Category: Novel Study Teaching Ideas

Welcome to my index blog page, where I share book units for 3rd through 6th graders! Reading novels helps students develop their literacy skills, imagination, and critical thinking abilities. I create resources to help teachers and parents guide students through studying books in a fun and engaging way.

Each post on this blog page includes novel study samples and teaching ideas with various activities, such as printable handouts, YouTube videos, and hands-on projects like recipes and art activities. On my blog page, you can find many options for novel studies to do with your child at home or in the classroom.

Learning should be enjoyable, and I design my book units to be educational and entertaining.

I hope this index blog page will inspire and motivate you to explore the wonderful world of novels with your readers. Happy reading!

The Indian in the Cupboard

The Indian in the Cupboard

The Indian in the Cupboard is a fast‑moving fantasy that hooks readers from the very first chapter. When Omri discovers that a simple plastic figure can come to life, he’s thrown into a world where imagination, responsibility, and friendship collide. This classic middle‑grade novel is perfect for lessons on character development, point of view, and …

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Ella Enchanted Activities

Ella Enchanted

If you’re looking for Ella Enchanted teaching ideas, Gail Carson Levine’s award‑winning novel is a wonderful choice for exploring character growth, courage, and the consequences of magical “gifts.” This Cinderella‑inspired tale blends humor, adventure, and heartfelt moments as Ella fights against a curse that forces her to obey any command. Students love discussing the choices …

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The Giver Teaching Ideas

The Giver

Enjoy these five teaching ideas to use with your novel study of The Giver, You’ll find novel study samples and a great symbolism activity.

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The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Teaching Ideas

The Best Christmas Pageant

If you’re planning to use Barbara Robinson’s hilarious classic The Best Christmas Pageant Ever with your students this holiday season, you’re in the right place. Below you’ll find teaching ideas, student projects, and cross‑curricular activities that pair perfectly with this crowd‑pleasing December read‑aloud. Reading Level Lexile 760L Interest Level Grades 3-5 Length 150 pages Award …

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The One and Only Ivan Activities

The One and Only Ivan

The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate is a beautifully written, Newbery‑winning novel told from the perspective of Ivan, a silverback gorilla living in a small circus‑themed shopping mall. Written in a journal‑like format, Ivan reflects on his past, his present life in confinement, and his hopes for the future. Reading Level Lexile 570L …

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Mixed-Up Files Activities

Mixed-Up Files

Do you need a From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler activity or two to add to your E. L. Konigsburg unit? If so, you’re in the right place. Below you’ll find engaging Mixed-Up Files activities including maps, printables, and novel study samples to support your students as they explore this classic mystery. …

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Paintbrushes & Arrows by M.C. Finotti

Paintbrushes & Arrows

I’m thrilled to welcome M.C. Finotti, author of Paintbrushes & Arrows: A Story of Two Girls in St. Augustine in 1875, as a guest blogger today. Her novel is a thoughtful blend of real people, historical events, and heartfelt storytelling that teachers will enjoy sharing with their students. Interesting Feature Rotating  Perspectives and Points of …

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