Why is a pen called a pen? Who makes up words? Who decides if they belong in a dictionary? And most importantly, can people like you and me INVENT new words? Fifth-grader Nick Allen wants to know the answers to these questions…and he comes up with a brilliant (but controversial) way to find out!

Course Description:

In this course, learners will engage in a literature circle format. After reading assigned chapters, they will take responsibility for leading various aspects of the discussion. Roles include artful artist (responding to the text with art), literary luminary (identifying significant passages in the story), word wizard (exploring vocabulary), discussion director (asking questions for the group to consider together), and colorful connector (finding ways the text can be connected to other pieces of literature or to real life).

Structure:

We will meet once a week in an online classroom powered by Zoom. I will act as facilitator, helping learners to lead their portion of the discussion thoughtfully and effectively.

Outside of class, learners will need to read or listen to the assigned chapters of Frindle and prepare for their role in the group discussion using materials they will be able to download as pdf files.

At the end of class, students will receive individualized feedback about their contributions to the group.

Ages:

This course is suitable for children ages nine through twelve (roughly fourth through seventh grade).

Course Dates: This course runs from  .

Cost: $60.00

To participate in this class, you must enroll through Outschool

Class Overview:

At the end of class, students will receive individualized feedback about their contributions to the group.

Overview of reading:
For week 1: chapters 1-4 (to be completed prior to the first class discussion)
For week 2: chapters 5-7
For week 3: chapters 8-10
For week 4: chapters 11-13
For week 5: chapters 14-15

LEARNER TIME:
1 hours per week in class, and an estimated 1 – 2 hours per week independently.

MATERIALS:
Learners will need a copy of Frindle by Andrew Clements (either print or audio version). All other materials will be available to download as pdf files.