Teacher Created Materials - Literary Text: Journey to the Center of the Earth - Grade 2 - Guided Reading Level J
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What’s inside...
As the students arrive for science class, they are met by Mr. Verne--and this doesn't seem to be just an ordinary class. The students are shocked as Mr. Verne has them wear special suits and jump aboard a rocket! The children are headed straight for the center of the earth and learn about each of Earth's layers along the way. Early readers will love this scientific study of Earth, as well as the stunningly vivid illustrations. About Shell Education, Rachelle Cracchiolo started the company with a friend and fellow teacher. Both were eager to share their ideas and passion for education with other classroom leaders. What began as a hobby, selling lesson plans to local stores, became a part-time job after a full day of teaching, and eventually blossomed into Teacher Created Materials. The story continued in 2004 with the launch of Shell Education and the introduction of professional resources and classroom application books designed to support Teacher Created Materials curriculum resources. Today, Teacher Created Materials and Shell Education are two of the most recognized names in educational publishing around the world.
Discussion points
What do you think it would be like to travel to the center of the Earth? How would it be different from where we live?
Which character did you like the most and why?
If you had a chance to go on an adventure, where would you like to go and what would you do?
How did the characters work together during their journey? Can you think of a time when you had to work with others to achieve something?
What was the most surprising part of the book for you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use visual aids like a globe or maps to discuss the concept of the Earth’s center and enhance their understanding of the journey in the story.
Encourage your child to draw their favorite scene from the book. This can help them express their feelings and thoughts about the story.
Relate the story to real life by discussing a time when the family had an adventure together, and ask your child to compare it with the book’s story.
After reading, ask your child to predict what might happen if the story continued. This can stimulate their imagination and narrative skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: The story of a journey to the center of the Earth encapsulates the theme of exploration as the characters venture into unknown territories. Their curiosity drives the narrative forward.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace curiosity and explore new subjects in school or new activities, understanding the value of discovery and learning.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: Throughout their journey, the characters must work together to overcome obstacles and solve problems, highlighting the importance of teamwork.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in a child's daily interactions with peers during group projects or team sports, teaching them to cooperate and value each other’s input for collective success.
Example Lesson: Perseverance in the Face of Challenges
Explanation: The characters encounter numerous challenges during their journey. Their persistence in overcoming these obstacles showcases the importance of perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to persist through difficulties whether in academics, learning new skills, or personal challenges, understanding that perseverance can lead to accomplishing goals.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature and the Environment
Explanation: As the characters journey through various natural environments inside the Earth, the book fosters a sense of wonder and respect for the natural world.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to be conscious of the environment, promote recycling, and teach them the importance of preserving natural habitats.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: The adventure requires the characters to constantly think on their feet and devise solutions to novel problems, effectively demonstrating problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these skills in their academic work and personal life, learning to approach problems methodically and think critically to find solutions.