The Way I Feel



Last updated Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Author: Janan Cain
Date of Publication: 2000
ISBN: 1884734715
Grade Level: 1st    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Aug. 2007

Synopsis: From Scholastic: This unique book offers, through simple verses and engaging illustrations, the vocabulary children need to understand and express how they feel. Each spread features an emotion which can be identified five ways: by situation, images, facial expression, color, and text.

Note to readers:
•  Make sure to go over difficult vocabulary with the kids as you read.

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  How do you feel today?
•  What are some feeling words? Show me what it looks like when you feel this way.
•  What kind of face is the girl on the cover making? How do you think she feels? Do you ever feel like this? What makes you feel this way?

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  Have the children guess what mood each page is before you read it.
•  What is a synonym? (Explain if the children don’t know). Give a synonym for each word as you go along.
•  For each feeling, give other examples of what makes you feel ________. Do you feel ________ often?
•  How do you look/what do you do when you’re __________. Do you look like the picture when you feel __________?
•  What is your favorite feeling from this book? What makes you feel like this?

Craft ideas:
•  Use a paper plate to make a mask that shows your favorite feeling.
•  Make a hat like the girl in the first picture. Cut a strip of paper about 2 inches wide and long enough to wrap around the forehead. Then cut colorful strips of paper/shapes and stick them to the headband.

*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions. You can use them, but you don't have to use them. You can expand upon them, or add your own twist. Remember, though, that the focus of your time should not be on the development and execution of a craft; the focus should be on the read-aloud and the enjoyment of the book!