June 2, 2013

Mentor Text: The Dolphin Adventure!


This is my first Must Read Mentor Texts linky! I read these every week and want to link up. So I am now finally joining in the fun.

I've had this book on my mind for the past week because I ALWAYS start the year off reading it. The reason I've had it on my mind is because I can't find my copy! I actually have two copies and I can't find either of them. For those that don't know I am moving back to 4th grade next year which means a switch in schools. I know, I KNOW I packed the book in a certain box but it isn't there.

Anyway, The Dolphin Adventure is by far my favorite book to get kids hooked on reading at the beginning of every year.

Summary: Wayne is diving in the ocean one day when he meets a family of dolphins. The baby dolphin has been injured and the dolphins go to Wayne for help. Sharks come while Wayne is trying to get the baby dolphin to stop bleeding and the parents fend off the predators. 


I always have a student ask me after a we are into the book a bit if it is a true story. I purposefully do not tell students when we start the book that it is a nonfiction short story because I've had students tune out when they hear that. But after they are into the book and absolutely captivated, they are completely shocked to learn it is a true story. When this happens I can honestly see their little brains churning as they digest this really good book is nonfiction. We then have a great conversation about what nonfiction means.

The book is actually quite short. I could read it aloud to my kids in around 45 minutes. They love it! After we read it together I put a copy out and one student or another will have it all year long!

6 comments:

  1. This sounds like a great book. I hope your copy turns up soon! I'll have to add one to my wishlist!

    Hunter's Tales from Teaching

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  2. This sounds like a great book. I think my kids would love the surprise of finding out that it is a true story. How cool! :)
    Brandee @ Creating Lifelong Learners

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  3. This looks like a wonderful read! Would this be an appropriate read aloud for second graders? Thanks so much for sharing, and thanks for stopping over to our blog! I am a new follower... :0)

    Smiles,
    Sarah @ Hoots N Hollers

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  4. Oh, wow, I have never seen this book! I'm so glad you linked it up1 Dolphins are my favorite and I can't believe this is a true story! How awesome is that?? I'm very excited to put this on my wishlist!!

    Thanks for linking up!
    Amanda
    Collaboration Cuties

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  5. This sounds like a great book. I'm always looking for a new book to hook readers at the beginning of the year!
    ~Courtney
    Polka Dot Lesson Plans

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  6. it sounds like a good one. I just ordered a copy. Thanks for sharing.


    Heather
    room 4 imagination

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