Among the exceptional books that captivate young minds, the renowned Tome of Mythic Beasts emerges as a shining star, hailed with the prestigious Prism Award. Its enchanting pages unravel the epic tales of legendary creatures and their mysterious domains, accompanied by vivid illustrations and helpful maps. As aspiring beastmasters seek its celebrated wisdom, they unlock the secrets that have garnered this book its esteemed recognition. 

• Project: Read either a Newbery Medal Winning Novel, or a Newbery Honor Novel from the previous (10) years of awards. (See list on your paper.) 

• Show Mastery: Score 85% or higher on an Accelerated Reader test over the novel. Turn-in your guidebook page noting completion when you finish. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If you don't score 85% or higher, you can write an accompanying book report about the novel and attach it to your guidebook page on turn-in to achieve mastery. It must be at least 1 page front and back in length. It must include a summary of the story, discussion of the characters, and your review of the novel. 

In the world of beastmasters, they come together to share their wisdom through captivating presentations. With passion in their hearts, they stand before their peers, using their lorebooks and the power of words. As they speak, magical tales of mythical creatures and ancient legends come alive. Illustrations and diagrams add color and excitement to their presentations. Through these showcases, beastmasters inspire each other, deepen their understanding, and celebrate their collective pursuit of knowledge. 

• Project: Read or view an adaptation of a Classic American Novel noted in KAAC questions. (See your guidebook page for a list to choose from.) You can choose a book from the library at school, a public library, etc. OR you can view an adaptation of one of these on a platform of choice (with parent permission.) Create a presentation using Google Slides or Canva giving a summary of the story, and a breakdown of characters in the work. It must be at least 10 slides in length, and contain text, pictures, and other design elements. 

• Show Mastery: Turn-in your guidebook sheet noting how you shared the project. Your teacher will review to see if you followed directions and met requirements. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If your presentation does not have the elements asked for, your teacher will give you your guidebook page back and ask you to complete anything you left out. 

In the fascinating world of creature companions, few present as intriguing a challenge as the enigmatic frogs. These small and slippery beings possess a unique whimsicality that perplexes even the most seasoned beastmasters. With their unpredictable nature and a penchant for independent exploration, coaxing frogs into action becomes a true test of patience and ingenuity. Whether it's a simple task or a complex command, these amphibious wonders seem to have a mind of their own, leaping in unexpected directions or simply staring back with unblinking eyes. 

• Step #1: Understand the Text

  • Read or watch an adaptation of "The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County" by Mark Twain. 

  • Original Text: (Click Here) 

  • Audiobook Reading: (Click Here) 

  • Video Adaptation (Click Here) (Recommended) 

(Note: The original writing of this may be difficult to understand. I highly recommend watching the puppet show video or another adaptation on YouTube. 

• Step #2: Learn About the "Jumping Frog Jubilee"

  • Calaveras County has it's own Frog Jump tournament that commemorates the story. 

  • Read About It: (Click Here) 

  • Watch a Video About It: (Click Here)

(Feel free to do any other research about the story and the competition before moving on to Step #3)

• Step #3: Share What You've Learned!

  • Prepare a lesson to teach others in the class about the story "The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County" AND the "Jumping Frog Jubilee" tournament held in Calaveras County. 

  • Your lesson should give a brief summary of the story by Mark Twain, and should discuss the tournament held every year, connecting a classic short story to events of today. 

  • Suggestion: You could create your lesson using a program like Google Slides or Canva (links below.) Creating a well-constructed slideshow with multiple slides, text, pictures, etc. will work for your lesson. 

  • Suggestion: You could create a video presentation using a program like Adobe Express (Click Here) or Canva (Link Below.)

  • You can use other programs you are familiar with to create a lesson, or you are welcome to create a physical presentation. (Example: Poster Board, Diorama, etc. Be creative!)

Feel free to ask a teacher for advice or help at any time. You do not have to present this to the class, but we may ask for volunteers, and if you can video your lesson, we may ask you if we can post it as an academic team resource!

