Traditional Literature
Bagels from Benny - Aubrey Davis
Reading level - 3.0; Interest level - K-5
from Angela Burgess
It could always be worse - Margot Zemach
Reading level - 4.9; Interest level - 2nd-4th
from Nicole Guifarro
Fantasy
Stellaluna - Janelle Cannon
Reading level - 4.9; Interest level - pre K - 5th
from Kammie Ruth
Runaway Ralph - Beverly Cleary
Reading level - 4.1; Interest level - 3rd-5th
from Jessica Williams
Oh my, Baby Bear! - Audrey Wood
Reading level - 4.5; Interest level - K-2nd
from Roxi Harp
Multicultural
My diary from here to there - Amada Irma Perez
Reading level - 4.0; Interest level - K-5th
from Frances Phan
First day in grapes - L. King Perez
Reading level - 3.2; Interest level - 2nd-6th
from Keri Bass
Dona Flor - Pat Mora
Reading level - 3.6; Interest level - K-2nd
from Angie Selig
Realistic fiction
Love, Ruby Lavender - Deborah Wiles
Reading level - 4.2; Interest level - 3rd-5th
from Laura Cochrane
Junie B., First Grader: Aloha-ha-ha! - Barbara Park
Reading level - 1.9; Interest level - K-2nd
from Cindy Brown
Biography
Helen Keller: Her life in pictures - George Sullivan
Reading level - 5.8; Interest level - 2nd-5th
from Melinda McLaughlin
Informational
Rain and shine: A first look at seasons - Sara Lynn and Dianne James
Reading level - 3.8; Interest level - K-6th
from Kristy Hollar
The Bermuda Triangle - Aaron Rudolph
Reading level - 5.0; Interest level - 5th-8th
from Angie Blair
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Junie B., First Grader (at last!)
Author: Park, Barbara
Title: Junie B., First Grader (at last!)
Book Genre: Realistic Fiction
Publishing Info: Random House,
Inc., 76pp.
Summary: After our class book talks, I was inspired to read a book from the Junie B. Jones series. This book gave the accounts of Junie B. as she apprehensively begins first grade. This was a very humorous story, especially Junie’s unique views of herself, her classmates, and her teacher. Not only is Junie having difficulty adjusting to her new first grade class, but also begins to realize that she is experiencing problems with her vision. Everything begins to work out for Junie B. as she makes a few “real” friends, and she gets glasses that allow her to view the world in a different way. Junie B. learns the valuable lesson of change not always being a bad thing, and realizes that first grade will be as good as she makes it. I think this is a great story in which many readers could relate and enjoy.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: Well-written; detailed plot; great characters and situations in which students can truly relate; illustrations which serve as visual cues of particular text
Reading level: 2.6 Interest level: 1st-5th
Thematic Areas: Identity; self-esteem; friendship; life changes; social interactions; diversity; humor
Content Areas: Social development and experiences
Potential Problems or Difficulties: N/A
Possible use in classroom: Each student could create their own mystery literacy box, in which they place the answers to comprehension questions asked after the read aloud of each chapter; students could cut out pictures that they feel relate to the story from magazines, pasting them on construction paper and sharing these with the class; using the Junie B. face mask printable online, students could cut out and color their mask, so they will look like the character as they retell the story to the class
Title: Junie B., First Grader (at last!)
Book Genre: Realistic Fiction
Publishing Info: Random House,
Inc., 76pp.
Summary: After our class book talks, I was inspired to read a book from the Junie B. Jones series. This book gave the accounts of Junie B. as she apprehensively begins first grade. This was a very humorous story, especially Junie’s unique views of herself, her classmates, and her teacher. Not only is Junie having difficulty adjusting to her new first grade class, but also begins to realize that she is experiencing problems with her vision. Everything begins to work out for Junie B. as she makes a few “real” friends, and she gets glasses that allow her to view the world in a different way. Junie B. learns the valuable lesson of change not always being a bad thing, and realizes that first grade will be as good as she makes it. I think this is a great story in which many readers could relate and enjoy.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: Well-written; detailed plot; great characters and situations in which students can truly relate; illustrations which serve as visual cues of particular text
Reading level: 2.6 Interest level: 1st-5th
Thematic Areas: Identity; self-esteem; friendship; life changes; social interactions; diversity; humor
Content Areas: Social development and experiences
Potential Problems or Difficulties: N/A
Possible use in classroom: Each student could create their own mystery literacy box, in which they place the answers to comprehension questions asked after the read aloud of each chapter; students could cut out pictures that they feel relate to the story from magazines, pasting them on construction paper and sharing these with the class; using the Junie B. face mask printable online, students could cut out and color their mask, so they will look like the character as they retell the story to the class
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Take a Look at Snakes
BOOK ENTRY FORMAT FOR GENRE PROJECT
Information for students
Author: Betsy Maestro Title: Take a Look at Snakes
Book Genre: Informational Publishing Info: Scholastic Inc., 40
Summary: This book contains information on a variety of snakes. It tells about their habitat, food, anatomy, and their way of life. Snakes shed skin, eat live or dead prey, and have special censors that can let them know when an enemy is coming. Poisonous snakes hold their poison in their mouth and let it drip through their veins.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: lots of great information but still on a child’s level, great illustrations
Information for teachers
Reading level: 3.1 Interest level: 1.5
Thematic Areas: family, snakes, nature
Content Areas: science
Potential Problems or Difficulties: pictures of snake laying eggs and giving live birth may be not appropriate for some
Possible use in classroom: have a rat-snake for a classroom job, visit a zoo to look at the snakes, hatch snake eggs in incubator, take a hike through the woods to look for a snake skin, make a map or chart comparing and contrasting the different characteristics of the different species of snakes
Information for students
Author: Betsy Maestro Title: Take a Look at Snakes
Book Genre: Informational Publishing Info: Scholastic Inc., 40
Summary: This book contains information on a variety of snakes. It tells about their habitat, food, anatomy, and their way of life. Snakes shed skin, eat live or dead prey, and have special censors that can let them know when an enemy is coming. Poisonous snakes hold their poison in their mouth and let it drip through their veins.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: lots of great information but still on a child’s level, great illustrations
Information for teachers
Reading level: 3.1 Interest level: 1.5
Thematic Areas: family, snakes, nature
Content Areas: science
Potential Problems or Difficulties: pictures of snake laying eggs and giving live birth may be not appropriate for some
Possible use in classroom: have a rat-snake for a classroom job, visit a zoo to look at the snakes, hatch snake eggs in incubator, take a hike through the woods to look for a snake skin, make a map or chart comparing and contrasting the different characteristics of the different species of snakes
A Girl Named Helen Keller
BOOK ENTRY FORMAT FOR GENRE PROJECT
Information for students
Author: Margo Lundell Title: A Girl Named Helen Keller
Book Genre: Biography Publishing Info: Scholastic Inc, 42
Summary: After an illness, Helen Keller is left blind and deaf. Her parents spoil her and give her what she wants. Finally, her parents contact the Perkins School for the Blind and ask them to send for a teacher. Anne Sullivan arrives and is determine to tame the rebellious Helen before she is able to help her. Anne attempts to teach Helen sign language, but Helen does not understand. Finally, Helen spells “water” and understands what it means. She suddenly wanted to know the signs for everything. Helen and Anne remained close friends until Anne died
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: unique and colorful illustrations, simple, sign-language alphabet on back cover
Information for teachers
Reading level: 2.8 Interest level: k-2nd
Thematic Areas: blind, deaf, determination, love, family, patience, dedication, adversity
Content Areas: social studies, language arts
Potential Problems or Difficulties: There were no potentials problems or difficulties that I noticed.
Possible use in classroom: teach students the sign-language alphabet; in a large group, have students build a class list of all of the various adversities that people in the class have had or seen in the lives of others around them; set up an obstacle course in another room or outside where students will not see it prior to the experience, have class get into pairs and explain that there is to be absolutely no talking from anyone, and one person in each pair is to be blindfolded. Each pair must work together to get through the obstacle course. After everyone has had a try at the course, come back to the classroom and have students write in journals about how they felt not being able to talk and/or blind, was it hard to communicate, how did having partners help, were they able to work together to reach their goal?; Discuss with the class how Helen Keller gave lectures on how to help the deaf and blind, women's rights and pacifism (against war and violence). With the class, brainstorm issues in the world today which could use some public awareness or support. Have students choose one and write a speech, giving reasons why the issue needs support, and ideas for solutions. These speeches will be given in front of the class, on the last day of this unit, as a culminating event.
Information for students
Author: Margo Lundell Title: A Girl Named Helen Keller
Book Genre: Biography Publishing Info: Scholastic Inc, 42
Summary: After an illness, Helen Keller is left blind and deaf. Her parents spoil her and give her what she wants. Finally, her parents contact the Perkins School for the Blind and ask them to send for a teacher. Anne Sullivan arrives and is determine to tame the rebellious Helen before she is able to help her. Anne attempts to teach Helen sign language, but Helen does not understand. Finally, Helen spells “water” and understands what it means. She suddenly wanted to know the signs for everything. Helen and Anne remained close friends until Anne died
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: unique and colorful illustrations, simple, sign-language alphabet on back cover
Information for teachers
Reading level: 2.8 Interest level: k-2nd
Thematic Areas: blind, deaf, determination, love, family, patience, dedication, adversity
Content Areas: social studies, language arts
Potential Problems or Difficulties: There were no potentials problems or difficulties that I noticed.
Possible use in classroom: teach students the sign-language alphabet; in a large group, have students build a class list of all of the various adversities that people in the class have had or seen in the lives of others around them; set up an obstacle course in another room or outside where students will not see it prior to the experience, have class get into pairs and explain that there is to be absolutely no talking from anyone, and one person in each pair is to be blindfolded. Each pair must work together to get through the obstacle course. After everyone has had a try at the course, come back to the classroom and have students write in journals about how they felt not being able to talk and/or blind, was it hard to communicate, how did having partners help, were they able to work together to reach their goal?; Discuss with the class how Helen Keller gave lectures on how to help the deaf and blind, women's rights and pacifism (against war and violence). With the class, brainstorm issues in the world today which could use some public awareness or support. Have students choose one and write a speech, giving reasons why the issue needs support, and ideas for solutions. These speeches will be given in front of the class, on the last day of this unit, as a culminating event.
George Washington Carver
Author: Bolden, Tonya
Title: George Washington Carver
Book Genre: Autobiography
Publishing Info: Abrams Books for
Young Readers, 41pp.
Summary: This was a wonderful collection of the life and contributions of artist, poet, educator, and inventor, George Washington Carver. The book begins by informing readers of what some may see as tragic circumstances, the loss of his mother when he was just an infant. No matter what changes or adversity Carver faced, he seemed to always maintain a positive outlook on life and its possibilities. Education was always essential to Carver, whether he was teaching himself or moving to various towns to seek higher education. From an early age, Carver had a special talent for agriculture and finding new ways to use every resource. The book gives countless examples of how Carver dedicated his life to “Learning all you can and then go out into the world, and give your learning back to our people.” Not only has Carver’s life been an inspiration to African Americans, but to people all over the world.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: Very detailed; written in a manner easily understood by students; illustrations which include various photographs of Carver’s life, inventions, and paintings
Reading level: 7.4 Interest level: 3rd-8th
Thematic Areas: African American culture and leaders; courage; life-long learning; conservation of resources; self-reliance; inspiration for all readers
Content Areas: History
Potential Problems or Difficulties: Some words may be too advanced or unfamiliar to some readers
Possible use in classroom: Use to reinforce lessons about American inventors; use in a thematic unit about African-American influences and leaders; have students journal about how the life of George Washington Carver has inspired their outlook on learning; in groups, have students research to find which of Carver’s contributions are still in practice today
Title: George Washington Carver
Book Genre: Autobiography
Publishing Info: Abrams Books for
Young Readers, 41pp.
Summary: This was a wonderful collection of the life and contributions of artist, poet, educator, and inventor, George Washington Carver. The book begins by informing readers of what some may see as tragic circumstances, the loss of his mother when he was just an infant. No matter what changes or adversity Carver faced, he seemed to always maintain a positive outlook on life and its possibilities. Education was always essential to Carver, whether he was teaching himself or moving to various towns to seek higher education. From an early age, Carver had a special talent for agriculture and finding new ways to use every resource. The book gives countless examples of how Carver dedicated his life to “Learning all you can and then go out into the world, and give your learning back to our people.” Not only has Carver’s life been an inspiration to African Americans, but to people all over the world.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: Very detailed; written in a manner easily understood by students; illustrations which include various photographs of Carver’s life, inventions, and paintings
Reading level: 7.4 Interest level: 3rd-8th
Thematic Areas: African American culture and leaders; courage; life-long learning; conservation of resources; self-reliance; inspiration for all readers
Content Areas: History
Potential Problems or Difficulties: Some words may be too advanced or unfamiliar to some readers
Possible use in classroom: Use to reinforce lessons about American inventors; use in a thematic unit about African-American influences and leaders; have students journal about how the life of George Washington Carver has inspired their outlook on learning; in groups, have students research to find which of Carver’s contributions are still in practice today
A Letter to Amy
Author: Ezra Jack Keats
Title: A Letter to Amy
Book Genre: Realistic Fiction
Publishing Info: Harper Collins, 30 pp
Summary: Peter decided that he wanted to write his friend Amy a letter as an invitation to his party on Saturday. As soon as he took the letter outside to mail it, a nasty storm came and blew it away. Peter chased the floating letter all the way down the street. In a great hurry while chasing the letter, Peter bumped right into Amy on the street. He caught the letter before she could see it was to her. Because Peter grabbed the letter from Amy, her feelings were hurt. Saturday came and Amy did not show up to the party – or so he thought until she busted in the door with a huge “HAPPY BIRTHDAY, PETER”.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: Children would love this book. It involves friends and parties. The illustrations are great with a very believable story.
