Teaching Ideas

Explore jumping-off points that deepen discussions, inspire reading interest, and support connections to books and authors. Easily share and include in your instructional plans, newsletters, and social media.

Activities: Authors Inspire Us 1-5

This set of lesson cards can be used to support learning about author's purpose or inspiration and the writing process.

  1. Scan the QR codes on the front of the card
  2. Listen and learn directly from authors
  3. Reflect and respond

Authors Inspire Us 1-5: Set A

Digital Book Kit

Set A Printable Card (PDF)

Authors and illustrators are:
a. Historians b. Imaginative
c. Problem solvers d. Inspiring

Answer Key: 1(d), 2(a), 3(c), 4(b)

Resources:

  1. My Pen narrated by Christopher Myers (empowering) | Meet-the-Author Recording
  2. Freedom Over Me by Ashley Bryan (historians) | Meet-the-Author Recording
  3. Ada's Violin by Susan Hood (problem solvers) | Meet-the-Author Recording
  4. Not Quite Narwhal by Jessie Sima (imaginative) | Meet-the-Author Recording

Authors Inspire Us 1-5: Set B

Digital Book Kit

Set B Printable Card (PDF)

Where did each author get the idea for their story?
a. Folktales b. Personal experience
c. Poster d. History

Answer Key: 1(c), 2(b), 3(d), 4(a)

Resources:

  1. The Skunk by Mac Barnett and Patrick McDonnell (poster) | Meet-the-Author Recording
  2. Toys Go Out by Emily Jenkins (personal experience) | Meet-the-Author Recording
  3. Dave the Potter by Bryan Collier (history) | Meet-the-Author Recording
  4. Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin (folktales) | Meet-the-Author Recording

Print Set A and B on the Same Page (PDF)