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When Good Grades Break Bad!

When Good Grades Break Bad!

The Report Card by Andrew Clements touches on many hot topics that could spark some lively class discussions. It is a great book to use in your classroom or homeschool for a whole class novel study, small book groups, or individual book studies.

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We read many books about the underdog, the kid fighting learning problems or disabilities in some way. They are fantastic in helping students gain empathy towards others who may struggle in different ways than we do. The Report Card flips the narrative and discusses the feeling of being the smartest kid in class. What stigma does that give a student? How might it make them feel as much as an outcast as the student with a learning disability?

The Report Card also brings about the controversial topic of standardized testing and how it affects students of all abilities. How valuable are these tests? Do they cause more harm than good?

Benefits of Using The Report Card in Your Classroom:

  • Offers an Engaging Narrative: The Report Card follows the story of Nora, a young girl who deliberately earns poor grades to challenge the notion of standardized testing. This narrative immediately captivates students’ attention, prompting critical thinking about the purpose and effectiveness of traditional grading systems. The relatable characters and thought-provoking plot ensure that students remain engaged throughout the reading process.
  • Promotes Critical Thinking: Clements masterfully tackles complex themes such as intelligence, conformity, and the true measure of success. By exploring Nora’s unconventional approach to academics, students are encouraged to question societal norms and reflect on their own beliefs about education. This novel serves as a catalyst for stimulating classroom discussions and fostering critical thinking skills essential for lifelong learning.
  • Empowers Students: The Report Card empowers students to challenge the status quo and advocate for their educational rights. Nora’s journey inspires readers to recognize their potential beyond standardized tests and encourages them to embrace their unique talents and abilities. By showcasing the importance of self-advocacy and resilience, this novel instills confidence in students to navigate academic challenges with courage and determination.
  • Addresses Relevant Issues: In an era where debates about standardized testing and academic pressure are prevalent, The Report Card provides a timely exploration of these issues. Teachers can leverage this novel to initiate meaningful conversations about the impact of testing on student well-being and the importance of holistic assessment methods. By addressing relevant topics, educators can create a classroom environment that promotes empathy, understanding, and critical awareness.
  • Enhances Literacy Skills: Beyond its thematic depth, The Report Card offers ample opportunities for developing literacy skills. From analyzing character motivations to exploring narrative techniques, students can sharpen their comprehension and literary analysis abilities through close reading of the text. Additionally, incorporating supplementary activities such as writing assignments and group discussions further strengthens students’ communication skills and fosters a love for reading.

Incorporating The Report Card by Andrew Clements into classroom instruction is not only a literary choice but also an educational investment. This thought-provoking novel challenges conventional perspectives on education, empowers students to advocate for their learning needs, and cultivates essential skills for success in the 21st century. By embracing the transformative potential of this novel, teachers can inspire a generation of critical thinkers, empathetic leaders, and lifelong learners.

I offer a complete novel study to accompany The Report Card 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.

 

See what people are saying about The Report Card Novel Study by The Teaching Bank!

Try a free sample of the novel study for The Report Card

 

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!

Click here or the image below to join my Facebook group, Book Talk with The Teaching Bank!

Click to join Book Talk with The Teaching Bank


*The Teaching Bank participates in the Amazon Associate Program and earns a fee from qualifying purchases made on the Amazon.com site.

A Tale of Courage and Bravery with Despereaux

A Tale of Courage and Bravery with Despereaux

The Tale of Despereaux is the story of a mouse, a princess, some soup, and a spool of thread! It’s a tale of courage and bravery and overcoming the odds. Told in parts (Books) and a Coda showcasing different points of view, it is a great book to use in your classroom or homeschool for a whole class novel study, small book groups, or individual book studies.

