The EL Module for Q1 is called Overcoming Learning Challenges Near and Far.  This module uses literature and informational text to introduce students to the power of literacy and how people around the world overcome learning challenges.  it is intentionally designed to encourage students to embrace a love of literacy and reading.  In Unit 1, students will hear stories read aloud and will determine the gist, identify the central message and consider that the key details convey that message in the text.  In Unit 2, students will study excerpts from My Librarian is a Camel by Margriet Ruurs which describes how librarians overcome geographic challenges to get children books. Students apply their learning by writing a paragraph about how people access books around the world.  In Unit 3 students focus more on what it means to be a proficient and independent reader.  Students write a reading contract in the form of a three-paragraph informative essay, in which they describe two of their learning challenges and some strategies to overcome those challenges.

Guiding Questions and Big Ideas for Module 1

Why are education, books, and reading important?

Education, books, and reading are important because they help us learn about and make sense of the world, and escape into the lives of other people and other worlds.

How can I overcome learning challenges?

I can overcome learning challenges by being an effective learner: taking initiative and responsibility, preserving and collaborating.