Educational Activities: Dear Substitute by Liz Garton Scanlon and Audrey Vernick

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Dear Substitute
Authors: Liz Garton Scanlon and Audrey Vernick
Illustrator: Chris Raschka
Disney Hyperion
19 June 2018
40 pages

 

The latest picture book from the writing duo of Liz Garton Scanlon and Audrey Vernick, Dear Substitute, tells the story of how one student bristles at the change of routine that occurs when a substitute teacher, Miss Pelly, comes to class.

Need some reviews of Dear Substitute?

Kirkus

Publisher’s Weekly

Here’s to a Happy Ending

Educational Activities inspired by Liz Garton Scanlon and Audrey Vernick’s Dear Substitute:

  • Before Reading–Ask students:
    • “Have you ever had a substitute teacher before? How did that experience go?”
    • “Why do you think the title of this book is Dear Substitute?”
    • “What do you notice about the front cover of this book? About the back cover?”
  • After Reading–What does the main character mean at the end of the story by saying: “sometimes you’ve got to mix things up a little”?
  • After Reading–This entire story is written in letters. Why do you suppose the authors chose that option? What did you think when the main character wrote a letter to the pledge of allegiance, the library, and lunch?
  • Further Reading–One of the new things that Miss Pelly introduces to the main character is poetry. Even though the main character didn’t know much about poetry, “it turns out I really like poetry. Especially funny poetry. Especially funny poetry about pelicans. And crocodiles. And underwear.” Read one or more of the following poetry picture books.  Are any of these poems as funny as the “Dear Turtle” poem that Miss Pelly helped write?What do YOU think about poetry? What type of poems do you prefer?

    (Click on the book cover for more information on any of these titles!)        

  • Writing–Write your own “Dear _​_​_​_​_​” poem to a favorite teacher, a treasured toy, or something abstract (like love, hunger, or tiredness). Want some more poetry writing ideas? 
  • Writing–This story is primarily told through letters. Write a letter to one or both of the authors that shares what you liked most about this book. Consider sending the letter to the authors (with an adult’s help). Here’s one way to reach each authors.