Episode 67: The Cloud, Chapter 5 and 6

sunday, MAY 3, 2020

Hi All,

Just a reminder that we are recording a novella that Mr. Chris and I wrote. The story, about kids solving a mystery using their technology skills,  has twenty-five chapters.  

Last week we brought you Chapter 4, where the students were introduced to their fourth grade teacher in a very unique way. In order to get their teacher to talk, they will need to follow a series of clues. You, too, can follow the clues! Be sure to visit the website mentioned in the episode and check out the Clues Corner on the blog for a link to be part of the class! 

This week, we have two chapters, 5 AND 6, in this episode. Our new sponsor, Texthelp, will be featured before Chapter 5 and before Chapter 6. Texthelp, the makers of Fluency Tutor are offering it for free through the end of the school year. Try it today, by visiting: text.help/nightlightstories

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.

Demonstrating- to manifest or exhibit.

Relate-to have reference.

Surveyed-a formal or official examination of the particulars of something, made in order to ascertain condition, character, etc.

Manila- a strong fiber of a Philippine plant, used for rope, matting, paper, etc.

Avid-  showing a keen interest/enthusiasm for something.

Oblong- being an elongated shape, such as a rectangle or an oval.

   JUST ADD IMAGINATION! 

Try these activities to keep your imagination glowing 

after hearing the story.

1. Todd loves to learn by watching documentaries! Research a documentary about a subject that interests you and watch it (always best to do with popcorn). Here's a list of kid friendly documentaries to get you started!

2. Find a riddle or create your own and see if you can stump a family member or a friend. Then, send it to us at nightlightstories@gmail.com. We will feature the most creative riddle on the next episode!

3. Help us Up in The Cloud! On our community padlet, share your predictions, favorite part of the book so far, your favorite quote, your favorite character and/or any positive and constructive advice you have for a character. We can't wait to hear what you think!

CLUES CORNER

Each week, we'll post the clues that have been given in the chapter.
 Take a look at the clues and see if you can solve the 

mystery along with Mr. Brisbane's students.

Website: Brisbane Grade 4

COMPREHENSION CHALLENGE

After listening to the story, can you recall the 

details to answer these questions?

1. Who was the boy folding his manilla folder hot dog style?

2. What does Mr. Brisbane pick off the projector and place on his shoulder?

3. When were the students supposed to give the answer to the riddle?

4. Where did Todd hear about the Kiwi bird?

5. Why does Garrett want to wait to go over to the computers?

We wanted to send out 

BRIGHT BIRTHDAY WISHES 
to all of our May birthdays. 
We hope your days sparkled!

Episode 65: The Cloud, Chapter 3

Hi All,

Just a reminder that we are recording a novella that Mr. Chris and I wrote. The story, about kids solving a mystery using their technology skills, has twenty-five chapters. We’re putting out each chapter as a separate episode of the podcast.

Last week we brought you Chapter 2, where four friends met up at the school on the first day to meet their new teacher. This week, we’re excited to present Chapter 3 of The Cloud!

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.

Congestion- To be so crowded with traffic or people that it slows down freedom of movement.

Shepherding- To guide or direct.

Shuffled- Dragging your  feet without lifting them fully from the ground.

Gesture-  A movement of part of the body to express an idea or meaning.

Furrowed-  Tighten in  anxiety, concentration, or disapproval.

                             JUST ADD IMAGINATION! 

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

1. Picture your favorite character in the book. Sketch, draw, paint, sculpt or design the character you envision.
2. There are a few conspiracy theories about what Mr. Brisbane was doing over the summer. Write your own theory that you would add to the stories that have been told!
3. Research some fun Ice Breaker activities for the kids to do with their new classmates while they wait in the gym?

COMPREHENSION CHALLENGE

After listening to the story, can you recall the 

details to answer these questions?

1. Who wears a bow in their hair every day?

2. What story was more believable of what Mr Brisbane did over the Summer?

3. When did Mr. Brisbane furrow his brow?

4. Where was the large 4 sign hung in the gymnasium?

5. Why do you think Mr. Brisbane gestured for Melvin to sit down?

We Are All In This Together!

A video by Mr. Chris and many friends

We want to send out bright birthday 

wishes to all the birthday in APRIL! 

   We hope your days sparkled!

Episode 64: The Cloud, Chapter 2

Hi All,

Just a reminder that we are recording a novella that Mr. Chris and I wrote. The story, about kids solving a mystery using their technology skills, has twenty-five chapters. We’re putting out each chapter as a separate episode of the podcast.

Last week we brought you Chapter 1, where we met four friends who were utilizing a video conferencing tool on their computers to meet up at the end of summer. Together, they share their excitement and anticipation for the start of a new school year and to discuss a mysterious new addition to the staff. This week, we’re excited to present Chapter 2 of The Cloud!

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.

Sunken-A lower level than the area surrounding it. 

Erupt-to gives vent to feelings in a sudden or noisy way. 

Disgust-feeling a strong disapproval. 

Conspiratorially-in a manner suggestive of or relating to a conspiracy made by a group of people to do something unlawful or harmful.

                             JUST ADD IMAGINATION! 

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

Create your favorite character through a drawing, painting, sculpture, play doh, or any materials from around the house. Add a quote they said and send your final product to nightlightstories@gmail.com or post it on the Facebook page or Twitter. 

Melvin had flames on the sides of his glasses. That fits his fiery personality. If you had glasses that fit your personality, what would they look like? Design a pair and let us SEE them on the Facebook page, Twitter or at nightlightstories@gmail.com.

COMPREHENSION CHALLENGE

After listening to the story, can you recall the 

details to answer these questions?

1. Who is the character who you think is most like you? Give two reasons how you're alike.
2. What character is described as an old curmudgeon?
3. When does Val arrive to school?
4. Where was Jamie hoping Melvin moved to over the summer?
5. Why are the kids not allowed to use the stairs to get into the school?

We want to send out bright birthday wishes to:

Grandpa of New York

   We hope your days sparkled!