The basics of CP.

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Alzheimer's Association

• Cerebral Palsy: a condition that affects movement and posture. It happens when the part of the brain that controls muscles is damaged, usually before birth. This damage can make it hard for someone to control their muscles and move their body the way they want to. People with cerebral palsy might have trouble with walking, talking, and other everyday activities. 

• Dementia: A condition that affects the brain and how a person thinks, remembers, and behaves. 

• EEG- An electroencephalogram, is a medical test that measures and records the electrical activity of the brain.

• Stander:  A hospital bed that stands up on end and is supposed to make Ellie stronger. 

• Neurologist: A medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of the nervous system. This includes the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles. Neurologists are trained to identify and manage a wide range of conditions such as epilepsy, stroke, Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease. 

• Pneumonia: A type of lung infection that can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or other microorganisms. It leads to inflammation in the air sacs in one or both lungs, which can fill with fluid or pus, making it difficult to breathe. 

• Demeaning: Saying or doing something that makes someone feel less important, capable, or valued. 

Before Reading:

"Realistic fiction" refers to stories that are set in the real world and feature characters and events that could happen in real life. Unlike fantasy or science fiction, which involve elements that are not possible in our world, realistic fiction portrays situations, people, and events that are grounded in reality. Before diving into this story, take the time to explore the characteristics of a realistic fiction story-setting, characters, events, problems, and solutions. To provide students with more examples of realistic fiction, this link provides a list of realistic fiction story students may have read before!

During Reading: 

The "Say Something" reading strategy is a dynamic approach commonly used in elementary and middle school classrooms to enhance comprehension and promote active engagement with texts. In this strategy, students are encouraged to pause periodically while reading and "say something" about what they've just read. This could involve making predictions, asking questions, sharing connections to personal experiences, or summarizing key points. By vocalizing their thoughts and reactions, students deepen their understanding of the text and actively construct meaning. Additionally, "Say Something" fosters collaborative learning as students share their insights with peers, sparking discussions and promoting critical thinking. This strategy not only helps students develop stronger reading skills but also cultivates a sense of ownership and confidence in their comprehension abilities. 

After Reading: 

Writing a book review is an invaluable exercise for students because it encourages them to engage deeply with a text, enhancing their comprehension skills in several ways! Firstly, the process of analyzing and critiquing a book requires students to actively reflect on the plot, characters, themes, and writing style. This active engagement promotes a deeper understanding of the text as students must articulate their thoughts and opinions clearly. Additionally, writing a book review compels students to synthesize their thoughts and distill the most important aspects of the book, honing their summarization skills. Moreover, crafting a review encourages students to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the book, fostering critical thinking and discernment.

Speaking Up for Inclusivity

Speaking up crucial for individuals of all ages and abilities as they serve as powerful tools to advocate for change and amplify voices. Regardless of age or disability, everyone has the right to express their opinions and contribute to shaping a more inclusive and equitable society, ensuring that diverse perspectives are heard and respected.