Technology Integrated Lesson: Author Study

Title of Activity:  Author Study (Chris Van Allsburg)

Author(s): Eugenia Stanfield

Content Area(s): Reading /Language Arts, Technology

Grade Level: 3

Lesson Description:  This is an author study on Chris Van Allsburg. The children will study a list of books written and illustrated by the author as well as learn facts about the author’s life. The study includes a lesson on making connections in literature. We will take a survey of Allsburg’s books read by the students using the Excel spreadsheet. PowerPoint will be used to introduce and teach the various components of the author and his writings. Students will answer questions on the Word document at the conclusion of the Author Study.

Standards Addressed: South Carolina State Standards; LCSD1 Technology Standards

Grade 3 South Carolina State ELA Standards

I.A Apply word-analysis skills when reading

I.B Integrate various strategies to read and comprehend

I.C Demonstrate comprehension of a variety of printed materials

I.E Respond to literature

III.B Present brief presentations, demonstrations, and oral reports

IV.G Use language patterns in writing

Grade 3 LCSD1 Technology Standards

TECH 3, 1.1,1.2,1.4, 1.5; 2.1, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6,; 3.1, 3.2, 3.4; 5.1, 5.2, 5.3

Materials/Resources:

Books by Chris Van Allsburg

Excel Spreadsheet – Chris Van Allsburg Survey

PowerPoint – Presentation of Allsburg’s life and works

Word Document – Author Study Questions

Internet Resources:

Chris bio : This is an interactive website with links to various sites including his books, his life, and his awards.

Chris Jumanji 1 : The website includes a review of the book, things to talk about, related books, and different activities.

Chris bio 2 : Links to puzzle and game websites are a main focus of the author on this website.

Chris polar express : This website is a detailed review of his famous book, The Polar Express.

Chris Jumanji 2 : The children can read this simple and concise review by other third graders.

Chris polar express 2 : Connections of literature and films are made on this website for children.

Equipment: Computer, MS Office program, and projector or PC to TV box.

Assessment: Teacher observation, class discussion, and formal test.