• Show Mastery: Share your presentation with a teacher. Turn-in your guidebook sheet noting how you shared the project. Your teacher will review to see if you followed directions and met requirements. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If your presentation does not have the elements asked for, your teacher will give you your guidebook page back and ask you to complete anything you left out. 

Entering the hallowed halls of The Academy, a sense of anticipation takes hold. This is the training ground of legendary Beastmasters. Faint scents of parchment and distant wilds fill the air, stirring your curiosity. Stained glass windows depict fantastical creatures; a hint of the future lessons in taming and befriending wild beasts. As new Beastmaster students, your extraordinary journey begins here.

• Practice: Watch the EdPuzzle video posted on Google Classroom covering the topic. Take guided notes on this lesson following instructions on the sheet. 

• Show Mastery: Turn-in your guided notes at the basket to be checked by your teacher. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If your notes aren't complete you will be asked to go back to the video, complete your notes, and turn them in again. 

Today at The Academy, the vibrant atmosphere is electric with anticipation. As you enter the Beastmaster training grounds for the first time, you find an array of magical beasts and mystical creatures arranged for today's session. Today's challenge? Begin forming a bond with your starting creature. This is your chance to step closer to mastering the ancient art of the Beastmaster. 

• Practice: Watch the EdPuzzle video posted on Google Classroom covering the topic. Take guided notes on this lesson following instructions on the sheet. 

• Show Mastery: Turn-in your guided notes at the basket to be checked by your teacher. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If your notes aren't complete you will be asked to go back to the video, complete your notes, and turn them in again.

The sun is barely peeping over the horizon as you arrive at the training yard for today's early training. A sense of mystery envelopes the Beastmaster courtyard where the doors to a labyrinth open in front of you. Within its towering walls, you hear the rustles, roars, and whispers of creatures unknown. Your task today? Navigate the maze, trusting in your growing bond with the creatures to guide you. Each twist and turn is an opportunity to test your connection with your companion.

• Practice: Watch the EdPuzzle video posted on Google Classroom covering the topic. Take guided notes on this lesson following instructions on the sheet. 

• Show Mastery: Turn-in your guided notes at the basket to be checked by your teacher. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If your notes aren't complete you will be asked to go back to the video, complete your notes, and turn them in again.

As dawn breaks on The Academy, you gather again in the Beastmaster courtyard. The previous labyrinth challenge, while formidable, was a great learning experience. Today, your instructors introduce a series of creature-led exercises designed to deepen your understanding of wild beasts. A collection of toad creatures waits in the sand, waiting to interact with students. Will they be friendly? Will they be dangerous? What will you learn today?

• Practice: Watch the EdPuzzle video posted on Google Classroom covering the topic. Take guided notes on this lesson following instructions on the sheet. 

• Show Mastery: Turn-in your guided notes at the basket to be checked by your teacher. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If your notes aren't complete you will be asked to go back to the video, complete your notes, and turn them in again.

This morning, the hustle of The Academy leads you not to the courtyard but to a large classroom, bathed in the soft glow of the morning sun through towering windows. Today, your challenge lies not in physical feats but within ancient texts and age-old maps. The walls echo with the whispers of knowledge, tales of past Beastmasters, and their legendary bonds with mythical creatures. As you pore over the parchments, your understanding deepens.

• Practice: Watch the EdPuzzle video posted on Google Classroom covering the topic. Take guided notes on this lesson following instructions on the sheet. 

• Show Mastery: Turn-in your guided notes at the basket to be checked by your teacher. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If your notes aren't complete you will be asked to go back to the video, complete your notes, and turn them in again.

Inside a classroom of The Academy, dust motes dance in the shafts of morning light, setting the stage for another day of learning. With only a few weeks left in the first training quarter, each minute here holds vital importance. Today, ancient scrolls and mythical bestiaries lie before you, offering a deeper look into the beasts you aim to understand. The words you read spin tales of trust and unity, serving as a reminder that your journey as a Beastmaster is not just about taming, but truly understanding these majestic creatures.

• Practice: Watch the EdPuzzle video posted on Google Classroom covering the topic. Take guided notes on this lesson following instructions on the sheet. 

