Part One
Book Information: Deedy, C.(2009). 14 Cows for America. Peachtree Publishers
Genre: fiction
Grade Level: 2-6 I would recommend this book for the slightly older elementary student. This book's theme is simple, but the storyline is more complex.
Part Two
Personal Connection: This story really hit a personal note for me because it is based off of the September 11th terrorist attack in New York City. I was not directly affected from the attack, but I still remember where, when and what I was doing when I learned about the attack. It is really one of those things I will never forget. The book is about a tribe in Africa learning about the attack and how they react to the news, with compassion and kindness, just how American aided each other in that time of need.
Thoughts About Craft: Carmen Agra Deedy writes a fantastic story that is upheld by Thomas Gonzalez's illustrations. His illustrations use color in a very natural and realistic way. The attention to detail and accuracy is impeccable. The illustrations give the reader a glimpse into what an African tribe looks like.
Critique: Overall, I felt that this book is very "global and multicultural". The book takes an American tragedy and shows how another country viewed/reacted to it. It was an interesting perspective and delivered the message very well. The reader gained knowledge about the workings of an African tribe as well as learned a lesson about kindness. This book would be a great addition to any classroom.
Part Four
Lesson Sketch:
Grade: 5th
Lesson Objective:
The students will be able to:
- Write a one page letter addressing a way to help a struggling person or place
- Describe their definition of kindness
* Lesson is based off the Common Core standard of "Text Types and Purposes" Grade 5 - 1. "Write opinion pieces on topics or texts, supporting apoint of view with reasons and information." a-d
Lesson Outline:
1. Read and discuss 14 Cows for America by Carmen Agra Deedy
2. Each student will write their personal definition of kindness
3. Each slip of paper will be attached the the "kindness wall" in the classroom.
4. Students will think of a person(s), place, country, town or charity that could use kindness/help
5. Students will then write a one page letter addressing how they would help
Links to Outside Resources:
- This website is for kids and would help students get acquainted with country/region if that is who they chose to help http://www.timeforkids.com/around-the-world
- This is more of a resource for the teacher. This video shows how kindness is integrated into the classroom and the world beyond. http://www.randomactsofkindness.org/kindness-videos/6813-kind-kids-club
- This is kind of like a game of kindness, but on a larger scale. My students can each get a boom boom card and perform that act of kindness. Every time the student complete the card, they will share what they with the class and put a sticker on the game board. Once our game board is full, my students will get something special(ex:15 minutes free-play) http://boomboomcards.com/
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