Reading level: 1.8
Interest level: K-4th
Thematic Areas: friendship; family; excitement; weather
Content Areas: science; language
Potential Problems or Difficulties: No potential problems or difficulties.
Possible use in classroom: This would be a great book to read and assign students pen pals – in another classroom or school. Children could make class mailboxes so that they could write each other letters in free choice centers. For exercise, children could play hopscotch outside during recess (like Peter did in the book).
Title: A Letter to Amy
Book Genre: Realistic Fiction
Publishing Info: Harper Collins, 30 pp
Summary: Peter decided that he wanted to write his friend Amy a letter as an invitation to his party on Saturday. As soon as he took the letter outside to mail it, a nasty storm came and blew it away. Peter chased the floating letter all the way down the street. In a great hurry while chasing the letter, Peter bumped right into Amy on the street. He caught the letter before she could see it was to her. Because Peter grabbed the letter from Amy, her feelings were hurt. Saturday came and Amy did not show up to the party – or so he thought until she busted in the door with a huge “HAPPY BIRTHDAY, PETER”.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: Children would love this book. It involves friends and parties. The illustrations are great with a very believable story.
Reading level: 1.8
Interest level: K-4th
Thematic Areas: friendship; family; excitement; weather
Content Areas: science; language
Potential Problems or Difficulties: No potential problems or difficulties.
Possible use in classroom: This would be a great book to read and assign students pen pals – in another classroom or school. Children could make class mailboxes so that they could write each other letters in free choice centers. For exercise, children could play hopscotch outside during recess (like Peter did in the book).
Bette Davis: Film Star
Author: Gene Brown
Title: Bette Davis: Film Star
Book Genre: Biography
Publishing Info: Blackbirch Press, 64 pp
Summary: Bette Davis was the most famous female actress in the mid-1940s – she was also the most unusual. Bette got her strong-will from her mother, Ruthie Davis. She was born in 1908 in Lowell, Massachusetts as Ruth Elizabeth Davis. Her professional acting career began in Rochester, New York in the year of 1928 where she played in a play called Broadway. Her director, George Cukor, loved her work and said that she had a type of “white heat”. She went from there to doing major Broadway plays. One of her cameramen (while shooting a very unimportant, forgettable movie) noticed that she had gorgeous eyes. From there, Bette’s career took off with a quick pace.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: Young girls love to read about famous movie stars. This is a great book that would grab their interest. Highly recommend this book!
Reading level: 7.5
Interest level: 2nd-8th
Thematic Areas: love; family; friends; courage; movies
Content Areas: art; history
Potential Problems or Difficulties: No potential problems or difficulties.
Possible use in classroom: Children could make a class list/graph of their own favorite movies and actors/actresses. This would be a great book to read while doing a “career” unit. The children could write a story about what job they would like to have when they grow up.
Title: Bette Davis: Film Star
Book Genre: Biography
Publishing Info: Blackbirch Press, 64 pp
Summary: Bette Davis was the most famous female actress in the mid-1940s – she was also the most unusual. Bette got her strong-will from her mother, Ruthie Davis. She was born in 1908 in Lowell, Massachusetts as Ruth Elizabeth Davis. Her professional acting career began in Rochester, New York in the year of 1928 where she played in a play called Broadway. Her director, George Cukor, loved her work and said that she had a type of “white heat”. She went from there to doing major Broadway plays. One of her cameramen (while shooting a very unimportant, forgettable movie) noticed that she had gorgeous eyes. From there, Bette’s career took off with a quick pace.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: Young girls love to read about famous movie stars. This is a great book that would grab their interest. Highly recommend this book!
Reading level: 7.5
Interest level: 2nd-8th
Thematic Areas: love; family; friends; courage; movies
Content Areas: art; history
Potential Problems or Difficulties: No potential problems or difficulties.
Possible use in classroom: Children could make a class list/graph of their own favorite movies and actors/actresses. This would be a great book to read while doing a “career” unit. The children could write a story about what job they would like to have when they grow up.
Toys! Amazing Stories Behing Some Inventions
Author: Don Wulffson
Title: Toys! Amazing Stories Behind Some Great Inventions
Book Genre: Informational
Publishing Info: Rigby, 137 pp
Summary: This book covers the idea, creation, invention, and history of toys and games such as Mr. Potato Head, Twister, the bicycle, and Pinball. It includes pretty much every famous and loved toy and game created. Children and adults both would love to read this book!
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: This book is very interesting for children of all ages. I actually learned a lot from reading it – like in the beginning, Play-Doh only came in the color white. Children will love to get into this book and learn where their favorite toys and games came from.
Reading level: 7.8
Interest level: all ages
Thematic Areas: art; entertainment; creation
Content Areas: history; science; art; language
Potential Problems or Difficulties: No potential problems or difficulties.
Possible use in classroom: Children could write down some of their own ideas for great games and toys – and could maybe create them at home and bring them for show and tell. Class could divide up and play some educational games that are in the classroom. Older children could pick a favorite inventor and write a short paper on him/her.
Title: Toys! Amazing Stories Behind Some Great Inventions
Book Genre: Informational
Publishing Info: Rigby, 137 pp
Summary: This book covers the idea, creation, invention, and history of toys and games such as Mr. Potato Head, Twister, the bicycle, and Pinball. It includes pretty much every famous and loved toy and game created. Children and adults both would love to read this book!
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: This book is very interesting for children of all ages. I actually learned a lot from reading it – like in the beginning, Play-Doh only came in the color white. Children will love to get into this book and learn where their favorite toys and games came from.
Reading level: 7.8
Interest level: all ages
Thematic Areas: art; entertainment; creation
Content Areas: history; science; art; language
Potential Problems or Difficulties: No potential problems or difficulties.
Possible use in classroom: Children could write down some of their own ideas for great games and toys – and could maybe create them at home and bring them for show and tell. Class could divide up and play some educational games that are in the classroom. Older children could pick a favorite inventor and write a short paper on him/her.
Informational
Information for students
Author: Sara Swann Miller Title: Pigs
Book Genre: Informational Publishing Info: Children’s Press
Summary: This book tells about the physical traits, behavior, and life cycle of pigs. It also discusses the different breeds of pigs and the role that pigs play in providing humans with meat.
Personal rating: *****
Pages: 43
Rationale: Content was organized in a logical sequence. There was a glossary with definitions. Visual format was appealing
Information for teachers
Reading level: 3.7 Interest level: K-3
Thematic Areas: Farms, pets.
Content Areas: Science, Language Art.
Potential Problems or Difficulties: none
Possible use in classroom:
· Use a Venn diagram to compare and contrast the different breeds of pigs.
· Tie this book in with a Language Arts lesson using Charlotte’s Web.
· After reading the book have students journal about what it would be like to be a pig.
· Read book before a trip to the farm.
Author: Sara Swann Miller Title: Pigs
Book Genre: Informational Publishing Info: Children’s Press
Summary: This book tells about the physical traits, behavior, and life cycle of pigs. It also discusses the different breeds of pigs and the role that pigs play in providing humans with meat.
Personal rating: *****
Pages: 43
Rationale: Content was organized in a logical sequence. There was a glossary with definitions. Visual format was appealing
Information for teachers
Reading level: 3.7 Interest level: K-3
Thematic Areas: Farms, pets.
Content Areas: Science, Language Art.
Potential Problems or Difficulties: none
Possible use in classroom:
· Use a Venn diagram to compare and contrast the different breeds of pigs.
· Tie this book in with a Language Arts lesson using Charlotte’s Web.
· After reading the book have students journal about what it would be like to be a pig.
· Read book before a trip to the farm.
Biography
Information for students
Author: Elizabeth Gillen Surcouf
Title: Grace Kelly / American Princess
Book Genre: Biography Publishing Info: Lerner
Summary: This book tells the story of Grace Kelly’s life. It goes through her wonderful career as an actress, her marriage to Prince Rainier of Monaco, her role as princess, and the all of the wonderful contributions that she made to society.
Personal rating: ****
Pages: 64
Rationale: Subject was presented in an interesting manner. Book was accurate and authentic, conveying the true nature of the subject. Very interesting book.
Information for teachers
Reading level: 5.9 Interest level: 3-6
Thematic Areas: family, friendship, and the life of a princess
Content Areas: language arts, social studies
Potential Problems or Difficulties: none
Possible use in classroom:
· Sequencing
· Find Monaco on a map and study about the country
· Journal about what it would be like to be a prince or princess of a country.
Author: Elizabeth Gillen Surcouf
Title: Grace Kelly / American Princess
Book Genre: Biography Publishing Info: Lerner
Summary: This book tells the story of Grace Kelly’s life. It goes through her wonderful career as an actress, her marriage to Prince Rainier of Monaco, her role as princess, and the all of the wonderful contributions that she made to society.
Personal rating: ****
Pages: 64
Rationale: Subject was presented in an interesting manner. Book was accurate and authentic, conveying the true nature of the subject. Very interesting book.
Information for teachers
Reading level: 5.9 Interest level: 3-6
Thematic Areas: family, friendship, and the life of a princess
Content Areas: language arts, social studies
Potential Problems or Difficulties: none
Possible use in classroom:
· Sequencing
· Find Monaco on a map and study about the country
· Journal about what it would be like to be a prince or princess of a country.
Historical Fiction
Information for student
Author: Karen Hesse Title: Out of the Dust
Book Genre: Historical Fiction Publishing Info: Scholastic Press
Summary: Set in the Oklahoma dust bowl during the Great Depression. At fourteen, Billie Jo, has a lot to deal with. Billie Jo’s pregnant mother is killed by an accident that her father caused. Billie Jo is also injured by the accident. She must learn to heal herself and live again.
Personal rating: *****
Pages: 227
Rationale: Story is interesting to elementary children. The setting is integral to the story. The characters are believable and the language is authentic. Wonderful story!
Information for teachers
Reading level: 5.3 Interest level: 6-8
Thematic Areas: American history, communities and ways of life, coping with death, grief, and loss, determination and perseverance, extended family, homelessness and poverty.
Content Areas: Social Studies, History, Science, Music, Language Arts
Potential Problems or Difficulties: none
Possible use in classroom:
To introduce this lesson, tell the students you are wondering whether the classroom needs a good clean up. Give them a chance to look for dust in the room. Do they think there is a potential "dust problem"? How bad could it get? If it were 10 times worse, how would it affect activities in the classroom? What if it were a hundred times worse? Could it ever get that bad? Worse?
· Discuss the students' hypotheses about this question from Lesson 1. Remind students of the previous discussion about dust in the classroom. Of course, the classroom often could use some sprucing up, but for people living in the Dust Bowl region, dealing with the dust and its ramifications became the center of everyday life.
For a social studies lesson talk about the Great Depression and what led up to it. Who was president during this time? How did he try to help the American people?
Author: Karen Hesse Title: Out of the Dust
Book Genre: Historical Fiction Publishing Info: Scholastic Press
Summary: Set in the Oklahoma dust bowl during the Great Depression. At fourteen, Billie Jo, has a lot to deal with. Billie Jo’s pregnant mother is killed by an accident that her father caused. Billie Jo is also injured by the accident. She must learn to heal herself and live again.
Personal rating: *****
Pages: 227
Rationale: Story is interesting to elementary children. The setting is integral to the story. The characters are believable and the language is authentic. Wonderful story!
Information for teachers
Reading level: 5.3 Interest level: 6-8
Thematic Areas: American history, communities and ways of life, coping with death, grief, and loss, determination and perseverance, extended family, homelessness and poverty.
Content Areas: Social Studies, History, Science, Music, Language Arts
Potential Problems or Difficulties: none
Possible use in classroom:
To introduce this lesson, tell the students you are wondering whether the classroom needs a good clean up. Give them a chance to look for dust in the room. Do they think there is a potential "dust problem"? How bad could it get? If it were 10 times worse, how would it affect activities in the classroom? What if it were a hundred times worse? Could it ever get that bad? Worse?