• Show Mastery: Turn-in your guided notes at the basket to be checked by your teacher. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If your notes aren't complete you will be asked to go back to the video, complete your notes, and turn them in again.

As you arrive at The Academy, an unusual chill sweeps across the Beastmaster training courtyard. The creatures, typically vibrant and full of life, seem uneasy. One of the griffins, a usually majestic and composed creature, is acting strangely, its eyes reflecting a mixture of confusion and fear. You continue your learning as the Academy staff turn their focus on soothing the distressed beast. An unspoken question hangs in the air - why would one of the friendly academy training beasts be acting so upset? Does it sense something everyone else can't? 

• Practice: Watch the EdPuzzle video posted on Google Classroom covering the topic. Take guided notes on this lesson following instructions on the sheet. 

• Show Mastery: Turn-in your guided notes at the basket to be checked by your teacher. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If your notes aren't complete you will be asked to go back to the video, complete your notes, and turn them in again.

After last week's unease with the griffin, today feels almost like a sigh of relief. The Academy's grand classroom, bathed in the comforting glow of morning sunlight, seems to hum with the return of normalcy. The beasts too, appear calmer, their restless energy tamed for now. Today's session brings you back to your texts, delving deeper into the lore of mythical beasts. It is the final training session of the quarter, and you realize you are one step closer to moving up in the ranks of beastmasters. 

• Practice: Watch the EdPuzzle video posted on Google Classroom covering the topic. Take guided notes on this lesson following instructions on the sheet. 

• Show Mastery: Turn-in your guided notes at the basket to be checked by your teacher. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If your notes aren't complete you will be asked to go back to the video, complete your notes, and turn them in again.

Monster Name: The Dawn Dewbunny

On the outskirts of The Academy's training forest, your first challenge as a Beastmaster awaits in the form of the Dawn Dewbunny. This captivating entity, with its pink hue, furless skin, large eyes, and long ears, is dotted with gentle bumps. Remember, the Dewbunny may be adorable, but your inaugural Beastmaster battle demands your clever tactics.

• Practice: Open the Quizizz Link begin a round of questions in Mastery Mode. Cycle through the questions, learning the answers to each topic.  

• Show Mastery: Score 90% or higher on this round in Mastery Mode. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If you don't score 80% or higher, you can cycle through the questions and answers multiple times. Feel free to use posted help strategies on the turn-in page if needed. 

Monster Name: The Floatsome Citruspiker

Beyond the novice grounds of The Academy's training forest, your second duel as a Beastmaster lies with the Floatsome Citruspiker. Resembling an adorable tick, this buoyant, orange creature floats effortlessly above the ground, drawing your attention with its unexpected charm. The Citruspiker sports a small, sharp horn atop its round body, a noticeable feature that sets it apart. As cute as it may appear, remember that each skirmish is a test of your growing Beastmaster abilities.

• Practice: Open the Quizizz Link begin a round of questions in Mastery Mode. Cycle through the questions, learning the answers to each topic.  

• Show Mastery: Score 90% or higher on this round in Mastery Mode. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If you don't score 80% or higher, you can cycle through the questions and answers multiple times. Feel free to use posted help strategies on the turn-in page if needed. 

Monster Name: The Scowling Sporecap

Deeper within The Academy's training forest, your next Beastmaster challenge presents itself as the Scowling Sporecap. Resembling an angered mushroom, this curious creature stands with an almost human-like demeanor. Its cap, wrinkled into what looks like a frown, adds to its peculiar charm. The Sporecap may look disgruntled, but facing it is an essential part of your Beastmaster journey.

• Practice: Open the Quizizz Link begin a round of questions in Mastery Mode. Cycle through the questions, learning the answers to each topic.  

• Show Mastery: Score 90% or higher on this round in Mastery Mode. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If you don't score 80% or higher, you can cycle through the questions and answers multiple times. Feel free to use posted help strategies on the turn-in page if needed. 

