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 66: The Cloud, Chapter 4

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.

We last saw our four friends being introduced to their new teacher in the gymnasium. They also found out who was, in fact, in their class. As they all followed their new teacher, Mr. Brisbane, to their classroom, there were many rumors floating through the line about Mr. Brisbane's past. Who is this mysterious new teacher? Let's find out some clues this week in Chapter 4 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.

Snickered-give a half-suppressed laugh 

Coyly-in an outwardly shy or modest way intended to be alluring.

Lingered-stay in a place longer than necessary because of a reluctance to leave.

Void- A hole or large space that is empty.

                             JUST ADD IMAGINATION! 

Try these activities to keep your imagination glowing 

after hearing the story.

1. Design your own classroom space that would be ideal for you. Click here for a fun tool that can help you with the layout!

2. Tell us three separate, creative ways that you would get the class' attention other than using your voice.

3. Create your own group in the class. Who would you want in your cluster of four and why?

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.

Take a look at the three pictures below that Mr. Brisbane posted on the whiteboard. What do you think they are? Do you have any ideas what he's trying to tell you about himself?

COMPREHENSION CHALLENGE

After listening to the story, can you recall the 

details to answer these questions?

1. Who are the "lucky ducks" that are sitting with Melvin?
2. What did the students find in the classroom when they arrived?
3. When did the repairs start on the school, according to the principal?
4. Where was the assistant principal at the start of the school year?
5. How is Mr. Brisbane communicating with the students since he is not using his voice?

We're All In This Together!

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!

LIGHTING THE WAY WITH WORDS

Bus Stop Bravery: (7:28)

Getting ready for the very first bus ride on 
the very first day of school can be a nerve-racking experience!

Free audio download: Bus Stop Bravery

Blog with activities: Bus Stop Bravery

When I taught elementary school, I remember how small the desks and chairs were. It never failed that I would end up in a situation where I needed to sit in one of the seats at one of the desks to speak to a student. The combination of the small desk and even smaller chair would form a wedge. I'd always be stuck, trying to figure out how to maneuver my way out of it. 

Look around you right now. Make a list of all the things that could form a wedge. Can you create your own wedge? Send us a picture of your creation at nightlightstories@gmail.com or post it on our Facebook Page! 

As always, we look forward to watching the glow grow brighter with the many words 

we can share together. 

LIGHTING THE WAY WITH WORDS

A Place for Everyone: (13:58)

As a teacher approaches her first day of school, she is overwhelmed with all the possibilities for themes in her classroom. 
How will she choose?

Free audio download: A Place for Everyone

Blog with activities: A Place for Everyone

Sled Ride: (6:06)

A little boy tells of his exciting sled ride down the 
hill while trying to avoid a collision.

Free audio download: Sled Ride

Blog with activities: Sled Ride

You should have heard Mr. Chris and our daughter laughing as the boat pulled the tube across the lake.  As the velocity increased, so did the volume of their screams of delight. Our summer is coming to a close as more kids and teachers are going back to school. We want to take a moment to wish everyone a year full of learning, creativity and FUN! 

As always, we look forward to watching the glow grow brighter with the many stories and words we can share together!