A Thousand Paper Cranes

Title – A Thousand Paper Cranes
by – Amber Michelle Shelkett
Subject – Art, Language Arts
Grade Level – 5th and 6th

Historical Fiction Lesson Plan
Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes by Eleanor Coerr

Asian American Japanese History

Objectives for the Unit:

1. Be able to discuss the tragedy of Hiroshima and it’s impact.
2. Identify the meaning or words and phrases used throughout this book.
3. Be able to discuss Japanese history. (Asian American history)

Title of the lesson:

Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes by Eleanor Coerr
Japanese history. The book is suitable for intermediate grades such as fifth and sixth grade.

Materials needed:

1. Copies of the book.
2. Paper for making the cranes.
3. Other books that deal with Asian Americans.
4. Paper clips/ String

Procedures:

1. Teacher will start the class by handing out copies of the book. Today we will be learning about Asian American history.
2. The teacher will read the book to the children as long as they follow along, children may read if comfortable. Not one child will be forced to do this.
3. After the book is finished, have the students make the paper cranes like discussed in the book.
4. Have the children display the cranes in the classroom,
5. Have the children pick out another book with an Asian American theme.
6. Students will divide into groups of three or four and discuss the book.
7. Students will come to the front of the class and explain how the story seemed similar or different from Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes.

 Closure:

1. End the lesson with a thought. ” Now think how lucky you are to live in America in this day and age.” 
2. Tomorrow write a paragraph describing how they would feel if they were Sadako.  Share with the class.

Evaluation Method:

Have the students journal about how they feel about the story.

Email Amber