In this "American Tall Tales: 5 Day Reading Comprehension Camp," students will meet 1 week for 5 days to listen to and discuss tall tales by Steven Kellogg!  These fun books are certain to capture your child's heart as we learn key components of good tall tale, including hyperbole/exaggeration!  As we travel around the United States, we will learn a bit of geography along the way!

Students at this age are also learning to be good readers.  Good readers use prior knowledge, make predictions, summarize, question, infer, visualize, and make inferences.  WHEW!  That's a LOT!  It is important for children to be able to comprehend what they read--but HOW does that happen?  Students must apply literal, inferential, and evaluative skills to answer who, what, when, where, why, and how questions based on the text.  In this camp, we will practice answering comprehension questions focused on inferences and making predictions. Students will review new vocabulary, and answering the 5W's + H (how) questions while reading each story.

During the 45 minute class:
• Students will be welcomed to class.  We will quickly review the class rules and our learning goals.  
• We will go over a short mini lesson on hyperbole, plot elements, and map skills.  Emphasis will be placed on building the literary vocabulary (setting, characters, events, problem/solution.) Students will then listen to a tall tale by Steven Kellogg to apply their skills.  Students will be given opportunities for speaking and oral reading.
• Students will then spend approximately 10 minutes with teacher guidance, using a story map to identify plot elements and hyperbole.  Younger children will draw a picture with details to complete the assignment.  Teacher support will be available to all students during this time. Students should raise their hand if they have a question.
• As a class, we will review the material covered in the mini lesson and I will answer any questions prior to dismissing the class.  

The following books, all written by Steven Kellogg, will be read aloud to your child over the duration of the camp.  Because the stories are read aloud, there is no need to purchase copies of the book.  I will read them to your child.

Day 1: Paul Bunyan
Day 2: Pecos Bill
Day 3: Sally Ann Thunder Ann Whirlwind Crockett
Day 4: Mike Fink
Day 5: Johnny Appleseed

(NOTE:  Children learn vocabulary, sequencing, and prediction skills through repetition of stories.  If you feel your child would benefit from hearing the stories again, I would love to have him/her join me in additional sections of the class!)