Because of Winn-Dixie Unit Plan

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In this Flashlight Readers session, students build their knowledge of literary elements by participating in activities related to the Newbery Honor book Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo. Students develop an understanding of plot, character, setting, and theme as well as the writing process - all while having fun.

OBJECTIVE

Students will:

1. Create a scrapbook featuring characters from the story
2. Play a reading comprehension maze game based on the story's plot and themes
3. Listen and read along with a slideshow of drafts narrated by the author
4. Communicate with the author through a moderated chat
5. Learn about the author and her writing process

LESSONS FOR THIS UNIT
Lesson 1: Because of Winn-Dixie Scrapbook
Lesson 2: Stump the Dump Maze Game
Lesson 3: About the Author: Kate DiCamillo

REPRODUCIBLES
Kate DiCamillo's Drafts (PDF)

SUPPORTING BOOKS

Books and Resources for Teaching Because of Winn-Dixie

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  The Teacher Store

  Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo Lonely Opal spends her first summer in a new town - first adopting Winn-Dixis, a stray dog, then collecting stories about her new friends, and missing her absent mother. Whether because of Winn-Dixie or because she is growing up, Opal learns to come to terms with her loss. "A funny, poignant, and utterly genuine first novel." - Publishers Weekly $4.95 Paperback Book | Grades 3-5

  
  Because of Winn-Dixie
  Grades 3-5 $4.95
  
• Scholastic Store
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  The Scholastic Store

  Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo Share this heartwarming tale with the whole family! When Opal brings home a mangy dog she finds at the supermarket, she doesn't know what to expect. But with the lovable dog at her side, she finds herself part of a community, making unusual friends in her new home of Naomi, Florida. Page Turners Subtle humor and engaging characters are standouts in this award winner. $6.99 books;paperback books;paperbacks | Ages 9-12

  
  Because of Winn-Dixie
  Ages 9-12 $6.99
  

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