Language - Powerful Words and Phrases

Awhile ago I shared my first lesson focused on character growth and analysis (Babushka's Doll). Here, I'd like to share my second lesson based on the book Maple by Lori Nichols. This book is the first of three books about Maple and her little sister, Willow. Both girls are named after trees, and their growth parallels the growth of their trees. In addition to the beautiful illustrations, Lori Nichols uses graceful language to describe her ideas and help readers visualize. While the language is lovely, it is also accessible for young readers. Readers can connect to and easily imagine Lori Nichol's ideas.

I chose to upload this planner because it illustrates how I teach vocabulary and "powerful words and phrases." Specifically, phase two of language workshop is dedicated to vocabulary and author's craft. During this phase we dig deep to analyze author's word choice and its effect. Take a look at how my class talked about how the author used words to make meaning:

Maple

 The following Thoughtful Log entries would be placed in the "Language" or "Powerful Words and Phrases" section of the Thoughtful Log (click on the link for more information about Thoughtful Log organization).

I'm off to bed!