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| Margaret and Margarita By: Lynn Reiser Genre: Fiction Ages: 4-8 |
Theme:
It is very important for us to be accepting of other cultures. Every person has feelings, and is alike no matter what language they speak. It is also very important to be able to communicate with others who speak different languages. It is good to be accepting to all cultures and show appreciation for different cultures by taking part in their activities and speaking their languages.
About the author:
Lynn Reiser is known for her bi-lingual children's books. When she was younger she preferred to draw pictures instead of writing. Her first book, Bedtime Cat was a picture book but the publisher convinced her to add words! This experience taught her how fun connecting words and pictures can be!
Pre-reading activities:
Write the word “languages” in the center of the board. As a class, brainstorm different languages people speak. Then brainstorm ideas about why it is important to accept and appreciate those languages onto a second tier.
Post-reading activities:
Students will together, make a classroom “friendship wreath.” Have the students trace and cut out one of their hands. Have the students write their names on their hands. After the students have all finished their hand, the class will put all of the hands together around a paper plate to make wreath. Explain to the students that a friendship wreath shows appreciation and love for each other.
Source used:
http://www.harpercollins.com/authors/18175/Lynn_Reiser/index.aspx
This sounds like a wonderful book and a wonderful topic for children. I think that all too often schools shy away from teaching children to celebrate not only their culture but those of others. I think it is important to teach children that they should not only be accepting of different cultures but they shoud celebrate what makes each of them unique. This book provides an opportunity to talk about acceptance and to teach children a new language. It is great to look at it from the perspective of an English-speaking child who cannot understand a Spanish-speaking child instead of just the inverse. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteValerie- I used this book when working in a bi-lingual classroom. The idea of needing to accept each other based on different cultures was needed and this book really helped! I am glad to see others realize the need for this!
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