In Literature class, we usually read one chapter book per Session.
We use the theme of the book to inspire class discussion, projects, storytelling, writing and art work.
We also use the text to develop comprehension, identify character, setting & plot, and define vocabulary words using context clues.
Our main goal is to connect with each story in a way that is fun, imaginative and meaningful to the class.
Books are chosen keeping in mind that our students have varied interests and reading levels.
Each week, students will be asked to read an assigned number of chapters at home so that they will be able to participate fully in class discussions and activities. While it is always nice to have an actual copy of a book, ebooks and audiobooks are fine as well.
Time Travelers Literature - Session 1
Syllabus for Ada Twist and the Perilous Pants
During Session 1, the Time Travelers Literature class will be reading Ada Twist and the Perilous Pants by Andrea Beaty.
Ada Twist is a character who first appeared in a picture book by Andrea Beaty called Ada Twist, Scientist. The author proceeded to write a series of chapter books called The Questioneers. Other Questioneers who appear in our book are Ada’s friends - Rosie Revere and Iggy Peck. If you’re interested in their backstories, you can check out their books at the library! (Rosie Revere, Engineer & Iggy Peck, Architect).
Throughout the session, I will assign a number of chapters to read each week. There will always be a few questions to answer for homework (AKA The Homework Bookmark!). This will give me an idea of where individuals are with reading, comprehension, organization and interest.
The syllabus below is very basic. I have listed discussion points and/or activities for each week. However, this may change based on the strengths and interests of the class as a whole. Some classes enjoy lively discussion, while others prefer projects or small group activities.
If you have any questions about assignment details, please feel free to reach out to me. My email is ANAndrews72@gmail.com
Literature Students...this is very important!! - Please do not start reading this book before the first day of class. While you may be tempted to read the whole book at once, reading ahead may spoil the suspense of “What happens next?”
We will look at our book together during Week 1. Bring your books to class every week.
Week 1 (Sept. 10)
I will introduce the character of Ada Twist by reading the picture book Ada Twist, Scientist.
As a class, we will create a character outline for Ada, based on what we know so far.
We will listen to Chapters 1-2 of Ada Twist and the Perilous Pants together in class.
Homework for next week: Read Chapters 3-5. Answer the questions on the Homework Bookmark (to be passed out in class). Bring it back next week and be ready to share some of your answers!
Week 2 (Sept. 17)
Review the answers to the Homework questions, and discuss Chapters 3-5.
We will create a character outline for Arthur.
We will discuss Ada’s research on hot/cold and smell molecules.
Homework: Read Chapters 6-8. Answer the questions on the Homework Bookmark and bring it back to class next week.
Week 3 (Sept. 24)
Review the answers to the Homework questions, and discuss Chapters 6-8.
We will brainstorm ways we might try to catch Uncle Ned in his floating pants.
Homework: Read Chapters 9-11. Answer the questions on the Homework Bookmark and bring it back to class next week.
Week 4 (Oct. 1)
Review the answers to the Homework questions, and discuss Chapters 9-11.
We will try to visualize what is happening in Chapter 11 by recreating the scene where Uncle Ned is trapped in an air current eddy.
Homework: Read Chapters 12-13. Answer the questions on the Homework Bookmark and bring it back to class next week.
Week 5 (Oct. 8)
Review the answers to the Homework questions, and discuss Chapters 12-13.
Ada felt frustrated when she couldn’t explain what she needed to her mother. We will talk about times when we have felt like Ada.
Homework: Read Chapters 14-16. Answer the questions on the Homework Bookmark and bring it back to class next week.
Week 6 (Oct. 15)
Review the answers to the Homework questions, and discuss Chapters 14-16.
We will predict how Ada’s experiment with Arthur’s shoes may help her solve Uncle Ned’s problem.
Homework: Read Chapter 17. Answer the questions on the Homework Bookmark and bring it back to class next week.
Week 7 (Oct. 22)
Review the answers to the Homework questions, and discuss Chapter 17.
What are some things that your parents tell you that are important to remember? We will make a list like Ada’s.
Homework: Create a Book Project to present during our last class (information about Book Projects will be handed out and discussed prior to this week to allow for plenty of prep time)
Week 8 (Oct. 29) Final Day!
Bring completed Book Projects - we will present them to the class.