Patterns in the Sand
on Goodreads (7)
What’s inside...
Tony is struggling to cope with his mother's death and feels alone and angry. He has conflicts with his girlfriend and his best friend due to his moodiness. However, meeting a group of summer visitors helps him gain perspective and brings new hope and happiness. This sequel to On Eagles' Wings, first published as A Time to be Born, is an uplifting and sensitively written story that can also be read as a stand-alone title.
Age
12-15
Length
142 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What patterns did you notice in the sand? How do you think they were made?
If you could create your own pattern in the sand, what would it look like and why?
How do the characters in the story feel when they see the patterns? Can you relate to their feelings?
What do you think the patterns represent in the story? Is there a deeper meaning?
How did the story make you feel? Would you have done anything differently if you were in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, emphasize the beauty and creativity of patterns in nature. Encourage your child to express their interpretations freely.
Connect the story to a real-life visit to a beach or park. Ask your child to draw or create patterns in the sand or soil, relating back to the story.
Use expressive questions that relate to the child's experiences and emotions to deepen their connection to the story's themes.
Post-reading, engage in a creative activity where your child can use natural elements to create their version of 'Patterns in the Sand'.
Encourage your child to describe the patterns by their shapes, sizes, and possible meanings to enhance their observational and analytical skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Recognizing Patterns
Explanation: The story 'Patterns in the Sand' revolves around characters exploring various patterns found in nature.
Real-World Application: Children learn to observe and identify patterns in their surroundings, enhancing their cognitive skills and encouraging curiosity about the natural world.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: The characters in the book work together to categorize different patterns, emphasizing the value of cooperation.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of working collaboratively at school or in play, fostering social skills and collective problem-solving.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: As characters in the book create their own patterns with natural materials, it showcases the use of imagination.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to engage in creative activities, using their imagination to think outside the box, which is crucial in artistic and academic pursuits.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for Nature
Explanation: Through exploring natural patterns, the book instills a sense of wonder and appreciation for the environment.
Real-World Application: This can lead children to partake in activities that respect and protect nature, promoting environmental stewardship from a young age.