Lipizzan Stallion Horse Book Study

Class 1: In this initial class we'll have some fun introductions. Then we'll talk about horses, specifically the Lipizzaner horse breed. We'll begin with some learning about the time and place that this book takes place. We'll learn about Austria and the Spanish school of learning where riders connect with these beautiful horses and learn to ride them as well as perform magnificent feats of dance. We'll begin talking about our story and about Hans and his family. We'll talk about how Marguerite Henry spins facts and truth along with fiction to tell this story. This class we will begin discussing chapters 1 through 3. We learn through the eyes of Hans, a bakers son who has always dreamed of riding the famous Lipizzan horses. 
Class 2: Chapters 4 through 7 will be discussed. How did Hans manage to attend the Lipizzaner performance and how does it begin to change his life and outlook. He pours himself into the topics about these amazing horses and find out what he learns. We'll learn along with him as I pull out facts and learning about the breed as well as the geography of Austria. 
Class 3: Chapters 8 through 12 are discussed during this class. As Hans pours himself into learning more and more about history and he chooses to learn about the general Xenophon he begins to learn how the horses are trained. We'll learn along with him and learn some tricks and horse training techniques along the way. Learners will also be able to have some video content about how I train my horse to do simple tricks as well. 
Class 4: Chapters 13 through 16 will be discussed during this class. A big family change happens at the home of Hans. His life changes drastically and he needs to mature quickly. Then Hans is learning the tricks of the trade as a Lipizzaner rider and trainer. He is thrilled to be a part of the horse world. He learns more about the training and techniques. Ride along in the story with Hans and find out what happens that changes his life and makes his dreams with the horses come true. 
Class 5: Chapters 17 through 21 will be discussed during this class. We will discuss some of the complex movements of the riders and horses and learn more about how to connect and become a team mate with your horse. These learning lessons transcend generations as well as from humans to horse and also humans to other humans. Communication is a side conversation for this class. 
Class 6: We'll wrap up our story and find out how Hans did riding in the performance. After we wrap up the story, we have fun playing games and/or fun topic learners choose.