Polar Express Movie Scrapbook
What’s inside...
Bursting with ideas, facts, stories and things to make and do, this scrapbook is the perfect companion to get you in the festive mood - so prepare for some Christmas fun!
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-12
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you think about the journey the children took on the Polar Express? How did it make you feel?
If you could meet Santa Claus like in the story, what would you ask him?
What was your favorite part of the scrapbook and why?
How do you think the children felt during their adventure to the North Pole?
Do you believe in the magic of Christmas like in the Polar Express story? Why or why not?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before delving into the questions, watch the Polar Express movie together to refresh the story in the child's mind, making the discussion more vivid and engaging.
Use expressive voices or character impersonations when discussing scenes or characters from the story to make it more entertaining and immersive for the child.
Encourage your child to draw or create a small scrapbook of their favorite moments from the Polar Express, using this as a visual aid to discuss their thoughts and feelings about the story.
Ask follow-up questions to their responses, showing genuine interest and encouraging them to elaborate on their thoughts and feelings.
After discussing the questions, relate the themes of belief and imagination from the book to real-life situations to help deepen the child’s understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Believing in the Unseen
Explanation: The 'Polar Express Movie Scrapbook' delves into the magical journey of a young boy who learns to believe in the magic of Christmas, despite the lack of tangible evidence.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to maintain their sense of wonder and belief in things not always visible, such as emotions, feelings, and the values of honesty and integrity.
Example Lesson: The Value of Friendship and Trust
Explanation: Throughout the story, the characters build friendships and learn to trust each other on their journey to the North Pole, showcasing the importance of camaraderie and reliance on others.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of building and maintaining trustful relationships, collaborating with others, and supporting their friends in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face the Unknown
Explanation: The protagonist's decision to board the mysterious train headed for the North Pole exemplifies the courage needed to embark on new, unfamiliar adventures.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to embrace new experiences such as starting a new school, trying a new activity, or making new friends, viewing them as adventures rather than challenges.
Example Lesson: The Joy of Giving
Explanation: The story highlights the joy that comes from giving, like when the protagonist gives away his first gift of a bell from Santa's sleigh.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of generosity and the positive feelings associated with giving to others, whether through sharing toys or helping someone in need.
Example Lesson: Persistence and Perseverance
Explanation: The journey on the Polar Express is filled with obstacles and challenges that the characters must overcome, teaching the rewards of persistence and perseverance.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to keep trying and not give up when faced with difficulties, whether in completing a difficult task or learning a new skill.