Number the Stars
by Lois Lowery
Number the Stars, by Lois Lowry, won the Newbery Award in 1990. This moving, well-written book, helps children to see the effects of courage and caring. The factually-based story is set in Denmark during World War II and tells of that country's efforts to save their Jewish citizens. Two young girls are the focus - each having poignant tales to tell. Look at our collection of ideas and resources to enhance this important book.
Enrichment Activities
Internet Resources
Books by Lois Lowry
Enrichment Activities
- Mapmakers
- Have the students color and label a map of Europe locating Denmark, Copenhagen, Germany, and Sweden.
Recipe for Peace - Have the students create a "Recipe for Peace". Introduce this by asking the whole class, "What does it take to make peace?" You can aid their brainstorming by giving a few examples (kindness, understanding, laughter). Have the students create a sign or a poster (using a recipe format of ingredients, procedure, servings) of their "Recipe for Peace".
Little Red Riding Hood - Read the story Little Red Riding Hood. Have students make a Venn Diagram comparing and
contrasting it with Number the Stars.
Symbols- In the story, Number the Stars, there are symbols which represent different people - the Star of David, the swastika. Have students think about their most important characteristics and create a symbol to represent it. They might want to consider what are their strengths or interests. They can make the symbol out of art materials and write a description of the meaning behind it.
World War II Research Project- Students can research (using the Internet sites below) and write a report on some facet of World War II which interests them.
Number the Stars - Character Jeopardy- Have students play the game Character Jeopardy. To extend this activity, you can tell the students to write new answers/questions.
- In the story, Number the Stars, there are symbols which represent different people - the Star of David, the swastika. Have students think about their most important characteristics and create a symbol to represent it. They might want to consider what are their strengths or interests. They can make the symbol out of art materials and write a description of the meaning behind it.
Internet Resources
World War II Facts
Grade Levels: Intermediate, Middle, Secondary
Detailed information in a chronological order.
http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0001288.html
The History Place - World War II
Grade Levels: 'Intermediate, Middle, Secondary'
Photos and maps of World War II in the Pacific.
http://www.historyplace.com/unitedstates/pacificwar/index.html
Denmark Facts
Grade Levels:'Intermediate, Middle, Secondary'
All the facts, maps, and statistics you need to know about Denmark!
http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0107460.html
Lois Lowry
Grade Levels: Intermediate, Middle, Secondary
This site has a biography of Lois Lowry, a bibliography, and reviews of her best-loved books.
http://www.loislowry.com/
