Write Up a Storm With the Polk Street School
#1 in The Kids of the Polk Street School Specials Series
What’s inside...
Shows young readers all of the steps involved in writing a story and gives instructions on creating one's own book. Patricia Reilly Giff, author of the Kids Of The Polk Street School books, guides readers through the process she uses to create engaging stories. The essential tools needed are paper, a sharp pencil, a comfortable spot, and one's best ideas. By following Giff's method, readers can join the beloved characters from her books in the creative adventure of writing.
Discussion points
What do you think Dawn will write about next in her journal?
How do you feel when you share your own stories or creations with others?
Why is teamwork important when working on a project like the class newspaper?
How do the characters in the book handle disagreements? Can you relate to any of their strategies?
What lesson did you learn from the adventures at Polk Street School?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to connect with the characters by asking them how they would react in similar situations. Discuss the importance of expression through writing and how it can help clarify thoughts and feelings. Highlight the value of cooperation and listening in teamwork, mirroring the students' efforts in creating their class newspaper. Lastly, use the book as a tool to discuss the impact of problem-solving skills and how they can be applied in daily life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: The story illustrates how the students at Polk Street School work together to achieve common goals, such as producing a school newspaper.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or in their communities, learning to collaborate and value each member's contribution.
Example Lesson: Creativity and expression
Explanation: Characters in the book engage in creative writing and storytelling which highlights the significance of self-expression through words.
Real-World Application: This message encourages children to explore writing and storytelling in their own lives, whether in academic assignments or personal journals, fostering a means of personal expression.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the book, the students encounter various challenges in putting together their newspaper, but they continue to persevere until they accomplish their goal.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the value of persistence and hard work in overcoming obstacles, whether it's completing a difficult homework assignment or mastering a new skill.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The students take on specific roles and responsibilities in the creation of the school newspaper, learning accountability.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to take responsibility for their tasks and duties in group projects or home chores, understanding that their actions affect others.
Example Lesson: Respect for others' ideas
Explanation: In the collaborative process depicted in the book, characters learn to listen to and respect different opinions and ideas.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to practice active listening and respect in discussions, valuing diverse perspectives and fostering inclusive environments.