Materials Needed:
- Copy of the book "Miracles on Maple Hill" by Virginia Sorensen
- Notebook or journal
- Pencil
- Crayons or colored pencils
- Drawing paper
Lesson Activities:
Introduction (5 minutes):
"Today, we're starting a wonderful book called 'Miracles on Maple Hill'! Have you ever heard of a miracle? What do you think it means? This story is about a girl named Marly and her family who move from the busy city to the quiet countryside, hoping for some kind of miracle. Let's find out what happens!"
Reading Time (15-20 minutes):
Read Chapter 1, "Maple Hill", aloud together or have the student read independently. Pause occasionally to check for understanding or clarify vocabulary (like 'listless' or 'sap'). Encourage expressive reading!
Discussion (10 minutes):
- Who are the main characters we met in this chapter? (Marly, Mom, Dad, Joe)
- Where does the story begin? Where are they going? (Begin in Pittsburgh, going to Maple Hill in Pennsylvania)
- How does Marly feel about moving? How can you tell?
- Why do you think the family is moving? What clues does the book give us about Marly's father?
- The title mentions 'miracles'. What small 'miracle' or positive change happens even before they arrive at Maple Hill? (Dad seems a little better when they talk about Maple Hill).
Activity 1: Meet Marly! (10 minutes):
"Let's get to know Marly better. On your drawing paper, draw a picture of Marly based on what you learned about her in chapter 1. Around your drawing, write down words that describe her personality. Is she observant? Hopeful? Worried? Use evidence from the text!"
Activity 2: City vs. Countryside (5 minutes):
"Marly's family is leaving the city for the country. Let's think about the differences. In your notebook, make two columns. Label one 'City (Pittsburgh)' and the other 'Countryside (Maple Hill)'. List some things Marly might see, hear, or feel in each place based on the chapter."
Wrap-up (5 minutes):
"Great job exploring the start of Marly's adventure today! We met her family and learned why they're moving to Maple Hill. What are you most curious to find out next? Next time, we'll read Chapter 2 and see what waits for them at the old farmhouse!"