Here goes my first post ever... newbie to the blog world. I love to share my book ideas so I thought I'd give it a try. Let me know what you think and if there is a strategy or topic you'd like to see.
Inferring ~ A tricky one to teach
1. Dandelions By: Eve Bunting 
Plot Description: This a heartwarming story about a family moving west to start a new life. Mama and Zoe are at first very unsure and homesick, however throughout the book there are events that help them begin to change their mind. At the story's conclusion, the characters are more content and hopeful for the future.
Read this to teach: Inferring, Character traits, Character feelings, Characters experiencing change, Sequence of events, Theme of Family or Change
2. Babushka's Doll by Patricia Polacco
Plot Description: This story is about an impatient and ill-tempered little girl named Natasha. Her grandmother (Babushka) decides to teach her a lesson with the help of a little magic. By the end of the story, Natasha understands the importance of being considerate of others.
Read this to teach: Inferring, Character traits, Characters experiencing change, Cause and Effect, Sequence of events
3. The Memory String By: Eve Buntiing
Plot Description: This is a story about a little girl who is adjusting to her new step-mother. She has a "memory string" to remind her of her own mother. Through a series of events, she learns that her new step mom has the best of intentions, and maybe she isn't so bad after all.
Read this to teach: Inferring, Character traits, Character feelings, Characters experiencing change, Theme of Change or Acceptance
4. My Rotten Redheaded Older Brother By: Patricia Polacco
Plot Description: This is an entertaining story with a focus on family and the bonds that they share. Patricia and Ritchie are typical siblings who squabble and tease each other throughout the book. There is an event that triggers a change in their relationship. Their relationship changes for the better, and they learn what being family is all about. Patricia feels differently about her brother at the end of the story.
Read this to teach: Inferring, Character Traits, Character emotions, Characters experiencing conflict and change, Text/Self Connections
5. The Gardener By: Sarah Stewart
Plot Description: This story is set during the Great Depression. Lydia Grace travels to live with her Uncle Jim because her parents can't afford to take care of her. She is strong, brave and compassionate throughout the story. Her uncle is quite cantankerous throughout the story, however readers see a gradual change in his demeanor.
Read this to teach: Inferring, Character traits, Characters experiencing change, Synthesis strategy
Inferring Anchor Chart Idea:
Theme Idea:
After read alouds, we discuss theme and use a sticky note to display the book under its theme. I've seen this idea on blogs before, not sure where the credit belongs, but this is my adaptation.
