‘The child lives.’ Each ‘At The Movies’ selection is a movie that is both enjoyable to watch, and a good starting-place to explore important topics. High school students can expand on their analytical and writing skills by answering questions, writing plot summaries and character descriptions, and pondering upon important, far-reaching themes in discussion or essay-writing assignments. About the movie: The Court Jester It is the height of the Middle Ages and the throne of England has been usurped by an ill-intended pretender. The real heir, a mere babe, still lives, guarded by a group of Robin Hood-type outlaws led by the Black Fox. Amidst their motley crew are Hawkins, a carnival performer who has been assigned to take care of the royal baby, and ‘The Captain’, Maid Jean, who leads the men in their military forays. When it becomes necessary for someone to enter the castle undercover, the two are thrown together with the baby in tow. Nothing goes according to plan, and while Hawkins poses as the Court Jester, Jean finds herself amidst the peasant women rounded up for the king’s entertainment. Once in the castle, complications multiply, as several of the king’s lords plot revenge, the king’s daughter develops a crush on Hawkins, a witch casts spells left and right to try to make things go her way, Hawkins misunderstands half of his instructions and an intimidating Scotsman claims the king’s daughter as his bride. Excellent swordfights, quick repartee and cunning plot twists make this a classic adventure-comedy. Rating: G / Date of release: 1955 / Language: English / Country: U. S. A. / Purchase: Amazon, etc. Notes: This movie contains no explicit content. There are several kisses, and old-fashioned action (swordplay, verbal threats).

Mr. Pollexfen was at one and the same time right and wrong – a condition much more common than is generally supposed. ‘Captain Blood’ by Rafael Sabatini, first published in 1922, is a classic rip-roaring adventure novel that explores themes of justice, true love, individual courage, and right versus wrong. It influenced many pirate novels and movies that followed it, including ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’. The language is flowing and elaborate, a real thrill to read. Here you will find Reading Comprehension resources for Grade 12 students, to take a thorough look at the story, its timeless themes, and its unforgettable characters. Included are: · Before and After You Read Assignment · Written Response and Discussion Questions · As You Read Assignments · Essay Writing Topics · ‘Historical Accounts’ assignment · A portrait – representing Captain Blood, or not? (The novel must be procured separately.) Note to teachers and parents: Most of the descriptions in the book are suggestive without going into great detail, however the first third of the book contains some disturbing violence (though not worse than any history novel with details about topics like ‘blood-letting’ or the beating of slaves). There is good reason for its presence in the story, and should not discourage readers from continuing.

Mr. Pollexfen was at one and the same time right and wrong – a condition much more common than is generally supposed. ‘Captain Blood’ by Rafael Sabatini, first published in 1922, is a classic rip-roaring adventure novel that explores themes of justice, true love, individual courage, and right versus wrong. It influenced many pirate novels and movies that followed it, including ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’. The language is flowing and elaborate, a real thrill to read. Here you will find resources to make a full Unit Study for the novel. A close look at characters and settings, the real history behind the tale (Sabatini loved to set his stories amidst real historical events), and the nature of and motivation behind Captain Blood’s decisions are examined thoroughly, with four short complementary texts included (a first-hand account of slavery by the man who inspired Captain Blood’s character; a letter from the real pirate-turned-privateer-turned-lieutenant-governor of Jamaica, Sir Henry Morgan; a brief history of the colonial Caribbean; and a 17th century document describing elements of the British justice system – each with a short assignment linking it to the novel) . Included are: · Before and After You Read Assignment · Written Response and Discussion Questions · As You Read Assignments · Essay Writing Topics · ‘Historical Accounts’ assignment · A portrait – representing Captain Blood, or not? · Four complementary texts (see description above) with short assignments · Three music assignments, exploring the themes and mood of the story (instructions and links to free performances included) (The novel must be procured separately.) Note to teachers and parents: Most of the descriptions in the book are suggestive without going into great detail, however the first third of the book contains some disturbing violence (though not worse than any history novel with details about topics like ‘blood-letting’ or the beating of slaves). There is good reason for its presence in the story, and should not discourage readers from continuing.

