Strider by Beverly Cleary is a captivating novel that will engage your students and spark meaningful discussions in your classroom. This timeless classic, the sequel to the award-winning Dear Mr. Henshaw, captivates readers with its rich themes and relatable characters making it an excellent choice for educators.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Benefits of Using Strider in Your Classroom:
Relatable Themes: Strider delves into themes that resonate with students of all ages. From friendship and self-discovery to dealing with challenges and finding one’s voice, the novel offers a wealth of topics for meaningful classroom discussions. Students can relate to the protagonist’s journey and learn valuable life lessons along the way.
Character Development: The characters in Strider are well-developed and multi-dimensional, making them perfect for character analysis and discussions about growth and change. Students can explore how the protagonist evolves throughout the story and what drives their actions, fostering critical thinking and empathy.
Literary Analysis Opportunities: Beverly Cleary’s writing style in Striderprovides ample opportunities for literary analysis. From narrative techniques to symbolism and imagery, students can delve deep into the text and uncover layers of meaning, enhancing their analytical and interpretive skills.
Relevance to Curriculum Standards: Strider aligns with various curriculum standards, including those related to language arts, character education, and social-emotional learning. Teachers can seamlessly integrate the novel into their lesson plans to meet educational objectives while engaging students in meaningful discussions and activities.
Encourages a Love for Reading: One of the most significant benefits of using Strider in the classroom is its ability to instill a love for reading in students. The captivating story, relatable characters, and thought-provoking themes can inspire a lifelong passion for literature and storytelling.
Strider by Beverly Cleary is a valuable addition to any classroom library. Its relatable themes, well-developed characters, literary merits, alignment with curriculum standards, and ability to foster a love for reading make it a must-read for students of all ages. By incorporating Strider into your classroom, you can ignite curiosity, foster critical thinking, and create memorable learning experiences for your students.
I offer complete novel studies to accompany Strider for use in the classroom or homeschool. Each 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 Dear Mr. Henshaw
You can purchase the novel study for Strider at the following locations:
I offer the novel study for Dear Mr. Henshaw and the sequel, Strider bundled together at a 20% discount!
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 Horse and His Boy by C.S. Lewis is a great novel for teachers to use in their classrooms. This classic book has stood the test of time and continues to captivate readers of all ages.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Why teachers should use The Horse and His Boy in their classrooms and how it can benefit students.
Introduces Students to Classic Literature: The Horse and His Boy is a classic piece of literature as book three of the Chronicles of Narnia series. The Chronicles of Narnia series has been beloved by readers for decades. Introducing students to classic literature like The Horse and His Boy can help them develop an appreciation for the art of writing and storytelling. This novel also provides a glimpse into a different era and allows students to explore different cultures and ways of thinking.
Teaches Literary Elements: The Horse and His Boy is a great book for teachers to use to teach literary elements such as plot, setting, and character development. The story follows a young boy named Shasta and his talking horse as they journey through the land of Narnia. The book has a clear plot with a beginning, middle, and end. The setting of Narnia is described in vivid detail, which can help students visualize the story. The characters in the book are well-developed, and students can analyze their motives and actions.
Engages Students with Adventure: The Horse and His Boy is an adventure story that will captivate students’ imaginations. The book is full of action, with Shasta and his horse facing many obstacles and challenges on their journey. This book can help students develop critical thinking skills as they analyze how the characters overcome these obstacles. The story also has a moral lesson about perseverance and courage, which can be a great discussion point in the classroom.
Improves Reading and Comprehension Skills: The Horse and His Boy is written at a level that is accessible to most students. This book can help improve reading and comprehension skills as students read and analyze the story. The book can also be used as a tool to teach vocabulary and grammar. Teachers can assign reading assignments and comprehension questions to help students better understand the story and develop their analytical skills.
Promotes Discussion and Critical Thinking: The Horse and His Boy is a great book to use in group discussions. The book has many themes that can be discussed, such as the importance of loyalty, the consequences of deceit, and the value of perseverance. Teachers can use the story as a tool to promote critical thinking and encourage students to share their opinions and ideas.
