Overview: 
In this 8-day novel study, we will study the first book of Artemis Fowl!  We'll also explore culture, plot points, geography, science, technology, and have some art projects. Discussing what each chapter of the book is about will require learners to understand the plot in a much more complex way. Students will need to read before each class meeting and should plan to spend about 1-2 hours outside of class time to work on this subject. 

Class-by-class: 
Class 1: Introduction to the class and the book
We will discuss some of the Irish mythology we think we know. The Author always describes the book as “Die Hard” but with fairies, I’ll explain to students the cultural reference. We will also have a geography lesson, discussing the locations mentioned in the first 2 chapters of the book. 

Class 2: Discussion of Chapters 1 and 2
I’ll explain some of the cultural references in the book. (For example, Buttler was trained in Cordon blue culinary school, for students who aren’t familiar I’ll explain.) In the book, Artemis tried to decode the book using computer programs. We will discuss why decoding hieroglyphics and Oghams (ancient Irish) is so difficult for a computer. 

ART PROJECT: After class, students can practice writing a message or their name in Oghams. (Not required, just for fun) 

Class 3: Discussion of Chapters 3 and 4
I’ll continue to explain cultural references, (for example, in the book they say it's “Hindenburg” bad, I’ll show a short video.) We will take a 360 deg look at the main palazzo where Holly faces the troll. We will also take a look at the Giant’s Causeway and discuss the Irish mythology mentioned in the book. We will discuss how lava formed the rocks at the Giant’s causeway and then discuss Holly riding lava “shoots” in the book. We will end the class with a lesson on Volcanoes. 

Class 4: Discussion of Chapter 5
We will take a look at the Hill of Tara and the stone of Destiny. In this chapter, we will have a short history lesson about the potato famine and whaling ships (both referenced in this chapter). We will also discuss Foaly’s outdated map of Dublin, which will end with a lesson in Cartography. We will take a look at 500 years of Dublin maps. We will take a look at a few of Dublin’s landmarks 

ART PROJECT: Make your own map of Ireland. (Not required, just for fun) 

Class 5: Discussion of Chapter 6
I will continue to explain cultural references, and we will talk about the science and effects of “truth serum” (which Artemis claims to have given Holly, but he doesn’t.) Since timing is essential to understanding Artemis’ plan and the time stop, we will talk about the history of timekeeping and timezones. In geography, we will visit the London suburb of Greenwich. 

Class 6: Discussion of Chapter 7
In this lesson, we will discuss the psychology of lying. (In reference to the psychologists that are analyzing the footage of Artemis.) We will also discuss safe breaking, and how Mulch Diggims does it in contrast to how humans open safes. 

Class 7: Discussion of Chapter 8
Activity - Is it possible to hide in Medieval armor? We will stop to discuss the entryway of Fowl Manor, where the battle between the Toll and Butler happens.
 
ART PROJECT: Make your own Coat of Arms and post it in the classroom. 

Class 8: Discussion of Chapter 9 and Epilogue
Activity - What are karats and why is gold measured in it? How are gold bars made? In geography, we will discuss where Mulch Diggums wants to retire: Manhattan and Marte Carlo. In Geography, we will discuss Monoco's existence and it's relationship to France. 

FAQ:
How much will students talk in this class?
Students will be asked to talk and discuss questions in this class approx 25-30% of the time. Students must raise their hands and take turns when talking. Please make sure to discuss polite classroom behavior with your student prior to class. 

Will students need to read in class? Write?
If your learner cannot read, they can listen to the audiobook, but they will need to do so before the class. Watching the movie will not be the same, it's too different. If they can’t write notes, it’s ok. There will be my notes after every class, I’ll post them in the classroom.

What will be taught? 
The book and additional activities as listed above. Subjects taught will include,  literature, science, technology, history, and geography. 


Parental Guidance: 
We will discuss superstitions. The book is about crime and has some drinking in it. Please read the parental review here https://www.commonsensemedia.org/book-reviews/artemis-fowl-book-1

How long is the class?
45 minutes (although I stay up till 55 minutes if needed)

How do I teach? 
I use a mixture of Powerpoint or slides, and targeted questions to facilitate book discussion. 

What's my teaching style?
I have a "learner-centered" approach to class. I try to be accepting of all kinds of learners. I do not teach homeschool classes in the same way I teach in a classroom. This is a bit less formal. I never assign homework. I do have classroom rules: No bullying or telling other students what to do. Please mute yourself while in class. Please take turns talking and don't interrupt others. Please be on time if possible. Please use a camera, headphones, and mic if possible. Your zoom name must match your enrolled name. 

No previous knowledge is needed! But reading (or listening) to the book is required. Watching the movie doesn't count, they are too different. The age minimum for this class is strictly enforced. 

Class supplies: 
A copy of the book is required (print, digital, or audio)
Printed note pages I post in the classroom or paper for writing your own is strongly recommended. 

TIA:
Even before the virus changed our lives, my educational business is/was my family's only income. I teach ESL, English, presentation/speech prep, history, and mythology. I give classes live and on-line, both 1-to-1 and in small groups. I teach for other companies, outschool, and via my own website.  When you enroll in my class, you are supporting a small business and I deeply appreciate it! Any sharing, positive feedback, and reviews also help me continue to teach and be a homeschool mom too! TIA!