Lesson Plan on Are You My Mother? (Reggio Canada)

Kindergarten / Preschool / SK / Pre-Elementary / ECEC Lesson Plan – Lesson Plan on Are You My Mother? (Reggio Canada), Reggio philosophy

Title: Exploring Central Themes in “Are You My Mother?” – A Reggio Emilia Inspired Lesson Plan for Kindergarten/Preschool Students in Canada

Grade Level: Kindergarten/Preschool/SK/Pre-Elementary/ECEC
Subject: Language Arts
Duration: 2-3 sessions (approximately 45 minutes each)

Curriculum Connections:
– English Language Arts: Reading Comprehension, Oral Communication, Writing
– Social Studies: Family and Community
– Visual Arts: Expressive Arts

Theorist: Reggio Emilia Approach

Learning Objectives:
1. Students will develop reading comprehension skills by engaging with the central themes of the book “Are You My Mother?”.
2. Students will enhance their oral communication skills by participating in group discussions and sharing their thoughts and feelings about the story.
3. Students will explore the concept of family and community, fostering a sense of belonging and empathy.
4. Students will express their creativity through art activities inspired by the book.

Materials:
– “Are You My Mother?” by P.D. Eastman
– Chart paper and markers
– Art supplies (e.g., construction paper, crayons, glue, scissors)
– Printed images of different animals and their offspring
– Large poster board or mural paper
– Digital devices (optional) for multimedia exploration

Procedure:

Session 1: Introduction and Reading Comprehension
1. Begin by introducing the book “Are You My Mother?” and its author, P.D. Eastman. Discuss the importance of reading and how books can take us on exciting adventures.
2. Activate prior knowledge by asking students about their own families and the different roles family members play.
3. Read the book aloud, pausing at key moments to engage students in discussions. Encourage them to predict what might happen next and share their thoughts and feelings about the story.
4. After reading, create a chart on the board or chart paper to record the central themes and key events in the story. Use simple illustrations or symbols to represent each theme or event.

Session 2: Exploring Family and Community
1. Review the central themes and key events from the previous session. Discuss how the baby bird in the story felt when he couldn’t find his mother and how he eventually found her.
2. Show printed images of different animals and their offspring. Engage students in a discussion about how different animals take care of their babies and the similarities/differences with human families.
3. Encourage students to share stories or experiences about their own families. Discuss the importance of family and how families can be diverse.
4. Collaboratively create a large poster board or mural paper titled “Our Families” or “Our Community.” Provide art supplies for students to draw and write about their families, including family members, activities they enjoy together, and what makes their family special.

Session 3: Expressive Arts and Reflection
1. Begin by revisiting the central themes and key events from the book. Ask students to recall their favorite parts and why those moments stood out to them.
2. Introduce an art activity inspired by the book. Provide students with construction paper, crayons, glue, and scissors. Instruct them to create their own baby bird and design a nest for it using the art supplies.
3. Encourage students to reflect on their artwork and share their creations with their peers. Discuss the different interpretations and creative choices made by each student.
4. Optional: Use digital devices to explore multimedia resources related to the book, such as animated adaptations or author interviews. Discuss how different forms of media can enhance our understanding and enjoyment of a story.

Assessment:
– Observe students’ active participation during discussions and their ability to express their thoughts and feelings about the book.
– Assess students’ comprehension of the central themes by reviewing their contributions to the chart created during Session 1.
– Evaluate students’ artwork based on their creativity, attention to detail, and ability to represent the central themes of the book.

Extension Activities:
1. Invite students to bring in their favorite books from home and create a classroom library. Encourage them to share their books with their peers and engage in independent reading or buddy reading activities.
2. Organize a “Family and Community Day” where students can invite their families to participate in various activities, such as storytelling, art projects, or a family photo booth.
3. Collaborate with the school librarian to create a display featuring books that celebrate diverse families and communities. Encourage students to explore these books during library visits.

Note: Adapt the lesson plan as needed to suit the specific needs and abilities of your students