Lesson Plans for ATHUR'S BAD NEWS DAY level M

Expand the Reading

Writing Connection
Have children write about a time when they felt somewhat the same way that Arthur feels in the book. By giving these instructions, you are leaving it open enough that children can choose the feeling of sadness, worry, or happiness that Arthur is feeling during the course of the story.
OR
You can also have them write an extension of what happens next in the story. Ask: What happens after Arthur’s sister is moved into his room? What were some things that Arthur was worried about that didn’t happen once his sister was actually there?
Remind children that if they are writing an extension, they will need to keep the same style that the author used, which is writing from Arthur’s point of view. They will also be responsible for proper grammar, capitalization, and punctuation.

Art Connection
Explain that since Arthur has now decided to keep his new baby sister, he wants to draw a picture to welcome her into his family and room. Explain to children that they are going to pretend they are Arthur and draw a picture for their new baby sister. Remind them that they are welcoming her into their family and into their room. If you want, you can display these drawings on a bulletin board.

Reading Independently
Have children read the book independently or with a partner. You can also encourage them to read other books of their choice at the appropriate level.

Home Connection
Send the book home to be read to or with parents and siblings. Once they are home, have them look around their house and think about what it would be like to have a new baby sister come to their home. Have them look at their room and think about what it would be like to share it with a new baby.

For some children, this may be a reality and it may be quite easy for them to imagine what the experience would be like. Unless their younger sibling is less than nine months old, tell them to imagine another baby sister coming home. This may make it slightly more challenging for them.

For others, this may be challenging enough and you won’t need to give them any more prompting. Then have them write a paragraph regarding how they felt when they imagined a new little sister at home. They should bring the paper back to school to use in a class discussion.

Assessment
  • Monitor children’s responses in the Comprehending the Text section to assess how well they understand the text or story.
  • Monitor reading to see if children are using the effective reading strategies.
  • Assess children’s knowledge of projected objectives by asking them to give you three contractions and three synonyms. For the synonyms, you will need to give children three words in order for them to give you the synonyms—for example: hot, nice, and yummy.


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