‘Eating bitter lets you taste sweet.’ 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: Iron and Silk Set in the 1980’s, when China was just beginning to open to foreigners from the west, this story is based on real events lived by the main character, who plays himself. It had always been Mark’s dream to travel to China, and he is thrilled to finally be offered a job there as an English teacher. This martial arts cult classic follows Mark as he encounters cultural differences between himself and his students, finds himself studying with one of the best martial arts teachers in China (Grand Master Pan, also played by himself) and experiences the simple unpredictable moments of someone living abroad – those chance encounters and heart-warming gestures that make the most poignant memories. Rating: PG / Date of release: 1990 / Language: English / Country: U. S. A. and China / Subtitles: Occasionally (Most of the movie in English) / Purchase: Youtube (free) Note: The movie can be viewed for free online.

‘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).

This test is based on the information on pages 1-12 of ‘Western Civilization, A Brief History’ by Jackson Spielvogel, 4th Edition, used in Advanced Placement High School History classes. You may use some or all of the contents, according to your own study schedule. Contents 52 Multiple Choice Questions 7 Bonus Multiple Choice Questions 1 Long Answer Question Answer Key

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.

Les Trois Mousquetaires transports the reader to 17th century France, where the young and daring d’Artagnan has taken the first step toward finding fame and fortune as a musketeer. But who can he trust? What unwritten codes of conduct drive the greedy ambitions and sly plots of the powerful people he encounters? Will he survive duels and intrigue, and find friendship, or true love? This classic adventure novel is perfect for advanced French students, who will enjoy an imitable blend of history and fiction, character and action, driving story-telling and brilliant language. Here you will find writing topics to accompany each chapter of the full two-volume novel. Read one chapter at a time. Complete the short French writing assignment that follows (no more than 100 words) according to the approach you have chosen (shorter and longer versions are included). Use the discussion topics to practice your oral French and to explore major themes of the novel, or for further writing practice. Also included are drawings of the characters in full costume, from the Fellens and Dufour edition of 1849, and short summaries of each chapter (in French) to help you confirm that you’re keeping up with the plot as you go! Contents: · Instructions and About the Contents · Reading and Writing Questions Set A (shorter) · Reading and Writing Questions Set B (longer) · Grandes Thèmes à Contempler (Discussion) · Images des Personnages · Sommaire de Chapitres Note: the book is not included here, but can be read online for free.

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)

If you want to learn to knit, and you’re not sure where or how to start (or whether you’ll even like knitting), this guide may provide just the basic, step-by-step encouragement you need! Here you will find 49 consecutive lessons which will guide you to learn, practise and apply basic knitting skills. These skills are, in order: how to ‘cast on’; how to do the ‘knit’ stitch; how to do the ‘purl’ stitch; how to ‘cast off’; how to combine ‘knit’ and ‘purl’ stitches to make 11 different knitting patterns; and how to do three, more advanced stitches (‘yarn over needle’, ‘knit two together’, 'purl two together’) which will also be used in patterns. Labels are provided for each of the patterns, which you can pin to your finished samples for easy reference. Three bonus lessons provide basic instructions for completing a simple project: a washcloth or doll blanket, a hair ‘thingy’, or a scarf. Important: Please note that this is only a lesson guide; the lessons here only offer a plan for you to follow in order to acquire the skills you need, one at a time, in an enjoyable, encouraging, effective and satisfying manner. To learn the actual mechanics of knitting, you will need to refer to a handful of clear, full-colour, free websites (addresses provided), or to a library book or parent/friend. Knitting and other crafts (such as paper mosaics) are excellent tools for developing fine motor skills. This in turn can improve a student’s performance in other areas such as playing a musical instrument, writing neatly, attention to detail, patience, and the ability to concentrate for longer periods of time. Go slowly and be generous with your praise – fine work takes practise and perseverance!

The story of the beloved Merovingian king Childéric I (440-481) was preserved by the druidic Bards of old France and is here retold in a flowing, pleasant style by Madame de Beaufort d’Hautpoul (1763-1837), a renowned woman of letters who was at the heart of Parisian literary society during the reign of Louis XVI. For educational purposes, this description of Childéric’s early years has been divided into two-page segments that are easy to read. Advanced French students are sure to enjoy this poetic and quick-paced historical tale. The language has been updated, though the original, distinctive style remains intact. Simple grammar review, translation, ‘résumé de texte’ and creative writing assignments follow each section alternately. Summary Childéric is the young and intrepid son of King Merovée and his beloved wife, Aboflède, around the year 430CE. Childéric lives happily with his loving parents and is beginning his education with druids, when he is tempted to join his father’s army in a battle against Attila the Hun. Despite being guarded by his king’s most valiant friend, Viomade, Childéric goes missing amidst the turmoil of the conflict. The faithful Viomade wishes to know what the boy’s fate truly was, and goes off with the king’s blessing in search of the young prince. Despite treachery by Draguta, a fellow follower of the king, Viomade finally finds Childéric, who has been cared for in the wilderness by an elderly Hun named Gelimer. Gelimer had lost his family and status, and was inspired to renounce his life as a warrior in order to devote his final years to raising the young boy he found on a battlefield. The old blind man loves Childéric devotedly and does not know that he is heir to a throne. After Gelimer’s death, Childéric returns to France with Viomade where a traitor is about to be crowned king. It was presumed, due to their lengthy absence, that Childéric and Viomade had been lost forever. Just in time, the young prince is reunited with his father and fulfills the hopes of all Francs as the rightful heir to the throne.