Activity Overview
Reading books aloud is an integral part of classroom learning. Not only do read alouds model fluency and expression, they also invite discussion, questions, and connections, and opinions. Children of all ages love listening to stories, and the beginning of the school year is a perfect time to start this classroom routine.
For this activity, the students will listen to the book The Best Part of Me by Wendy Ewald. It is an excellent book to help build a positive classroom environment where students embrace each other’s differences. Then, the students will choose the part of themselves that they would like to share, and create a cell that illustrates and describes that part the way the children did in the story. This activity shows how each student is unique, and encourages children to share what they think is special about themselves.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a storyboard that illustrates and explains your favorite part of yourself.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Choose your favorite part of yourself.
- Create an image that represents your favorite part of yourself.
- In the title box, write “The Best Part of” and your name.
- In the description box, explain why you chose that part of you to share with the class.
- Save and exit when finished.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 5 Points | Emerging 3 Points | Beginning 1 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Explanation | The descriptions are clear and at least two sentences. | The descriptions can be understood but it are somewhat unclear. | The descriptions are unclear and are not at least two sentences. |
| Illustrations | The illustrations represent the descriptions using appropriate scenes, characters and items. | The illustrations relate to the descriptions, but are difficult to understand. | The illustrations do not clearly relate to the descriptions. |
| Evidence of Effort | Work is well written and carefully thought out. | Work shows some evidence of effort. | Work shows little evidence of any effort. |
| Conventions | Spelling, grammar, and punctuation are mostly correct. | Spelling, grammar, and punctuation are somewhat correct. | Spelling, grammar, and punctuation are mostly incorrect. |
Activity Overview
Reading books aloud is an integral part of classroom learning. Not only do read alouds model fluency and expression, they also invite discussion, questions, and connections, and opinions. Children of all ages love listening to stories, and the beginning of the school year is a perfect time to start this classroom routine.
For this activity, the students will listen to the book The Best Part of Me by Wendy Ewald. It is an excellent book to help build a positive classroom environment where students embrace each other’s differences. Then, the students will choose the part of themselves that they would like to share, and create a cell that illustrates and describes that part the way the children did in the story. This activity shows how each student is unique, and encourages children to share what they think is special about themselves.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a storyboard that illustrates and explains your favorite part of yourself.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Choose your favorite part of yourself.
- Create an image that represents your favorite part of yourself.
- In the title box, write “The Best Part of” and your name.
- In the description box, explain why you chose that part of you to share with the class.
- Save and exit when finished.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 5 Points | Emerging 3 Points | Beginning 1 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Explanation | The descriptions are clear and at least two sentences. | The descriptions can be understood but it are somewhat unclear. | The descriptions are unclear and are not at least two sentences. |
| Illustrations | The illustrations represent the descriptions using appropriate scenes, characters and items. | The illustrations relate to the descriptions, but are difficult to understand. | The illustrations do not clearly relate to the descriptions. |
| Evidence of Effort | Work is well written and carefully thought out. | Work shows some evidence of effort. | Work shows little evidence of any effort. |
| Conventions | Spelling, grammar, and punctuation are mostly correct. | Spelling, grammar, and punctuation are somewhat correct. | Spelling, grammar, and punctuation are mostly incorrect. |
How Tos about The Best Part of Me Read Aloud
Encourage Students to Share Their Work with the Class
Boost student confidence and celebrate diversity by setting aside time for everyone to present their storyboards. This fosters a supportive classroom community where each child feels valued and heard.
Model Sharing by Presenting Your Own Example First
Set the tone by sharing your own ‘Best Part of Me’ storyboard. Demonstrate how to speak about yourself positively and openly, making students feel more comfortable sharing their own stories.
Set Clear Guidelines for Respectful Listening
Establish simple rules, such as listening quietly and clapping after each presentation. Encourage students to support one another, ensuring everyone feels safe and respected while sharing.
Invite Positive Peer Feedback
Guide students to offer kind and specific compliments after each presentation. This helps build empathy and strengthens classroom relationships.
Reflect on the Experience as a Group
Lead a short class discussion about what everyone learned from sharing. Highlight the unique qualities in your classroom and reinforce the value of diversity.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Best Part of Me Read Aloud
What is 'The Best Part of Me' read aloud activity?
'The Best Part of Me' read aloud activity involves students listening to Wendy Ewald's book, then choosing and illustrating their favorite part of themselves. This creative project helps build a positive classroom environment by celebrating each child's uniqueness and encouraging self-expression.
How do I use 'The Best Part of Me' to start the school year?
Begin the year by reading 'The Best Part of Me' aloud, then have students share and illustrate what makes them special. This activity fosters classroom community and helps students get to know each other in a meaningful way.
What are some tips for guiding students through the 'Best Part of Me' activity?
Encourage students to reflect on their strengths, use descriptive language, and create a visual that represents their chosen part. Provide examples and support to help all students participate confidently.
Why is reading aloud important for classroom learning?
Reading aloud models fluency, expression, and comprehension. It also sparks discussion, supports vocabulary growth, and builds a love of reading among students of all ages.
What grade levels is the 'Best Part of Me' lesson suitable for?
The activity is designed for grades 3–6, but it can be adapted for younger or older students to promote self-esteem and celebrate diversity in the classroom.
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