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.
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!
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.
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!
Freak the Mighty by Rodman Philbrick was first published in 1993. The tale is timeless. Max is an outcast. He feels stupid, too large, hated for the crimes of his father, basically unloved and all alone in the world. Kevin is smart and adventurous, but has a disease that prevents him from doing all he wants to do. When Max and Kevin form an unlikely friendship, they fill each other’s weaknesses with their own strengths to create Freak the Mighty. Freak the Mighty is a must-read. Philbrick combines heart, adventure, suspense, drama, and heartbreak to make this an instant classic that all your students will love.
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Benefits of Using Freak the Mighty in Your Classroom:
Provides Compelling Themes and Messages: Freak the Mighty tackles essential themes such as friendship, overcoming adversity, acceptance, and the power of imagination. Through the unlikely friendship between the physically disadvantaged Kevin (Freak) and the intellectually challenged Max (Mighty), students are introduced to the transformative power of companionship and empathy. The novel prompts discussions on diversity, resilience, and the importance of looking beyond superficial differences—a message that resonates deeply with young learners navigating their own social landscapes.
Offers Academic Rigor and Multidisciplinary Connections: Beyond its thematic richness, Freak the Mighty offers ample opportunities for academic exploration across various disciplines. From literary analysis and character development to historical contexts and ethical dilemmas, the novel serves as a springboard for critical thinking and interdisciplinary connections. Teachers can seamlessly integrate discussions on literary devices, such as symbolism and foreshadowing, while also addressing broader topics like bullying, disability rights, and social justice.
Cultivates Empathy and Social-Emotional Learning: In today’s interconnected world, cultivating empathy and social-emotional skills is as crucial as academic achievement. Freak the Mighty provides a safe space for students to explore complex emotions, confront prejudices, and develop a deeper understanding of themselves and others. By empathizing with the characters’ struggles and triumphs, students foster compassion, resilience, and a sense of community—skills that extend far beyond the classroom walls and into their everyday interactions.
Opportunities for Engaging Classroom Activities and Projects: Bringing Freak the Mighty into the classroom opens the door to a myriad of engaging activities and projects. From creative writing assignments and character dioramas to multimedia presentations and Socratic seminars, teachers can tailor activities to suit diverse learning styles and interests. Additionally, incorporating technology-enhanced projects, such as digital storytelling or virtual book clubs, can further enrich the learning experience and foster collaboration among students.
Promotes Literacy and a Lifelong Love for Reading: At its core, Freak the Mighty celebrates the transformative power of storytelling and the profound impact literature can have on young minds. By immersing students in the compelling narrative of Kevin and Max, teachers ignite a passion for reading and encourage active participation in literary discourse. Whether read aloud as a class or explored independently, the novel inspires curiosity, sparks imagination, and instills a lifelong love for reading.
Incorporating Freak the Mighty into the classroom curriculum is more than just teaching a novel; it’s an opportunity to spark meaningful conversations, foster empathy, and empower students to embrace their uniqueness. By embracing the power of literature and leveraging the timeless lessons of Freak the Mighty, we can create an inclusive and empowering learning environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive.
I offer a complete novel study to accompany Freak the Mighty 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 Freak the Mighty
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!
Be a Perfect Person in Just Three Days by Stephen Manes captivates young minds through the power of literature. It is a great novel for teachers seeking to infuse creativity, critical thinking, and moral lessons into their classrooms.
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Benefits of Using Be a Perfect Person in Just Three Days in Your Classroom:
Offers Captivating Storytelling: At the heart of Be a Perfect Person in Just Three Days lies a captivating narrative that follows the misadventures of Milo Crinkley, a young boy on a quest to become perfect in a mere three days. Manes’ storytelling prowess shines through his vivid descriptions, witty dialogue, and relatable characters, making the journey both entertaining and thought-provoking for readers of all ages. By immersing students in this whimsical tale, teachers can ignite their imagination and instill a passion for reading that transcends the confines of the classroom.
Contains Themes of Self-Discovery and Acceptance:Be a Perfect Person in Just Three Days explores the timeless themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and the pursuit of perfection. As Milo embarks on his quest, he encounters a series of challenges that force him to confront his flaws and embrace his true self. This narrative arc provides teachers with a powerful springboard for discussing topics such as identity, self-esteem, and the importance of embracing one’s imperfections. By exploring these themes through the lens of literature, educators can empower their students to navigate the complexities of adolescence with confidence and resilience.
Promotes Critical Thinking and Empathy: In addition to its thematic richness, Be a Perfect Person in Just Three Days offers ample opportunities for critical thinking and empathetic engagement. As students unravel Milo’s journey, they are prompted to analyze his motivations, actions, and the consequences of his choices. Through lively classroom discussions and interactive activities, teachers can encourage students to empathize with Milo’s struggles, reflect on their own values, and consider the broader implications of societal pressures to conform. By fostering empathy and critical thinking skills, educators equip their students with the tools they need to navigate moral dilemmas and contribute positively to their communities.
Cultivates a Love for Learning: Ultimately, the integration of Be a Perfect Person in Just Three Days into the classroom cultivates a love for learning that extends far beyond the pages of the novel. By fostering a supportive environment where students feel encouraged to explore, question, and create, teachers lay the groundwork for a lifelong appreciation of literature and the arts. Whether through creative writing assignments, theatrical adaptations, or multimedia projects, educators can harness the transformative power of storytelling to inspire their students and nurture their intellectual curiosity.
In an age of standardized testing and data-driven instruction, it is easy to overlook the profound impact that literature can have on the hearts and minds of young learners. However, by embracing novels such as Be a Perfect Person in Just Three Days by Stephen Manes, teachers can encourage their students to become compassionate, critical thinkers who are unafraid to embrace their imperfections.