 

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Benefits of Using The Tale of Despereaux in Your Classroom:

  • Fosters Empathy Through Character Exploration: The Tale of Despereaux introduces readers to a diverse cast of characters, each grappling with their own struggles and desires. From the brave and diminutive mouse Despereaux, to the misunderstood rat Roscuro, the novel provides ample opportunities for students to empathize with characters from different backgrounds and perspectives. By delving into the motivations and emotions of these characters, students can develop a deeper understanding of empathy and compassion, essential skills for navigating the complexities of the world.
  • Promotes Critical Thinking and Analysis: Beyond its enchanting storyline, The Tale of Despereaux offers rich opportunities for critical analysis and discussion. Teachers can guide students in exploring themes such as bravery, forgiveness, and the power of storytelling, encouraging them to reflect on their own experiences and beliefs. Through thoughtful questioning and exploration, students can hone their critical thinking skills and learn to engage with literature on a deeper level.
  • Enhances Literacy Skills Through Multimodal Learning: Incorporating The Tale of Despereaux into the classroom provides opportunities for multimodal learning experiences that cater to diverse learning styles. From reading the text aloud to engaging in dramatic reenactments or creating visual representations of key scenes, teachers can cater to auditory, visual, and kinesthetic learners alike. By immersing students in the world of the novel through various mediums, teachers can enhance literacy skills while fostering a love of reading and storytelling.
  • Connects Curriculum Across Disciplines: The Tale of Despereaux lends itself to interdisciplinary exploration, making it a versatile addition to any classroom curriculum. Teachers can integrate elements of history, geography, and even culinary arts by exploring the medieval setting of the story and discussing the cultural influences at play. Furthermore, the novel’s themes of resilience and overcoming adversity provide opportunities for discussions about character education and social-emotional learning.
  • Inspires Creativity and Imagination: At its core, The Tale of Despereaux is a celebration of the power of imagination and the transformative nature of storytelling. By immersing students in the whimsical world of the novel, teachers can inspire creativity and spark the imagination of young minds. Whether through creative writing assignments, art projects, or imaginative play, students can explore their own creativity while engaging with the themes and characters of the story.

The Tale of Despereaux stands as a testament to the enduring power of children’s literature to inspire, educate, and uplift. By integrating this beloved novel into their classroom curriculum, teachers can unlock a world of learning opportunities for their students, fostering empathy, critical thinking, and creativity along the way. The Tale of Despereaux serves as a beacon of light, guiding students on a transformative journey of discovery and self-reflection.

I offer a complete novel study to accompany The Tale of Despereaux 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.

 

See what people are saying about The Tale of Despereaux Novel Study by The Teaching Bank!

Try a free sample of the novel study for The Tale of Despereaux

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!

Click here or the image below to join my Facebook group, Book Talk with The Teaching Bank!

Click to join Book Talk with The Teaching Bank


*The Teaching Bank participates in the Amazon Associate Program and earns a fee from qualifying purchases made on the Amazon.com site.

The Real-Life Story of the Night of the Twisters

The Real-Life Story of the Night of the Twisters

Night of the Twisters is the semi-fictionalized novel based on the tornado outbreak in Grand Island, NE in June 1980. The story by Ivy Ruckman, published in 1984, is written from the point of view of 12-year-old Dan Hatch, who – after his home and neighborhood are destroyed by one of the tornadoes – begins a search for his parents as more tornadoes roll through the area. This is a nail-biting book that is great to use for a novel study, literature circles, book clubs, or individual study in the classroom or home school to hook even the most reluctant of readers.


You can read more about the real Nights of the Twisters from these links National Weather Service and The Real Night of the Twisters.

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Night of the Twisters has been honored with several awards over the years including the Golden Sower Award, the Iowa Children’s Choice Award, and the Sequoyah Children’s Book Award. This novel has also been honored with the Outstanding Science Trade Books for Children recommendation by the National Science Teachers Association and Children’s Book Council.

