Core Skills Analysis
Language Arts
- Leela developed reading fluency by engaging with the text in 'Helen's Big World', which presents the life story of Helen Keller in an accessible format.
- Through this reading activity, Leela expanded her vocabulary, learning new words associated with Helen Keller's experiences and the concepts of disability and perseverance.
- Leela's comprehension skills improved as she learned to connect ideas and themes within the story, fostering critical thinking about historical figures and their impact on society.
- By discussing the story, Leela practiced articulating her thoughts and feelings, enhancing her spoken language skills.
History
- Leela gained insights into important historical events and social issues, particularly related to disability rights and education, through Helen Keller's life.
- The activity provided Leela with an understanding of how individuals can inspire change in their communities and the world at large.
- By learning about Helen Keller's challenges and achievements, Leela developed empathy towards individuals with disabilities, showcasing emotional growth.
- Leela learned about the importance of advocacy and how Helen Keller's story is a part of broader movements for equality and acceptance.
Tips
To further develop Leela's understanding of Helen Keller and the topics introduced in the book, consider the following activities: 1) Create a timeline of Helen Keller’s life. This can help Leela visualize her achievements and the historical context. 2) Discuss the concept of perseverance. Ask Leela to share examples of challenges she faces and brainstorm strategies to overcome them. 3) Organize a mini-research project where Leela can explore another notable figure with a disability and present her findings to the family. 4) Visit local museums or online resources that focus on disability rights to connect her learning with real-world applications.
Book Recommendations
- The Story of My Life by Helen Keller: An autobiography by Helen Keller herself, detailing her struggles and triumphs.
- The Miracle Worker by William Gibson: A play that dramatizes the relationship between Helen Keller and her teacher Anne Sullivan.
- What’s Wrong with Timmy? by Maria Shriver: A children's book that addresses disabilities in a relatable and non-stigmatizing way.
Learning Standards
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.2.1: Ask and answer such questions as who, what, where, when, why, and how to demonstrate understanding of key details in a text.
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.2.2: Write informative/explanatory texts in which they introduce a topic, use facts and definitions to develop points, and provide a concluding statement.
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.2.1: Participate in collaborative conversations with diverse partners about grade 2 topics and texts with peers and adults in small and larger groups.
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.2.4: Tell a story or recount an experience with appropriate facts and relevant, descriptive details, speaking audibly in coherent sentences.
Try This Next
- Create a mini biography poster of Helen Keller, highlighting key events from her life.
- Write a letter from Helen Keller to her teacher Anne Sullivan, expressing her gratitude.