Try a free sample of the novel study for The Horse and His Boy
The Horse and His Boy is a classic piece of literature that should be used in classrooms. The book can help students develop an appreciation for literature, teach literary elements, engage students with adventure, improve reading and comprehension skills, and promote discussion and critical thinking. Teachers can use this book to promote a love of reading in their students.
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!
Looking for a fun, engaging novel to add to your 3rd, 4th, or 5th grade ELA curriculum? Wayside School Gets a Little Stranger by Louis Sachar is a fantastic choice for teachers who want to combine laughter and creativity with meaningful reading comprehension, vocabulary, writing, and critical-thinking activities.
The third book in the hilarious Wayside School series takes students on another wildly imaginative adventure filled with unusual characters, unexpected situations, and plenty of opportunities for discussion and deeper thinking.
If your students already love Sideways Stories from Wayside School and Wayside School Is Falling Down, they will have plenty to enjoy in Wayside School Gets a Little Stranger.
And for teachers? This quirky novel provides an excellent opportunity to teach important reading and literary skills without sacrificing student engagement.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Why Teach Wayside School Gets a Little Stranger?
One of the best things about using a humorous children’s novel in the classroom is that students often don’t realize how much learning is happening while they’re having fun.
Wayside School Gets a Little Stranger gives students plenty to laugh about while providing opportunities to practice important upper elementary reading skills.
1. Keep Students Engaged With Humor and Imagination
Let’s face it: getting students excited about reading isn’t always easy.
Fortunately, Louis Sachar’s Wayside School books are anything but ordinary.
The strange situations, memorable characters, humor, and unexpected events throughout Wayside School Gets a Little Stranger can help keep students turning the pages and wondering what will happen next.
That natural curiosity makes the novel an excellent choice for a whole-class novel study, small-group reading unit, literature circles, or independent reading.
Instead of trying to convince students that reading is fun, give them a book that does much of the convincing for you!
2. Build Reading Comprehension Skills
A novel study allows students to practice comprehension skills repeatedly and in context.
As students read Wayside School Gets a Little Stranger, they can work on skills such as:
Identifying important details
Making inferences
Determining character traits
Understanding character motivations
Summarizing chapters
Making predictions
Making text-to-self and text-to-text connections
Identifying story elements
Understanding the sequence of events
Supporting answers with evidence from the text
Because the story is humorous and unusual, it can also encourage students to think beyond simply recalling what happened.
Why did a character behave that way? What can we infer from the situation? What would you have done differently?
Questions like these turn reading into a conversation rather than simply an assignment.
3. Expand Students’ Vocabulary
Wayside School Gets a Little Stranger is also a great opportunity to incorporate vocabulary instruction into your novel study.
Rather than teaching vocabulary words in isolation, students can encounter unfamiliar words within the context of a story they are already invested in.
You can have students:
Determine the meaning of unfamiliar words using context clues
Identify synonyms and antonyms
Use new vocabulary in their own writing
Discuss interesting or unusual word choices
Explore how word choice contributes to the humor of the story
This makes vocabulary instruction more meaningful because students can immediately connect new words to the events and characters in the novel.
4. Encourage Critical Thinking
The unusual world of Wayside School naturally lends itself to critical-thinking activities.
Students can discuss characters’ decisions, consider different solutions to problems, make predictions, and explain their thinking using evidence from the text.
Try asking questions such as:
What would you have done in this situation?
Why do you think the character made that choice?
What evidence from the story supports your thinking?
How might the situation have turned out differently?
What does this event tell us about the character?
Which character would you most want to have as a friend? Why?
These questions encourage students to move beyond simple recall and develop the habit of explaining and defending their ideas.
5. Use the Novel to Inspire Writing
A funny, imaginative book can be an excellent springboard for creative writing.
After reading Wayside School Gets a Little Stranger, students could:
Write about what it would be like to attend Wayside School
Create a new character
Write an additional chapter
Create their own unusual classroom
Retell an event from another character’s point of view
Write a sequel
Describe what they would do if they were one of the characters
Create their own humorous school story
You can also connect the novel to more formal literary responses by asking students to write about character traits, themes, story elements, or lessons learned.
6. Discuss Themes and Life Lessons
Although Wayside School Gets a Little Stranger is primarily a humorous and entertaining read, it can also open the door to meaningful classroom conversations.
