Lesson 1 - Get to Know
the Book
The Grown-Up Scoop
These first lessons are all about discovering this amazing book. Use this time to not only read it, but to start diving into the themes and details of the story!
Below are links to download the Book Pack Plan and Study Guide for I’m New Here. Feel free to use these to explore the book on your own, or as a guide to follow along with as you travel through the sections.
Before You Read
To get started, share this short story summary with your child(ren):
Maria is from Guatemala, Jin is from Korea, and Fatimah is from Somalia. All three are new to their American elementary school, and each has trouble speaking, writing, and sharing ideas in English. Through self-determination and with encouragement from their peers and teachers, the students learn to feel confident and comfortable in their new school without losing a sense of their home country, language, and identity.
Now, sitting comfortably with your child(ren), show them the front and back covers of the book. Then ask questions, like the following, to stimulate their thinking, to encourage them to read, and to create wonder.
Are You Ready?
Begin each lesson with an African A-GO and A-MAY exercise to bring child(ren) to attention.
A-GO: Means “Are you ready to listen in silence?” (Explain the meaning and have them repeat the word.)
A-MAY: Means “Yes, I am ready to listen in silence and you may begin.” (Explain the meaning and have them repeat the word.)
Before Reading Questions:
What does it mean to be “new”? Have you ever been new to a place? How did you feel?
Why do people leave their homes and move to a new city/state/country?
Who do you go to when you need help? Have you ever helped someone?
How do you welcome someone? Why is it important to be welcoming and show kindness towards people?
Read the Book
When you are ready, read the book with your child(ren). Remember to have fun with it!
After You Read
After reading, review the story and its details by asking more questions to your child/children.
Post Reading Questions:
Who are the characters of the story? Where are they from?
How do Maria, Jin and Fatima feel when they first start at their new school?
Who helps the new students feel welcome and comfortable? What do they do to help?
Do you think Maria, Jin and Fatima feel differently about their new school at the end? Why do you think so?