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The Power of Friendship in Freak the Mighty

The Power of Friendship in Freak the Mighty

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.

See what people are saying about the Freak the Mighty Novel Study by The Teaching Bank!

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!

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.

Discover The City of Ember

Discover The City of Ember

The City of Ember is a fascinating book that really makes you wonder and think. It is suspenseful and engages the reader to want to continue. The City of Ember is the first book in DuPrau’s series, and it ends with the reader wanting more. It is a great book to hook your reluctant readers to continue the series on their own.

There are a lot of STEAM opportunities with this novel, and it will lead your students to examine what we may be doing to our Earth that may cause catastrophe down the line. It’s a thought-provoking novel to use in the classroom, in small groups, or in a homeschool setting.

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Benefits of Using The City of Ember in Your Classroom:

  • Fosters Critical Thinking: The City of Ember invites readers into a dystopian world where critical thinking and problem-solving are essential for survival. Through the protagonists’ journey to unravel the mysteries of their underground city, students are prompted to analyze complex situations, make connections, and devise creative solutions. By engaging with the novel’s themes of resourcefulness and resilience, learners develop invaluable critical thinking skills that extend beyond the pages of the book.
  • Explores Societal Issues: DuPrau skillfully intertwines themes of sustainability, governance, and societal structures within the narrative of The City of Ember. From discussions on environmental responsibility to reflections on the consequences of authoritarianism, the novel provides a rich tapestry for exploring real-world issues in a thought-provoking manner. By examining these topics through the lens of fiction, students gain a deeper understanding of societal complexities and cultivate empathy for diverse perspectives.
  • Promotes Literacy and Language Skills: As educators, nurturing literacy skills is paramount, and The City of Ember offers a compelling vehicle for achieving this goal. Through immersive storytelling and vivid imagery, DuPrau captivates readers of all levels, making the novel accessible to a wide range of learners. By engaging with rich language and descriptive prose, students enhance their vocabulary, comprehension, and fluency, laying a solid foundation for academic success across disciplines.
  • Stimulates Cross-Curricular Connections: One of the greatest strengths of The City of Ember lies in its versatility across various subject areas. From science lessons on sustainability and environmental science to social studies explorations of governance and societal structures, the novel provides ample opportunities for interdisciplinary learning. By integrating discussions, projects, and activities inspired by the text, educators can foster holistic understanding and encourage students to make meaningful connections across academic domains.
  • Cultivates a Love for Reading: Beyond its educational merits, The City of Ember possesses a timeless allure that captivates readers of all ages. By immersing students in a compelling narrative filled with suspense, mystery, and adventure, educators have the power to ignite a lifelong passion for reading. Through guided discussions, independent exploration, and interactive experiences, teachers can cultivate an environment where literacy is celebrated and cherished as a gateway to new worlds and endless possibilities.

The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau stands as a shining example of the transformative power of literature in education. By embracing this captivating novel in the classroom, educators have the opportunity to foster critical thinking, explore societal issues, promote literacy skills, stimulate cross-curricular connections, and cultivate a love for reading that transcends the boundaries of the classroom.

I offer a complete novel study to accompany The City of Ember 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. 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.

 

See what people are saying about The City of Ember Novel Study by The Teaching Bank!

Try a free sample of the novel study for The City of Ember

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.

Using Google Classroom to Survive E-Learning Days

Using Google Classroom to Survive E-Learning Days

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.

man clearing snow with a snowblower in a blizzard

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.


 

Travel Through A Wrinkle in Time

Travel Through A Wrinkle in Time

Are you looking for an engaging and thought-provoking novel to inspire your students? One timeless classic that has enthralled generations of students is A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle. This science fiction classic, first published in 1962, is not just a fantastic literary work but also a potent educational tool.

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The Benefits of Using A Wrinkle in Time in Your Classroom:

  • Stimulates Imagination: A Wrinkle in Time takes its readers on a journey through time and space, introducing them to a universe where science and imagination seamlessly blend. By using this novel in the classroom, teachers can stimulate their students’ imaginations, fostering a love for reading and learning. This imaginative exploration can extend to discussions about the mysteries of the universe, making science and literature come alive in the minds of young learners.
  • Promotes Critical Thinking: Meg Murry, the novel’s young protagonist, embarks on an epic quest to rescue her father, who has disappeared while working on a top-secret government project. Throughout her journey, she encounters challenges that require not only bravery but also critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Teachers can use Meg’s adventures as a springboard for discussions on these topics, encouraging students to analyze and make informed decisions.
  • Explores Complex Themes: A Wrinkle in Time touches on a multitude of complex themes, including the battle between good and evil, the importance of individuality, and the power of love. These themes offer rich material for classroom discussions and essay assignments, allowing students to explore deep moral and philosophical questions. By delving into these themes, teachers can help their students build a strong moral compass and foster a deeper understanding of the human experience.
  • Encourages Diversity and Inclusion: The novel introduces readers to a diverse cast of characters, reflecting the importance of diversity and inclusion in our society. Teachers can use this diversity to initiate discussions about the value of individuality, acceptance, and empathy. A Wrinkle in Time also features a strong, intelligent female protagonist, Meg Murry, who serves as a role model for young girls, challenging stereotypes and encouraging them to pursue their dreams and interests.
  • Offers Interdisciplinary Learning Opportunities: This novel provides a unique opportunity for interdisciplinary learning. Teachers can integrate science, literature, and even mathematics into their lesson plans, as the story incorporates elements of physics and mathematics, such as the concept of tesseracts (folding space-time) and the fifth dimension. By using A Wrinkle in Time, educators can promote cross-curricular connections and show students the real-world applications of their studies.

