Christine A. Elmore
Materials: It's Okay To Be Different by Todd Parr, lined chart paper, a template for each student of a lined Venn Diagram labeled same and different, various colors of poster paint and paint brushes, 8 ½' x 11' white cardstock, pencils, black sharpie markers
Objective: To identify ways that you are different from others and then select one to write out in sentence form and to illustrate using Todd Parr's style of drawing.
Procedure:
1. Read the book and then ask the class, "What were some examples of ways people are different in this book?" List student responses on chart paper.
2. Then say, "We want to see if we can add to this list so we are going to work with a buddy to discover the ways we are different and the same in how we look, what we like, and what we can do.
3. Review how to use the Venn diagram listing ways that you and your buddy are different and the same. Then send each pair of buddies off to begin the task. Teacher circulates and assists when asked.
4. Gather together once again and ask buddies to share differences they have discovered about each other. List them on the chart paper.
5. Refer to this chart and direct the students to select one difference that is true about them and write it out in sentence form using the sentence starter, It's okay to_______ ________________. To further clarify use the following example. Elissa still uses training wheels when she rides her bike. So the sentence would read: It's okay to ride your bike using training wheels.
6. Show samples again from the book and instruct the students to write their chosen sentence at the top of the cardstock paper and then trace over it in black marker.
7. Now explain, "The next step is to draw the picture that will match with the words of your sentence." Use the whiteboard to show some examples of Todd Parr's illustrations that you have found using Google, noting the following:
Use big drawings
Use bold colors
Outline everything in black marker
Use one color for the entire background of the picture.
8. Compile the finished pages into a class book for the students to enjoy.
