Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will have a deeper understanding of the themes, characters, and settings in "Anne of West Philly." They will also enhance their reading comprehension and critical thinking skills through engaging activities and discussions.

Materials and Prep

• Copy of "Anne of West Philly" (or access to an online version)
• Notebook and pen/pencil for notes and reflections
• Art supplies (colored pencils, markers, paper) for creative projects
• Access to a computer or tablet for research (optional)
• Familiarity with the main characters and plot of the book

Activities

• Character Map: Create a character map that outlines the main characters in the book. Include their traits, relationships, and key moments. This will help the student visualize the connections between characters.
• Diary Entry: Write a diary entry from the perspective of Anne. The student can choose a specific event from the book and express Anne's thoughts and feelings about it. This encourages empathy and deeper understanding of the character.
• Art Project: Illustrate a scene from the book. The student can choose their favorite moment and create a drawing or collage that represents it. This allows for creative expression and reinforces comprehension of the story.
• Discussion Questions: Engage in a discussion about the themes of the book, such as friendship, resilience, and identity. Prepare a list of questions that the student can answer or discuss, promoting critical thinking.

Talking Points

• "What do you think makes Anne a relatable character? Can you think of a time when you felt like her?"
• "How does the setting of West Philly shape the story? What do you think it would be like to live there?"
• "What are some challenges Anne faces in the book? How does she overcome them?"
• "Can you identify any friendships in the book? What makes those friendships special?"
• "What lessons do you think Anne learns throughout her journey? How can we apply those lessons in our own lives?"
• "How does the author use humor in the story? Can you find a funny moment that made you laugh?"
• "If you could change one thing about the story, what would it be and why?"
• "What character do you relate to the most, and how do they influence Anne's journey?"
• "How does Anne's personality help her navigate her challenges? What qualities do you admire in her?"
• "What role does family play in Anne's life? How does her relationship with her family affect her?"
• "What do you think the author wants us to learn from Anne's story? Why is it important?"
• "If you could ask the author one question about the book, what would it be?"