Solving Problems � How can we solve problems?
Students consider the inquiry question by exploring common everyday problems. They will evaluate how the problems were solved and generate alternate solutions, using both empathy and respect for others. Opportunities for oral language and playful learning are woven throughout as students discuss problem scenarios and solutions, role-play problem-solving situations, and use puppets and masks to act out alternate solutions. Working with Words lessons accompany each Shared Reading text, and a text-type writing study invites students to write an account about how they solved a problem.
Read Aloud � The Very Cranky Bear
Fiction: Narrative � Humorous Story
A humorous story about four animal friends who try to come up with a solution to get a bear to stop being cranky.
Partner-Shared Reading Texts
These Partner-Shared reading texts can develop and extend students' understanding of how problems can be solved by listening, inferring the feelings of others, and communicating their own feelings in problem situations.
Problem at the Park Non-fiction: Retell � Account
- 1 Big Book
- 6 small book versions
Mei and her cousin visit an amusement park where she decides what rides they go on. Her cousin finally speaks up, suggesting the situation is unfair.
The Gingerbread Kids Fiction: Narrative � Rhyming Poem
- 1 Big Book
- 6 small book versions
The neighbourhood children wont let Annabelle play with them, but Annabelle doesnt give up. She comes up with different solutions to her problem.
Audio CD
Audio CD with fluent readings of Problem at the Park and The Gingerbread Kids.
DVD
DVD digital versions of the two Shared Reading texts, Problem at the Park and The Gingerbread Kids.
Teaching Guide � print and online
Includes support for launching the inquiry, using the Read Aloud and Shared Reading texts, ELL support, large and small letter cards BLMs, Working with Words BLM, the text-type writing study of a personal account, assessment rubric for writing a personal account, student self-assessment, inquiry assessment, Oral Language Assessment Scale, as well as book handling and print tracking assessment.
Ideas for further reading and extending the inquiry are also included.