McGuffey's Second Eclectic Reader
#2 in McGuffey's Primer Series
on Goodreads (217)
What’s inside...
McGuffey's Second Eclectic Reader is designed to continue and extend the reading skills introduced in the First Reader. It includes seventy-one lessons that utilize short stories to teach meaning, spelling, pronunciation, and punctuation to students of a wide age range, from children as young as six to adults learning to read. Each lesson presents 8 to 20 new words, accompanied by charming 19th-century illustrations. This is the revised 1879 edition of one of the best known schoolbooks in American history, having sold over 120 million copies since its initial publication in 1836.
Discussion points
What did you like about the stories or characters in the book, and why?
How did the characters' decisions affect their adventures?
What lessons do you think the stories are trying to teach us?
If you could be friends with any character, who would it be and what would you do together?
How do you think the book wants us to treat others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Listen actively to your child's responses, showing genuine interest and asking follow-up questions based on their answers.
Relate the stories or moral lessons to personal experiences or real-world scenarios to make the conversation more relatable for your child.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings for the stories to foster creativity and deeper understanding of the narratives.
Discuss the historical context of when the book was written to help your child understand the different perspectives and values of that time.
Praise your child’s insights and thoughts as they share, reinforcing their confidence and enjoyment in such discussions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of honesty
Explanation: Through various stories and characters, the book emphasizes telling the truth and the consequences of lying.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value truthfulness in their interactions with friends and family, fostering trust and strong relationships.
Example Lesson: The value of hard work
Explanation: Characters in the book often succeed through diligence and perseverance, demonstrating that effort leads to success.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to apply themselves diligently in schoolwork and chores, understanding that their efforts will be rewarded.
Example Lesson: Respect for others
Explanation: Respect is a recurring theme, highlighting the importance of treating others kindly and with consideration.
Real-World Application: Children learn to interact respectfully with peers and adults, enhancing their social interaction and community integration.
Example Lesson: The benefit of education
Explanation: The reader promotes the idea that education is a valuable tool that provides a path to a better future.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to take their studies seriously and to be curious, lifelong learners.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and community
Explanation: Stories in the book often center around family and community support systems, showing how essential these networks are in one's life.
Real-World Application: Children understand the significance of maintaining strong family ties and actively participating in community activities.