Every Monday, I highlight a book from our school bookroom along with lesson plan suggestions. I hope you find this useful, and please leave a comment with any suggestions or additions!
The First Story Ever Told, by Eric Jendresen and Alberto Villoldo
The legend is told as a story within a story, with Grandmother Fire visiting a modern-era explorer in a dream to share with him the first story ever told.
The story-within-a-story structure is elegant, but I’ve received feedback from 3rd grade teachers that it’s a lot more effective if you read the book at least twice with students.
Anyway, the lesson of the story is basically not to spend your life looking for one mythical place, because what matters most is the journey that you took along the way.
If you know me, then you know that I believe “Ithaca” is the most brilliant, lyrical poem ever written. Toby and I had it read at our wedding. And if you think your students are ready for it, it might be a great companion to this book. Listen to James Bond read it here:
The Wildwood third grade team (2012-13) used this book as a mentor text during the launch of Daily 5/CAFE, so you can talk with any of them if you’d like feedback.
There is a CAFE menu included with this mentor text, and I’ve highlighted these as suggested lessons:
Bulleted list begins. Then tell about the strategy
Bulleted list begins. Then tell about the strategy
Bulleted list begins. Then tell about the strategy
Bulleted list begins. Then tell about the strategy
Please add any lessons or supplemental materials to the book bag so future teachers can utilize your good thinking!
Comments and constructive feedback are always welcomed. Please let me know if these lessons were useful in your class!
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