I sat on my bed and looked out at the quiet woods, black and silver in snow and moonlight, and serene. There was nothing watchful or brooding about that stillness; whatever secrets were hidden in that forest were so perfectly kept that their existence could not be suspected nor even imagined by any rational faculty.’ ‘Beauty’ is a retelling of the classic fairy tale ‘Beauty and the Beast’. Written in 1978 and widely considered to be a classic, the novel is an excellent choice for readers in the 12-13 age group. Written in an easy, polished style, it is the sort of book that one reads more than once to relish the vivid characters, tantalizing details and satisfying plot. The carefully-crafted embellishments are all solidly founded on European history and folktale ‘magic’. In this file you will find plenty of material to make the novel into an enjoyable literature unit! Included here are: · Detailed instructions for how to proceed · Thoughtful written response questions, one for each of the ten chapters. Some of these include additional materials such as a painting or poem, which are included (Please note: this portion of the file is identical to the ‘Reading Comprehension: Beauty’ resource) · ‘History and Culture’ Topics. Choose from four topics to explore with further reading and writing assignments (all materials are included): ‘Griffins’, ‘Enchanted Forests’, ‘The Rose’ and ‘The Great Horse’. · Simple versions of the original folktale in English and in French · Bonus assignments (essay writing, further research, Beauty’s Reading List, cake-baking, etc.) Please note, the novel must be purchased separately.

I sat on my bed and looked out at the quiet woods, black and silver in snow and moonlight, and serene. There was nothing watchful or brooding about that stillness; whatever secrets were hidden in that forest were so perfectly kept that their existence could not be suspected nor even imagined by any rational faculty.’ ‘Beauty’ is a retelling of the classic fairy tale ‘Beauty and the Beast’. Written in 1978 and widely considered to be a classic, the novel is an excellent choice for readers in the 12-13 age group. Written in an easy, polished style, it is the sort of book that one reads more than once to relish the vivid characters, tantalizing details and satisfying plot. The carefully-crafted embellishments are all solidly founded on European history and folktale ‘magic’. In this file you will find questions and a few Bonus Assignments to make a solid Reading Comprehension unit for the novel. Included are: · Detailed instructions for how to proceed · Thoughtful written response questions, one for each of the ten chapters. Some of these include additional materials such as a painting or poem (included) · Simple versions of the original folktale in English and in French · Bonus assignments (essay writing, further research, Beauty’s Reading List, cake-baking, etc.) Please note, the novel must be purchased separately.

Written by Newbery Award winner AVI ‘The Player King’ describes the amazing experience of a boy named Lambert Simnel who was plucked from his life as an orphan kitchen scullion and crowned king of England. The plot follows a real historical attempt to overthrow King Henry VII during the Wars of the Roses. Details and emotional content have been added according to the author’s imagination. ‘The Player King’ serves as an excellent bridge between reading on a simpler level and reading with greater attention to detail. It is well-suited to students in grade 6 (from ages 10 to 12). The writing style is simple and vivid, and the ‘ageless’ concepts of authority, destiny, and self-determination that are explored within the story will appeal to all readers (adults included!). The chapters are short and the action is quickly paced. Read ‘How To Use These Pages’, ‘About the Questions’, ‘About the ‘‘Looking At Language’’ Topics’ & ‘General Reading Comprehension Tips’. Print the pages of your choice: pages with four questions and one ‘Looking At Language’ topic for each chapter (to be answered in a separate notebook) OR pages with two questions per chapter (with space to answer on the page) AND/OR pages with ‘Looking At Language’ topics only (with space to answer on the page). Also included: a colouring page of a real Medieval engraving of Richard Neville, sixteenth Earl of Warwick, and full answer keys for each set of pages. Experience medieval places, people and events through the inspired words of an expert storyteller! Note: The book is protected by copyright and must be purchased separately.

