El nuevo Houdini by Carol Gaab

 

Level: Novice

Summary: Brandon finds a way to drive his father’s sports car while his parents are on vacation. After a series of mishaps involving the car, he thinks he’s escaped any consequences.

Topics: family, friends, likes and dislikes, schedules, telling time

Cultural Contexts: family relationships, teen activities

Themes: peer pressure, honesty, friendships

Pre-reading activities;

Teacher shows photos of cars, including photos of students’ cars (if they are willing to share). Teacher asks students to describe each car, and asks about student preferences.  Example questions: ¿Prefieres un carro nuevo o viejo? Grande o pequeño?

Use the video Pingu and Pinga at Home as a Movietalk activity.  Discuss family relationships, what happens when parents leave for a few hours.

 

Enrichment while reading:

Review the rules of Brandon’s parents. Discuss rules students’ parents have for them. Create a list of common rules.

Comparison List: Pros and cons of Brandon’s decision to drive his father’s car. Students list reasons why Brandon’s decision is bad. What might happen? On the other hand, why is it good?

Post-reading activities:

Mannequin challenge: In groups, students choose a scene from the book to freeze frame. Students or teacher then describe the scene.

 

BreakoutEDU:  

El escape final created by Carol Gaab – a Teachers Pay Teachers free download