Back to School Favorite - Thank you, Mr. Falker

"Honey is sweet, and so is knowledge, but knowledge is like the bee that made that sweet honey, you have to chase it through the pages of a book." ~ Patricia Polacco from "Thank you, Mr. Falker

"Thank you, Mr. Falker is the story of a young girl's struggle to read throughout her years in elementary school. Set in 1950's this is the true, heart touching story of a child's struggle with dyslexia. She really wants to read, and fully expects to, but year after year the letters will not come. Tricia endures the teasing of her classmates, until she begins to believe their taunts that she is indeed dumb. One day she gets a new teacher, who admires her artwork and believes in her. He discovers her secret, that she can not read. With his aid after school, the help of a reading teacher, and hard work, she finally experiences the magic of reading in 5th grade.
A touching and poignant story that many children will identify with, no matter what issue they may struggle with in school. As my son also learned to read in 4th grade, after years of ardent desire and struggles, I found this an exceptionally touching book. Highly recommended for elementary students (and their parents, teachers and classmates)." ~ Allison Martin

Thank You, Mr. Falker. Accelerated Reader: Quiz #027677; Book Level 4.1; Points= 0.5
Reading Counts: Reading Level 3.7; Points= 2.0
Lexile Level 650
Guided Reading Level M
DRA Level 24-26
Flesch/Kincaid Level 3
Biographical Sketch of Author - Patricia Polacco

Thank you, Mr. Falker text
Online Video
Book Activities and Discussion Questions
Making Predictions and Forming Connections
Envisioning Character Change

Making Thematic Connections

Extensions

Student Assessment/Reflections

Discussion and Activities

Comprehension Questions

Activities

Sequencing Game Board

Bullying

Dyslexia and Bullying

Lesson Plan