Sunday, March 29, 2020

Episode 63: The Cloud, Chapter 1


Hi All,

Wow! Have we missed you! We're back to bring you a novella that we wrote in 2010. This novella is about students in a school using their skills with technology to solve problems. We like to think it has a sort of Scooby-Doo vibe, except there aren't any ghosts or talking dogs. The story has twenty-five chapters. We're going to be putting out each chapter as a separate episode of the podcast. 

With so many participating in distance learning at home, including us, we wanted to help in any way we could. Below, you can find the link to the audio file as well as some voracious vocabulary, activities to spark the imagination, and a comprehension challenge. Stay well and stay safe!


 



VORACIOUS VOCABULARY

What did you say? A word of the day! In our story 
there are many juicy words that are fun to use and say.

Exotic: originating in or characteristic of a distant foreign country.
Mystery: something that is difficult or impossible to understand or explain.
Reassuringly: in a way that removes someone's doubts and fears.
Smirk: smile in an irritatingly smug, conceited, or silly way.



                             JUST ADD IMAGINATION! 



Try these activities to keep your imagination glowing 
after hearing the story.


1. Do you have any recipes in your family that has been passed down from generation to generation? If so, collect the ingredients and follow the recipe. Record your steps in the recipe via video or a picture log along with the way. Don’t forget to pose with the finished product! (Remember fails are welcome, too. That’s how we learn!)

2. Think of a teacher that made you feel happy or empowered or challenged. Write that teacher a letter, make them a word cloud or create a comic about how they made your learning memorable.


COMPREHENSION CHALLENGE

After listening to the story, can you recall the 
details to answer these questions?

1. Who were the four kids on the virtual call?

2. What are aphids? How are they harmful to plants?

3. Why was the Gardening Club unable to send the extra ladybugs back?

4. Where was Bethie Crowley when Val was texting with her?

5. When did Gardening Club happen at the school?


        We want to send out bright birthday wishes to:


        Sophie of Virginia
        Uncle John of Texas
        Kevin H of Massachusetts
        Joe of Texas

           We hope your days sparkled!