I Think My Teacher Is A Witch
What’s inside...
Nala loves going to school and her favorite subject is science. However, she faces a problem as she believes her science teacher, Ms. Butterworth, is a witch. Nala finds various clues that make her think Ms. Butterworth is hiding her true identity. Despite Ms. Butterworth denying it, Nala remains convinced that her teacher is a witch.
Age
2-18
Length
31 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the story make you feel about your own teachers or school?
What would you do if you thought something mysterious was happening at your school?
Why do you think the main character believed their teacher was a witch?
What are some qualities that make a good teacher, witch or not?
How did the characters in the book solve their problems or misunderstandings?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation with a lighthearted tone to make the child comfortable.
Ask the child to compare and contrast characters from the book with real-life people they know, which helps them connect the story to their own world.
Encourage the child to imagine different endings or scenarios to the book, enhancing their creative thinking.
Discuss similar feelings or experiences they might have had, creating a personal connection to the story.
Validate the child's feelings and thoughts as they answer, showing interest and making them feel heard.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and Addressing Misconceptions
Explanation: The story illustrates the main character's journey from fearing their teacher based on false assumptions to understanding her better. This shift occurs as they observe and interact more with the teacher.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of not jumping to conclusions based on hearsay. They are encouraged to seek their own answers and form opinions based on personal experiences.
Example Lesson: The Value of Asking Questions
Explanation: The protagonist's curiosity leads them to ask questions and eventually discover the truth about their teacher. This inquiry helps dispel their fears.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the significance of inquiry as a tool for learning and clarification, fostering a habit of questioning and critical thinking in everyday situations.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: As the story progresses, the child learns more about the teacher’s personal and professional life, which fosters empathy and a deeper understanding.
Real-World Application: Children are taught to empathize with others and recognize that everyone has their own story and struggles. This can help them develop healthier relationships and social skills.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Fear with Knowledge
Explanation: The journey from fear to familiarity with the teacher showcases how knowledge and understanding can dissipate fear.
Real-World Application: Instills the lesson that learning more about something that scares them can help reduce their fear, encouraging a proactive approach towards fear-inducing situations.
Example Lesson: Respecting Authority Figures
Explanation: Initially misjudging the teacher, the child learns to respect and value her role as an educator once they understand her better.
Real-World Application: This lesson reinforces the need to respect and value educators and other authority figures, which is essential for a conducive learning environment.