LESSON 2

Unit: The Cay
Lesson 2
Title:  Author study on Theodore Taylor for a book jacket

Aims:
    1.  To write biographical information about an author.
    2.  To develop research skills using the Internet.
    3.  To develop use of drawing and painting tools.

Grade Level:  5th Grade

Estimated Time:  3-4 class periods

Setting:  Classroom

Interdisciplinary Areas:  Literature/Art

Materials:
    Novel- Theodore Taylor, The Cay, Avon Books, New York, 1969
    Internet
    Apple Works
    Grolier's Multimedia Encyclopedia
    KidPix

Motivation:
    1.  Look at a sample of books that have an author's biographical blurb.  Ask questions like:
        a.  What information do you find out about the authors?
        b.  Where can we find information about Theodore Taylor?

Procedure:
    1.  Work in cooperative learning groups.
    2.  Researchers find out biographical information about the author, Theodore Taylor.  Grolier's Encyclopedia and the following web sites may be used:

http://booksontape.com/author.cfm/1943
http://desconnect.com/ctaylor/NIDES/nancy/TheCay/TTaylor.html
    3.  Writers write an "About the Author" blurb for the book jackets.
    4.  Artists put together completed book jackets.
    5.  Presenters share the groups' book jacket with the class.

Evaluation:
Students will be evaluated on:
    1.  The research skills used in obtaining biographical information about the author.
    2.  Techniques used in writing book blurbs.
    3.  Creativity in illustrations.
    4.  Use of drawing and painting tools.
    5.  Presentation of complete projects to the class.

Follow-up:
    1.  Children share book jackets with other fifth grade classes; present to parents; and display in the classroom.
    2.  Lesson to follow will be "What is a coral reef?"

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