"It's the most wonderful time of the year." Especially for this homeschooled momma, even if it's only in October. If you're a homeschooling Momma like me, we usually plan months for the holidays. Read my blog post "Christmas School: What it is and How We Utilize it in our Homeschool" to discover what Christmas school is for us. I've spent the last several months making and creating our Christmas School Unit for 2024. I've always been intrigued by The Nutcracker. When I found a Young Adult Novel (Nutcracked), I was excited to start creating for it.
Let's take a look at what is going to be available this year in our Nutcracker Themed Christmas School:
Nutcracker Ballet Mini Introduction Lesson
This mini-unit is the perfect accompaniment to introducing the Nutcracker Ballet. Students will learn information about the composer and the ballet composition. There is also a listening journal (you will need to make multiple copies for each piece you listen to) and a story map (upper and lower-level options) for students to use as they follow along with the ballet to increase their understanding and interpretation of the events happening.
Nutcracker and the Mouse King Picture Book Study
This study works excellent as an introduction to studying the Nutcracker Ballet.
Using the picture book The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, the original Story by ETA Hoffman, illustrated by Gail de Marcken, and the Story adapted by Wren Mayse. The materials aim to enhance the readers understanding and interpretation of the Story.
Nutcracked Novel Study and Vocabulary
Novel Study: These materials for Susan Adrian's novel Nutcracked aim to enhance readers' understanding and interpretation of the Story.
Vocabulary: -In general, the goal for finding vocabulary words within a novel is to have students encounter words they may not have seen or heard before and then understand their meaning in the text and their everyday lives.
Nutcracker Guided Descriptive Essay
This guided descriptive essay asks students to describe a nutcracker. There are three separate options to use based on the level and ability of your students.
Kingdom of Sweets Design Project
The goal for this project is for your child/students to practice using area and perimeter. They will also practice spatial awareness as they plan for elements to fit within the area provided. The different areas they will place on their maps are based on the realms represented in the Nutcracker Ballet (when visiting after Marie/Clara rescues the Nutcracker/Prince)
Children/students can practice following instructions and requirements by following the assignment's instructions.
Kingdom of Sweets Project Research ($5 Value):
This project aims to help your child/students practice their research skills. They will pick one of the "realms" or regions based on the realms represented in the Nutcracker Ballet (when visiting after Marie/Clara rescues the Nutcracker/Prince). Children/students can practice following instructions and requirements by following the assignment's instructions. Two options are available to complete the report. 1. Predesigned Research Page or 2. Written Research Report (with introduction and conclusion). An optional presentation extension is available for students to create a project based on architecture, dress, or food research done on their report. Rubrics and student instructions are available for each report/and the Presentation.
Can't decide which one to use. I'm also offering these in bundles as well:
As always, keep following our journey on our Facebook Page or Instagram. If you want more in-depth conversations, check out our Facebook Parent Group.