Anticipation Guide

Objective: This activity aims to activate students' prior knowledge, generate interest in the novel's themes, and encourage predictions about the story.

Materials Needed:

• Copies of the anticipation guide worksheet (or create one on a whiteboard or poster)

• Chart paper or whiteboard

• Markers

Procedure:

1. Introduce the Novel:

   • Display the cover of "It's the End of the World and I'm in My Bathing Suit" and provide a brief overview of the book's title, author, and genre.

   • Engage students in a brief discussion about the title and cover art. What do they think the book might be about based on these clues?

2. Anticipation Guide:

   • Distribute or display the anticipation guide worksheet, which includes a list of statements related to the novel's themes, characters, or events. Leave space for students to respond.

   • Example statements could include:

     • "The end of the world is caused by a natural disaster."

     • "The main character faces a personal crisis."

     • "Friendship is a key theme in the novel."

     • "The protagonist must learn to overcome their fears."

   • Encourage students to indicate whether they agree or disagree with each statement based on their initial impressions or prior knowledge.

3. Group Discussion:

   • After students have completed their anticipation guides, divide them into small groups to discuss their responses.

   • Encourage students to explain their reasoning for agreeing or disagreeing with each statement and to share any predictions they have about the novel.

4. Whole-Class Discussion:

   • Bring the class back together for a whole-class discussion about the anticipation guide statements.

   • Facilitate a conversation about the themes and topics students expect to encounter in the novel and any questions or curiosities they have about the story.

5. Setting Reading Goals:

   • Before students begin reading, have them set personal reading goals based on the themes and predictions discussed in the anticipation guide.

   • Encourage them to consider what they hope to learn, understand, or discover as they read the novel.