Exploring Vocabulary Through the Tale of Despereaux: Building Language/Literacy
In this interactive and engaging class, students will embark on a literary journey through Kate DiCamillo's captivating tale while simultaneously enhancing their vocabulary skills.
The Friendly Forest School with Ms. Nora, M.Ed.
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(136)
What's included
2 live meetings
1 hrs 10 mins in-class hours per weekClass Experience
US Grade 1 - 2
Welcome to "Exploring Vocabulary through The Tale of Despereaux! In this interactive and engaging class, students will embark on a literary journey through Kate DiCamillo's captivating tale while simultaneously enhancing their vocabulary skills. "The Tale of Despereaux" is a timeless story that follows the adventures of a brave mouse named Despereaux as he navigates through a world filled with danger, love, and redemption. Along the way, students will encounter a rich tapestry of words that will expand their vocabulary and deepen their understanding of the English language. Through a variety of activities and discussions, students will: Read and Analyze Text: Together we will read "The Tale of Despereaux" and engage in activities designed to understand the context and meaning of new vocabulary words within the text. Word Exploration: Through guided exploration, students will delve into the meanings, origins, and usage of new vocabulary words encountered in the book. They will learn to identify synonyms, antonyms, and understand the nuances of word usage. Contextual Learning: By examining how vocabulary words are used within the context of the story, students will gain a deeper appreciation for the subtleties of language and how words can convey different meanings based on their context. Vocabulary Games and Activities: To reinforce learning and make it fun, students will participate in various vocabulary games and activities such as word puzzles, vocabulary bingo, and word association games. Creative Expression: Students will have the opportunity to express their understanding of new vocabulary words through illustrations. Discussion and Reflection: Through group discussions and reflection exercises, students will have the chance to share their insights, questions, and thoughts about the vocabulary they have encountered, fostering a collaborative learning environment. By the end of the class, students will not only have gained a deeper appreciation for words like: Perplexed - bewildered or puzzled Resilient - able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions Conspicuous - standing out or clearly visible Audacious - showing a willingness to take surprisingly bold risks Intrigue - arouse the curiosity or interest of; fascinate Voracious - having a very eager approach to an activity; ravenous Noble - having or showing fine personal qualities or high moral principles Conceal - to keep from sight; hide Ingenious - clever, original, and inventive Scurry - to move hurriedly with short quick steps Through the enchanting world of "The Tale of Despereaux" students will expand their vocabulary repertoire, and build valuable language skills that they can carry forward into their future reading and writing endeavors. Join us on this literary adventure as we unravel the mysteries of words and embark on a quest for linguistic enrichment through the magic of storytelling! Week of April 1: Chapters 1-3, chapters 4-9, vocabulary Week of April 8: Chapters 10-14, chapters 15-17, vocabulary Week of April 15: 3 Chapters 18-22, chapters 23-28, vocabulary Week of April 22: 4 Chapters 29-31, chapters 32-35, vocabulary Week of April 29: 5 Chapters 36-38, chapters 39-42, vocabulary Week of May 6 Chapters 43-46, chapters 47-51 Week of May 13: 52- review
Other Details
Language of Instruction
English
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined February, 2022
4.9
136reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Get $10 off my classes with coupon code FRIENNOVEMBER10 until Dec 1, 2024.
Welcome to The Friendly Forest School!
I come to you with a wealth of knowledge, classroom experience, and a passion for teaching young children though play.
My classes follow a Waldorf-inspired approach that focuses on the holistic development of children, ensuring that academic skills are nurtured in an engaging and imaginative manner.
A predictable peaceful rhythm, delightful melodies, American Sign Language, and captivating tales (often set in the Friendly Forest) infuse every lesson, making learning a joyful exploration!I
By embracing the ebb and flow of nature's cycles, my goal is to help children feel grounded, secure, and ready to absorb knowledge with open hearts and curious minds.
ABOUT ME:
My journey began in the summer of 2001 when I had an internship in Early Childhood Education at the Children's Museum of Indianapolis. After graduating from Purdue University with my Bachelors Degree, I began working as a social worker and case manager for young children in LaPorte, Indiana.
I then moved to Phoenix, AZ and started my journey in Special Education, working as an in-home therapist for children with Autism and other developmental disabilities. I specialized in building expressive language through American Sign Language. Additionally, I focused on treating the whole child though sensory integration and positive behavior support. In 2005 I was named by the Governor as Arizona's "Caregiver of the Year"!
In 2006, I obtained my Masters Degree in Special Education and began working in a K-6 Self Contained Classroom. During this time I worked to develop an award winning School-wide Positive Behavior Intervention Support program based entirely on peace and mindfulness. I was awarded the "You Make a Difference" award by the Osborn School District for my work on this project!
My daughter, Eleanor, was born in 2010. In 2013 I left the classroom to be a full-time mama. My youngest daughter, Annalise, was born in 2013. During this time I began to adopt Waldorf philosophies at home and began homeschool using Waldorf and Montessori inspired pedagogy.
In 2017, I started my own Early Childhood Center called "Let's Play Learning". The developmentally appropriate curriculum was based on the view that children learn best when they are actively exploring the natural world and a carefully constructed environment in the company of their caregiver and directed by loving, professionally prepared teachers. I closed my doors at the beginning of the pandemic and began teaching online, which I love!
In my classes I strive to create a culture of peace and mindfulness while teaching academic skills through nature, imaginative play, storytelling, and artistic expression.
I now live with my family just five minutes away from beautiful Lake Michigan.Reviews
Live Group Class
$25
weekly ($13 per class)2x per week
35 min
Completed by 4 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 7-10
2-8 learners per class
