Building Reading and Writing Skills With One Hundred Dresses
This two-week online course is designed to help students (ages 10-15) build critical reading and writing skills while exploring themes of empathy, kindness, and resilience in Eleanor Estes’ The Hundred Dresses.
Mrs. Durant, BA-Elem. Ed, Star Educator
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(21)
What's included
8 live meetings
7 hrs 20 mins in-class hoursHomework
1-2 hours per week. Each day they will complete the RACE question. We will complete as much as possible in class, but what we don't complete will need to be finished after class.Certificate of Completion
I am open to grading as needed. I won't be grading unless requested, just feedback.Class Experience
US Grade 5 - 8
Intermediate Level
Dive into the world of Eleanor Estes’ The Hundred Dresses in this engaging two-week online course! Designed for students ages 10-15, this class combines reading, discussion, and writing to explore important themes like empathy, kindness, and standing up for what’s right. The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes is a beautifully written, precious story that blends a timeless message with wonderful storytelling. This Newbery Honor-winning book offers readers a chance to explore themes like empathy, kindness, courage, and self-reflection. It's an ideal choice for students ready to dive into discussions about morality, inclusion, and personal growth. In the story, we meet Wanda Petronski, a quiet girl from a poor immigrant family who is teased by her classmates for wearing the same faded blue dress every day. One day, she surprises everyone by claiming she has a hundred dresses at home — a statement that sparks curiosity, disbelief, and more teasing. As the story unfolds, Wanda's secret is revealed in a way that challenges her classmates to rethink their actions and attitudes. This course will go beyond simply reading the book. During live sessions, students will read the book together, analyze its characters and themes through guided discussions, and learn to craft thoughtful responses using the RACE strategy (Restate, Answer, Cite, Explain). Peer reviews and collaborative feedback will help students sharpen their writing skills. The course culminates in a creative project where students can express their understanding of the story through art, writing, or storytelling. This is a unique opportunity to build critical thinking and writing skills in a fun, supportive environment!
Learning Goals
Develop critical reading skills by analyzing characters, themes, and events in The Hundred Dresses.Master the RACE writing strategy (Restate, Answer, Cite, Explain) to craft clear, evidence-based responses.
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created CurriculumStandards
Aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS)8 Lessons
over 2 WeeksLesson 1:
Course Kickoff & Introduction to RACE
In-Class Activities:
Introduce The Hundred Dresses and its themes.
Teach the RACE strategy with examples.
Begin reading Chapters 1-2 together, pausing to discuss key moments:
How do Wanda’s classmates interact with her?
What does this reveal about their attitudes?
Introduce the RACE homework question:
How does the teasing of Wanda reflect on the group’s behavior and values?
Homework: Write a response using RACE. 55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Peer Review & Character Analysis
In-Class Activities:
Peer Review: Students share and discuss their RACE responses in small groups. Instructor provides general feedback.
Continue reading Chapters 3-4, pausing to discuss:
Why does Maddie feel uncomfortable about teasing Wanda?
What does this tell us about her character?
Introduce the RACE homework question:
What motivates Maddie to start questioning her behavior toward Wanda?
Homework: Write a RACE response. 55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Exploring Themes of Bullying and Kindness
In-Class Activities:
Peer Review: Discuss homework responses in breakout rooms.
Read Chapter 5 together, focusing on Wanda’s 100 dresses drawing.
Discuss: What does the drawing reveal about Wanda’s imagination and resilience?
Analyze character reactions and emotions as a group.
Introduce the RACE homework question:
How does Wanda’s drawing demonstrate her strength and creativity?
Homework: Write a RACE response. 55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Writing Workshop & Regret
In-Class Activities:
Peer Review: Students exchange RACE responses for feedback.
Finish reading Chapter 6 (the letter from Wanda).
Discuss: How do Maddie and Peggy feel after reading Wanda’s letter?
Analyze themes of regret and growth in the story.
Introduce the RACE homework question:
What lesson do Maddie and Peggy learn from Wanda’s letter?
Homework: Write a RACE response. 55 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Learning Needs
With over 20 years of experience in accommodating unique learning styles, I've crafted an inclusive environment where every learner can thrive.
Parental Guidance
Key Themes to Be Aware Of:
Bullying: The story portrays teasing and exclusion, providing opportunities to discuss the impact of such behavior and how to stand against it.
Empathy and Kindness: The book teaches valuable lessons about understanding others and treating everyone with respect.
Regret and Growth: Characters learn from their mistakes, offering a relatable example of personal growth.
Why It’s Valuable:
The book encourages meaningful conversations about inclusivity, the importance of standing up for others, and how to learn from one’s actions. While the story has moments of sadness, it ultimately leaves readers with a hopeful and uplifting message.
How Parents Can Support:
Discuss the story’s events and ask your child how they might handle similar situations.
Encourage reflection on real-life examples of kindness and inclusion.
Offer a supportive space for your child to share their thoughts and emotions about the book.
This timeless classic is an excellent starting point for building empathy and understanding in young readers.
Pre-Requisites
Basic reading and writing ability. I will differentiate for each students ability above that.
Supply List
Students will need a copy (digital, printed or book) of the story. There is a PDF free online that can be printed. I will also link this in the classroom before the first class.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined June, 2023
5.0
21reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
2 Teaching Certificates
New Mexico Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
Nevada Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
With 20 years of experience teaching writing from grade 1 to 12, I'm dedicated to nurturing creativity and fostering reading and writing skills in students of all ages. My passion for writing extends to successful online teaching, where I share my knowledge and love for storytelling with students worldwide.Reviews
Live Group Course
$60
weekly or $120 for 8 classes4x per week, 2 weeks
55 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-15
2-6 learners per class
