What's included
3 live meetings
2 hrs 15 mins in-class hoursHomework
1 hour per week. To get the most out of this class, learners should read the assigned chapters prior to each class: Week 1: Chapters 1-4 Week 2: Chapters 5-7 Week 3: Chapters 8-9Class Experience
US Grade 2 - 5
In this 3-session class, we will read and analyze the fun mystery-comedy novel Bunnicula. This 1979 novel featuring animal characters by Deborah & James Howe recently celebrated its 40th anniversary! It has been a childhood classic for generations. My goal is to inspire learners to reflect on what they read and see the relevance of the book's elements to their own lives, as well as having fun learning important literary elements and comprehension skills. Learners will read (or listen to) the assigned chapters on their own before attending class each week. We will read some excerpts in class together. In addition to a guided discussion, we will do enrichment activities related to the book, learning about characters, setting, plot, theme, and language. Printable handouts will be provided. Learners will go beyond basic comprehension questions to dig deeper into the themes and literary elements of the book. Week 1: Background, Setting, & Characters- Chapters 1-4 We will learn about the authors and their purpose for writing the book, discuss the main characters and details of the setting, and learn how to compare and contrast characters. Learners will answer comprehension questions. Week 2: Language & Literary Elements- Chapters 5-7 We will talk about elements of language and literary elements used in the story. Learners will answer comprehension questions. Week 3: Plot & Themes- Chapters- 8-9 We will talk about the elements of the plot and complete a narrative arc activity. We will learn about themes and how they relate to the story. Learners will answer questions about this week's reading.
Learning Goals
Students will improve their reading comprehension and understanding of literary elements. Our focus will be characters, setting, language, theme, and plot utilizing the novel Bunnicula by Deborah and James Howe.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Mild element of horror, but done in a humorous way: animals are the main characters, and a rabbit is compared to a vampire.
Supply List
For this class, learners will need to have the novel, Bunnicula by Deborah & James Howe (1979).
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Teacher expertise and credentials
Texas Teaching Certificate in English/Language Arts
Bachelor's Degree in English from College of Charleston
Hello! I am a certified English/Language Arts teacher and believe in embracing the “light bulb” moments of discovery that happen both in and out of the classroom. My goal is to make learning relevant to students’ interests by providing unique and fun ways to strengthen reading and writing skills, explore literature, and learn about our world.
Classes I offer on Outschool include creative writing, essay writing, literature studies, phonics, and reading skills. I also offer private tutoring, catered to your learner's needs, for all ages.
My classes are designed around the idea that kids can learn language arts through creative projects and real-world experiences. Literature and writing are more meaningful when students can relate them to their own lives and what is going on in the world around them.
From the time I was a child, I always wanted to be a teacher. I am a certified English teacher with classroom experience (grades 6-12) in Texas and South Carolina, in addition to substitute teaching for all grade levels (K-12) and special education classes. I have a BA degree in English from College of Charleston and 30+ postgraduate hours. I am TESOL certified and taught ESL classes online to students in China for 4 years. I am also certified in Early Reading Training through the Tennessee Department of Education. I have homeschooled my 3 children for over 20 years, and I teach literature, writing, and public speaking classes to other homeschool students.
As part of my Bachelor of Arts in English and postgraduate studies, I successfully completed college courses related to adolescent literature and development. I completed coursework in African American literature and African American history as part of my degree program. I received 4 professional development hours for the 2021-2022 Facing History Community Read Workshop, "Teaching Brown Girl Dreaming," through Facing History & Ourselves. I attended a follow-up seminar with author Jacqueline Woodson--"Brown Girl Dreaming: Exploring Identity and Belonging with Jacqueline Woodson."
I have taught many works of literature, including some with 'sensitive' content, to students in a classroom setting. As with almost any work of literature, many themes and plot details can be controversial, and my role as an educator and facilitator in the classroom is to guide students to deal with these topics within the scope of their literary relevance.
I taught the 'Pace' program for at-risk students for the Southwest Independent School District in San Antonio, Texas. I also completed a training program as a high school teacher, becoming certified as a 'Natural Helper' faculty mentor.
In addition to my training and experience, I love children's and young adult literature and enjoy using 'fun' books to teach important language arts skills using a cross-curricular approach. Outside of my classroom, I enjoy Pokémon, watching movies, and backyard chicken farming!
One of my greatest joys is working with students and motivating them to enjoy learning. As the mom to 3 children, I am very patient and encouraging! My goal as a teacher is to make learning memorable, fun, and rewarding. If you have any thoughts about how I can customize a class for your learner, please send me a message. I’m always looking for ways to accommodate learners. I'm looking forward to meeting you in the classroom! :)
Reviews
Live Group Class
$45
for 3 classes1x per week, 3 weeks
45 min
Completed by 4 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 7-11
2-6 learners per class