Skills Building: Chrysanthemum (PK-2)

Written and Illustrated by Kevin Henkes

TEKS: Reading K.5(B); 1.6(B); 2.6(B); 3.6(B); 4.6(B); 5.6(B)

Pre- Reading Questions

Have you ever been teased or bullied? How did it make you feel?
What is the difference between teasing and bullying?
What can you do if you see someone getting bullied?

Post- Reading Questions

Was Chrysanthemum being bullied or teased?
How did Chrysanthemum feel when her classmates constantly made fun of her name? Did she like her name before her classmates made fun of it? How did she feel about her name after?
How did Chrysanthemum feel about school after the students started bullying her?
Did any of her classmates stand up for her? What would you have done if you were in Chrysanthemum’s class?

Creative Enrichment Activity: Compliment Chain

Overview

In this activity, students will use their words for good as they build up each other’s chains. By using kind and encouraging words, students will be able to come together and celebrate their individual strengths!

Materials

One-inch strips of paper (different colors)
Markers
Glue or tape

Duration: 30 Minutes

5 minutes – Explain the activity and pass out supplies
15 minutes – Compliment Chain
5 minutes – Compliment Chain construction
5 minutes – Reflect on the activity

Instructions

Before beginning the activity, pre-cut one-inch strips of colored paper. This activity will require a lot of paper.
Gather students together and define bullying.
Talk with students about the negative effects of bullying and name calling for the entire class. Remember: Bullying doesn’t just hurt the victim or target; it affects everyone.
Pass out strips of paper in all different colors, as well as markers.
Have students write their names on one strip of paper and lay it on the table. Make sure student names are spread out so they don’t get mixed up as the activity goes along.
Next, students will go around the room writing one nice word that describes each person.
Tell students the rotational pattern they will use to go around the room in an orderly fashion. Everyone should go in the same order so that they don’t skip students.
When students arrive at a name, they will write one nice word describing that person in the center of a strip and place it under the name strip. Don’t worry about spelling!
Students will then rotate to the next person and repeat. Have all students rotate at the same time to avoid congestion or confusion.
Younger students can do a quick drawing of what they like about that person or do the best they can with writing. Another option is to pair younger students with older students who can assist them in writing.
Once the students make it back to their name, they will construct their compliment chain.
Students will use glue or tape to connect their name and the compliments in a chain.
Give students a chance to read through the compliments on their chain.

Reflection Questions

Have students share their stars and goals with the person next to them. Then share a few with the whole group.
Was it hard to think of what you wanted to be when you grew up?
What are some of the steps you will need to take to reach that goal?
Who do you think can help you reach that goal?
Did you notice any of your classmates with the same goal as you?

Skills Building: Chrysanthemum (PK-2)

Pre- Reading Questions

Post- Reading Questions

Creative Enrichment Activity: Compliment Chain

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