Opponent: Master Harold, the Mouse Armiger

Venturing further into The Academy's training forest, a special sparring match awaits you against none other than Master Harold, the Mouse Armiger. Respected for his grey fur which carries the dust of many battles and his small pink nose that has sniffed out countless strategies, Harold is The Academy's stalwart training master-at-arms. His tiny paws wield a sharp katana with surprising agility and precision. Confronting Master Harold is an honor and a crucial milestone in your journey as a Beastmaster. Be prepared, for his blade is as sharp as his wits.

• Practice: Open the Quizizz Link begin a round of questions in Mastery Mode. Cycle through the questions, learning the answers to each topic.  

• Show Mastery: Score 90% or higher on this round in Mastery Mode. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If you don't score 80% or higher, you can cycle through the questions and answers multiple times. Feel free to use posted help strategies on the turn-in page if needed. 

Monster Name: The Scheming Toadshade

Further into your path as a Beastmaster, on the winding trails of The Academy's training forest, awaits a unique opponent, the Scheming Toadshade. This humanoid toad, with its hunched posture and mischievous gaze, is known for its cunning nature. It sits waiting, its amphibian skin glistening in the forest's dappled light, ready to test your growing skills and strategies. With every encounter, you edge closer to becoming a full-fledged Beastmaster. Prepare yourself for a tricky engagement with the Toadshade.

• Practice: Open the Quizizz Link begin a round of questions in Mastery Mode. Cycle through the questions, learning the answers to each topic.  

• Show Mastery: Score 90% or higher on this round in Mastery Mode. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If you don't score 80% or higher, you can cycle through the questions and answers multiple times. Feel free to use posted help strategies on the turn-in page if needed. 

Monster Name: The Twilight Dewguard

Continuing your journey through The Academy's training forest, you'll once again encounter an old rival, the Dawn Dewbunny, now evolved into the formidable Twilight Dewguard. This now bipedal creature, taller and more imposing, surprises you with newly sprouted arms and legs. The innocent bumps from your first encounter have transformed into miniature spikes, serving as natural armor. In one arm, it proudly displays a hardened shield, a clear sign of its growth and increased power. As you face this upgraded opponent, remember the lessons from your first battle and brace yourself for a more challenging Beastmaster duel.

• Practice: Open the Quizizz Link begin a round of questions in Mastery Mode. Cycle through the questions, learning the answers to each topic.  

• Show Mastery: Score 90% or higher on this round in Mastery Mode. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If you don't score 80% or higher, you can cycle through the questions and answers multiple times. Feel free to use posted help strategies on the turn-in page if needed. 

Monster Name: The Armored Skyrustler

Beyond the familiar trails of The Academy's training forest, a new, unique challenge flutters down from the treetops: the Armored Skyrustler. This bird, with its vibrant mix of blue and orange plumage, bears an uncanny resemblance to a chicken, but with an armor-like twist. Its feathers are interwoven with small pieces of chain armor and metal feathers, shimmering in the sunlight, lending this creature an unexpected, formidable look. As you square off against the Skyrustler, keep in mind that this is not just a game of strength but of tactics and quick reflexes in your evolving Beastmaster journey.

• Practice: Open the Quizizz Link begin a round of questions in Mastery Mode. Cycle through the questions, learning the answers to each topic.  

• Show Mastery: Score 90% or higher on this round in Mastery Mode. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If you don't score 80% or higher, you can cycle through the questions and answers multiple times. Feel free to use posted help strategies on the turn-in page if needed. 

Opponent: Joey, Exalted Herald of the Doom Glove

At the apex of this quarter's challenges, on the furthest edge of The Academy's training forest, you find yourself facing the legendary figure of the academy: Joey, Exalted Herald of the Doom Glove. This boxing kangaroo, with the wisdom of a millennia imbued in his muscular physique, stands tall as the academy's boxing master. His dark eyes hold the promise of an intense battle. 

Joey isn't just another adversary; he is a milestone, a recurring test that students on all paths must face in their academic journey. His gloves, known as the Doom Gloves, have seen countless battles, serving as a testament to his experience and prowess. It's your turn to step into the ring against Joey now, Beastmasters, and prove your mettle in what promises to be your most formidable match yet. Your goal is not to defeat Joey, but to last long enough to earn his favor. 

