Book Club - Number the Stars
In this three week course, students will read Number the Stars, engage in class discussions, complete a writing assignment between each class, and deeply analyze the characters, events, plot, and setting of the novel.
Ms. Michelle
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(193)
Popular
What's included
6 live meetings
3 in-class hoursHomework
1 hour per week. Students will have reading assignments between classes and optional writing assignments.Certificate of Completion
includedClass Experience
US Grade 4 - 6
Beginner - Advanced Level
In this three-week course, students will explore Number the Stars by Lois Lowry, a historical fiction novel set during World War II in Nazi-occupied Denmark. Through reading, discussions, and activities, students will examine themes of bravery, friendship, sacrifice, and the impact of war on ordinary people. Students will engage with the novel’s historical context, character development, and key plot moments, developing a deeper understanding of courage in the face of adversity. This is a discussion based class and students will have reading assignments and optional writing assignments between classes. Each class will include print-outs, think sheets, and graphic organizers that will keep students engaged and participating. Please come to class prepared and ready to discuss! This is a sensitive topic so please refer to Common Sense Media to see if this novel is the right choice for you and your learner. *Students need to read chapters 1-3 before the first class
Learning Goals
- Understand the historical context of World War II and the Nazi occupation of Denmark.- Analyze the characters and their relationships, particularly focusing on Annemarie Johansen’s growth and her friendship with Ellen Rosen
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created CurriculumStandards
Aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS)6 Lessons
over 3 WeeksLesson 1:
Chapters 1-3: Introduction to the characters and setting
Introduction to World War II, Nazi occupation of Denmark, and the historical context of the novel.
- Themes: bravery, fear, and friendship 30 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Chapters 4-6: Examine the tension caused by the Nazi occupation
Discuss the growing danger and the Johansens’ plan to protect Ellen.
- Themes: Sacrifice, identity, and resistance. 30 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Chapters 7-9: Journey to Uncle Henrik’s house and the plan to hide Ellen
Discuss the significance of Uncle Henrik’s house as a safe haven.
Analyze the importance of the "funeral" for Aunt Birte as a cover for resistance efforts.
- Themes: Deception for a cause, family, and protection. 30 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Chapters 10-12: Delve into Annemarie’s growing bravery and the escape plan
Analyze the confrontation with German soldiers and how Annemarie remains composed under pressure.
Discuss the importance of Annemarie delivering the secret handkerchief to save the Rosens.
- Themes: courage, innocence, and the cost of war 30 mins online live lesson
Joined July, 2020
5.0
193reviews
Popular
Teacher expertise and credentials
Mississippi Teaching Certificate in English/Language Arts
2 Degrees
Master's Degree in Education from Belhaven University
Bachelor's Degree in Education from American Military University
Hello! Thank you so much for showing interest in my classes. My name is Ms. Michelle and I am excited to meet you!
I am a certified teacher for English grades 4-12. I graduated from the University of Victoria, American Military University, and Belhaven University. I have a BA in English and History, a second BA in Child and Family Development and a Master's degree in Teaching.
My classes are academically focused and I strive to be engaging and also challenging.
Experience:
📌 4 years teaching ESL overseas in South Korea
📌 2 years teaching in Germany
📌 8 years in public school teaching 4th-7th grade English Language Arts (Reading and Writing)
📌 7 years as an online English teacher
📌 Lifetime of loving all things reading and writing
Class Focus:
⭐ Private Reading and Writing Tutoring
⭐ Reading Comprehension Practice
⭐ Writing Practice
⭐ Novel Studies
⭐ Book Clubs
⭐ Sentence, Paragraph and Essay Writing
⭐ Test Prep
I hope to see you in my classroom!Reviews
Live Group Course
$80
for 6 classes2x per week, 3 weeks
30 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 9-11
4-6 learners per class