· Discuss the students' hypotheses about this question from Lesson 1. Remind students of the previous discussion about dust in the classroom. Of course, the classroom often could use some sprucing up, but for people living in the Dust Bowl region, dealing with the dust and its ramifications became the center of everyday life.
For a social studies lesson talk about the Great Depression and what led up to it. Who was president during this time? How did he try to help the American people?
Food
Author: Williams, Brenda
Title: Food
Book Genre: Informational
Publishing Info: Raintree Steck-
Vaughn Publishers, 32pp.
Summary: This book provides resourceful information about various foods in a manner that is easily understood by students. A range of topics are discussed including: various types of food, organic farming, methods of farming, preserving foods, and transportation of food. All of the illustrations are actual photographs, which help students further relate to the various topics being discussed. Each page contains a short statement which suggests activities relating to nutrition or further explains particular topics. I particularly found the information about where various foods are grown and ways to preserve them as important facts that many students may be unaware. This book provides a wealth of vital nutrition information that would be helpful to any student.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: Well-written; beneficial information for students; illustrations are very realistic or actual photographs
Reading level: 3.8 Interest level: K-4th
Thematic Areas: Healthy lifestyle; nutrition
Content Areas: Health
Potential Problems or Difficulties: N/A
Possible use in classroom: Have students complete the activity as described in the text, involving making a list of foods eaten daily, followed by placing each food under its proper food group; students could research to find where many of the crops we eat are actually grown; students could create their own healthy menus, for several days, which should include only healthy foods they enjoy
Title: Food
Book Genre: Informational
Publishing Info: Raintree Steck-
Vaughn Publishers, 32pp.
Summary: This book provides resourceful information about various foods in a manner that is easily understood by students. A range of topics are discussed including: various types of food, organic farming, methods of farming, preserving foods, and transportation of food. All of the illustrations are actual photographs, which help students further relate to the various topics being discussed. Each page contains a short statement which suggests activities relating to nutrition or further explains particular topics. I particularly found the information about where various foods are grown and ways to preserve them as important facts that many students may be unaware. This book provides a wealth of vital nutrition information that would be helpful to any student.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: Well-written; beneficial information for students; illustrations are very realistic or actual photographs
Reading level: 3.8 Interest level: K-4th
Thematic Areas: Healthy lifestyle; nutrition
Content Areas: Health
Potential Problems or Difficulties: N/A
Possible use in classroom: Have students complete the activity as described in the text, involving making a list of foods eaten daily, followed by placing each food under its proper food group; students could research to find where many of the crops we eat are actually grown; students could create their own healthy menus, for several days, which should include only healthy foods they enjoy
Bill Cosby
BOOK ENTRY FORMAT FOR GENRE PROJECT
Information for students
Author: Bruce W. Conord Title: Bill Cosby-Family Man
Book Genre: Biography Publishing Info: Chelsea House Publishers, 78 pp.
Summary: A biography of the popular entertainer, discussing his childhood, television shows, and continued success.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: good display of information and pictures, interesting biography and the things he’s been through
Information for teachers
Reading level: 4.8 Interest level: 4th-6th
Thematic Areas: Struggle, family, friendship, love, responsibility, determination, success, failures and encouragement
Content Areas: history, social studies, language arts
Potential Problems or Difficulties: N/A
Possible use in classroom: use book when studying African Americans. Divide the students into groups of three or four and divide the chapters and have them summarize to the class what they were about. Have a discussion on his success and failures and how difficult it was for black Americans back then to succeed in television and such.
Information for students
Author: Bruce W. Conord Title: Bill Cosby-Family Man
Book Genre: Biography Publishing Info: Chelsea House Publishers, 78 pp.
Summary: A biography of the popular entertainer, discussing his childhood, television shows, and continued success.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: good display of information and pictures, interesting biography and the things he’s been through
Information for teachers
Reading level: 4.8 Interest level: 4th-6th
Thematic Areas: Struggle, family, friendship, love, responsibility, determination, success, failures and encouragement
Content Areas: history, social studies, language arts
Potential Problems or Difficulties: N/A
Possible use in classroom: use book when studying African Americans. Divide the students into groups of three or four and divide the chapters and have them summarize to the class what they were about. Have a discussion on his success and failures and how difficult it was for black Americans back then to succeed in television and such.
Tsunami Monster Waves
Information for Students
Author: Mary Dodson Wade Title: Tsunami Monster Waves
Book Genre: Informational Publishing Info: Enslow pp. 48
Summary: Although
Personal Rating: ****
Rationale: Well-written, descriptive illustrations and photographs, problems related to tsunami disasters, descriptive and informational plot
Information for Teachers
Reading Level: 5.7 Interest Level: 4th-6th
Thematic Areas: Waves; earthquakes; death; destruction of land; troughs; crests
Content Areas: Oceanography; meteorology; history; science
Potential Problems or Difficulties: Children could develop fear of the ocean because the death and destruction of land that the tsunamis created. Information is a little “jumpy”, not sticking to certain topics.
Possible Use in Classroom: Read about Tsunamis on the internet, good site for this would be the National Geographic WORLD site. Discover how Tsunamis or formed. Find an eyewitness account from someone who survived a Tsunami (in either a newspaper or a real survivor) and have a class discussion. Have a discussion on what causes waves and tsunamis, and list ideas. Search the internet and discover facts about how waves and tsunamis are developed. Construct a Venn diagram, compare, and contrast tsunamis and waves.
Blair
First on the Field: Baseball Hero Jackie Robinson
Information for Students
Author: Derek T. Dingle Title: First on the Field Baseball Hero Jackie Robinson
Book Genre: Biography Publishing Info: Hyperion pp. 48
Summary: Jackie Robinson a man of great talent. In high school and college, he broke many records in baseball, football, track, and basketball. He was a great athlete with one society-based contradictory characteristic he was African American. His determination and competitive energy helped break the barrier of discrimination. He set and paved the way for other African American athletes to play in the major leagues. Jackie Robinson a legendary baseball player who faced much diversity, which gave him a place in history.
Personal Rating: ****
Rationale: Well written, capturing illustrations and photographs, inspirational plotted biography, determined and competitive character, racism and discrimination problems.
Information for Teachers
Reading Level: 6.4 Interest Level: 4th-9th
Thematic Areas: African Americans; courage; honor; baseball; families; social structures; prejudice; racism
Content Areas: History; sports; psychology; discrimination; bibliography
Potential Problems or Difficulties: Print is very small and hard to read on some pages.
Angie Blair
The 5,000-Year Old Puzzle: Solving A Mystery of Ancient Egypt
Author: Logan, Claudia
Title: The 5,000 Year-Old Puzzle: Solving A Mystery of Ancient Egypt
Book Genre: Historical Fiction
Publishing Info: Melane Kroupa
Books, 41pp.
Summary: This book presents historical information about ancient Egypt through the accounts and letters of “Will Hunt.” Although this character is fictitious, the information given is based on the actual records of archeologist, Dr. George Reisner. The setting for this mystery is late 1924, until the summer of 1927, in Egypt. Will’s father, a member of Dr. Reisner’s archeological team, is traveling to Giza, to help with the expedition. Luckily for Will, he and his mother are able to travel with him. After a month of travel just to get there, Will finally arrives at the Great Pyramids, and the journey begins. He witnesses the team accidentally finds the remains of an unknown tomb, which is later revealed as Queen Hetep-heres, the mother of King Khufu. Will becomes more consumed by his adventure each day, only to learn that some of the greatest mysteries may never be solved. Because the historical content is presented from the viewpoint of a child, it becomes very interesting for its readers. The book also contains a wealth of background information, which helps readers learn and understand various Egyptian cultures.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: Information presented in letters, personal accounts, and historical information in a manner that a reader can enjoy; well-written; exceptional illustrations and photographs of the real expedition; presents ancient history in a way that all learners can enjoy
Reading level: 3.2 Interest level: 2nd -6th
Thematic Areas: Exploration; adventure; Egyptian culture
Content Areas: History; Art
Potential Problems or Difficulties: Terminology may be too advanced for those unfamiliar with Egyptian history; some things described may be too graphic for young readers
Possible use in classroom: In a thematic unit about ancient Egypt; have students research various people and elements of Egyptian culture, and compile these findings in a report; using a mock journal entry, students will write from the viewpoint of an ancient Egyptian boy or girl
Title: The 5,000 Year-Old Puzzle: Solving A Mystery of Ancient Egypt
Book Genre: Historical Fiction
Publishing Info: Melane Kroupa
Books, 41pp.
Summary: This book presents historical information about ancient Egypt through the accounts and letters of “Will Hunt.” Although this character is fictitious, the information given is based on the actual records of archeologist, Dr. George Reisner. The setting for this mystery is late 1924, until the summer of 1927, in Egypt. Will’s father, a member of Dr. Reisner’s archeological team, is traveling to Giza, to help with the expedition. Luckily for Will, he and his mother are able to travel with him. After a month of travel just to get there, Will finally arrives at the Great Pyramids, and the journey begins. He witnesses the team accidentally finds the remains of an unknown tomb, which is later revealed as Queen Hetep-heres, the mother of King Khufu. Will becomes more consumed by his adventure each day, only to learn that some of the greatest mysteries may never be solved. Because the historical content is presented from the viewpoint of a child, it becomes very interesting for its readers. The book also contains a wealth of background information, which helps readers learn and understand various Egyptian cultures.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: Information presented in letters, personal accounts, and historical information in a manner that a reader can enjoy; well-written; exceptional illustrations and photographs of the real expedition; presents ancient history in a way that all learners can enjoy
Reading level: 3.2 Interest level: 2nd -6th
Thematic Areas: Exploration; adventure; Egyptian culture
Content Areas: History; Art
Potential Problems or Difficulties: Terminology may be too advanced for those unfamiliar with Egyptian history; some things described may be too graphic for young readers
Possible use in classroom: In a thematic unit about ancient Egypt; have students research various people and elements of Egyptian culture, and compile these findings in a report; using a mock journal entry, students will write from the viewpoint of an ancient Egyptian boy or girl
Realistic Blog
BOOK ENTRY FORMAT FOR GENRE PROJECT
Information for students
Author: Margaree King Mitchell Title: Uncle Jed’s Barbershop
Book Genre: Realistic Publishing Info: Simon & Schuster Books, 28 pp.
Summary: Sarah Jean looks up to her favorite uncle, Jed. Uncle Jed saves up all of his money to open up his own barbershop, but gives the money to Sarah Jean’s family when Sarah Jean is sick and needs an operation. Her family cannot afford to pay for it and Uncle Jed gives up his hard earned money to help her survive. Even after giving up all of his savings to help Sarah Jean, he never loses the dream of owning his own barbershop. In the end, he gets exactly that and shows that you can accomplish anything you set your mind to.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: Beautiful pictures to accompany an inspirational story. It’s a great look back into history with a memorable lesson to learn along with it.
Information for teachers
Reading level: 3.8 Interest level: K – 3rd
Thematic Areas: family, determination, perseverance, courage, hope
Content Areas: careers, African American, history, Civil Rights Movement, social studies, segregation
Potential Problems or Difficulties: none
Possible use in classroom: Have students interview an adult about their career and present to the class. When they present to the class have them bring 2 or 3 things that relate to that adult’s career. Students can create a story map for this book. Have students create an advertisement for the book that would encourage others to read it. They can also create a mobile illustrating the book. Have students write a letter to one of the characters in the book and state how you felt about the actions or problems that they faced. State what you might do if you were in their situation. Research further about the Great Depression and discuss findings with the class. How did the Great Depression cause many people to become very poor?
Information for students
Author: Margaree King Mitchell Title: Uncle Jed’s Barbershop
Book Genre: Realistic Publishing Info: Simon & Schuster Books, 28 pp.
Summary: Sarah Jean looks up to her favorite uncle, Jed. Uncle Jed saves up all of his money to open up his own barbershop, but gives the money to Sarah Jean’s family when Sarah Jean is sick and needs an operation. Her family cannot afford to pay for it and Uncle Jed gives up his hard earned money to help her survive. Even after giving up all of his savings to help Sarah Jean, he never loses the dream of owning his own barbershop. In the end, he gets exactly that and shows that you can accomplish anything you set your mind to.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: Beautiful pictures to accompany an inspirational story. It’s a great look back into history with a memorable lesson to learn along with it.
Information for teachers
Reading level: 3.8 Interest level: K – 3rd
Thematic Areas: family, determination, perseverance, courage, hope
Content Areas: careers, African American, history, Civil Rights Movement, social studies, segregation
Potential Problems or Difficulties: none
Possible use in classroom: Have students interview an adult about their career and present to the class. When they present to the class have them bring 2 or 3 things that relate to that adult’s career. Students can create a story map for this book. Have students create an advertisement for the book that would encourage others to read it. They can also create a mobile illustrating the book. Have students write a letter to one of the characters in the book and state how you felt about the actions or problems that they faced. State what you might do if you were in their situation. Research further about the Great Depression and discuss findings with the class. How did the Great Depression cause many people to become very poor?