Incorporating A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle into the classroom is a powerful way to inspire students, foster their imagination, and encourage them to think critically about complex themes. This timeless classic offers a captivating blend of science and fiction, making it an ideal choice for teachers who wish to engage their students in meaningful discussions and promote a love for reading and learning.

By exploring the intricate tapestry of characters, themes, and concepts within this novel, educators can help students develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. A Wrinkle in Time has the potential to be a beacon of inspiration in the classroom, igniting the intellectual curiosity of young minds and shaping them into well-rounded individuals with a thirst for knowledge.

I offer a novel study for A Wrinkle in Time that contains everything you need to teach this novel in both a printable format as well as a Google Drive format for those of you in paperless classrooms! 

See what people are saying about the A Wrinkle in Time Novel Study by The Teaching Bank!

Try a free sample of the novel study for A Wrinkle in Time

 

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.

Lead Toward Empathy and Understanding with Refugee by Alan Gratz

Lead Toward Empathy and Understanding with Refugee by Alan Gratz

In today’s diverse and interconnected world, it is essential for educators to foster empathy, understanding, and global awareness among their students. One powerful tool for achieving this goal is literature. Refugee by Alan Gratz is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that not only captivates young readers but also provides a unique opportunity for teachers to explore important themes like empathy, resilience, and the refugee experience.  



We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

It is crucial for educators to foster empathy, promote global awareness, and instill a deep understanding of history in their students. Alan Gratz meets these needs with Refugee.  

 

  Benefits of Using Refugee in Your Classroom

  • Contains Timely and Relevant Themes:  In today’s global context, issues related to refugees and immigration are more relevant than ever. Refugee weaves together the stories of three young refugees from different time periods and backgrounds, highlighting the universal nature of the refugee experience. This novel allows students to explore the contemporary relevance of these themes and fosters a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by refugees in the world today and in the past.
  • Fosters Empathy and Perspective-Taking:  One of the key benefits of using Refugee in the classroom is its ability to foster empathy. Through the stories of Josef, Isabel, and Mahmoud, students are transported into the lives of young refugees and can relate to their struggles, fears, and hopes. This empathy-building experience encourages students to develop a greater appreciation for diversity and a stronger sense of social responsibility.
  • Provides Cross-Curricular Opportunities:  Teachers can use Refugee as a versatile tool for cross-curricular learning. It can be integrated into various subjects, such as social studies, history, language arts, and geography. By incorporating the novel into different parts of the curriculum, students can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the refugee experience and its historical and geographical contexts.
  • Sparks Critical Thinking and Discussion: Refugee‘s compelling narrative is an excellent catalyst for class discussions and critical thinking. Teachers can use Refugee to engage students in conversations about topics like immigration policies, human rights, and the power of storytelling. This, in turn, encourages students to develop their analytical skills and the ability to express their ideas and opinions. These discussions empower students to engage with the world and become informed, active citizens who can contribute to positive change.
  • Offers Diverse and Relatable Characters:  Alan Gratz skillfully creates well-developed characters whom readers can connect with. By following the journey of Josef, Isabel, and Mahmoud, students of various backgrounds can find characters with whom they can identify. This diversity allows students to see the common humanity that transcends cultural, ethnic, and geographical differences.
  • Implements a Multidimensional Learning Experience:  One of the outstanding benefits of Refugee is that it provides students with a multidimensional learning experience. The novel weaves together the stories of three young refugees from different time periods and locations: Josef in 1930s Nazi Germany, Isabel in 1994 Cuba, and Mahmoud in 2015 Syria. By following these characters on their perilous journeys to find safety, students gain an appreciation of the universal themes of displacement, resilience, and the quest for freedom.
  • Addresses Critical Historical Events: Using Refugee in the classroom allows teachers to connect literature with history. The novel introduces students to significant historical events such as World War II, the Cuban Revolution, and the Syrian Civil War. By examining these events through the eyes of young protagonists, students can develop a more personal and relatable connection to history, making the lessons more memorable and impactful.
  • Enhances Reading and Writing Skills:  As a work of historical fiction, Refugee challenges students to analyze and evaluate historical context while honing their reading and writing skills. Students can engage in activities such as character analysis, thematic exploration, and creative writing, which strengthen their critical thinking and communication abilities.

Refugee by Alan Gratz is an exceptional novel that provides a unique opportunity for teachers to foster empathy, understanding, and critical thinking among their students. By exploring timely and relevant themes, encouraging perspective-taking, and offering cross-curricular opportunities, this novel serves as a valuable educational tool. Its diverse and relatable characters, along with the abundance of complementary resources, make Refugee an ideal choice for teachers looking to inspire their students and create a more inclusive and compassionate world. Introduce Refugee into your classroom and embark on a journey of empathy and learning with your students.

I offer a complete novel study to accompany Refugee, which includes informational WebQuests to learn more about the Sturmabteilung (SA), Kristallnacht, Hitler’s Youth, the MS St. Louis, Fidel Castro and Cuba, and the Syrian Civil War 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 Refugee

 

 

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.