series, catering to the needs of diverse classrooms.
Enhances Critical Thinking Skills: The Jigsaw Jones books are not just about entertaining stories; they also promote critical thinking skills in students. Throughout the series, readers are encouraged to observe details, analyze clues, and draw logical conclusions alongside Jigsaw Jones. By actively participating in the detective work, students develop essential problem-solving abilities and engage in critical thinking processes, thereby nurturing their cognitive development.
Promotes Cooperative Learning: One unique aspect of the Jigsaw Jones books is the emphasis on teamwork. Jigsaw and Mila form a dynamic duo, demonstrating the power of collaboration and friendship. Teachers can leverage this theme to foster a sense of community and cooperation within the classroom. By assigning students different roles or characters, teachers can encourage group discussions, allowing students to share their thoughts, collaborate on theories, and work together towards solving the mysteries presented in the books.
Includes Diverse Themes and Relatable Topics: The Jigsaw Jones series tackles a range of relatable themes, including friendship, family, perseverance, and problem-solving. By exploring these topics, students can connect with the characters on a deeper level, enabling them to see themselves within the narratives. This relatability promotes empathy and understanding, facilitating meaningful discussions and encouraging students to explore their own experiences and emotions.
Bridge to Other Novels: Introducing Jigsaw Jones books to students serves as a bridge to more extensive and complex novels. By first immersing themselves in the world of Jigsaw Jones, students become accustomed to the format, language, and structure of novels. The Jigsaw Jones books are age-appropriate, making them an ideal stepping stone for students transitioning from shorter stories to more substantial works. Teachers can leverage the students’ familiarity with Jigsaw Jones and gradually introduce them to other novels, expanding their literary horizons and encouraging a lifelong love for reading.
Incorporating the Jigsaw Jones book series into the classroom provides teachers with a powerful tool to engage young readers and introduce them to the world of novels. The relatable characters, intriguing storylines, collaborative learning opportunities, and seamless transition to other novels make Jigsaw Jones an excellent choice for teachers looking to instill a love for reading in their students. By tapping into their natural curiosity and encouraging critical thinking skills, the Jigsaw Jones books inspire students to explore further literary adventures. The Jigsaw Jones series has over 30 books to choose from. The Case of the Stolen Baseball Cards is a great hook to get your kids started down the road of addiction to chapter-book reading. So, unleash the detective within your students, and embark on a journey into the captivating world of Jigsaw Jones.
I offer a complete novel study to accompany Jigsaw Jones and the Case of the Stolen Baseball Cards 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 Jigsaw Jones and the Case of the Stolen Baseball Cards
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!