About the Book This novel by Ben Gadd follows the newest member of a flock of ravens as he discovers who he is, where he came from, and why he is here. The descriptions of nature and animal behavior are accurate, cleverly intertwined with emotions and ideas that are relatably human. Weaving together the various personalities of flock members – young and old, leaders and followers, experienced and naïve – and the constant give and take of life in the wilderness of the Canadian Rockies, the story is a warm, entertaining and thoughtful presentation of ‘life’. Young readers entering the new landscape of adolescence will find may themes just right – from peer pressure, to the dynamics between elders and youth, to finding one’s place and identity, and living within a community and within the great mystery that surrounds us. Gadd’s own spiritual views make for an unexpected ending. About The Assignments The assignments here are aimed at ages 12/13. The original book is divided into five parts, and the assignments have been written to match this format, with different types of assignments for each part. Chapters within each part are usually quite short, although there is some variety in this respect. Although the text contains a considerable amount of slang (when the creatures speak) there is good vocabulary to be learned from within the narration. Teachers or parents may wish to use only some of the assignments – it’s up to you. For each part there is a set of sheets that contains only the questions, and another that includes spaces for the answers. Please refer to the ‘Contents and Instructions’ before you begin, and print only the pages you need! The Answer Key provides sample answers for most questions. Some questions require individual responses. There is one Bonus topic, which may be addressed after reading the book. Please note: the book must be obtained separately.

‘Treasure Island’ is a classic that speaks for itself! Prepare yourself for subtle treachery, rough adventure, vivid characters and first class writing! Students in Grade 6-7 will surely enjoy the plot and characters of this timeless pirate adventure. Meanwhile, the impeccable writing of Robert Louis Stevenson makes this text perfect fare for students to begin exploring a full-length novel composed in a traditional, formal style. Here are printable pages to make an enjoyable Reading Comprehension unit for ‘Treasure Island’. For each chapter, you will find: One or two questions that focus on the reader’s experience and perceptions, under the title ‘Ask Yourself’. These may be used to stimulate discussion or for a written assignment of your choice. Twelve words, typed in a suitably nautical style, which can be used as a spelling test (oral or written) or an opportunity to expand the reader’s vocabulary. (Definitions are not included. Outdated terms are generally not selected.) A notebook page, imitating a diary page which Jim could have had in the time period, on which the reader should summarize (in their best penmanship and style) the chapter just read. In addition, you may choose to make use of some of the following, also included: · list of extra questions and suggested activities · recipe for ‘hardtack’ – possibly Cap’n Silver’s own! · extra styled notebooking pages. Print any of them you like, and use them for answering questions, further exploration of the book, etc. · a special page on which to draw your own treasure map! The full novel is available for free as a separate file in our store. Please be careful with your eyes, and limit screen reading to no more than 10 minutes at a time! Print the text if possible, or take frequent breaks.

Compare and Contrast! The student will read two short Creation stories (included). A list of relevant themes for a ‘compare and contrast’ essay is included. The student will choose three topics that they feel are interesting (list provided), and write an essay in which they briefly address how those topics differ in each story. Detailed guidelines are given. This assignment will take at least one week to complete. Stories: ‘Grandmother’s Creation Story’, by Muskeke Iskwew A Creek medicine woman shares her grandmother’s telling of the creation of the earth, the animals, and humans, and subsequent events. (Note: this is a personal story and not the Creek creation myth as is found on Wikipedia.) ‘The Garden of Eden’ by Walter de la Mare A renowned children’s author writes a vivid description of the ‘creation of man’ and the ‘fall from grace’ as described in the book of Genesis in the Hebrew Bible. (Note: this is not a children’s version of the story, but a vivid ‘retelling’ in contemporary English.) TIP! This may be a good choice for a student with an interest in religion or anthropology.

