Faith Ringgold's Tar Beach

We have had a busy week learning and having fun!  Here's what we've been up to with reading, writing, and art...  In the early part of the week we worked with the story Tar Beach by Faith Ringgold.  After some close careful reading of the text, the children wrote their own narrative stories imagining they could fly just like the main character from the book.  Everyone began their journey at the book's setting and lifted up over the George Washington Bridge.  Then they were free to fly wherever their hearts desired.   I just loved reading the kiddos adventures!

P.S. The green and red cards are signals for the writers and me during writing time.  If the students are cruising along they keep their card on green.  If a writer needs help, they flip their card over to red which is a signal for me to strap on my roller skates and zoom on over! :)

To go along with their stories they created these vibrant art projects.  You know the saying nothing good comes easy?  Well I would classify this project in that category for sure!  Many steps were involved but the end results are beautiful. :)  First they drew the bridge.  Then created the buildings showing an urban community (perfect reinforcement to last week's lessons on types of communities).  Next each child made a picture and we cut it up into little pieces for the quilt-like boarder.  Last they made themselves flying among the stars.  As you can see, I sure have a room full of talented little artists!

 

As an extension we read Aunt Harriet's Underground Railroad in the Sky.  Another great read by Faith Ringgold.  If you haven't had a chance to read these thought provoking children's books, run on down to your local library!  You'll be in for a treat!