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.
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!
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Benefits of Using The 18th Emergency in Your Classroom:
Offers an Engaging Narrative and Relatable Themes: The 18th Emergency weaves a narrative that resonates with the experiences and emotions of young readers. At its core, the novel explores themes of fear, friendship, resilience, and self-discovery, offering students a lens through which to examine their own lives and navigate the complexities of adolescence. Byars’ masterful storytelling captivates readers from the opening pages, ensuring that students remain invested in the narrative journey from start to finish.
Promotes Critical Thinking and Empathy: Through its well-drawn characters and thought-provoking scenarios, The 18th Emergency encourages students to think critically about the choices and actions of the protagonists. By grappling with moral dilemmas and ethical questions presented in the novel, students develop their capacity for empathy and ethical reasoning, skills that are essential for navigating the complexities of the real world. By fostering open dialogue and reflection, teachers can harness the novel’s potential to cultivate compassionate and socially aware individuals.
Enhances Literacy Skills and Vocabulary Acquisition: Incorporating The 18th Emergency into the curriculum provides ample opportunities for students to develop and refine their literacy skills. By engaging with rich and descriptive language, students expand their vocabulary and deepen their understanding of literary devices and techniques. Furthermore, the novel’s accessible yet sophisticated writing style allows students to strengthen their comprehension abilities while immersing themselves in a compelling narrative.
Addresses Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Objectives: As educators increasingly recognize the importance of social and emotional learning (SEL) in the classroom, The 18th Emergency emerges as a valuable resource for supporting students’ holistic development. Through the experiences of the characters, students explore themes of resilience, self-confidence, and emotional intelligence, fostering a deeper understanding of themselves and their peers. By facilitating discussions and activities centered around these themes, teachers can create a supportive classroom environment that promotes empathy, self-awareness, and positive relationships.
The 18th Emergency by Betsy Byars offers a wealth of benefits for teachers looking for an engaging narrative and relatable themes that promote critical thinking and social-emotional learning, the novel serves as a valuable tool for educators committed to nurturing the intellectual, emotional, and social growth of their students. By incorporating this captivating book into their classroom, teachers can inspire a lifelong love of learning.
I offer a complete novel study to accompany The 18th Emergency 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 18th Emergency
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!
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.
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!
Sarah, Plain and Tall is a historical fiction novel set in the 19th Century Midwestern Plains written by Patricia MacLachlan. The story is a beautiful tale of exploring the themes of loneliness, loss, grief, and rebirth. This is a wonderful book to use for a novel study, literature circles, book clubs, or individual study in the classroom or home school.
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Sarah Plain and Tall is a beloved children’s book that has been a staple in classrooms for years. It tells the story of a young girl named Anna and her family’s journey to find love and acceptance with the arrival of Sarah, a mail-order bride. This book has won numerous awards and is a perfect addition to any classroom.
Why you should use Sarah Plain and Tall in your classroom and how it can benefit your students.
Engaging and Accessible Content: One of the main reasons why Sarah, Plain and Tall is a great choice for classroom use is its engaging and accessible content. The book is written in simple language that is easy for young readers to understand, making it perfect for students in grades 3-5. The story is also full of interesting characters, vivid descriptions of the prairie, and themes of love, loss, and family that will capture students’ attention and imagination.
Teaches important life lessons: Sarah, Plain and Tall is a book about love, loss, and acceptance. It explores the idea of blending families, which is something many children can relate to. It also teaches children about the importance of being open-minded, accepting others, showing kindness towards others, and understanding that differences can be a source of strength.
Historical Significance: Sarah, Plain and Tall is set in the late 19th century, and as such, it provides a glimpse into life during that time period. The book touches on important historical themes, such as westward expansion and the mail-order bride system, making it a great resource for social studies lessons. Teachers can use this book to start discussions on the history of the American West, the Homestead Act, and the hardships faced by pioneers.
Integration with Other Subjects: In addition to its historical significance, Sarah, Plain and Tall can be integrated with other subjects, such as language arts and science. For language arts, teachers can use the book to teach literary elements, such as plot, character development, and theme. They can also use the book to teach writing skills, such as descriptive writing and dialogue. For science, teachers can use the book to teach about the ecology of the prairie and the plants and animals that live there.
Great way to introduce literary devices: Sarah, Plain and Tall is filled with literary devices such as metaphor, simile, and personification. This makes it a great way to introduce these concepts to young readers in a fun and engaging way.
Great way to start discussions: Sarah, Plain and Tall deals with complex themes and emotions that can be difficult for young children to understand. However, by using the book as a starting point, teachers can encourage children to discuss their own experiences and feelings, and learn from each other in the process.
Try a free sample of the novel study for Sarah, Plain and Tall
Sarah Plain and Tall is a timeless classic that is a perfect addition to any classroom. Its engaging and accessible content, historical significance, integration with other subjects, and positive social themes make it an ideal resource for teachers. By using this book in your classroom, you can help your students develop a love of reading, a deeper understanding of history and science, and important social and emotional skills that will serve them well throughout their lives. It’s a beautiful, simple story of loss, grief, and taking the risk of opening yourself up to love again.
I offer a complete novel study to accompany Sarah, Plain and Tall 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!
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.
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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.
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!