You have discovered an effective – or is that effectual? – way to get rid of the awful odor of a wet dog. With fame and fortune on your mind, you are anticipating complements from all sides – or should that be compliments? Dog-owners from far and wide will surely come to seek your council – or is that counsel? One thing is certain: you will be sharing your fortune equitably – or is that equally? – with Fluffy, without whose bath-time trials you would never have made the wonderful discovery. There are many similar-sounding words in the English language that are frequently mistaken for one another and used (or spelled) incorrectly. Here are worksheets which allow you to practice using 87 of these commonly-muddled terms properly. Samples, exercises and an answer key are included. Use this book to refresh or improve your knowledge of the English language. Knowing how and when to use potentially confusing words will help you to speak and write well!

Many people know the story of Cinderella from children’s books and movies. This unit study invites you to take a more mature, in-depth look at the fairytale, by examining its origins (both French and German) and some of its many possible interpretations. The tale offers timeless relevance, amazing fuel for creativity and a tremendous amount of food for thought. You will discover why a classic fairytale such as this one is, well, a classic! First, gain a solid familiarity with the story by reading about its history and examining basic plot variations. Continue by reading highly personal interpretations of the underlying themes of the story. Learn how the prince’s character has been reinterpreted and updated, and what a ‘Cinderella story’ is, for any gender. Artistic interpretations of any story allow for added emotional content and subtle variations: listen to a song by Stephen Sondheim (from the hit musical Into The Woods) and contemplate what Cinderella might have been feeling as she fled the ball. Explore other interpretations in movies, opera and ballet. Psychology and symbolism topics such as the ‘wicked stepmother’ and the symbol of the shoe finish the unit. If you are feeling especially motivated, you can complete two bonus reading selections: Sir Thomas More’s Utopia (included) – how and why do its themes of social justice feature so prominently in the 1998 Cinderella movie, ‘Ever After’? – and Mark Twain’s The Prince and the Pauper(included) – is it a Cinderella story, or not? Each short piece of writing in the unit (12 in total) has an assigned question for discussion or written response. For every themed section (7 in total) there are also one or two longer assignments. Teachers may choose which materials to use and in what order (or begin at the beginning, once upon a time . . . and continue in the order the texts and assignments are presented). Free online movies and media resources are listed.

Here is the complete, original novel. Download for free to accompany ‘Reading Comprehension: Jane Eyre, by Charlotte Brontë’ from Canadian Winter Homeschool Materials.

Jane Eyre is a young woman whose experiences are coloured by strong personal opinions and a keen sense of observation. She expresses herself with clarity and conviction, while speaking to others and within her narration. Jane is guided by her highest ideals. When faced with challenges and choices, she honestly acknowledges her struggles. She is a strong and interesting heroine, and readers may be surprised by the timeless quality of her simple, yet engrossing story. This Reading Comprehension course invites you to read Charlotte Bronte’s masterpiece one chapter at a time, then form your own opinions and note your own observations. Through a combination of written assignments and discussions, you will take a close and thoughtful look at the novel and also refine your own understanding of the terms ‘opinion’ and ‘observation’. Not only your pen, but also your mind and heart will be sharpened through this process, as you hone your ability to communicate ideas concisely and clearly! Contents: Instructions Definitions and Guidelines Reading Comprehension and Discussion Questions (for each chapter) Bonus Assignments Note: this resource includes assignments only. The book may be purchased or borrowed separately. (It is also available to read for free in a separate file from Canadian Winter Homeschool Materials).

