A Sweet Adventure: Exploring ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’

Preschool / Pre-Primary / Nursery / Pre-Kindergarten Lesson Plan – Learning Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Book, Maria Montessori philosophy

Title: “A Sweet Adventure: Exploring ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory'”

Age Group: Preschool / Pre-Primary / Nursery / Pre-Kindergarten (3-5 years old)

Learning Framework: Early Learning Outcomes Framework (ELOF) – USA

Educational Approach: Montessori Method

Learning Outcomes (Based on ELOF):

1. Language and Literacy: Enhance listening comprehension, vocabulary, and the understanding of narratives.
2. Cognition: Improve mathematical reasoning by introducing concepts of quantity and number through a story context.
3. Perceptual, Motor, and Physical Development: Develop fine motor skills through hands-on activities.
4. Approaches to Learning: Foster creativity and problem-solving skills.
5. Social and Emotional Development: Learn about character traits and feelings.

Resources Needed:

• The book “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” by Roald Dahl
• Art supplies (paper, coloring tools, scissors, glue)
• Montessori Number Rods or other counting materials
• Assorted “pretend” chocolates or candies (for safe sensory play)

Lesson Plan:

1. Story Introduction (20 minutes):

Introduce the book and read selected parts of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”, focusing on key characters and events.

2. Story Discussion (15 minutes):

Discuss the story, touching on character traits, actions, and the concept of fairness. Use this opportunity to introduce vocabulary words like “factory,” “inventor,” “golden ticket,” etc.

3. Art Activity – Designing a Golden Ticket (30 minutes):

Invite children to create their own “golden tickets” using art supplies. This will help improve fine motor skills while encouraging creativity.

4. Montessori Math Activity – Counting Golden Tickets (30 minutes):

Use Montessori Number Rods or counting materials to reinforce the concept of quantities. For example, how many golden tickets were there in the story? How many children won them?

5. Sensory Activity – Chocolate Factory Exploration (30 minutes):

Set up a “chocolate factory” sensory bin with safe, pretend chocolates or candies. Let the children explore the bin, enhancing their sensory skills and imaginative play.

6. Reflection and Conclusion (15 minutes):

Ask the children about their favorite parts of the story, what they learned, and how they felt about the characters’ actions. Discuss the importance of fairness, kindness, and respect.

Assessment:

Assess children’s comprehension of the story, their participation in activities, understanding of number concepts, and their ability to express their thoughts and feelings about the story.

Alignment with Montessori Method:

The Montessori method is reflected through hands-on learning, child-directed activity, integrating subjects (math, language, social studies), and promoting a sense of order, independence, and respect for others.

Link to ELOF:

This lesson plan covers all five domains of ELOF – language and literacy, cognition, perceptual, motor and physical development, approaches to learning, and social and emotional development – ensuring a comprehensive and enriching learning experience.