Biography Blog
BOOK ENTRY FORMAT FOR GENRE PROJECT
Information for students
Author: Nikki Grimes Title: Talkin’ About Bessie: The Story of
Aviator Elizabeth Coleman
Book Genre: Biography Publishing Info: Orchard Books, 48 pp.
Summary: This book tells the story of Bessie Coleman who is the first colored woman to fly. It follows her from her poor childhood picking cotton to becoming an aviator. She did what no one said she could do and encourages the reader to do the same. The story is brought alive by being told from different viewpoints such as her siblings, reporters, teachers, and friends. You hear a firsthand account of her life from the people who loved and admired her the most.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: I liked that it was told from numerous viewpoints and put together to make a cohesive story. The pictures were attractive and went well along with the story.
Information for teachers
Reading level: 6.1 Interest level: K – 8th
Thematic Areas: courage and honor, determination, perseverance, adventure
Content Areas: careers/pilot, African American, social studies, transportation/planes, aviation, history
Potential Problems or Difficulties: dialect
Possible use in classroom: Group reports on the Ku Klux Klan and Jim Crow Laws. Plot on a map where Bessie has been. Have students tell about the chores they do at home and compare with Bessie’s chores. Use a scale to measure various objects weight just like Betsy measured the cottons weight in the story. Visit an airport. Build paper airplanes and predict how far they will go. See whose plane will go the furthest, whose will fly the smallest distance, and the average for the class. Then compare to predictions in the beginning. Could use this book for a reader’s theatre and have each child read one of the narrator’s monologues.
Information for students
Author: Nikki Grimes Title: Talkin’ About Bessie: The Story of
Aviator Elizabeth Coleman
Book Genre: Biography Publishing Info: Orchard Books, 48 pp.
Summary: This book tells the story of Bessie Coleman who is the first colored woman to fly. It follows her from her poor childhood picking cotton to becoming an aviator. She did what no one said she could do and encourages the reader to do the same. The story is brought alive by being told from different viewpoints such as her siblings, reporters, teachers, and friends. You hear a firsthand account of her life from the people who loved and admired her the most.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: I liked that it was told from numerous viewpoints and put together to make a cohesive story. The pictures were attractive and went well along with the story.
Information for teachers
Reading level: 6.1 Interest level: K – 8th
Thematic Areas: courage and honor, determination, perseverance, adventure
Content Areas: careers/pilot, African American, social studies, transportation/planes, aviation, history
Potential Problems or Difficulties: dialect
Possible use in classroom: Group reports on the Ku Klux Klan and Jim Crow Laws. Plot on a map where Bessie has been. Have students tell about the chores they do at home and compare with Bessie’s chores. Use a scale to measure various objects weight just like Betsy measured the cottons weight in the story. Visit an airport. Build paper airplanes and predict how far they will go. See whose plane will go the furthest, whose will fly the smallest distance, and the average for the class. Then compare to predictions in the beginning. Could use this book for a reader’s theatre and have each child read one of the narrator’s monologues.
Informational Blog
BOOK ENTRY FORMAT FOR GENRE PROJECT
Information for students
Author: Jon Scieszka Title: Math Curse
Book Genre:Informational Publishing Info: Viking, 32 pp.
Summary: The book starts out as a teacher telling her students that anything can be seen as a math problem. After that, a student is cursed with seeing everything as a math problem. He cannot function without seeing math problems everywhere. He thinks his teacher has put a math curse on him that allows him to see everything he looks at or thinks about as a math problem. In the end, he realizes that he can solve any math problem and that it is no problem at all.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: I love that children cannot read this without having to really think. It is written in such a fun and entertaining way that all children are sure to love it. The pictures are fun and colorful and will catch children’s attention.
Information for teachers
Reading level: 3.7 Interest level: 1st - 6th
Thematic Areas: fear, problem solving
Content Areas: school, science, math
Potential Problems or Difficulties: none
Possible use in classroom: Give each child a section of newspaper and ask them to cut out examples of uses of math. Allow about 5 minutes. Let them share their clippings in small groups and with the whole class. As each clipping is shared, call attention to the math involved and elaborate if appropriate. Tell students that we will be making a class book of how math is a part of our lives. Each child will create a page of the book. The pages should have open-ended situations involving people or things outside of school. After writing about the situations students should illustrate without giving away the answer. Students should be made aware that they will be asked to share, and should know the answers to the problems they pose. Challenge students to "stump" their classmates. (The teacher might want to create an example, however this can limit student creativity.) The next day, put students into groups of two. Trade pages and solve the problems. As time allows, let volunteers share their pages while partners show the solution. As an extension, categorize newspaper clippings into math topics and put on posters to display around the room. Explain to the students that they will write a short story problem that connects to their everyday life. The story should have multiple steps and/or operations. For example: “If I bake a dozen cookies and I want to share them with three other friends, how many cookies will we each get?” Emphasize creativeness and use their daily observations to create their stories. (Option—create a story problem together as a class, or prepare one ahead of time). The students may work alone or in pairs. Have students present their story problems. Challenge the audience to solve the problem.
Information for students
Author: Jon Scieszka Title: Math Curse
Book Genre:Informational Publishing Info: Viking, 32 pp.
Summary: The book starts out as a teacher telling her students that anything can be seen as a math problem. After that, a student is cursed with seeing everything as a math problem. He cannot function without seeing math problems everywhere. He thinks his teacher has put a math curse on him that allows him to see everything he looks at or thinks about as a math problem. In the end, he realizes that he can solve any math problem and that it is no problem at all.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: I love that children cannot read this without having to really think. It is written in such a fun and entertaining way that all children are sure to love it. The pictures are fun and colorful and will catch children’s attention.
Information for teachers
Reading level: 3.7 Interest level: 1st - 6th
Thematic Areas: fear, problem solving
Content Areas: school, science, math
Potential Problems or Difficulties: none
Possible use in classroom: Give each child a section of newspaper and ask them to cut out examples of uses of math. Allow about 5 minutes. Let them share their clippings in small groups and with the whole class. As each clipping is shared, call attention to the math involved and elaborate if appropriate. Tell students that we will be making a class book of how math is a part of our lives. Each child will create a page of the book. The pages should have open-ended situations involving people or things outside of school. After writing about the situations students should illustrate without giving away the answer. Students should be made aware that they will be asked to share, and should know the answers to the problems they pose. Challenge students to "stump" their classmates. (The teacher might want to create an example, however this can limit student creativity.) The next day, put students into groups of two. Trade pages and solve the problems. As time allows, let volunteers share their pages while partners show the solution. As an extension, categorize newspaper clippings into math topics and put on posters to display around the room. Explain to the students that they will write a short story problem that connects to their everyday life. The story should have multiple steps and/or operations. For example: “If I bake a dozen cookies and I want to share them with three other friends, how many cookies will we each get?” Emphasize creativeness and use their daily observations to create their stories. (Option—create a story problem together as a class, or prepare one ahead of time). The students may work alone or in pairs. Have students present their story problems. Challenge the audience to solve the problem.
Hatchet
BOOK ENTRY FORMAT FOR GENRE PROJECT
Information for students
Author: Gary Paulsen Title: Hatchet
Book Genre: Realistic Fiction Publishing Info:
Summary: Thirteen-year old Brian Robeson is flying through the Canadian wilderness to visit his father when the only pilot of his small plane has a heart attack and dies. It is up to Brian to fly the plane but when it runs out of gas, the plane crash lands in a lake. Somehow, Brian survives the crash and is now all alone in the Canadian wilderness with nothing but the clothes on his back and a hatchet on his belt, which was a gift from his mother. Brian builds a shelter and eventually learns how to find food and build a fire. However, Brian faces many challenges, including encounters with wild animals and surprise storms. When the tail end of the plane finally floats up to the water’s surface, Brian is able to retrieve the survival pack and unwittingly turns on the emergency transmitter that allows help to arrive and rescue him
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: well-written plot, believable characters and situations, interesting story
Information for teachers
Reading level: 6.3 Interest level: 6th-8th
Thematic Areas: adventure, survival, family, relationships, values, secrets, change, courage
Content Areas: science, nature, geography
Potential Problems or Difficulties: references to characters swearing
Possible use in classroom: determine the location of the plane at the time of the heart attack and again at the place where the plane went down; make a guidebook to help others identify animals and/or plants in the Canadian wilderness, be sure to include fish, bear, grouse, choke cherries, porcupines, snapping turtles, skunks and moose; build a model of Brian's shelter out of natural materials such as rocks, sticks, leaves, and dirt; research how long a person can go without food and water and research the possible reasons for drinking the lake water; make a tornado using soda bottles; make a 'missing person' poster for Brian and include such important information as his physical description and where he was last seen; sketch a map of the area and label locations mentioned in the story (i.e., site of crash, where first shelter built).
Muggie Maggie
BOOK ENTRY FORMAT FOR GENRE PROJECT
Information for students
Author: Beverly Cleary Title: Muggie Maggie
Book Genre: Realistic Fiction, Contemp. Publishing Info: Avon Books, Inc.; 70 pp.
Summary: Maggie Schultz is a strong-willed third grader who refuses to write cursive. In fact, her parents, the principal, and her school psychologist try in vain to persuade her. However, Mrs. Leeper, Maggie’s teacher, comes up with a unique way to get Maggie interested in cursive writing by having her deliver notes to the principal and to other teachers – all written in cursive. Will Maggie’s desire to snoop outweigh her stubbornness? After all, if she does not learn to write in cursive, she cannot read it!
Personal rating: (**** Great!, *** Good, ** Ok, * A disappointment) ****
Rationale: A delightfully entertaining book; well-developed characters; good plot.
Information for teachers
Reading level: 5.0 Interest level: 3-5
Thematic Areas: Persistence; Non-conformity; Family.
Content Areas: Writing; Guidance.
Potential Problems or Difficulties: For example, print size, length, sophisticated vocabulary, harsh view of life, slow moving, swearing, explicit sexual overtones, gory
None
Possible use in classroom: Use as part of an ending unit on cursive writing; have students list ways that they would help Maggie; use to stress the importance of self-discipline as part of a writing lesson; have students write about suitable consequences for Maggie’s actions and discuss these as a class.
Information for students
Author: Beverly Cleary Title: Muggie Maggie
Book Genre: Realistic Fiction, Contemp. Publishing Info: Avon Books, Inc.; 70 pp.
Summary: Maggie Schultz is a strong-willed third grader who refuses to write cursive. In fact, her parents, the principal, and her school psychologist try in vain to persuade her. However, Mrs. Leeper, Maggie’s teacher, comes up with a unique way to get Maggie interested in cursive writing by having her deliver notes to the principal and to other teachers – all written in cursive. Will Maggie’s desire to snoop outweigh her stubbornness? After all, if she does not learn to write in cursive, she cannot read it!
Personal rating: (**** Great!, *** Good, ** Ok, * A disappointment) ****
Rationale: A delightfully entertaining book; well-developed characters; good plot.
Information for teachers
Reading level: 5.0 Interest level: 3-5
Thematic Areas: Persistence; Non-conformity; Family.
Content Areas: Writing; Guidance.
Potential Problems or Difficulties: For example, print size, length, sophisticated vocabulary, harsh view of life, slow moving, swearing, explicit sexual overtones, gory
None
Possible use in classroom: Use as part of an ending unit on cursive writing; have students list ways that they would help Maggie; use to stress the importance of self-discipline as part of a writing lesson; have students write about suitable consequences for Maggie’s actions and discuss these as a class.
Scholastic Atlas of Oceans
BOOK ENTRY FORMAT FOR GENRE PROJECT
Information for students
Author: Martine Podesto, Marie-Anne Legault Title: Scholastic Atlas of Oceans
Book Genre: Informational Publishing Info: Scholastic Inc., 96 pp.
Summary: This book describes and pictures the many oceans of the world, where the land and seas meet, and the types of coasts that border the oceans. Also the ocean floor is described in detail, covering such features as the famous Mariana Trench (which is 36,201 feet) and under-water volcanoes, as well as how islands form, and phenomena such as tsunamis. Also discussed in depth are the characteristics of the oceans, such as waves and tides. Many different creatures who call the ocean home are detailed, such as crustaceans, marine mammals, and of course sharks, to name just a few.
Personal rating: (**** Great!, *** Good, ** Ok, * A disappointment) ****
Rationale: Well-written, very detailed and very comprehensive; wonderful photographs and computer imagery.
Information for teachers
Reading level: 8.6 Interest level: 6-8
Thematic Areas: Ocean life, survival; planet preservation.
Content Areas: Geography; Science; Oceanography.
Potential Problems or Difficulties: For example, print size, length, sophisticated vocabulary, harsh view of life, slow moving, swearing, explicit sexual overtones, gory
This book is for the advanced reader due to the difficulty of the text.
