Mrs. Webster’s “Magic Pen Book Club”

A Book Club that makes “Common Core Standards” fun!

Overview:

Students will read the works of good authors, past and present, studying different styles and genres. They will be given the opportunity to discuss the elements of a good story, the descriptive words, main ideas and details. By participating in individual and group exercises, the students will learn how to write their own stories, broaden their vocabulary, research topics of interest and report on them.  Our goal is to give students the information, instruction, and guidance they need to become competent readers, writers and speakers of the English language.
Description of Activities:

• Read literature that is appropriate for their age.
• Books will include a variety of genres including fiction, non-fiction, biography and descriptive essays.
• Students will participate in independent and group reading exercises that will improve their vocabulary, grammar and writing skills.
• By listening to stories read with expression and style, they will learn how to speak and express their views creatively and forcefully.
• Learn vocabulary from their readings and use them in sentences
• Learn spelling combinations including prefix, suffix an root words
• Questions, discussion and exercises are based on readings.
• Write essays in the narrative, descriptive and persuasive styles
• Research and report on topics related to their reading.
• Learn the mechanic of public speaking

Some of the books for Summer Reading Grades 3- 5

• James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl (fantasy, descriptive, abilities and interests,  poetry)
• Sign of the Beaver by Elizabeth George Spear (historical fiction, survival, characterization, cultural issues, historical setting)
• Where the Red Fern Grows by William Rawls (biographical novel, flashback,  love, determination, trust, devotion)

Extension Activities:

• Write a fantasy story or poem, using as many descriptive words as possible (James and the Giant Peach)
• Research the French and Indian War, and how it impacted the Beaver Indian Clan (Sign of the Beaver)
• Hold a debate on the issue of hunting. Research the pros and cons.  (Where the Red Fern Grows)