Understanding a Novel in Verse

The teacher introduces the verse novel format. Students analyze line breaks and spacing in a sample poem and discuss how poetry can convey emotion differently than traditional prose.

Symbols of Peace

Students examine peace symbols such as doves, sunflowers and olive branches. Through discussion, students analyze what each symbol represents and why symbols are used to communicate complex ideas. Students predict how symbols may appear in the text.

Exploring Big Feelings

Students participate in a guided discussion about hearing upsetting or confusing news. The teacher establishes a safe environment and emphasizes that emotions such as worry, sadness or anger are valid. Students share coping strategies and discuss how children can be...

Feelings Vocabulary

Introduce or review emotion words such as shy, brave, lonely, happy and excited. Explain that these feelings may appear in the story and students will look for them while listening.

New Places, New Friends

Ask students to think about a time they were new somewhere. How did it feel? Discuss feelings such as excitement, nervousness or shyness, and connect this to the beginning of the story.