A Writing Root for Stanley's Stick

Outcomes:

Alternative ending, captions retelling, description

Main outcome:

Own version narrative

Length:

11 sessions, 2+ weeks

Overview and Outcomes:

This is a two-week Writing Root for the book Stanley’s Stick by John Hegley and Neal Layton, where children begin by finding their own sticks, turning them into their own imaginary objects.  Reading part of the text, they then predict what Stanley is going to do with his stick.  After reading the story as a class and writing their own alternative ending, children work in groups to sequence key events in the story and retell key scenes by creating picture captions.  Finally, children go on to plan and write their own version of Stanley’s Stick in past tense using their own object.

Synopsis of Text:

Stanley's stick is not just a stick. With a stick in hand, Stanley's options are endless - he flies to the moon, writes in the sand, goes fishing, plays a whistle and rides a dinosaur - and his imagination takes over and the magic begins.

Hegley's lyrical prose captures the free-wheeling expressiveness of childhood, and Layton's deceptively simple illustrations are full of wit and character. Sweet, magical and thoroughly entertaining, this is Hegley and Layton's first collaboration.

Text Rationale:

This charming, lyrical tale follows Stanley and his family as they go on vacation. Lead by Stanley and his stick, the story shows children the power of imagination and what can be done with a little creativity and invention. John Hegley is a wonderful poet who has written many books (including many for adults) and uses lyrical prose to bring this story to life and demonstrate the freedom of childhood. Neal Layton is an award-winning illustrator who perfectly complements the narrative with his simple but characterful illustrations.

Links and themes:

Imagination, seaside, friendship, family, creativity, invention

Date written: August 2016