Possible use in classroom: Study the ocean as a class and use this book as a resource to introduce various units on an ocean lesson, such as tide changes, marine life, and the importance of preserving the Earth. Have students journal what they know about oceans and shores before studying about them, and again after the units of study are complete.
Information for students
Author: Martine Podesto, Marie-Anne Legault Title: Scholastic Atlas of Oceans
Book Genre: Informational Publishing Info: Scholastic Inc., 96 pp.
Summary: This book describes and pictures the many oceans of the world, where the land and seas meet, and the types of coasts that border the oceans. Also the ocean floor is described in detail, covering such features as the famous Mariana Trench (which is 36,201 feet) and under-water volcanoes, as well as how islands form, and phenomena such as tsunamis. Also discussed in depth are the characteristics of the oceans, such as waves and tides. Many different creatures who call the ocean home are detailed, such as crustaceans, marine mammals, and of course sharks, to name just a few.
Personal rating: (**** Great!, *** Good, ** Ok, * A disappointment) ****
Rationale: Well-written, very detailed and very comprehensive; wonderful photographs and computer imagery.
Information for teachers
Reading level: 8.6 Interest level: 6-8
Thematic Areas: Ocean life, survival; planet preservation.
Content Areas: Geography; Science; Oceanography.
Potential Problems or Difficulties: For example, print size, length, sophisticated vocabulary, harsh view of life, slow moving, swearing, explicit sexual overtones, gory
This book is for the advanced reader due to the difficulty of the text.
Possible use in classroom: Study the ocean as a class and use this book as a resource to introduce various units on an ocean lesson, such as tide changes, marine life, and the importance of preserving the Earth. Have students journal what they know about oceans and shores before studying about them, and again after the units of study are complete.
A Friend Called Anne
BOOK ENTRY FORMAT FOR GENRE PROJECT
Information for students
Author: Jacqueline Van Maarsen Title: A Friend Called Anne
Book Genre: Biography Publishing Info: Penguin Group, 163 pp.
Summary: This book is about Jacqueline Van Maarsen, who was the best friend of the now famous Anne Frank (author of The Diary of Anne Frank, which was published after her death). Jacqueline survived the Holocaust to tell her story years later. Anne did not survive, but thanks to the diary she received on her thirteenth birthday (which was to be her last birthday of freedom), the world can still know her story. Jacqueline has an intriquing story of her own, as her family did not go into hiding during the 1940’s as the Franks did. Her father was Jewish, and her mother was a Catholic who was formerly from Paris. Since Jacque’s father was Jewish, she and her sister were registered as Jewish as well. However, when her mother began to realize the depth of the situation, (beginning with the German occupation of the Netherlands and their harsh treatment of Jewish citizens) she took it upon herself to go to the Gestapo headquarters in Amsterdam, dressed in her finest clothing and speaking only in French in order to talk to a high-ranking German official, in order to plead her case to have her children removed as members of the Jewish congregation. She cited that her husband had registered them without her knowledge, and that she wished to have the registration reversed, and it worked. Probably because of her actions, the Van Maarsen family survived the war. Although Mr. Van Maarsen was at first upset that his wife had done such a thing, he came to appreciate her efforts, especially when he was spared from reporting to a concentration camp because he had married a Catholic. Jacque recalled the transformation of going from Jewish to non-Jewish. She was able to remove the yellow star from all of her clothing, she could walk on the streets without fear of the German soldiers’ scrutinizing glare as she passed by. She could go into any shop, any ice cream store, or any place she wanted to. Suddenly, she realized all of the freedoms that she had taken for granted before the war. Sadly, though, she watched many friends and relatives disappear around her; many of which would never return, and she hoped that the war would soon be over so that her best friend, Anne, and countless others, could come home.
Personal rating: (**** Great!, *** Good, ** Ok, * A disappointment) ****
Rationale: Very well-written; a book you cannot put down; an excellent read that will make you want to laugh (some) and cry (a lot).
Information for teachers
Reading level: 6.9 Interest level: 6-8
Thematic Areas: Friendship; Family; War; Hard Times; Religious Persecution; Survival.
Content Areas: History; Religion; Geography.
Potential Problems or Difficulties: For example, print size, length, sophisticated vocabulary, harsh view of life, slow moving, swearing, explicit sexual overtones, gory
There are some disturbing details of the Holocaust, as well as a few areas of sexual overtones. Use caution among these areas in the book when sharing it with students.
Possible use in classroom: Use as part of a unit of study on the Holocaust (late Elementary at the earliest); use as part of a unit on the study of World War II, plotting the impacted areas on a global map. Use different colored tacks to designate German-occupied areas and Allied Forces; study the timeline of WWII; use as part of a unit on religion (stressing freedom and diversity).
Information for students
Author: Jacqueline Van Maarsen Title: A Friend Called Anne
Book Genre: Biography Publishing Info: Penguin Group, 163 pp.
Summary: This book is about Jacqueline Van Maarsen, who was the best friend of the now famous Anne Frank (author of The Diary of Anne Frank, which was published after her death). Jacqueline survived the Holocaust to tell her story years later. Anne did not survive, but thanks to the diary she received on her thirteenth birthday (which was to be her last birthday of freedom), the world can still know her story. Jacqueline has an intriquing story of her own, as her family did not go into hiding during the 1940’s as the Franks did. Her father was Jewish, and her mother was a Catholic who was formerly from Paris. Since Jacque’s father was Jewish, she and her sister were registered as Jewish as well. However, when her mother began to realize the depth of the situation, (beginning with the German occupation of the Netherlands and their harsh treatment of Jewish citizens) she took it upon herself to go to the Gestapo headquarters in Amsterdam, dressed in her finest clothing and speaking only in French in order to talk to a high-ranking German official, in order to plead her case to have her children removed as members of the Jewish congregation. She cited that her husband had registered them without her knowledge, and that she wished to have the registration reversed, and it worked. Probably because of her actions, the Van Maarsen family survived the war. Although Mr. Van Maarsen was at first upset that his wife had done such a thing, he came to appreciate her efforts, especially when he was spared from reporting to a concentration camp because he had married a Catholic. Jacque recalled the transformation of going from Jewish to non-Jewish. She was able to remove the yellow star from all of her clothing, she could walk on the streets without fear of the German soldiers’ scrutinizing glare as she passed by. She could go into any shop, any ice cream store, or any place she wanted to. Suddenly, she realized all of the freedoms that she had taken for granted before the war. Sadly, though, she watched many friends and relatives disappear around her; many of which would never return, and she hoped that the war would soon be over so that her best friend, Anne, and countless others, could come home.
Personal rating: (**** Great!, *** Good, ** Ok, * A disappointment) ****
Rationale: Very well-written; a book you cannot put down; an excellent read that will make you want to laugh (some) and cry (a lot).
Information for teachers
Reading level: 6.9 Interest level: 6-8
Thematic Areas: Friendship; Family; War; Hard Times; Religious Persecution; Survival.
Content Areas: History; Religion; Geography.
Potential Problems or Difficulties: For example, print size, length, sophisticated vocabulary, harsh view of life, slow moving, swearing, explicit sexual overtones, gory
There are some disturbing details of the Holocaust, as well as a few areas of sexual overtones. Use caution among these areas in the book when sharing it with students.
Possible use in classroom: Use as part of a unit of study on the Holocaust (late Elementary at the earliest); use as part of a unit on the study of World War II, plotting the impacted areas on a global map. Use different colored tacks to designate German-occupied areas and Allied Forces; study the timeline of WWII; use as part of a unit on religion (stressing freedom and diversity).
Our Only May Amelia
Author: Jennifer L. Holm
Title: Our Only May Amelia
Book Genre: Realistic Fiction/Historical
Publishing Info: Harper Collins, 251, pp
Summary: Poor little twelve-year-old May Amelia, the only female sibling out of eight.
Well actually, she is the only female who has been born in Nasal. Everyone is always telling her she needs to be a fine young lady but she refuses. She wants to do all the fun things boys get to do especially if her seven brothers are her only friends. May learns about life when she is presented with responsibility after her mother bears little Amy Alice Jackson and becomes ill. Her and her closest brother Wilbert set out to Astoria to live and see things they would never see in their little town, Nasal River. May Amelia was always ready for a challenge! This book is a great adventure. This story was actually inspired by the authors great-aunt’s diary writings that were found in a old suitcase at her grandmother’s house. I believe this book would be suitable for 5th-8th grade.
Personal Rating: ****
Rationale: Believable characters; Great plot; good historical background; Some of the punctuation and use of quotation marks were hard to follow, but the story line kept you intrigued.
Thematic Areas: Finnish culture; history; survival; farm life; 1899 lifestyle; death
Content Areas: Language Arts, Social Studies, History
Reading Level: 6.5 Interest Level: 5th-8th
Possible problems or difficulties: There is a very vivid description of a death of a Indian woman written in this story. There is also a death of a young infant.
Possible uses in the classroom: Language Arts: Have the students do a history search on their ancestors and living family members. Have them conduct interviews with their family members and also allow them to do internet research.
Geography: In part with the language arts activity, after they have researched their family history have each student draw a map including the origin of their family and where they migrated and where his/her family live now.Art: Have the students make dolls like May Amelia had (rag dolls) and have some students lake ships out of materials such as popsicle sticks or any other supplies provided, and hold a contest of the dolls and the ships.
Title: Our Only May Amelia
Book Genre: Realistic Fiction/Historical
Publishing Info: Harper Collins, 251, pp
Summary: Poor little twelve-year-old May Amelia, the only female sibling out of eight.
Well actually, she is the only female who has been born in Nasal. Everyone is always telling her she needs to be a fine young lady but she refuses. She wants to do all the fun things boys get to do especially if her seven brothers are her only friends. May learns about life when she is presented with responsibility after her mother bears little Amy Alice Jackson and becomes ill. Her and her closest brother Wilbert set out to Astoria to live and see things they would never see in their little town, Nasal River. May Amelia was always ready for a challenge! This book is a great adventure. This story was actually inspired by the authors great-aunt’s diary writings that were found in a old suitcase at her grandmother’s house. I believe this book would be suitable for 5th-8th grade.
Personal Rating: ****
Rationale: Believable characters; Great plot; good historical background; Some of the punctuation and use of quotation marks were hard to follow, but the story line kept you intrigued.
Thematic Areas: Finnish culture; history; survival; farm life; 1899 lifestyle; death
Content Areas: Language Arts, Social Studies, History
Reading Level: 6.5 Interest Level: 5th-8th
Possible problems or difficulties: There is a very vivid description of a death of a Indian woman written in this story. There is also a death of a young infant.
Possible uses in the classroom: Language Arts: Have the students do a history search on their ancestors and living family members. Have them conduct interviews with their family members and also allow them to do internet research.
Geography: In part with the language arts activity, after they have researched their family history have each student draw a map including the origin of their family and where they migrated and where his/her family live now.Art: Have the students make dolls like May Amelia had (rag dolls) and have some students lake ships out of materials such as popsicle sticks or any other supplies provided, and hold a contest of the dolls and the ships.
L. Frank Baum: Royal Historian of Oz
Author: Angelica Shirley Carpenter & Jean Shirley
Title: L. Frank Baum: Royal Historian of Oz
Book Genre: Biography
Publishing Info: Lerner Publications, 139 pp
Summary: Wow! Anyone who appreciated/or did not appreciate the film The Wonderful Wizard of Oz , will surely appreciate Frank Baum’s work after reading this biography. The book begins with Baum’s life as a child who suffered from severe health problems, but managed to find a dream and passion that would not interact with his heart conditions. The authors have deeply researched Baum’s life and accomplishments to write this book. I personally had no idea about the other 13 Oz stories. This book talks about his journey’s in and out of the states. When Baum died in 1919, his legacy still continued. Most people are only familiar with the 1939 classic film released by MGM of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, but that production did not involve Frank, only his ideas from his book. “The Wizard of Oz is one of the 25 film titles to be protected as “national treasure” under the National Preservation Act of 1988.”
Personal Rating: *****
Rationale: Well-written, well researched material, detailed, great photos included
Reading Level: 7.2 Interest Level: 4th-8th
Thematic Areas: Determination, character, values, culture, diversity, perserverance
Subject Content: Social Studies, Language Arts, Geography
Possible problems or difficulties: N/A
Possible uses in the classroom: For a Geography lesson: Frank Baum and his wife Maud traveled all around the world, where he would write and get ideas. Have the students do a map of the places that Frank Baum traveled.
For a Social Studies unit, have the students do a timeline of events that happened in his lifetime.
For a language arts activity, have the students choose two of his Oz books and have them compare and contrast the characters, setting, and plot.
Also, have the students get into literature circle groups and choose one of the Oz books by Frank Baum to read and discuss.
