A Language Arts/Technology Integrated Unit

We are going to learn about story maps and how useful they can be in reading. We will also learn how to create fun presentations to share what we learn.

When we use a STORY MAP as a pre- and post- reading activity, we can increase our reading comprehension.

A story map is a graphic organizer that helps us to organize the information from the books that we read. Story maps can help us “find our way” through a book much like a regular map shows where things are.

Name of storybook:____________________ Author:______________________________ Setting: When Where Characters: Who: Problem: Story Events: Beginning Middle End Solution:

Setting: When: Where:

Characters: Who :

Problem:

Events: Beginning: Middle: End:

Conclusion: How was the problem solved? What lesson was learned?

The story map teaches us about story structure and the elements that make a good story. These elements correspond to the basic questions one would ask about any story: WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN, WHY, and HOW.

1. You will make predictions about text before reading and check them after reading. 2. You will identify important story elements, such as characters, setting, and the plot. 3. You will discuss how story elements contribute to setting up the central problem and how it is resolved. 5. You will plan, design, and create a story map to share with the class in a brochure. 4. You will extend your understanding of the story’s themes by applying them to your own experience.

You will choose any two of Patricia Polacco’s many books.

How are the characters alike, how are they different? What “little life” lesson do we learn? Do the characters behave in a true to life manner? In Patricia Polacco’s Books These questions must be answered.

Follow the instructions for the presentation. Work alone or with your team members in a productive way that insures learning for all. Have fun and learn a lot !!