Optional Freebie: Click here to hear me read this book aloud to your students. I have two formats for my novel activities. Both of these activities align with science of reading research and both aim to improve reading comprehension through exposure to new vocabulary, citing text evidence, answering constructed response questions, and summarizing. 1) Comprehension & Text Evidence · Geared toward pencil/paper, whole group, and independent work, while also giving opportunity for handwriting skills (and typing skills if you use the Easel version) · Well-suited for your textual learners who make connections by writing information down. · Students engage in critical thinking and reflection as they respond to what they have read. · Answer key included This format has Easel activity. Easy set up! Print and go or assign online through Easel. 2) Discussion Cards: · Geared toward small group, or even whole group, discussions where pencil/paper are not needed. · Powerful in giving students opportunities to work together in teacher-facilitated, student-led groups. · Discussions are guided by students’ responses to what they have read. · Students reshape and add to their understanding as they construct meaning with other learners. · Improve Speaking & Listening Skills · Higher level thinking skills to synthesize the text · Answer key is included, if needed. It is usually not needed because after discussions, students agree that they have arrived at the correct answer or reasonable answer regarding constructed response questions. This format does not have an Easel activity. Easy set up! Laminate cards, cut apart, staple together at the top, perfect size to store in a library pocket inside book cover until ready for discussions. Students can each have a question packet or pass one packet around. Perfect for: · Small-group learning · Speaking and listening skills · Comprehension check · Peer tutoring · Self-evaluation · Socratic learning Follows National Board Certified Teacher (NBCT) Standards: · Teachers call upon multiple methods to meet their instructional goals. · Teachers support student learning in varied settings and groups. · Teachers value student engagement. · Teachers engage students in the learning process. · Teachers recognize individual differences in students. · Teachers treat students equitably. I successfully used my discussion cards for Component 3 of National Board Certification in Literacy: Reading – Language Arts / Early and Middle Childhood. :) What I love most about using the cards with my students: I love so many things about them but I especially love how they get all serious about their discussions when they have the little clipboard questions. It makes them feel official, like the little scholars they are. What educators are saying about my Discussion Cards: Lindsey M This was a great way to engage my students in discussions as we embark on our virtual learning adventure. Noel H. My highest level book club used this resource as discussion prompts. They enjoyed the step up to student led and facilitated literature circle. Ashley O. I used this for my higher reading group to work independently. They were able to read a chapter and answer the questions as a group. Kaitlin W. Helpful resource to guide thoughtful discussions. Misty L. Great resource for extending discussions during our class read aloud. Kathryn L. Print and go activity to extend our class read aloud into centers. Very easy and effective.