Title: L. Frank Baum: Royal Historian of Oz
Book Genre: Biography
Publishing Info: Lerner Publications, 139 pp
Summary: Wow! Anyone who appreciated/or did not appreciate the film The Wonderful Wizard of Oz , will surely appreciate Frank Baum’s work after reading this biography. The book begins with Baum’s life as a child who suffered from severe health problems, but managed to find a dream and passion that would not interact with his heart conditions. The authors have deeply researched Baum’s life and accomplishments to write this book. I personally had no idea about the other 13 Oz stories. This book talks about his journey’s in and out of the states. When Baum died in 1919, his legacy still continued. Most people are only familiar with the 1939 classic film released by MGM of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, but that production did not involve Frank, only his ideas from his book. “The Wizard of Oz is one of the 25 film titles to be protected as “national treasure” under the National Preservation Act of 1988.”
Personal Rating: *****
Rationale: Well-written, well researched material, detailed, great photos included
Reading Level: 7.2 Interest Level: 4th-8th
Thematic Areas: Determination, character, values, culture, diversity, perserverance
Subject Content: Social Studies, Language Arts, Geography
Possible problems or difficulties: N/A
Possible uses in the classroom: For a Geography lesson: Frank Baum and his wife Maud traveled all around the world, where he would write and get ideas. Have the students do a map of the places that Frank Baum traveled.
For a Social Studies unit, have the students do a timeline of events that happened in his lifetime.
For a language arts activity, have the students choose two of his Oz books and have them compare and contrast the characters, setting, and plot.
Also, have the students get into literature circle groups and choose one of the Oz books by Frank Baum to read and discuss.
Cnameleons Are Cool
Author: Martin Jenkins Title: Chameleons Are Cool
Book Genre: Informational Book Publishing Info: Candlewick Press, 29 pp
Summary: The book brings to life the appealing aspects of one of the 4,000 lizards around the world, the chameleon. The book uses great illustration and data to enlighten young readers. The young boy narrating the story talks about the chameleon being the coolest reptile in the world because of their different sizes, features, and appetites. This is a great informational book that will attract young readers!
Personal Rating: ****
Rationale: Well-written, great illustrations, accurate info, text is clear and interesting
Reading Level: 4.8 Interest Level: K-3rd
Thematic Areas: Chameleon’s, reptiles, habitat, survival
Subject Content: Science, Art, Geography
Possible problems or difficulties: N/A
Possible uses in the classroom: Art: In the book there are many physical characteristics mentioned about the chameleon. Have the students list some of these characteristics on the board and them have them draw their own chameleon, including the characteristics.
For a geography lesson, have the students locate Madagascar, Africa, where the chameleons come from. After they have located it on the map have them use the Internet to find one small fact about this area and share in a discussion circle.
For a Science lesson on reptiles use this book to read aloud to the class before starting the unit. I think this book will really get their attention.
Book Genre: Informational Book Publishing Info: Candlewick Press, 29 pp
Summary: The book brings to life the appealing aspects of one of the 4,000 lizards around the world, the chameleon. The book uses great illustration and data to enlighten young readers. The young boy narrating the story talks about the chameleon being the coolest reptile in the world because of their different sizes, features, and appetites. This is a great informational book that will attract young readers!
Personal Rating: ****
Rationale: Well-written, great illustrations, accurate info, text is clear and interesting
Reading Level: 4.8 Interest Level: K-3rd
Thematic Areas: Chameleon’s, reptiles, habitat, survival
Subject Content: Science, Art, Geography
Possible problems or difficulties: N/A
Possible uses in the classroom: Art: In the book there are many physical characteristics mentioned about the chameleon. Have the students list some of these characteristics on the board and them have them draw their own chameleon, including the characteristics.
For a geography lesson, have the students locate Madagascar, Africa, where the chameleons come from. After they have located it on the map have them use the Internet to find one small fact about this area and share in a discussion circle.
For a Science lesson on reptiles use this book to read aloud to the class before starting the unit. I think this book will really get their attention.
Monday, July 28, 2008
From Caterpillar to Butterfly
BOOK ENTRY FORMAT FOR GENRE PROJECT
Information for students
Author: Deborah Heiligman Title: From Caterpillar to Butterfly
Book Genre: Informational Publishing Info: Harper Collins Publishers, 32 pp.
Summary: A caterpillar comes to school in a jar. The class watches the caterpillar each day as it grows and changes. Soon, it disappears into a hard shell called a chrysalis. Then the chrysalis breaks, and a beautiful butterfly flies out of the jar! This is a perfect beginner's guide to the mystery of metamorphosis. This book is an introductory science book for very young children. It tells the familiar story of a caterpillar and its metamorphosis in easy text with plenty of clear, helpful illustrations. At the end there are pictures of some common butterflies and a short list of places to visit butterflies.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: excellent display of information and pictures, love the fact that it is an informational book but at the same time has a story line to it.
Information for teachers
Reading level: N/A (long words) Interest level: k-5th
Thematic Areas: caterpillars, butterflies, nature, curiosity
Content Areas: science
Potential Problems or Difficulties: N/A
Possible use in classroom: use in science unit when learning about butterflies, have students participate in a field trip involving the talk of butterflies. Have students research on butterflies and write up a one page essay on what they’ve learned, let them be creative with the assignment including pictures etc. Students can participate in an outdoor activity during a lesson and have them explore the woods (if one is around) or a garden and see what butterflies really do. Have students study the differences between each kind of butterfly. Maybe have the students do the same experiment as the students in the book did so they can really see a caterpillar form into a butterfly
Information for students
Author: Deborah Heiligman Title: From Caterpillar to Butterfly
Book Genre: Informational Publishing Info: Harper Collins Publishers, 32 pp.
Summary: A caterpillar comes to school in a jar. The class watches the caterpillar each day as it grows and changes. Soon, it disappears into a hard shell called a chrysalis. Then the chrysalis breaks, and a beautiful butterfly flies out of the jar! This is a perfect beginner's guide to the mystery of metamorphosis. This book is an introductory science book for very young children. It tells the familiar story of a caterpillar and its metamorphosis in easy text with plenty of clear, helpful illustrations. At the end there are pictures of some common butterflies and a short list of places to visit butterflies.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: excellent display of information and pictures, love the fact that it is an informational book but at the same time has a story line to it.
Information for teachers
Reading level: N/A (long words) Interest level: k-5th
Thematic Areas: caterpillars, butterflies, nature, curiosity
Content Areas: science
Potential Problems or Difficulties: N/A
Possible use in classroom: use in science unit when learning about butterflies, have students participate in a field trip involving the talk of butterflies. Have students research on butterflies and write up a one page essay on what they’ve learned, let them be creative with the assignment including pictures etc. Students can participate in an outdoor activity during a lesson and have them explore the woods (if one is around) or a garden and see what butterflies really do. Have students study the differences between each kind of butterfly. Maybe have the students do the same experiment as the students in the book did so they can really see a caterpillar form into a butterfly
Wood-Song
Information for students
Author: Gary Paulsen Title: Wood-Song
Book Genre: autobiography Publishing Info: Bradbury Press
Summary: This is a great book for the adventurists. Gary Paulsen has always wanted to take his dogs to Alaska and participate in a dogsled race. This is Paulsen autobiography of the 17 days it took him and his dogs to go over the finish line. It is told with beauty and humor.
Personal rating: *****
Pages: 144
Rationale: good book for people that love adventure and nature, loved the map of Iditarod so when you are reading the story you know where Paulsen is
Information for teachers
Reading level: 4.75 Interest level: ages 10-14
Thematic Areas: dog-sledding, sled dogs, Minnesota, nature, social life and customs, outdoor life, Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race
Content Areas: science, geography, language arts
Potential Problems or Difficulties:
Possible use in classroom:
· Learn more about wolves
· Have students to research animals of the Artic
· Have students to find out what the weather in Alaska is right now
· Look up the recipe for Puppy Chow, make and share with the class
· Show students were Minnesota and Alaska are on a map
Author: Gary Paulsen Title: Wood-Song
Book Genre: autobiography Publishing Info: Bradbury Press
Summary: This is a great book for the adventurists. Gary Paulsen has always wanted to take his dogs to Alaska and participate in a dogsled race. This is Paulsen autobiography of the 17 days it took him and his dogs to go over the finish line. It is told with beauty and humor.
Personal rating: *****
Pages: 144
Rationale: good book for people that love adventure and nature, loved the map of Iditarod so when you are reading the story you know where Paulsen is
Information for teachers
Reading level: 4.75 Interest level: ages 10-14
Thematic Areas: dog-sledding, sled dogs, Minnesota, nature, social life and customs, outdoor life, Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race
Content Areas: science, geography, language arts
Potential Problems or Difficulties:
Possible use in classroom:
· Learn more about wolves
· Have students to research animals of the Artic
· Have students to find out what the weather in Alaska is right now
· Look up the recipe for Puppy Chow, make and share with the class
· Show students were Minnesota and Alaska are on a map
The Tale of Three Trees
Author: Angela Elwell Hunt Title: The Tale of Three Trees
Book Genre: Traditional Folktale Publisher: Lion Publishing
Summary: This is a folktale about three trees that live on a mountaintop. Each one dreams about what they want to be when they grow up. Their wishes end up coming true but not in the way they expected. Children will understand the significance of Jesus’ life and suffering.
Personal rating: *****
Pages: 25
Rationale: Loved it, it let’s children know that they have a purpose and why, easy text
Reading level: 2.6 Interest level: pre K-4
Thematic Areas: suffering, forgiveness, strengths, weaknesses, sacrifice
Content Areas: science, religion, Easter, Christmas
Potential Problems or Difficulties: there might be students of other faiths in the classroom, so introduce it as a legend about trees or encourage children to understand other faiths
Possible use in classroom:
· Use to help teach the meaning of Easter
· Use to help teach the meaning of Christmas
· Have a lesson on different kinds of trees
· Have them to journal and illustrate, if they were a tree what type would they be
Book Genre: Traditional Folktale Publisher: Lion Publishing
Summary: This is a folktale about three trees that live on a mountaintop. Each one dreams about what they want to be when they grow up. Their wishes end up coming true but not in the way they expected. Children will understand the significance of Jesus’ life and suffering.
Personal rating: *****
Pages: 25
Rationale: Loved it, it let’s children know that they have a purpose and why, easy text
Reading level: 2.6 Interest level: pre K-4
Thematic Areas: suffering, forgiveness, strengths, weaknesses, sacrifice
Content Areas: science, religion, Easter, Christmas
Potential Problems or Difficulties: there might be students of other faiths in the classroom, so introduce it as a legend about trees or encourage children to understand other faiths
Possible use in classroom:
· Use to help teach the meaning of Easter
· Use to help teach the meaning of Christmas
· Have a lesson on different kinds of trees
· Have them to journal and illustrate, if they were a tree what type would they be
I Pledge Allegiance
Information for students
Author: Bill Martin, Jr. /Michael Sampson Title: I Pledge Allegiance
Book Genre: informational Publisher: Candlewick Press
Summary: So often children memorize the Pledge of Allegiance and have no idea what they are pledging to. This is a great book that breaks down the Pledge by phrases and words, and tells exactly what these words and phrases mean. Even adults will have a better understanding of the Pledge of Allegiance after reading this book.
Personal rating: *****
Pages: 40
Rationale: wonderfully written book, easy to read, illustrations match the text
Information for teachers
Reading level: 2.6 Interest level: ages 4-8
Thematic Areas: the pledge of allegiance, flag, promise, loyalty, states, United States of America, God, liberty, justice
Content Areas: social studies, history, state history, geography, art
Potential Problems or Difficulties: I do not foresee any problems
Possible use in classroom:
· Further explain to students what pledges mean, ask children to think of examples of other pledges that people make, such as marriage vows, Girl and Boy Scout pledges, pledge to do their homework; have them write down or read aloud a pledge that they have made
· Some of the concepts of the Pledge of Allegiance are connected with famous symbols, including the Statue of Liberty. Discuss these symbols and have your students to draw one of their choice
· Revisit the page that describes the United States. Together, list your own state’s name, song, bird, flower, favorite food, flag and anything else your state is known for. Have students to draw pictures of your state based upon the items on your list.
· Find a book about Betsy Ross and teach children her story of how the first American flag was made. Give students red, white and blue strips of paper and let them make their own flag.
Author: Bill Martin, Jr. /Michael Sampson Title: I Pledge Allegiance
Book Genre: informational Publisher: Candlewick Press
Summary: So often children memorize the Pledge of Allegiance and have no idea what they are pledging to. This is a great book that breaks down the Pledge by phrases and words, and tells exactly what these words and phrases mean. Even adults will have a better understanding of the Pledge of Allegiance after reading this book.
