Naima is a talented painter of traditional alpana patterns which Bangladeshi women and girls paint on their houses for special celebrations. But Naima is not satisfied just painting alpana. She wants to help earn money for her family, like her best friend, Saleem, does for his family. When Naima’s rash effort to help puts her family deeper in debt, she draws on her resourceful nature and her talents to bravely save the day. Includes a glossary of Bangla words and an author’s note about a changing Bangladesh and microfinance.
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Integrated Literature & Writing Discovery Guides
Level 2 Literature and Writing Discovery Guides are recommended for elementary (grades 3-5) students who are in the process of acquiring the proficiency necessary to confidently read and to respond to a complex piece of literature. Each guide is designed to be completed in five weeks, which allows students to comfortably work through six units in a typical school year.
Not sure what level to choose? View our placement guidelines here.
Each week for four weeks, students will:
- Learn to take notes on characters, settings, and plot
- Study vocabulary
- Answer comprehension questions
- Write a short personal response
- Have opportunity to discuss topics related to the story
On the fifth week students are given a selection of hands-on projects to complete.
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