The Watsons go to Birmingham, 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis
Lesson plans and teaching resources

This five-day lesson will introduce the students to the author of the novel as the beginning of a unit. The students will conduct research to obtain biographical information about the author and read/analyze summaries and critiques of the author's writing. Finally, the students will create brochures or flyers to highlight the author as a guest at a mock author's conference.

Informational texts related to the events described in the book.

Inspired by the long, humorous title of Chapter 5 of the Watsons book, students will think about silly things that children do and create a title that rivals chapter 5's title. Inspired by their titles, students will then plan and create a short story where a child—like Byron in the book—pretends he's creating a movie but ends up in trouble. Student will use details and humor in telling their original stories. This lesson focuses on idea development and voice.

How might students use storyboards to demonstrate and to extend their learning? Check the resources here. Students work with vocabulary, character maps, comparing and contrasting, more. Note: Storyboard That helps sponsor this site.

Learning activities, discussion questions, related historical sites.

Discussion questions for guided reading groups.

Five lesson plans, historical background, pacing guide, handouts and assessments. This unit is designed for 5th grade. Free registration required.

Summary, 9 discussion questions, and suggested learning activities.

Introduction; worksheets organized by section; graphic organizers for theme, allusion, atmosphere/mood, and conflict; post-reading discussion questions and learning activities. Adobe Reader required for access.

Words are presented in context and with definitions. Click on a word for pronunciation, synonyms, examples of use, more.

Lesson plans for other books by Christopher Paul Curtis .