Benefits of Using Night of the Twisters in Your Classroom:

  • Contains Engaging Plot and Themes: Night of the Twisters revolves around a gripping narrative set against the backdrop of a small town grappling with the aftermath of a devastating tornado. The novel explores themes of resilience, courage, and community, providing students with a captivating storyline that encourages critical thinking and reflection.
  • Provides Real-World Relevance: Tackling natural disasters and their effects on communities, the novel offers students a glimpse into real-world scenarios. By connecting the fictional events to actual occurrences, teachers can foster discussions about empathy, preparedness, and the importance of community support in times of crisis.
  • Opportunities for Cross-Curricular Connections: One of the strengths of Night of the Twisters lies in its potential to connect with various subjects beyond literature. Teachers can seamlessly integrate lessons on meteorology, geography, and even history, allowing for a holistic educational experience that goes beyond the confines of traditional literature studies.
  • Expands Character Development and Empathy: Ruckman introduces a wide cast of characters, each navigating their personal struggles in the face of a natural disaster. As students follow their journeys, they develop empathy and a deeper understanding of the human experience. This emotional connection can lead to meaningful classroom discussions on character development, ethics, and decision-making.
  • Sparks Critical Thinking and Analysis: The intricate plot and multiple perspectives presented in Night of the Twisters provide ample opportunities for students to engage in critical thinking and literary analysis. Teachers can guide discussions on plot development, character motivations, and the author’s use of literary devices, enhancing students’ analytical skills.
  • Builds Writing and Communication Skills: The novel’s compelling narrative serves as a springboard for various writing assignments. From creative writing exercises to analytical essays, students can hone their writing and communication skills while expressing their thoughts on the themes and events within the book.
 

Night of the Twisters by Ivy Ruckman is an invaluable addition to the classroom, offering a rich tapestry of educational opportunities. Through its engaging plot, real-world relevance, and potential for cross-curricular connections, this novel has the power to inspire and educate students in a way that extends beyond the pages of the book. Teachers are likely to witness not only academic growth but also the development of life skills that will benefit students long after they leave the classroom.

I offer a complete novel study to accompany Night of the Twisters 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.

 

See what people are saying about the Night of the Twisters Novel Study by The Teaching Bank!

Try a free sample of the novel study for Night of the Twisters 

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!

Click here or the image below to join my Facebook group, Book Talk with The Teaching Bank!

Click to join Book Talk with The Teaching Bank


*The Teaching Bank participates in the Amazon Associate Program and earns a fee from qualifying purchases made on the Amazon.com site.

What Would You Do in Order to Achieve your Dream… for Freckles?

What Would You Do in Order to Achieve your Dream… for Freckles?

Judy Blume’s timeless classic, Freckle Juice, stands out as a novel providing engaging narrative, relatable characters, and valuable life lessons. Using Freckle Juice, teachers can  foster a love for reading while addressing essential educational objectives.

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Benefits of Using Freckle Juice in Your Classroom:

  • Offers a Captivating Narrative: At the heart of Freckle Juice lies a captivating narrative that effortlessly captures the attention of young readers. Blume’s skillful storytelling draws students into the world of Andrew Marcus, a boy desperate to acquire freckles like his classmate Nicky Lane. The humorous misadventures that ensue as Andrew attempts to make his own freckle-inducing concoction provide ample opportunities for discussion and reflection.
  • Contains Relatable Characters: One of the strengths of Freckle Juice is its relatable characters. From Andrew, who grapples with insecurities, to his classmate Sharon, who dispenses questionable advice, each character resonates with elements of the human experience. By exploring these characters’ motivations and actions, students can develop empathy and a deeper understanding of themselves and others.
  • Presents Valuable Life Lessons: Beneath its entertaining facade, Freckle Juice imparts valuable life lessons relevant to students of all ages. Themes such as self-acceptance, the consequences of peer pressure, and the importance of individuality are seamlessly woven into the narrative. Through guided discussions and activities, teachers can help students unpack these themes and apply them to their own lives, fostering personal growth and emotional intelligence.
  • Enhances Language and Literacy Skills: As educators, nurturing students’ language and literacy skills is a top priority. Freckle Juice provides ample opportunities for language development through its rich vocabulary and descriptive language. Additionally, the novel’s accessible writing style makes it suitable for students across various reading levels, ensuring inclusivity in the classroom.
  • Cultivates a Love for Reading: Perhaps most importantly, Freckle Juice has the potential to ignite a passion for reading in students. Its engaging plot and relatable characters make it a compelling choice for independent reading or read-aloud sessions. By fostering a positive reading experience, teachers can cultivate a lifelong love for literature in their students.

