Social Skills and Problem-Solving Through Literature
Grade K: Practice language for solving a simple disagreement. Grade 4: Analyze character traits and how characters respond to problems.
Literature: Let's Be Enemies by Janice May Udry Time: 2–3 sessions Subjects: Literature, Speaking/Listening, Writing
Learning Objectives
- Identify a character's problem, actions, and possible solutions.
- Use respectful language to state a need, disagree, or propose a solution.
- Support a character-trait statement with details from the text.
- Distinguish fictional events from realistic possibilities.
Procedure
- Read: Read selected portions and pause to ask what problem the characters face and what information the reader has.
- Model language: Demonstrate simple phrases such as “I disagree because…,” “Can we try…?,” and “Let's find a solution.” For kindergarten, use picture-supported sentence frames.
- Problem-solving: Give pairs fictional classroom scenarios. Students identify the problem and propose two safe, respectful responses.
- Character analysis: Grade 4 students choose a character trait and cite a specific action or statement from the text as evidence.
- Real or make-believe: Discuss which events are realistic and which are invented for the story. Emphasize that a fictional event can still communicate a believable feeling or problem.
- Writing: Students write a short response or dictate one. Personal journaling is optional; fictional scenarios are acceptable.
Assessment
Kindergarten: use an appropriate phrase or identify a reasonable solution in a teacher-provided scenario. Grade 4: identify a character trait and support it with textual evidence, then explain a plausible solution to the character's problem.
Differentiation
Use picture cards, sentence frames, partner rehearsal, oral responses, and graphic organizers. Do not require students to disclose personal conflicts.