This Valentine’s Day, cultivate your love of the English language and the time-honoured art of beautiful handwriting! We live in a society that allows us to be bombarded with ‘perfect’ images many times a day. Here is an opportunity to take a step back in time, become more attuned to the beauty of the ever-changing English language and to relish your own unique, perfectly ‘imperfect’ creativity. Here you will learn a bit about the history of English and the surprising variety that has existed in spelling and word choice through the centuries. Further assignments will cultivate a bit of love for your own handwriting by practising longhand or block letters, or by learning the uncial alphabet and trying a bit of calligraphy! Colouring and crafts instructions for making your own Valentine’s Day cards and decorations (with suggested musical accompaniment) will allow you to cultivate a love of beautiful artistic achievements. Contents • two files, one for younger students (age 8-10) and one for older students (age 11-13) • Thomas Campion’s poem ‘Tune Thy Musicke To Thy Hart’ in various formats • a brief History of English Spelling (separate texts for each age group) • vocabulary lists and a closer look at the word ‘affect’ (younger students only) • reading comprehension questions (older students only) • handwriting and calligraphy practise • colouring pages and Valentine’s Day card cut-outs (to be coloured in and written on by the student) • instructions and answer key Poem on which the unit study is based: Tune thy Musicke to thy hart, Sing thy joy with thanks, and so thy sorrow : Though Devotion needes not Art, Sometimes of the poore the rich may borrow. Strive not yet for curious wayes : Concord pleaseth more, the lesse 'tis strained ; Zeale affects not outward prayse, Only strives to show a love unfeigned. Love can wondrous things affect, Sweetest Sacrifice, all wrath appeasing ; Love the Highest doth respect ; Love alone to Him is ever pleasing. By Thomas Campion (1567- 1620)

‘Everything which was found there was either melted down or sold by order of the Commonwealth. Amongst other things thus treated was the gold filigree crown of Edward the Confessor, which was broken up and sold for its weight of bullion. Such vandalism is almost enough to make one a Jacobite . . .’ (Adela Elizabeth Orpen) Here are entertaining true stories surrounding a selection of the world’s most famous precious stones. Written in witty, charmingly opinionated style by Mrs. Goddard Orpen (1855-1927), these accounts could be read to pique a student’s curiosity about historic events and people, or, to explore interesting – and memorable – information that may not have made its way into the general history books. Precious gems and masterfully crafted jewellery have repeatedly found themselves in the hands of wealthy and powerful people, oftentimes well-known kings and queens. Each of the jewels described here has accumulated its own collection of bizarre tales of greed, treachery and power. Guided by a confident and well-informed author, the reader will contemplate how small objects of great monetary value have influenced the characters – and sometimes the course – of history. Read about as many jewels as you want to (12 different items are discussed). Make notes on an ‘Analysis Sheet’ that features a simple colour image of one of the jewels at the centre of the page; the student may jot down important facts or events about that jewel in the surrounding empty space in a ‘cloud’ of facts. Or, take your own notes in a traditional style on loose leaf. Once you have read about at least three precious stones you may also choose to write an essay – a list of possible topics is included, most of which require you to defend an opinion based on what you have learned and noted previously.

‘Dark was falling from a dull and humid sky, and the lamps were beginning to struggle for brightness in Piccadilly, when the opal of Carmalovitch was first put into my hand . . .’ Written in an engaging style similar to that of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (author of the ‘Sherlock Holmes’ mysteries), these stories feature the entertaining experiences of a jeweller with a knack for solving mysteries, which he encounters as part of his unique position as a friend both to the wealthy and to the police. They will be of interest to readers who relish a certain Victorian type of atmosphere and plot that includes a fair amount of character study - in addition to being entertaining, they offer instructive food for thought regarding how greed and vanity affect human character. Contents Six of the stories from the original collection are included here. Following each story are four possible assignments that focus on descriptive writing and research. The student may complete as many of them as the teacher sees fit. The themes of the assignments are: a creative description of a place or concept a creative character description a long writing assignment involving retelling part or all of the story and a research assignment related to the story (on the topics of jewellery, safes, precious stones, etc.). The student may also find themselves inspired to write their own mystery, in which case they can refer to Pemberton’s stories (or the plot summaries) for inspiration, their own completed assignments for ready character descriptions and accurate research, and the tips in the ‘Write Your Own Mystery, Tips and Worksheets’ appendix for guidelines and worksheets to help with planning and writing! Bonus! Now includes a quick-reference sheet of images of precious stones, so students can keep an image in mind as they read. Note: This resource might be a good choice for National Storytelling Week (30 January - 6 February).