Students can discuss ideas such as:
Friendship
Teamwork
Individuality
Acceptance
Problem-solving
Being yourself
Respecting differences
The importance of working together
These conversations can help students connect the events in the novel to their own experiences and the world around them.
Ways to Use Wayside School Gets a Little Stranger in Your Classroom
There are many ways to incorporate this novel into your ELA instruction.
📚 Whole-Class Novel Study
Read the novel together and use chapter questions, vocabulary, writing activities, and discussions to guide students through the book.
👥 Small-Group Reading
Use the novel with a small group while other students work independently or in literacy centers.
💬 Literature Circles
Have students discuss chapters, characters, predictions, and important events with their peers.
✏️ Independent Reading
The engaging storyline makes the book a great choice for independent reading followed by written responses or discussion.
🏠 Homeschool
The novel can also be incorporated into a homeschool reading or language arts curriculum.
Make Your Wayside School Gets a Little Stranger Novel Study Easy
If you want to use this book in your classroom but don’t want to spend hours creating comprehension questions, vocabulary activities, assessments, writing prompts, and lesson plans, I’ve done the prep work for you.
✔️ Detailed daily lesson plans ✔️ Pacing and standards guide ✔️ Vocabulary activities ✔️ Vocabulary word wall cards ✔️ Spelling ✔️ Chapter-by-chapter comprehension questions ✔️ Short-answer questions ✔️ Extension activities ✔️ Complete answer keys ✔️ Parent letter ✔️ Vocabulary assessment ✔️ Reading comprehension assessment ✔️ Writing assessment ✔️ Self-grading digital quiz ✔️ End-of-book activities ✔️ Story Elements Interactive Notebook activities ✔️ Common Core State Standards alignment
The resource includes 130+ pages, giving you the flexibility to use the materials in a traditional classroom or a paperless/digital learning environment.
The unit is designed for approximately two weeks of instruction and is appropriate for grades 3-5.
Printable + Digital Formats
You don’t have to choose between paper and digital instruction.
The novel study includes:
Printable PDF materials for traditional classroom instruction and Google Drive™ materials for digital assignments, Google Classroom, paperless classrooms, small-group instruction, or students who need additional flexibility.
Try a free sample of the novel study for Wayside School Gets a Little Stranger
Ready to Make This Novel Easy to Teach?
Wayside School Gets a Little Stranger is a fun way to bring humor, imagination, and enthusiasm into your reading instruction—but you don’t have to create all of the supporting materials yourself.
My complete Wayside School Gets a Little Stranger Novel Study gives you ready-to-use resources for reading comprehension, vocabulary, spelling, writing, critical thinking, assessments, and more.
More Wayside School Resources
Looking for more resources to accompany the Wayside School series?
Explore the other Wayside School novel studies from The Teaching Bank and give your students a complete reading experience with Louis Sachar’s hilarious and unforgettable books.
And if you’re teaching the entire series, you can save even more with the Wayside School Novel Study Bundle, which includes all four novel studies at a discounted price.
Connect with Fellow Educators!
Are you teaching Wayside School Gets a Little Stranger this school year?
Join our free community, Book Talk with The Teaching Bank, to share ideas, grab freebies, and connect with 3rd–8th grade teachers using novels in the classroom!
*The Teaching Bank participates in the Amazon Associate Program and earns a fee from qualifying purchases made on the Amazon.com site.
All kids are embarrassed by their parents at one time or another, and all kids have to deal with various kinds of peer pressure as they try to find where they belong in the world. The Janitor’s Boy by Andrew Clements explores these themes through the main character, Jack and his struggles in our elitist society. Jack has to deal with the guilt of being embarrassed that his father is the school janitor. The journey to a more mature view and acceptance leads Jack to places he never expected to go.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Benefits of Using The Janitor’s Boy in Your Classroom:
Relatable Characters and Themes: The Janitor’s Boy revolves around the protagonist, Jack Rankin, whose father works as the school janitor—a fact Jack finds deeply embarrassing. This premise immediately draws students into the narrative, as they navigate themes of identity, family dynamics, and societal expectations. By exploring these universal themes, students can relate their own experiences to those of the characters, fostering empathy and understanding.
