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 to H is for Home Run. 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):
Batter’s up! With each letter of the alphabet, children learn more about America’s favorite pastime, baseball. Filled with sport facts and tales of legendary baseball figures, enjoy the nostalgia of summers gone by and get ready for the children to proclaim, “Take me out to the ballgame!”
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 equipment is used in baseball?
Why are the players wearing two different types of hats?
Have you ever played, or would you like to play baseball? Why or why not?
Why do sports have rules?
Do you like to play sports with a team, or individual sports?
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:
How do you think the author feels about baseball?
Name some positions players take on the baseball diamond.
Which baseball position would you like to try first?
What is Opening Day?
Can you name a famous baseball player? What is he known for?
How many games are played in a professional baseball season?
When and where can you play baseball?
What sport is baseball similar to, or maybe even came from?