45–60
minutes
Learning from Ot h ers B I G B uddy S ession 2:
Read and Talk Together
The story should take about 30–45 minutes to read together. If a pair seems to have gone too far off the topic, have them tell you their answers to the most recent question, and then ask them to continue the story.
Early Finishers Some buddy pairs will complete the interactive session early. Have them use one of these ideas (or use one of your own ideas) to keep the topic discussion going until the session ends: • Have them use the learning from others Think About It cards to review and reflect on events in the story. • Read a book together in a book corner that has topic-related books on display.
Class Discussion Leave about 10 minutes at the end of the session to bring the whole group together and lead a discussion about the story. Ask questions such as: • Has anyone ever had a pen pal from a different country? <pause for responses> Have them share their experience. • Why did Arthur want a pen pal from another country? Do you think it would be more fun to have a pen pal from the United States or another country? Why? What would you want to know about him or her? • Have you or someone you know ever made assumptions about someone that was wrong? How did you figure out that you were mistaken? What did you do about it? • What are some ways we can get to know someone who is different than we are? • Have you ever had a friend or classmate from another place or culture? How did you learn about one another? If time allows, have students do a simple activity such as: • Brainstorm with students different ways they can find factual information about the people, culture, and traditions in Turkey. If possible, make a class book about Turkey in art or writing or another class period.
86 Big Buddy Session: Dear Adil