Personal rating: *****
Pages: 40
Rationale: wonderfully written book, easy to read, illustrations match the text
Information for teachers
Reading level: 2.6 Interest level: ages 4-8
Thematic Areas: the pledge of allegiance, flag, promise, loyalty, states, United States of America, God, liberty, justice
Content Areas: social studies, history, state history, geography, art
Potential Problems or Difficulties: I do not foresee any problems
Possible use in classroom:
· Further explain to students what pledges mean, ask children to think of examples of other pledges that people make, such as marriage vows, Girl and Boy Scout pledges, pledge to do their homework; have them write down or read aloud a pledge that they have made
· Some of the concepts of the Pledge of Allegiance are connected with famous symbols, including the Statue of Liberty. Discuss these symbols and have your students to draw one of their choice
· Revisit the page that describes the United States. Together, list your own state’s name, song, bird, flower, favorite food, flag and anything else your state is known for. Have students to draw pictures of your state based upon the items on your list.
· Find a book about Betsy Ross and teach children her story of how the first American flag was made. Give students red, white and blue strips of paper and let them make their own flag.
The Amazing Life of Benjamin Franklin
Information for students
Author: James Cross Giblin Title: The Amazing Life of Benjamin Franklin
Book Genre: biography Publisher: Scholastic Press
Summary: This book is about the life of Benjamin Franklin and how amazing his life was. It discusses the challenges that Franklin had in this life with family, businesses, and illnesses. We also learn about his successes, inventions and accomplishments during his life making him the “wisest American” of his time. In the back of the book are “Important Dates” in his life, “Franklin the Inventor,” “Sayings from Poor Richard’s Almanac” and “Historical Sites Associated with Benjamin Franklin.”
Personal rating: *****
Pages: 48
Rationale: loved how the author tells the facts and does not romanticize the story, very informative with illustrations that match the text, a must read
Information for teachers
Reading level: 6.6 Interest level: grades 3-6
Thematic Areas: family, challenges, printer, inventor, statesman, scientist, Revolutionary War, Poor Richard’s Almanac, taxes, U.S. Constitution
Content Areas: social studies, geography, language arts, arts & humanities, science, literature
Potential Problems or Difficulties: I do not foresee any problems
Possible use in classroom:
· Have students to list all the places that Franklin traveled and lived, on a big map let them take turns and show you and the class where these places are
· Let students research the club Junto that Franklin started
· In science, discuss the importance of the discovery of electricity, maybe do an experiment on electricity
· Discuss Franklin’s important role of writing the U.S. Constitution
Author: James Cross Giblin Title: The Amazing Life of Benjamin Franklin
Book Genre: biography Publisher: Scholastic Press
Summary: This book is about the life of Benjamin Franklin and how amazing his life was. It discusses the challenges that Franklin had in this life with family, businesses, and illnesses. We also learn about his successes, inventions and accomplishments during his life making him the “wisest American” of his time. In the back of the book are “Important Dates” in his life, “Franklin the Inventor,” “Sayings from Poor Richard’s Almanac” and “Historical Sites Associated with Benjamin Franklin.”
Personal rating: *****
Pages: 48
Rationale: loved how the author tells the facts and does not romanticize the story, very informative with illustrations that match the text, a must read
Information for teachers
Reading level: 6.6 Interest level: grades 3-6
Thematic Areas: family, challenges, printer, inventor, statesman, scientist, Revolutionary War, Poor Richard’s Almanac, taxes, U.S. Constitution
Content Areas: social studies, geography, language arts, arts & humanities, science, literature
Potential Problems or Difficulties: I do not foresee any problems
Possible use in classroom:
· Have students to list all the places that Franklin traveled and lived, on a big map let them take turns and show you and the class where these places are
· Let students research the club Junto that Franklin started
· In science, discuss the importance of the discovery of electricity, maybe do an experiment on electricity
· Discuss Franklin’s important role of writing the U.S. Constitution
Giraffes Can't Dance
Author: Giles Andrae Title: Giraffes Can’t Dance
Book Genre: Animal Fantasy Publisher: Orchard Books
Summary: Gerald the Giraffe dreads the “Jungle Dance” every year because he is clumsy and cannot dance. The other animals make fun of him because he can’t dance. One day he meets a cricket that teaches him that we all can dance when we find the “music” that we love. This book is a great read-aloud and is wonderfully illustrated that will captivate your students.
Personal rating: *****
Pages: 32
Rationale: Loved this book because it teaches friendship, belonging and prejudice in rhyme. The illustrator uses vibrant colors to attract the reader.
Reading level: 3.80 Interest level: K-2
Thematic Areas: identity, friendship, belonging, courage, prejudice, being different, encouragement
Content Areas: self-esteem, dance, animals, friends, art, music, confronting and resolving fears, understanding self and others
Potential Problems or Difficulties: none
Possible use in classroom:
· Discuss with your students what they would like to be successful in at home or school
· Teach about Africa
· Teach a lesson on giraffes
· Have them draw a giraffe
· Talk to the students about the music that they love and make a chart to show popularity
· Let students bring in their favorite music and let everyone dance to it
Book Genre: Animal Fantasy Publisher: Orchard Books
Summary: Gerald the Giraffe dreads the “Jungle Dance” every year because he is clumsy and cannot dance. The other animals make fun of him because he can’t dance. One day he meets a cricket that teaches him that we all can dance when we find the “music” that we love. This book is a great read-aloud and is wonderfully illustrated that will captivate your students.
Personal rating: *****
Pages: 32
Rationale: Loved this book because it teaches friendship, belonging and prejudice in rhyme. The illustrator uses vibrant colors to attract the reader.
Reading level: 3.80 Interest level: K-2
Thematic Areas: identity, friendship, belonging, courage, prejudice, being different, encouragement
Content Areas: self-esteem, dance, animals, friends, art, music, confronting and resolving fears, understanding self and others
Potential Problems or Difficulties: none
Possible use in classroom:
· Discuss with your students what they would like to be successful in at home or school
· Teach about Africa
· Teach a lesson on giraffes
· Have them draw a giraffe
· Talk to the students about the music that they love and make a chart to show popularity
· Let students bring in their favorite music and let everyone dance to it
The Invisible Princess
Information for students
Author: Faith Ringgold Title: The Invisible Princess
Book Genre: Multicultural/African American Publisher: Dragonfly Books
Summary: Mama and Papa Love wanted to have a baby, but did not want the child to be raised as a slave. They had a baby girl and a The Prince of the Night whisked her away. Later on in the story The Invisible Princess takes everyone from the cotton fields, including the slave master’s daughter, to the Invisible Village of Peace, Hope and Love.
Personal rating: ****
Pages: 32
Rationale: I felt like this was a good story teaching peace, hope and love. As with all of Faith Ringgold’s books, the illustrations are wonderful.
Information for teachers
Reading level: 4.2 Interest level: Ages 2nd -4th grade
Thematic Areas: kindness, patience, love, cruelty, greediness, evil
Content Areas: language arts, social studies, music, art, movement
Potential Problems or Difficulties: At times I felt like this story was a little slow.
Possible use in classroom:
· Talk to the students about the mood of the story. Have them draw pictures for the story that relays that mood.
· Could be used to educate children on slavery and how wrong it was
· Could be used to talk about the unconditional love that Mama and Papa love had for their newborn baby girl
· Could bring in music that pertains to this era in our history, let the children listen to the words and then dance to it
Author: Faith Ringgold Title: The Invisible Princess
Book Genre: Multicultural/African American Publisher: Dragonfly Books
Summary: Mama and Papa Love wanted to have a baby, but did not want the child to be raised as a slave. They had a baby girl and a The Prince of the Night whisked her away. Later on in the story The Invisible Princess takes everyone from the cotton fields, including the slave master’s daughter, to the Invisible Village of Peace, Hope and Love.
Personal rating: ****
Pages: 32
Rationale: I felt like this was a good story teaching peace, hope and love. As with all of Faith Ringgold’s books, the illustrations are wonderful.
Information for teachers
Reading level: 4.2 Interest level: Ages 2nd -4th grade
Thematic Areas: kindness, patience, love, cruelty, greediness, evil
Content Areas: language arts, social studies, music, art, movement
Potential Problems or Difficulties: At times I felt like this story was a little slow.
Possible use in classroom:
· Talk to the students about the mood of the story. Have them draw pictures for the story that relays that mood.
· Could be used to educate children on slavery and how wrong it was
· Could be used to talk about the unconditional love that Mama and Papa love had for their newborn baby girl
· Could bring in music that pertains to this era in our history, let the children listen to the words and then dance to it
Amazing Grace
Information for students
Author: Mary Hoffman Title: Amazing Grace
Book Genre: Realistic fiction Publisher: Dial Books
Summary: Grace was a little girl who loved stories and loved to act them out. Grace learned that her class was going to present Peter Pan and she knew that she would make a good Peter Pan. Her classmates told her that she could not play the part because Peter Pan was not black.
Personal rating: *****
Pages: 32
Rationale: liked this book, easy to read, great illustrations, teaches equality
Information for teachers
Reading level: 3.5 Interest level: Ages 4-8
Thematic Areas: discrimination, emotions, encouragement, growing up
Content Areas: social studies, language arts
Potential Problems or Difficulties: I do not foresee any problems
Possible use in classroom:
· Give certain journal prompts for the student to write like, “A Dream Can Come True If,”, “Going to the Ballet would be…”; “Someone is called amazing if…”
· Have students to list three things they want to be now or when they grow up
· Compare another self-concept book to this one , for instance “Rainbow Fish”
· Tell students that they are capable of accomplishing their dreams and goals no matter what others say, if they put their minds and hearts into it. It does not matter what race or gender they are, they need to be proud of themselves and believe that can do whatever they want to. Have a discussion regarding this topic.
Author: Mary Hoffman Title: Amazing Grace
Book Genre: Realistic fiction Publisher: Dial Books
Summary: Grace was a little girl who loved stories and loved to act them out. Grace learned that her class was going to present Peter Pan and she knew that she would make a good Peter Pan. Her classmates told her that she could not play the part because Peter Pan was not black.
Personal rating: *****
Pages: 32
Rationale: liked this book, easy to read, great illustrations, teaches equality
Information for teachers
Reading level: 3.5 Interest level: Ages 4-8
Thematic Areas: discrimination, emotions, encouragement, growing up
Content Areas: social studies, language arts
Potential Problems or Difficulties: I do not foresee any problems
Possible use in classroom:
· Give certain journal prompts for the student to write like, “A Dream Can Come True If,”, “Going to the Ballet would be…”; “Someone is called amazing if…”
· Have students to list three things they want to be now or when they grow up
· Compare another self-concept book to this one , for instance “Rainbow Fish”
· Tell students that they are capable of accomplishing their dreams and goals no matter what others say, if they put their minds and hearts into it. It does not matter what race or gender they are, they need to be proud of themselves and believe that can do whatever they want to. Have a discussion regarding this topic.
Rain Forests
Information for students
Author: Osborne, Will & Osborne, Mary Pope Title: Magic Tree House Research Guide:
Rain Forests
Book Genre: Informational Publishing Info: Random House; 119 pp.
Summary: Rain Forests is a book children will enjoy reading, as well as learning about many rain forest species, such as Goliath Beetles, Army Ants, Tropical Pitcher Plants, and the People of the Rain Forest. Jack and Annie will guide you through your reading adventure with interesting facts, maps, diagrams, and pictures. The authors suggest additional books to read, websites to visit, and videos to watch about the rain forest. The reader will learn the answers to questions like: How much rain falls in the rain forest? What is the world’s heaviest insect? Let the learning begin!
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: excellent display of information; information is organized in a logical sequence; clear and interesting text; appropriate vocabulary; glossary; maps; reference aids; uncluttered visuals
Information for teachers
Reading level: 5.0 Interest level: 1st-6th
Thematic Areas: animals; rain forest; exploring;
Content Areas: science; mathematics; computers; art; language arts
Potential Problems or Difficulties: black and white pictures
Possible use in classroom: use in a science unit about the rain forest; do this unit near a field trip to the zoo; explore activities at www.randomhouse.com/magictreehouse during computer time; make a booklet of rain forest animal (draw or use picture clipping) with facts; experiment how long it would take for a sloth to move across the classroom (sloths can cross a living room in one hour); find products in the classroom/school that came originated from the rain forest; use various Magic Tree House Research Guide books for literature circles
Teachers can access activities to all Magic Tree House Research Guide books at http://www.randomhouse.com/teachers/magicth/guides/researchguide.html
Author: Osborne, Will & Osborne, Mary Pope Title: Magic Tree House Research Guide:
Rain Forests
Book Genre: Informational Publishing Info: Random House; 119 pp.
Summary: Rain Forests is a book children will enjoy reading, as well as learning about many rain forest species, such as Goliath Beetles, Army Ants, Tropical Pitcher Plants, and the People of the Rain Forest. Jack and Annie will guide you through your reading adventure with interesting facts, maps, diagrams, and pictures. The authors suggest additional books to read, websites to visit, and videos to watch about the rain forest. The reader will learn the answers to questions like: How much rain falls in the rain forest? What is the world’s heaviest insect? Let the learning begin!