About The Book ‘The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde’ is the creepy tale of a man whose inner battle between good and evil becomes manifest in a most dramatic and surreal manner. It is considered a classic horror story, though the descriptions of violence in it are minimal - it is primarily the tragic end and the macabre language used that place it in this category. This is a classic novella which has become so well-known that it is common to refer to a person with two dramatically differing sides to their personality as a case of ‘Jekyll and Hyde’. Contents & Instructions The novella will be read in eight sections. Following each section are reading comprehension assignments that focus on language and style. The student is asked: • to ‘translate’ two short passages into more contemporary language, showing that they have grasped the meaning of the language and can express the same thing as the author using their own words (If you purchase the version that includes the text, these passages are underlined.) • to familiarize themselves with a list of several words or phrases. These should be looked up or discussed with a teacher to be sure the student fully grasps their meaning. If you wish, you may write down a short definition of each. • to explain, in one or two sentences, a short passage from the text that includes some form of figurative language • to write a substantial paragraph in which the student observes the deliberate choice of language made by the author. A specific topic is given for each section. The complete novella l is available for free as a separate file in our store. Please be careful with your eyes, and limit screen reading to no more than 10 minutes at a time! Print the text if possible, or take frequent breaks.

Read and Reflect! This assignment will take at least one week to complete. The student will read a thoughtful and informative piece of writing by Henry David Thoreau on the subject of ‘Wild Apples’, in which various themes are addressed, including history, myth, literature, philosophy and first-hand observations and reflections by the author. Several topics for essays are suggested. The student will treat the Thoreau text as a source for research purposes, and write an essay to show that they have familiarized themselves with the contents of the source, and have also thought about the contents. About The Text Thoreau is known for his unique and pensive style of writing. He spent considerable time in the wilderness and shared his reflections about nature and its relationship to mankind in his works. Here Thoreau ponders upon a marvelous fruit that has been important to humans since ancient times. He organises his musings according to the following themes: the History of the Apple Tree; the Wild Apple; the Crab-Apple; How the Wild Apple Grows; The Fruit and its Flavour; Their Beauty; the Naming of Them; the Last Gleaning; the ‘Frozen-Thawed’ Apple. Younger students often delve into season-related schoolwork in autumn – here is a text that will allow older students to do the same, and perhaps encourage appreciation of our natural surroundings, a gift at any age!

In this Canadian classic, you will read about an Ojibwa brother and sister, 11-year old Sajo and 14-year-old Shapian, and their adorable pet beavers, Chilawee and Chikanee. One spring day, Sajo’s father rescues two baby beavers from an otter attack and brings them home to their village. After one of the beavers must be traded for food, Sajo and Shapian set off to see if they can buy him back. Travelling by canoe and by train, they face various challenges on their trip to the City. They employ skills they have learned from their Ojibwa elders, and are also helped by a Missionary, American tourists, and an Irish policeman. Written in the style of old-fashioned classics like ‘Heidi’, this original tale by the renowned British-Canadian conservationist known as ‘Grey Owl’ is both informative and touching. Rich and reportedly accurate descriptions of the Eastern Canadian wilderness provide the backdrop to a story of caring people who triumph in their efforts to reunite two baby beavers with their family and finally return them to the wilderness. Illustrations by the author and a glossary of Ojibwa terms are of further interest. The book is divided into 23 chapters. Write your own definitions, answer reading comprehension questions, and research 22 topics (ranging from how otters and beavers hunt and eat, to how elevators and steamboats work). For each of these activities, you may go into great detail, or just scratch the surface – the material is adaptable to different students. Enjoy a trip into the past with a sincere story-teller and lovable characters! Research topics: Jacques Cartier, Ojibwa tea, beaver dams and lodges, how otters hunt, feeding human food to wildlife, Ojibwa/European trade, what beavers eat in the wild, what instinct is, the Hudson’s Bay Company, birch bark canoes, what ‘portage’ means, forest fires, steamboats, who are the Ojibwa, Native American spiritual beliefs, animals in zoos versus in the wild, travelling by train in Canada (in the past), how elevators work, the importance of saying thank you, what bannock is, autumn around the world, how dangerous wolves really are. Bonus! This title includes a set of Canadian Wilderness themed notebooking pages.