Promotes Character Development: As Jack grapples with his feelings about his father’s occupation, readers witness his journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Through his experiences, students learn valuable lessons about acceptance, forgiveness, and the importance of seeing beyond surface-level judgments. This narrative arc provides ample opportunities for classroom discussions on character development and moral dilemmas.
Encourages Critical Thinking: Clements’ masterful storytelling doesn’t just entertain; it also challenges readers to think critically about complex issues. From examining stereotypes to questioning societal norms, The Janitor’s Boy encourages students to engage in thoughtful analysis and reflection. By fostering critical thinking skills, teachers empower students to become active participants in their own learning journey.
Enhances Literacy Skills: In addition to its thematic depth, The Janitor’s Boy offers rich language and vivid imagery that enhance students’ literacy skills. Through close reading and analysis of Clements’ prose, students develop a deeper appreciation for language and storytelling techniques. Moreover, the novel serves as a springboard for creative writing activities, allowing students to explore their own narrative voices.
Supports Social and Emotional Learning: Beyond academic growth, The Janitor’s Boy addresses important social and emotional themes, making it a valuable resource for promoting social and emotional learning (SEL) in the classroom. By examining characters’ emotions and motivations, students develop empathy and interpersonal skills crucial for navigating real-world relationships.
Cross-Curricular Connections: Teachers can leverage The Janitor’s Boy to facilitate interdisciplinary learning experiences. Whether exploring historical contexts, scientific concepts, or artistic interpretations, the novel provides a versatile framework for integrating various subjects into classroom discussions. This interdisciplinary approach enhances students’ understanding by connecting the themes of the book to broader academic concepts.
Engagement and Enjoyment: Ultimately, the most compelling reason to incorporate The Janitor’s Boy into the classroom is the sheer enjoyment it brings to students. Captivating storytelling, relatable characters, and thought-provoking themes combine to create an immersive reading experience that students won’t soon forget. By fostering a love for reading, teachers can ignite a lifelong passion for learning in their students.
Incorporating The Janitor’s Boy by Andrew Clements into the classroom offers a multitude of benefits, from promoting critical thinking and literacy skills to fostering empathy and social-emotional learning. By engaging with this poignant novel, students not only expand their academic horizons but also gain valuable insights into themselves and the world around them. The Janitor’s Boy harnesses the power of literature to inspire, challenge, and uplift our students.
I offer a complete novel study to accompany The Janitor’s Boy 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 Janitor’s Boy
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!
Sounder by William H. Armstrong is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that captivates readers. Whether you are a student, a teacher, or simply an avid reader, this classic work of literature is an excellent choice for a novel study.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Sounder was published in 1969 and went on to be awarded the Newbery Medal in 1970. It has also been made into a feature film that earned several Academy Award nominations in 1972.
Sounder is a great choice for a novel study
Relevant and Timeless Themes: Sounder is a novel that explores timeless themes such as poverty, racism, and family relationships. These themes are still relevant today, making it an excellent choice for a novel study that will engage and challenge your students.
Inspiring Characters: The characters in Sounder are complex and relatable, making them ideal for students to study and analyze. The protagonist, a young African-American boy named David, is especially inspiring as he learns to overcome adversity and grow into a strong and compassionate person.
Beautifully Written: William H. Armstrong’s writing style is simple, yet beautiful and evocative. The prose is easy to understand and will engage students, making it an ideal choice for middle school students.
Engaging Plot: The plot of Sounder is both engaging and thought-provoking. It tells the story of a young boy and his family who must struggle to survive in the face of poverty and racism. This powerful story will keep students engaged and invested in the novel.
Cultural Significance: Sounder is a historically important novel that offers valuable insights into the lives of African Americans during the 19th century. It will broaden students’ understanding of American history and culture.
Supports Critical Thinking and Analysis: Reading Sounder will encourage students to think critically and analyze the themes, characters, and events which will help them to develop essential skills such as close reading, analysis, and interpretation.
This book takes a quiet look at the life of a poor, black sharecropping family in the South. It gives students an eye into the turmoil and adversity many families such as this faced at that time. Using literature in this way can help students empathize with the issues and gain an understanding of the history of those who came before us here in America. It is a tale worth using in your classroom.
I offer a complete novel study to accompany Sounder 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!
Connect with Fellow Educators!
