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The View From Saturday by E.L. Konigsburg
Summary
For the first time ever, the sixth grade Academic Bowl Team might just be able to defeat the seventh grade team. That possibility has the school buzzing. Each of the four team members tell their individual story of how being a part of this surprisingly successful team helps them to learn more about themselves.
5th grade and up
Discussion questions
Spoiler alert! Some of the questions contain key elements of the plot. Do not read if you don't want to know what happens!
- Friendship is one of the main themes of this book. What is friendship to you? How is it portrayed in this title?
- Why is "The Souls" a good name for the team?
- How does Mrs. Olinski become a "Soul" herself?
- There are times in life when on has to take risks in order to be successful. How do "The Souls" and Mrs. Olinski demonstate their willingness to take risks?
- Mrs. Olinski is a teacher who can tolerate mischeif but she caano accept malice. Discuss teh difference between mischief and malice.
- What qualities make up a good team? What can contribute to the failure of a team?
- How do the individual needs of The Souls contriubte to their success as a team?
- Read the last page of the novel outloud and discuss what it might mean.
Activities
Snack ideas: Create a tea like The Souls - offer brewed tea, finger sandwiches, and cookies.
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