Watch polar express movie

Art

• The child can analyze the visual elements and design of the movie, such as the use of color, shape, and texture in the animation.
• They can also discuss the artistic techniques used to bring the story to life, such as animation, CGI, and visual effects.
• The child can create their own artwork inspired by the movie, using various mediums such as paint, markers, or clay to depict scenes or characters from the film.
• They can also explore different art styles used in the movie, such as realism or impressionism, and compare them to other art movements in history.

English Language Arts

• The child can analyze the plot, characters, and themes of the movie, discussing the concept of hero's journey and the importance of belief and imagination.
• They can identify and discuss literary devices used in the story, such as foreshadowing, symbolism, and characterization.
• The child can write a movie review, summarizing the plot, expressing their opinion, and supporting their arguments with evidence from the film.
• They can also practice their storytelling skills by creating an alternative ending or writing a sequel to the movie.

History

• The child can research the historical context of the movie, which is set in the 1950s, and explore the cultural, social, and technological aspects of that era.
• They can discuss how the movie portrays the spirit of Christmas and compare it to historical Christmas traditions and celebrations.
• The child can learn about the history of trains and their significance in transportation and communication during the time period in which the movie is set.
• They can also study the history of the Polar Express train ride, which inspired the movie, and its connection to the real-life railway systems.

Math

• The child can explore the concept of time and measurement by calculating the duration of the train journey and comparing it to real-life travel times.
• They can practice their problem-solving skills by solving math word problems related to the scenes in the movie, such as determining the number of presents on the train or calculating the distance traveled.
• The child can analyze the pattern and repetition in the movie, such as the sequence of events or the rhythm of the music, and identify mathematical patterns.
• They can also explore geometry by identifying and discussing the shapes and angles present in the animation and set design of the movie.

Music

• The child can analyze the music in the movie, discussing the different genres, instruments, and melodies used to enhance the storytelling and create emotional impact.
• They can learn to play or sing some of the songs featured in the film, such as "Believe" or "Hot Chocolate," and explore the musical elements within them.
• The child can research the composers and musicians involved in creating the movie's soundtrack and learn about their contributions to the music industry.
• They can also explore the history of Christmas music and compare the songs in the movie to traditional holiday tunes.

Science

• The child can explore the science behind the Northern Lights, which are depicted in the movie, and learn about the natural phenomena that cause this colorful light display.
• They can discuss the concept of belief and imagination in relation to the science of perception and how our brains interpret the world around us.
• The child can learn about the properties of different materials used in the construction of the train and discuss how they affect its functionality and durability.
• They can also explore the science of sound and animation, discussing how sound waves and visual effects are used to create a realistic cinematic experience.

Social Studies

• The child can discuss the values and traditions portrayed in the movie, such as the importance of family, friendship, and generosity during the holiday season.
• They can explore cultural diversity by researching the different languages, customs, and beliefs represented by the characters in the movie.
• The child can learn about different holiday traditions around the world and compare them to the celebrations depicted in the film.
• They can also discuss the concept of social class and inequality, as portrayed by the contrasting characters in the movie, and relate it to historical and contemporary issues.

To further develop the child's learning from watching the Polar Express movie, encourage them to engage in hands-on activities related to the subjects explored in the film. For example, they can create a diorama or build a model train set to depict scenes from the movie or conduct experiments related to the science concepts portrayed in the film. They can also write and perform their own play based on the story, incorporating elements of art, music, and language arts.

Book Recommendations

• The Christmasaurus by Tom Fletcher: A heartwarming story about a boy and a dinosaur who form a special bond and embark on a magical Christmas adventure.
• The Enormous Crocodile by Roald Dahl: A funny and thrilling tale about a sneaky crocodile's attempts to eat children and the clever ways they outsmart him.
• The Polar Bear Explorers' Club by Alex Bell: Join the Polar Bear Explorers' Club on an epic adventure to save a magical creature and discover the secrets of the Arctic.