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: excellent display of information; information is organized in a logical sequence; clear and interesting text; appropriate vocabulary; glossary; maps; reference aids; uncluttered visuals
Information for teachers
Reading level: 5.0 Interest level: 1st-6th
Thematic Areas: animals; rain forest; exploring;
Content Areas: science; mathematics; computers; art; language arts
Potential Problems or Difficulties: black and white pictures
Possible use in classroom: use in a science unit about the rain forest; do this unit near a field trip to the zoo; explore activities at www.randomhouse.com/magictreehouse during computer time; make a booklet of rain forest animal (draw or use picture clipping) with facts; experiment how long it would take for a sloth to move across the classroom (sloths can cross a living room in one hour); find products in the classroom/school that came originated from the rain forest; use various Magic Tree House Research Guide books for literature circles
Teachers can access activities to all Magic Tree House Research Guide books at http://www.randomhouse.com/teachers/magicth/guides/researchguide.html
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Salt in His Shoes
Author: Deloris Jordan Title: Salt in His Shoes
Book Genre: Biography
Publishing Info: Simon & Schuster, NY 2000 (29pgs)
Summary: This story is told from the viewpoint of Michael Jordan’s mom. It takes place when he is a young child and gets discouraged because of his height. He wants and desires to become taller, so that when he goes to play basketball with his brothers and their friends, he can be a better player. He learns that it is not about his height, but rather his determination and will to become better by practicing.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: This is a story of determination that children of all ages can be encouraged by. It talks about struggle and discouragement, yet overcoming the things we cannot change. The illustrations are fun for young children, who cannot read the story on their own.
Reading level: 3.6 Interest level: K-5th
Thematic Areas: Struggle, discouragement, determination, success, family values and encouragement
Content Areas: History, physical education, health, character
Potential Problems or Difficulties: This story could give some students false hope that they can become professional basketball players.
Possible use in classroom: Have the students research more struggles that Michael Jordan had when trying to play basketball throughout life. Have students journal on things, activities, etc. that they struggle with and ways in which they can overcome the struggles. Have the students get into groups of 3-4, and come up with a skit, of how they can encourage someone that is discouraged about something.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Names Will Never Hurt Me
Information for Students
Author: Jaime Adoff Title: Names Will Never Hurt Me
Genre: Realistic Fiction Publishing Info: Dutton pp. 186
Summary: Four totally different high school students share their deepest feelings and fears as they go through a day of high school. There is Kurt the “freak” who listens to loud music and is always getting bullied, Tisha the biracial girl who is always feeling out of place, Ryan the star football player who is very popular but is hiding a horrible secret, and Floater who has power and authority over his peers because he is the principals eyes and ears. As the day unfolds tension rises and emotions reach the breaking point will the four teenagers come together and survive the day?
Personal Rating: ****
Rationale: Well written, emotional and eye-opening plot, relatable characters, and realistic problems that take place everyday in the halls of any high school.
Information for Teachers
Reading Level: 3.7 Interest Level: 7th-12th
Thematic Areas: Racism; friendship; belonging; abuse; bullying; socializing; acceptance; survival; identity; violence
Content Areas: Psychology; sociology; peer pressure; adolescent tribulations
Potential Problems or Difficulties: Harsh view of a life of a teenager, swearing, and explicit sexual overtones
Possible use in classroom: Have a specialist on violence and bullying come into the classroom and talk to the students about this issue. Have students search the internet (Google) schools that have dealt with violence in schools and discuss discoveries. Divide students into groups of four and assign each group one of the teenagers’ characters portrayed in the book. In groups students will choose a scene from the book related to their character and perform a skit. Students should discuss why they choose that scene and share their feelings about the scene. Groups should write down their characters strengths and weakness and discuss them with the class.
Author: Jaime Adoff Title: Names Will Never Hurt Me
Genre: Realistic Fiction Publishing Info: Dutton pp. 186
Summary: Four totally different high school students share their deepest feelings and fears as they go through a day of high school. There is Kurt the “freak” who listens to loud music and is always getting bullied, Tisha the biracial girl who is always feeling out of place, Ryan the star football player who is very popular but is hiding a horrible secret, and Floater who has power and authority over his peers because he is the principals eyes and ears. As the day unfolds tension rises and emotions reach the breaking point will the four teenagers come together and survive the day?
Personal Rating: ****
Rationale: Well written, emotional and eye-opening plot, relatable characters, and realistic problems that take place everyday in the halls of any high school.
Information for Teachers
Reading Level: 3.7 Interest Level: 7th-12th
Thematic Areas: Racism; friendship; belonging; abuse; bullying; socializing; acceptance; survival; identity; violence
Content Areas: Psychology; sociology; peer pressure; adolescent tribulations
Potential Problems or Difficulties: Harsh view of a life of a teenager, swearing, and explicit sexual overtones
Possible use in classroom: Have a specialist on violence and bullying come into the classroom and talk to the students about this issue. Have students search the internet (Google) schools that have dealt with violence in schools and discuss discoveries. Divide students into groups of four and assign each group one of the teenagers’ characters portrayed in the book. In groups students will choose a scene from the book related to their character and perform a skit. Students should discuss why they choose that scene and share their feelings about the scene. Groups should write down their characters strengths and weakness and discuss them with the class.
Angie Blair
Friday, July 25, 2008
Happy Birthday Martin Luther King
Author: Marzollo, Jean Title: Happy Birthday Martin Luther King
(A BIG BOOK)
Book Genre: Biography Publishing Info: Scholastic, 28 pp.
Summary: This is an abbreviated story about the life and accomplishments of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. In the story it tells about his untimely death as well. The story follows his life from the time of his birth to his untimely death.
Personal rating: **** Great
(A BIG BOOK)
Book Genre: Biography Publishing Info: Scholastic, 28 pp.
Summary: This is an abbreviated story about the life and accomplishments of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. In the story it tells about his untimely death as well. The story follows his life from the time of his birth to his untimely death.
Personal rating: **** Great
Rationale: This brief version of the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is well written for younger audiences. This big book would be a great resource for introducing elementary children to this part of our history. The artwork in the book is excellent.
Reading level: 3.1 Interest level: K-3
Themes: Leadership, Responsibility, Death, Freedom
Reading level: 3.1 Interest level: K-3
Themes: Leadership, Responsibility, Death, Freedom
Content Areas: History, Social Studies, Language Arts, Art, Music
Potential Problems or Difficulties: Some children may have a hard time with the part of the text that conveys that Dr. King was shot, and the reading may need to be adjusted accordingly. The teacher could read the text as he died.
Possible use in classroom:
*This book could be used as a resource to go with an introduction of the civil rights movement and what it means. For younger students the text is just enough to get them familiar with this time in our history.
*Students could work together in forming a list of rules (laws) for the classroom which included how the students were to treat one another. (respecting their differences) This would help them connect to the part of the text where King helped to change some of the laws of the land.
*Students could collectively make a chart that listed the laws of our land that they are familiar with.
*To integrate art the teacher could have students color a paper with different colored crayons and then cover the colors with a black ink. Then when the pictures are dry students can use tools to scrape off (draw on) the black to make a picture revealing the colors underneath. Students could even try to “draw” a scene that would be appropriate for the book.
*The teacher could have someone come in and to play and sing some of the music that the Reverend King might have had in his church. Then students could share with each other what types of music they enjoy and maybe even bring in some examples.
*This Big Book format would be good to use in teaching directionality, and fluency.
*Students could create a timeline of the key events of Martin Luther King Jr.’s life.
How Do Frogs Swallow With Their Eyes?
Author: Berger, Melvin and Gilda
Title: How Do Frogs Swallow With Their Their Eyes?
Genre: Informational
Publishing Information: Scholastic Reference, 48 pp.
Summary: This colorful book is filled with all kinds of information about amphibians. Just about anything that you would ever want to know about amphibians can be found in this book. The book gives information such as what amphibians eat, where they live, what sizes they are, and how they camouflage themselves from their enemies, the life cycle of a frog. If you are interested in these creatures this book is for you.
Personal rating: **** Great
Rationale: Well written, great illustrations, great questions and answer format
Reading level: 3.9 Interest level: 2nd – 5th
Thematic Areas: Nature, Environment, Natural Habitats, Amphibians
Content Areas: Animal Science, Math, Language Arts, Movement, Research, Art
Potential Problems or Difficulties: length, sophisticated vocabulary
Possible use in classroom:
Content Areas: Animal Science, Math, Language Arts, Movement, Research, Art
Potential Problems or Difficulties: length, sophisticated vocabulary
Possible use in classroom:
*Students could make a chart comparing and contrasting different characteristics of amphibians mentioned in the book. (length, weight, colors, habitats) Students could cut lengths of yarn to represent the varying lengths of amphibians in the book. Then they could compute the length of one amphibian compared to the other. For example how much longer is the Japanese giant salamander compared to the African Goliath frog?
*The teacher could do a unit study on amphibians and use this book as a resource.
*The teacher could list several different amphibians on separate slips of paper and have students pull out of a “hat” to select which amphibian to conduct research on. Students could even create an art project to go along with the information they find on their subject. Students would pick a method of presenting their information to the class.
*Students could play a game where they move like a certain amphibian (i.e. frog, caecilian, salamander)
*Students could make a poster that showed the life cycle of a frog from egg to adult stage. They could have tadpoles in the classroom so they could watch them grow over time.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
My Great-Aunt Arizona
Information for students
Author: Houston, Gloria Title: My Great-Aunt Arizona
Book Genre: Biography Publishing Info: Harper Collins Publishers;
32 pp.
Summary: This is a touching tale of the life of Arizona. Arizona is described as a tall, thin, vivacious woman who dreams of far-away places. Her childhood is portrayed with perfect imagery. When tragedy struck her family, her plans changed and because of this she became a fabulous teach who touched the lives of many generations. Arizona imparted her dreams into the hearts of her students!
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: high literary merit; rich in content; an enjoyable read; rhythmic text; character’s life is adequately described; qualified author
Information for teachers
Reading level: 4.0 Interest level: K-2nd
Thematic Areas: culture; diversity; values; determination; dreams
Content Areas: Social Studies; language arts
Potential Problems or Difficulties: none foreseen
Possible use in classroom: use in a language arts unit about characterization and finding proof in a story; character chart on Arizona; write sentences that show proof of her character; on the second reading of the story, stop and write down the fact given on that page; make a life cycle for Arizona; write a short story or poem about a family member
Author: Houston, Gloria Title: My Great-Aunt Arizona
Book Genre: Biography Publishing Info: Harper Collins Publishers;
32 pp.
Summary: This is a touching tale of the life of Arizona. Arizona is described as a tall, thin, vivacious woman who dreams of far-away places. Her childhood is portrayed with perfect imagery. When tragedy struck her family, her plans changed and because of this she became a fabulous teach who touched the lives of many generations. Arizona imparted her dreams into the hearts of her students!
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: high literary merit; rich in content; an enjoyable read; rhythmic text; character’s life is adequately described; qualified author
Information for teachers
Reading level: 4.0 Interest level: K-2nd
Thematic Areas: culture; diversity; values; determination; dreams
Content Areas: Social Studies; language arts
Potential Problems or Difficulties: none foreseen
Possible use in classroom: use in a language arts unit about characterization and finding proof in a story; character chart on Arizona; write sentences that show proof of her character; on the second reading of the story, stop and write down the fact given on that page; make a life cycle for Arizona; write a short story or poem about a family member
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Look, Listen, Taste, Touch, and Smell
Author: Pamela Hill Nettleton Title: Look, Listen, Taste, Touch, and Smell
Book Genre: Informational
Publishing Info: Picture Window Books, MN, 2004 (24pgs)
Summary: The story uses the person reading the book as the main character. This is an introduction of the five senses and the parts of the body that performs sight, smell, taste, hearing, and touch. It goes through the five senses and how you use them. It makes you think of times and ways in which you use your senses.
Personal rating: ****
Rationale: This book is very helpful in explaining how each one of the senses are important and giving details of how people use them. The pictures are very helpful in getting the authors story across.
Information for teachers
Reading level: 3.1 Interest level: Pre-K thru 4th
Thematic Areas: the five senses, learning about yourself
Content Areas: Health, senses that humans possess
Potential Problems or Difficulties: If some students are not able to use or do not have one of the senses.
Possible use in classroom: Have students look at a picture of people using their senses and make a list of ways that he or she sees people using their senses. Compare list with a friend.
-Have students take a taste test. Prove that a person’s nose and tongue work together to help taste. Plug the nose, and take a bite of a warm chocolate-chip cookie. Now, unplug the nose and take another bite. Does the cookie taste better the first or second time?
-Have students feel in a bag to see if they know what an object is. Have students look at an object and tell what it is. Have students taste an object and see if they know what it is. Have students listen and see if they know what certain objects are. Have students smell and see if they know what certain objects are. Have the students write about their experience, maybe they saw that they like using several senses together or that they prefer a sense over another. What it was like not to be able to use the other senses while figuring out the objects.
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