Hmmm . . . .
Our lives are full of distinctive markers where we are changed forever. For Brian, “the secret” and the subsequent divorce are just such events. Little does he know that this is just the beginning and that this summer break will forever change everything.
Thinking While Reading
As with all my novel studies, schema activation, predictions, space to record independent thinking, journal prompts, get out of the book activities and personal reflection questions take the forefront with a few traditional comprehension questions sprinkled in here and there. Why do I write them that way? Because, children need the opportunity to do more than read the words written in a book. They need to spend time with it, roll the content around in their brains, and make decisions with and without the guidance of the teacher. Here’s your chance for adventure, let’s go!
What’s in a Novel Study?
Each novel study contains several sections and each section a variety of parts.
Getting Started & Wrap It Up
Open up and pull together your thinking with these two sections that occur only once in each study.
Comprehension Questions
While these questions may be more traditional, don’t expect them to be easy. Dig into the text to find the answers.
While You are Reading
Metacognition – thinking about thinking – brings out a greater understanding of the content.
Journal Your Thoughts
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Get Out of the Book
Research, create, try something new – this part of each novel study section is about digging deeper and discovering more than what the text directly states.
What About You?
Use these prompts to create connections, form & defend an opinion and consider your own characteristics & actions and compare yourself to
Similar Novel Studies
Want a suggestion for another study? Have an idea for us?
Here are a couple of suggestions and a way to share your idea with us.
The Hobbit
Adventure seekers wanted – gold, dragons, goblins, dwarves, fairies, invisibility all included! Grab their attention with the story. Grow their mind with a variety of deep thinking and processing activities. Win their hearts with a classic. Win their minds with meaningful work.
The Sign of the Beaver
Can man truly own land? What happens when cultures collide? Which bonds are stronger – those of family or those of friendship? Literature and the themes therein are meant to be considered, interacted with and discussed. Help your student(s) stop and take the time to look beyond the words on the page.
Have an Idea?
What book does your family want to read? Send Us Your Request for a New Novel Study
Email: kandis@smartsimplehomeschool.com
Note: Though we would love to turn every book into a novel study, each study takes a significant amount of time. Please be aware that though all recommendations will be considered, not all can be accomplished.