Incorporating Freckle Juice into the classroom curriculum offers a multitude of benefits, from promoting literacy skills to imparting valuable life lessons. This timeless novel by Judy Blume creates an engaging and meaningful learning experiences for their students. Through the power of storytelling, teachers can inspire curiosity, empathy, and a lifelong love for reading in the hearts of their students.

I offer a complete novel study to accompany Freckle Juice 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.

See what people are saying about the Freckle Juice Novel Study by The Teaching Bank!

Try a free sample of the novel study for Freckle Juice

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!

Click here or the image below to join my Facebook group, Book Talk with The Teaching Bank!

Click to join Book Talk with The Teaching Bank


*The Teaching Bank participates in the Amazon Associate Program and earns a fee from qualifying purchases made on the Amazon.com site.

Lunch Money Capitalism at its Finest (and worst)

Lunch Money Capitalism at its Finest (and worst)

Lunch Money by Andrew Clements is a captivating book offering a wealth of educational benefits for students while keeping them entertained from cover to cover.

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Benefits of Using Lunch Money in Your Classroom:

  • Relevance to Real-life Issues: Lunch Money delves into the world of entrepreneurship and innovation, themes that are highly relevant in today’s society. Through the protagonist Greg’s journey of starting his own mini-comic book business, students are exposed to valuable lessons about creativity, problem-solving, and perseverance. The novel provides a platform for discussions on entrepreneurship, economics, and ethical decision-making, making it a valuable resource for teaching real-life skills.
  • Promotes Literacy and Reading Comprehension: As educators, fostering a love for reading is paramount. Lunch Money is written in a clear and accessible style, making it suitable for a wide range of reading levels. Its engaging plot and relatable characters captivate students’ attention, encouraging them to become active readers. By analyzing character motivations, plot development, and literary techniques, students can enhance their reading comprehension skills while enjoying a captivating story.
  • Sparks Creativity and Critical Thinking: The entrepreneurial endeavors of the protagonist in Lunch Money provide ample opportunities for students to flex their creative muscles. From designing comic books to marketing strategies, students can explore their own ideas for starting a business while honing their critical thinking skills. The novel encourages students to think outside the box, problem-solve, and consider the consequences of their actions – all essential skills for success in the 21st century.
  • Cultivates Financial Literacy: In today’s increasingly complex financial landscape, teaching students about money management is more important than ever. Lunch Money offers a practical introduction to financial literacy as students follow Greg’s journey of budgeting, pricing, and managing his business expenses. Through discussions about profit margins, investment, and risk-taking, students gain valuable insights into the fundamentals of finance in a relatable context.
  • Fosters Empathy and Social Awareness: Beyond its entrepreneurial themes, Lunch Money also explores broader issues such as friendship, competition, and social dynamics. By examining the interactions between characters and the consequences of their actions, students develop empathy and social awareness. Discussions about fairness, justice, and integrity prompt students to reflect on their own values and behavior, fostering a deeper understanding of themselves and others.

Lunch Money by Andrew Clements is a valuable addition to any classroom library. Its engaging narrative, relevant themes, and educational content make it an ideal choice for teachers looking to inspire and educate their students. By incorporating this novel into your curriculum, you can ignite a passion for reading, foster critical thinking skills, and empower students to navigate the complexities of the world around them.

I offer a complete novel study to accompany Lunch Money 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.

See what people are saying about the Lunch Money Novel Study by The Teaching Bank!

Try a free sample of the novel study for Lunch Money

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!

Click here or the image below to join my Facebook group, Book Talk with The Teaching Bank!

Click to join Book Talk with The Teaching Bank


*The Teaching Bank participates in the Amazon Associate Program and earns a fee from qualifying purchases made on the Amazon.com site.