Today my
class watched the film, The Lightning Thief. Riordan’s book was our last
read aloud, a book I look forward to sharing each year. I thought instead of a
normal post, I’d write down the things I most loved about sharing this book
with my students.
10. The
obsession that sweeps across my classroom regarding Greek Mythology. All
mythology books end up checked out. Kids love to study the myths.
9. The kids
that sneak copies of the book home so they can finish before I do and read
ahead in the series.
8. My boys
that have formed their own Riordan fan club on their own time. Hello,
engagement!
7. The
indignation when students learn that others skipped the first series to jump
into the Heroes of Olympus series.
“But they missed the origin!” Rock on, my Nerdy Book Club students. J
6. The excitement the
students showed in creating their own mural of Camp Half Blood. Can’t wait to
see it when they finish!
5. Their earnest faces when
they begged to watch the movie. Like I would say no. I abhor watching movies at
school – but as an extension to the book? With opportunity to debate? I’m in.
4. The glee when I announced
we could have a “blue food and drink” party with the movie to celebrate Sally
Jackson’s one act of rebellion against Smelly Gabe.
3. The fun food and drinks
that showed up in my room today. Yum.
2. The whisperers of dismay
and then excitement as students watched the movie and became caught up in the
story.
1. The fun discussions over
minor changes (Annabeth’s hair, eye color, minor characters left out) vs. major
plot differences (Kronos?)
Each year I am beyond
thrilled by the level of engagement students show throughout this unit. Today
we dismissed early for Thanksgiving break. I had some boys hang back and ask me
if there was a way to get a “family tree” for Greek Mythology. I said I could
look one up and then they told me not to worry about it, they’d create their
own. I smiled, gave them a hug, and sent them on their way. Love this book,
movie, and my students. What a great start to our break.