• Practice: Open the Quizizz Link begin a round of questions in Mastery Mode. Cycle through the questions, learning the answers to each topic.  

• Show Mastery: Score 90% or higher on this round in Mastery Mode. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If you don't score 80% or higher, you can cycle through the questions and answers multiple times. Feel free to use posted help strategies on the turn-in page if needed. 

In the grand arena of The Academy, students from different paths gather for their first sparring session. The air crackles with anticipation as magicians, rangers, knights, beastmasters, and bards showcase their skills. Every week, despite their differences, the members of The Academy unite to focus on essential lessons, emphasizing the importance of unity and adaptability in achieving success on any path. 

• Practice: Open the study link(s) at the green button below, (there may be more than one you can choose.) Choose an exercise to study today to prepare for sparring. You should only access this link during the assigned day, or at practice outside of class. These cover a broad range of topics from all subjects in academic team, some will be in your study area, and others will be outside it or only partly connected. 

• Show Mastery: Show participation online by completing one or multiple rounds of practice as assigned. Participate in any class matches held today. Turn-in your guidebook sheet noting your work today at the end of class. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If you are absent you can still receive credit by participating with the practice link at home, showing that you spent time studying the material as assigned. 

Within the serene embrace of an ancient forest, The Academy's students gather for the second week of sparring. Around a flickering campfire, their unique abilities intertwine, forming a harmonious symphony of battle. As they engage in combat, they learn to adapt their skills to the natural surroundings, forging a profound connection between their chosen paths and the mystical world that envelops them. 

• Practice: Open the study link(s) at the green button below, (there may be more than one you can choose.) Choose an exercise to study today to prepare for sparring. You should only access this link during the assigned day, or at practice outside of class. These cover a broad range of topics from all subjects in academic team, some will be in your study area, and others will be outside it or only partly connected. 

• Show Mastery: Show participation online by completing one or multiple rounds of practice as assigned. Participate in any class matches held today. Turn-in your guidebook sheet noting your work today at the end of class. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If you are absent you can still receive credit by participating with the practice link at home, showing that you spent time studying the material as assigned. 

In the depths of a foreboding arena, bathed in dim light, the students of The Academy assemble for the exhilarating third week of sparring. The air crackles with anticipation as they stand amidst a sea of onlookers, fellow members of The Academy, witnessing their every move. With hearts pounding, they unleash their diverse abilities, pushing the boundaries of their skills in a display of courage and determination. Shadows dance across the arena as spells collide, arrows soar through the air, swords clash with resounding echoes, beasts roar, and melodies resonate with enchanting allure. The students draw strength from the supportive gazes of their peers, each clash and triumph fueling their growth as they strive to transcend their limitations and leave a lasting impression on the collective memory of The Academy. . 

• Practice: Open the study link(s) at the green button below, (there may be more than one you can choose.) Choose an exercise to study today to prepare for sparring. You should only access this link during the assigned day, or at practice outside of class. These cover a broad range of topics from all subjects in academic team, some will be in your study area, and others will be outside it or only partly connected. 

• Show Mastery: Show participation online by completing one or multiple rounds of practice as assigned. Participate in any class matches held today. Turn-in your guidebook sheet noting your work today at the end of class. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If you are absent you can still receive credit by participating with the practice link at home, showing that you spent time studying the material as assigned. 

Amidst the tranquil beauty of a serene arena, students of The Academy engage in battles during the following week. Soft breezes carry delicate pink petals from nearby flowering trees, casting a dreamlike ambiance over the scene. In this ethereal setting, the students showcase their skills with grace and precision, harnessing the harmony of nature in their every move. 

• Practice: Open the study link(s) at the green button below, (there may be more than one you can choose.) Choose an exercise to study today to prepare for sparring. You should only access this link during the assigned day, or at practice outside of class. These cover a broad range of topics from all subjects in academic team, some will be in your study area, and others will be outside it or only partly connected. 

