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The Power of Literature in Homeschooling with BookShark

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Why is literature so powerful in education?

Literature goes beyond facts and memorization – it invites students into the lives and the experiences of others
A well-chosen book can open the door to learning about new perspectives and cultures
BookShark’s literature-based curriculum is designed to make learning engaging, immersive, and thought provoking

Literature as a Tool for Building Empathy

Stepping into someone else’s shoes
Experience emotions from different viewpoints
Characters face struggles, joys and moral dilemmas that deepen understanding of human nature

How can reading fiction increase empathy?

Ask your student how they would feel in the character’s situation
Encourage your student to connect stories from their own lives to the story they are reading

How does discussion fit in?

Literature and Cultural Awareness

How to deepen understanding

Pair literature with hand-on activities like our kits, or cooking a meal from the book’s setting

Use BookShark’s discussion questions as a guide to discuss cultural themes in-depth

Introducing students to different traditions and perspectives

Reading diverse stories from all over the world increases understanding of cultures, traditions, and histories

Historical & contemporary narratives allow students to see how different societies function

Literature and Critical Thinking

How books challenge students to think deeply

Good literature presents complex characters, ethical dilemmas and layered themes

Discussing different viewpoints help students learn to form and defend their own opinions

BookShark’s approach to critical thinking

Instructor’s Guides provide thought provoking discussion questions

Discussion questions encourage analysis, reasoning and respectful debate

Selecting the Right Books for a Literature-Based Education

Product development team thoughtfully selects books that align with historical content and grade level
Ensure balance of historical fiction, contemporary stories and world literature, providing a variety of books that allow something for everyone

Bring Literature to LIFE!

Have family discussions – share insights and differing opinions
Creative projects – Act out scenes or create art inspired by the book
Multi-sensory learning – cook meals, listen to music or explore historical maps related to the setting of the book

Key Takeaways

Literature-based learning is a powerful tool for a well-rounded education
Good literature can build empathy by putting student’s in the shoes of others through stories
Diverse stories can enhance cultural awareness by introducing new traditions and perspectives
Discussions strengthen critical thinking through complex narratives and deepen understanding

Why BookShark is the ideal literature-based curriculum