Book Series Study: Warriors: The Prophecy Begins by Erin Hunter
In this class, students will read and discuss the Warriors book series by Erin Hunter. This class will include the first 6 novels from the original series.
Mrs. Rutan (she/her)
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(248)
What's included
40 live meetings
30 in-class hoursClass Experience
This class is to introduce the Warriors book series by Erin Hunter to readers. It will be 6 months where we will read each book for one month. IMPORTANT** It is okay if a student has already read the series and wants to join the class to re-read the story; however, if they do, please know we will only talk about one book each month. Please message me if you prefer a book club for the series instead that is more flexible in which book we talk about.** Students are expected to have read about 2-3 chapters (about 40-50 pages, please see homework section for an outline) before each class and will have a discussion about the plot, characters, and setting during class. Pre-reading questions will be posted in the classroom before each class to allow students time to read with the questions in mind and to help them formulate their own thoughts about the book as they read. These questions will help students be aware of the book events and take note of key characters and plot devices. Pre-reading questions are to help students take notes to bring insights and questions to the discussion, but they do not need to be filled out for the teacher. Each class will begin with the students working on summarizing what they read and then answering discussion questions created by the teacher. These discussion questions will be based within the 8 reading strategies of summarizing, comparing and contrasting, organizing plot events, predicting the story, asking questions, connecting with the text, and inferencing implications in the story. There will be no formal worksheets or homework other than reading the books and preparing with the pre-reading questions. This is to give a free foam for the class and allow students to talk about what they are reading and their thoughts about the series. Students will be encouraged to ask their own questions as well. In-class discussions topics will include subjects like their favorite or least favorite characters, which clan is their favorite verses which clan they would want to be in, what impression does each book cover give to them as a reader, making predictions about the story as it progresses through each book, contrasting the leaders and cats from each of the clans, and fun questions like discussing which type of cat of the clan they would be (leader, medicine cat, warrior, or queen). I will provide visuals for the students as we organize the story, learn new vocabulary words, and discuss the different character traits. At the end of each book, students will collaborate on how they would rank the book and work together to give it a book review. This will help students review what they read and discuss what aspects are needed for a compelling story. Students will also be asked if their perspective of the characters or the story has changed as they read each book. Once we review the finished book, students will work on predicting what the next book may include and how it will expand with the story.
Learning Goals
Students will improve their reading and memory skills as they discuss the series.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
This book series is about wild cats (grouped together into 4 different clans) who often fight and defend their territories. There are sequences of cats fighting, blood, and death that happens in this series. Please be aware of these intense scenes. There is no swearing.
Lots of kids start reading this series in middle school (including myself when I was that age) and it's a great series to increase their reading skills. Please see this link
https://www.commonsensemedia.org/book-reviews/warriors-series/user-reviews/adult
for more reviews and thoughts about the series. I'm happy to answer any questions or concerns.
Supply List
Students must have a copy of the books to participate. It doesn't have to be owned, but do need a copy of each book. This series is very popular and can easily be found in any bookstore or public library. Barnes and Noble, Walmart, Target, Amazon, BookOutlet.com, Kidsbooks.com, Thriftbooks.com, and local book stores are all highly likely to sell copies. It can also be found in libraries, and the OverDrive app. Please reach out if you’re having trouble finding the book.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Sources
We will refer to the books every class. Students will need the books to follow along, but they do not need to own the book.
Joined October, 2020
4.9
248reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
About Mrs. Rutan:
My name is Madelynn Rutan and I am a literary enthusiast, lover of cats, pianist, and travel buff. I have been to 14 countries throughout my life and hope to continue to travel even more. I love learning about different cultures, backgrounds, and people which I believe is very important in helping people understand each other. Most of all, I love English. Specifically, I love books, reading, and analyzing literature to expand one’s world and mind. I believe you can travel anywhere and learn anything through books and desire to share these experiences with your children. I mainly hold book discussions and book analysis for my classes through a Socratic seminar approach and mini-lessons. This allows more time for the students to learn from each other, talk about the book, and gain a love of reading with a guided expert. After all, what’s more fun about loving a new book than sharing it with others.
I have read throughout my life and could always be found in a library (including today as volunteer staff at a local library). When I am not teaching or reading, I enjoy watching various anime shows; playing games such as Pokémon, Zelda, and Animal Crossing; sewing, cross-stitching, taking care of my pets and spending time with my husband.
Education:
My love for books led to my bachelor's degree in English language and literature studies from Brigham Young University-Idaho. My expertise includes literary analysis (specifically with British and American Literature) and helping learners read for understanding and enjoyment. I wish to continue my education towards a master's in librarian science to become a librarian to help children find their own love for books.
I also earned a minor in TESOL which included classes on curriculum development, teaching with technology, and teaching philosophy. I tutored for 2 years at my college tutoring center as an ESL, writing, reading strategies, and study skills tutor. I used to teach as an online ESL teacher for kids ages 3-12 before switching to my own ESL and ELA classes here on Outschool since 2020.
Teaching Philosophy:
I value the need for a student-focus classroom and encourage an uplifting atmosphere for my students. I always make sure my students are heard in class and are encouraged to speak their thoughts and ideas. Classes will have a recommended age and content warning of topics discussed or talked about to ensure appropriateness for students within the class. I encourage parents to reach out with questions for any class.
Missed Class/Refund Policies:
Ongoing: Full refund with 72 hour advanced notice; Partial refund with 24-72 hour advanced notice
Multi-day & One-time: Please read class listing; I am always open to work on a make-up day, but you are not guaranteed a refund for a missed class.
Minimum Enrollment Policy:
Ongoing classes must have at least 2 people enrolled for classes to begin.
Multi-day and one-time classes will continue even if there’s only one student. Parents will be contacted 48 hours before if they wish to transfer to a later section for potentially more students or possibly continue as the only learner. Last minute sign ups are always possible but not guaranteed.Reviews
Live Group Class
$13
weekly2x per week, 20 weeks
45 min
Completed by 8 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 9-12
3-6 learners per class