• Show Mastery: Show participation online by completing one or multiple rounds of practice as assigned. Participate in any class matches held today. Turn-in your guidebook sheet noting your work today at the end of class. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If you are absent you can still receive credit by participating with the practice link at home, showing that you spent time studying the material as assigned. 

Breaking away from tradition, The Academy unveils an exciting challenge in the next week—a thrilling race to the depths of a mysterious cave. Students gather at the cave entrance, their spirits alight with anticipation. With nimble steps and unwavering determination, they navigate the treacherous terrain, guided only by flickering torchlight. Echoes of their footsteps reverberate through the labyrinthine tunnels as they contend with hidden obstacles and ancient secrets. Through darkness and uncertainty, their chosen paths converge as they vie to be the first to reach the fathomless depths. 

• Practice: Open the study link(s) at the green button below, (there may be more than one you can choose.) Choose an exercise to study today to prepare for sparring. You should only access this link during the assigned day, or at practice outside of class. These cover a broad range of topics from all subjects in academic team, some will be in your study area, and others will be outside it or only partly connected. 

• Show Mastery: Show participation online by completing one or multiple rounds of practice as assigned. Participate in any class matches held today. Turn-in your guidebook sheet noting your work today at the end of class. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If you are absent you can still receive credit by participating with the practice link at home, showing that you spent time studying the material as assigned. 

In a departure from the norm, The Academy presents an extraordinary challenge during this week that takes the place of regular sparring—a cooperative ascent of a seemingly insurmountable mountain. Students gather at the base, their spirits brimming with determination and camaraderie. Together, they face the daunting peak, its rugged slopes reaching towards the heavens. With synchronized effort, they find strength in unity, assisting one another through treacherous cliffs and perilous paths. 

• Practice: Open the study link(s) at the green button below, (there may be more than one you can choose.) Choose an exercise to study today to prepare for sparring. You should only access this link during the assigned day, or at practice outside of class. These cover a broad range of topics from all subjects in academic team, some will be in your study area, and others will be outside it or only partly connected. 

• Show Mastery: Show participation online by completing one or multiple rounds of practice as assigned. Participate in any class matches held today. Turn-in your guidebook sheet noting your work today at the end of class. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If you are absent you can still receive credit by participating with the practice link at home, showing that you spent time studying the material as assigned. 

As anticipation reaches its zenith, the final weeks of the first quarter approach at The Academy approach, marking the precipice before the momentous first-class tournament. The air crackles with energy as students gather, their focus sharpened and determination palpable. Each clash and maneuver carries weight, as they strive to hone their skills to perfection. 

• Practice: Open the study link(s) at the green button below, (there may be more than one you can choose.) Choose an exercise to study today to prepare for sparring. You should only access this link during the assigned day, or at practice outside of class. These cover a broad range of topics from all subjects in academic team, some will be in your study area, and others will be outside it or only partly connected. 

• Show Mastery: Show participation online by completing one or multiple rounds of practice as assigned. Participate in any class matches held today. Turn-in your guidebook sheet noting your work today at the end of class. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If you are absent you can still receive credit by participating with the practice link at home, showing that you spent time studying the material as assigned. 

In the final week preceding the highly anticipated tournament at The Academy, a sense of intensity fills the air as students seize their last opportunity to polish their skills. The training grounds buzz with focused determination as magicians fine-tune their spells, rangers hone their aim with unwavering precision, knights refine their techniques with resolute determination, beastmasters deepen their bond with their loyal companions, and bards tune their powerful artifacts. 

• Practice: Open the study link(s) at the green button below, (there may be more than one you can choose.) Choose an exercise to study today to prepare for sparring. You should only access this link during the assigned day, or at practice outside of class. These cover a broad range of topics from all subjects in academic team, some will be in your study area, and others will be outside it or only partly connected. 

• Show Mastery: Show participation online by completing one or multiple rounds of practice as assigned. Participate in any class matches held today. Turn-in your guidebook sheet noting your work today at the end of class. 

• What If I Don't Achieve Mastery?: If you are absent you can still receive credit by participating with the practice link at home, showing that you spent time studying the material as assigned.