Planning for Reading and Writing Instruction

A book that I would like to use in 2nd grade is Amazing Grace by Mary Hoffman. I have also used this book for Meredith Reads and the student absolutely loved the book. There are a lot of different activities that can be done with this book. This is a thought provoking story that allows students the opportunity to to develop their comprehension and critical thinking skills. Children can work on whole group, small groups, partners, and independently activities. The first session would be used to introduce the story and have the students listen to me read it aloud. They can share their thoughts and ideas about the story after I have read it. I will also discuss the themes and main ideas of the story. After I have read the story I will ask my students questions such as, What did they think about the book? What surprised them about the book? What was their favorite part? What did they think about the main character? I will end the session by having the students write or draw their thoughts about the book in their composition notebook. The next lesson I will go back over the book and have the students retell me the story by looking at the different illustrations. The students will work in groups to discuss the story and answer guided questions. Then the students will come together as a big group and discuss their thoughts and answers. I could also allow the students to act out the different events in the story to allow them to show their creativity.
Another lesson could be used to discuss gender, diversity, courage, and family.

The students could even talk about different activities that they enjoy doing and that they are good at. Each students would have an opportunity to share with the class.