I offer a complete novel studyto accompany Be a Perfect in Just Three Days 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 Be a Perfect Person in Just Three Days
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!
March 1st is Statehood Day in the state of Nebraska. We will be celebrating 152 years since officially becoming the 37th state on March 1, 1867!
I moved to Omaha, NE, for my first teaching job back in 1995. My assignment was 4th grade. The biggest part of the Social Studies curriculum for 4th grade is to teach Nebraska History. I had just moved to Nebraska, living here for only 2 months. Omaha was the only part of Nebraska I had ever been in! If you are familiar with a Nebraska map you will see that Omaha is on the extreme east side of the state, you don’t even need to drive through other areas of Nebraska to arrive in Omaha. You head over the Missouri River (Iowa border) on I-80 or I-29 and go directly into Omaha. So needless to say I did not have one bit of background knowledge of the state of Nebraska or its history!
In addition to a lack of personal experience, the district gave me ZERO resources to use to teach this curriculum, no textbooks, no informational books, no teacher’s manuals, nothing, zero, zip! So to say I really was not qualified or prepared to teach this required Social Studies curriculum is an understatement!
I made it through that first year, how I’m not quite sure? I learned about Nebraska right along with my students. The second year I was able to start to refine the resources that I created and by the third year, it was looking even better. The silver lining of the experience is that by being given nothing I was able to refine my creating skills and have been able to utilize those skills with my The Teaching Bankadventures!
When my son was in 4th grade his teacher contacted me asking if I had any resources to help with her Nebraska Unit. I enjoy sharing my resources with my children’s teachers and her email sparked an idea to create a product line using the materials I had created for my own classroom. I would have been in heaven to have something like this available in my first year of teaching! So with that my Complete Nebraska State Study Interactive Notebook Unit was born!
I do understand that this product doesn’t have the widest audience, mainly Nebraska teachers! I created it with 11 distinct sections that can be used in isolation or as a full-year curriculum so that teachers can pick and choose to fit their needs. This also gave me the opportunity to offer the Lewis & Clark section and The Oregon Trail section as separate, stand-alone items to market to the wider US audience. You don’t have to be a Nebraska teacher to use either of those!
Section 1: Nebraska Maps, covers Nebraska’s location within the United States, surrounding states, populous cities, regions, waterways/aquifers, and weather.
Section 2: Nebraska State Symbols & Government, covers Nebraska’s flag, seal, state symbols (bird, tree, etc), federal government representatives, state representatives, introduction to the Unicameral Legislature, and the steps of how a bill becomes a law.
Section 4: Prehistoric Nebraska, covers Nebraska during Prehistoric times. Activities include vocabulary, Ashfall Fossil Beds, animals in Nebraska during the Ice Age, and the first humans in Nebraska.
Section 5: Indigenous Peoples of Nebraska, covers the tribes of Nebraska, the study of an Earthlodge, Earthlodge vs. Tipi comparison, and investigates the many uses of the bison.
Section 6: Lewis and Clark, covers the location and exploration of the Louisiana Purchase, maps the journey of Lewis & Clark, investigates supplies needed for the journey, a timeline of the journey, journals the journey, and the impact of the exploration. *This section is not Nebraska-specific and can be used nationwide!
Section 7: The Oregon Trail, covers the first pioneer settlers, mapping the Oregon Trail, investigates reasons for traveling the Oregon Trail, research supplies needed for the journey, hardships endured, journals the journey, and the Mormon Trail. *This section is not Nebraska-specific and can be used nationwide!
Section 8: Nebraska’s Road to Statehood,covers Nebraska’s road to statehood, including activities for the Kansas-Nebraska Act, the Homestead Act, housing on the prairie, life of a pioneer child, the impact of the railroad to NE, and NE becomes a state.
Section 9: The Age of Progress in Nebraksa 1870-20th Century, covers how the issues (suffrage, prohibition, race relations, Native Americans, child labor, worker’s rights, election reforms, political reforms, and anti-monopoly reforms) during this time period affected the people of Nebraska.
Section 10: WWII and the Cold War, includes 2 informational articles along with activities touching on Nebraska’s role in World War II, the Cold War, and the role of SAC and STRATCOM.
All of these sections are available on their own so you can tailor it to your own classroom needs. You can also buy the entire unit together as one bundle at a reduced cost.
This can save you money and it includes everything you need to teach your entire state study for Nebraska. The alignment to the newly adopted 2019 Nebraska 4th Grade Social Studies State Standards is included with every section to make planning even easier!
In creating my resources I made a conscious effort to use only historical images and clip art. I know there are a lot of resources out there that utilize cutesy type clip art in their history products with a goal to entice children into thinking it is “fun”. I don’t subscribe to that line of thinking, especially when dealing with topics such as war, slavery, genocide, or in the depiction of indigenous people, enslaved people, or immigrants. I feel very strongly that using cartoonish imagery sends the wrong message to students preventing them from seeing the people and events as real and serious in nature.
You don’t have to make these topics “fun”, but you can very easily make these topics interesting through deep discussions. Children are naturally empathetic and tolerant. It is a perfect time to tap into that empathy and tolerance as they learn of the atrocities of the past. This doesn’t need to be sensationalized or cutesy, these discussions of the events of the past taught in an honest and real depiction will engage the student’s interest. The deep discussions you have as you learn together will spark an understanding and appreciation for what has come before and hopefully will lead to the goal of learning this uncomfortable history, which is not to repeat it.
I hope this product can be the lifesaver for you that it would have been for me back in that first year of teaching! This covers everything that you need for the Nebraska study in an interactive way. Your students will be motivated, involved, and at the end have their very own Nebraska State Guide!
