A Book of Coupons
What’s inside...
Elderly Monsieur Noel, the very unconventional new eighth-grade teacher, gives coupon books for such things as dancing in class and sleeping late, which are bound to get him in trouble with the military discipline of Principal Incarnation Perez. The last thing the class expects when they go back to school is for their new teacher to challenge the strict rules with such creative and unusual teaching methods.
Age
0-12
Length
80 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Monsieur NoëL
Discussion points
What would you do if you received a coupon book like the one in the story?
How do the coupons change the way the students view their teacher and lessons?
Which coupon was your favorite and why?
How do the students in the book show their feelings towards Mr. Noël?
What lesson can we learn from Mr. Noël’s unique way of teaching?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, explain the concept of a coupon and how it can be used as a metaphor in the book.
Pause after each coupon is introduced to ask your child what they think will happen next.
Relate the coupons to real-life scenarios your child might face, enhancing their connection to the story.
After reading, encourage your child to come up with their own creative 'coupons' they’d like to give or receive.
Discuss the importance of different teaching methods and how they can make learning more enjoyable.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: In 'A Book of Coupons,' the unique teacher Mr. Noel gifts his students a book of coupons, each of which leads to a creative and thoughtful activity or lesson, encouraging children to think outside the box.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by using their own imagination to turn ordinary tasks or lessons into creative adventures, fostering problem-solving skills and innovative thinking in everyday life.
Example Lesson: Value of Unconventional Learning
Explanation: Mr. Noel’s unconventional teaching methods, such as homework holidays and laugh breaks, demonstrate that learning isn’t confined to traditional methods and that it can occur in various forms.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to embrace and learn from different experiences, whether it's a museum visit or a simple family game night, understanding that learning can be fun and engaging outside the classroom.
Example Lesson: Importance of Kindness and Appreciation
Explanation: The story culminates with students realizing the impact Mr. Noel has had on their lives, leading them to appreciate his unique approach and kind-hearted nature.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of showing appreciation and being kind to educators and peers, recognizing and valuing the different roles individuals play in their lives.
Example Lesson: Openness to New Experiences
Explanation: Mr. Noel’s varied lessons, from singing to having silent days, expose students to new experiences, teaching them the benefits of open-mindedness.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be more open to trying new activities, foods, and cultural experiences, enhancing their adaptability and cultural awareness.