Phonics Bean Bags

These comprehensive and weighty literature study guides includes a wealth of material and are an excellent value for money For each chapter of the novel there is a summary a vocabulary list (with definitions) and a range of journal and essay topics These can easily be used as the basis for oral discussion if desired Interspersed amongst these and what really sets this guide apart from others is the huge range of strategy pages designed to increase the student's understanding of literature There are nearly thirty of these in all covering everything from how to read a novel through the standard topics of plot setting and characterization to logical fallacies literary allusions and sensory language All the strategy topics are fully explained (no prior knowledge of literary terms is assumed) and the questions can be used for written assignments or as the basis for discussionThe guide also includes thirteen writer's forums providing the student with practice in a range of genres and techniques including books reviews parody news articles and persuasion and six tests comprising short answer questions and essay topics As if that isn't enough there is also a section on the history of social thought and seven pages devoted to the various themes of the novel Busy homeschooling parents will be pleased to know that suggested answers are included I also appreciated the bibliography especially the section on literary criticismUsing the guide for To Kill a Mockingbird gave my student and I a thorough understanding of the book as well as a wealth of knowledge and techniques which we can use as we read other great novels I can't imagine a more complete literature study guide In terms of comprehensiveness and value for money I haven't found a better homeschooling resource