The LitWits Video Workshop on A LITTLE PRINCESS

During our "field trip" through this book's narrative arc, we'll pause to take part in the moments that made Sara stronger and kinder than ever.

Includes video instruction, printables, and a list of inexpensive supplies, plus CCSS alignment for grades 3-6.

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Fun "field trips" through classic children's literature - experiential learning from LitWits Workshops

"This [workshop] seemed like a great way to introduce and reinforce literary terms for my 5th grader. SHE LOVED IT AND SO DID I!!! Absolutely wonderful. I can not thank you enough for creating this. On a side note, one of my daughter's favorite things was the interview from the great-great-granddaughter. What a fabulous way to spend a Friday!"

"Becky and Jenny . . . make the exploration of each book look like an entertaining adventure that students will be eager to join." —Read Cathy Duffy's full review!

Sunset from Sara's attic - fun activity for teaching A LITTLE PRINCESS by Frances Hodgson Burnett - LitWits Workshops online video course

What we'll do

Once we've shared the concept of the narrative arc, your kids will write a thank-you note to Miss Minchin as only Sara could, paint London from Sara’s elevated perspective, recreate the "frustrated banquet" as a pivotal plot point, learn about the French Revolution and the plight of street children in Victorian London, do a sweet project to grasp three important meanings of a word, and more!!

This workshop video (2:09) includes pauses for activities, so it can easily provide at least three hours of fun, hands-on learning.

What your child will get

An audiovisual introduction to the author (and a special interview with her great-great granddaughter!)
Geographical context of story and/or author
An overview of the concept of the narrative arc
A walk-through of the story’s plot, point by point, pausing every so often to “do what the characters (or author) did,” including:
Creative writing
Instructions and printables for at least two projects or activities that get kids into the story
A fun idea for a straight-from-the-story snack (what we call “BookBites”), often with story packaging
Story activity mementos layered with meaning
Lifelong benefits: memories of a great time exploring a great book, and the inspiration to read many more; an influential model of someone who learned how to cope and overcome; and valuable academic lessons.

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Online video course with fun activities teaching A LITTLE PRINCESS by Frances Hodgson Burnett - LitWits Workshops

"A fabulous way to study the book, and much more interesting, engaging, and memorable than just using vocabulary or review questions! [My daughter] loved collecting prop items to make a special display on our bookshelf, and enjoyed the art projects greatly. We made the frosted cakes from the “Frustrated Banquet” which our whole family was happy to eat, and overall we had a wonderful time together with this study. Thank you!"

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FAQ

What does my child need to do to prepare?

Just read (or listen to) the story before the workshop. We strongly recommend reading purely for enjoyment, with no assignments or learning goals in mind. We'll be sharing the important stuff during the workshop!

Are abridged versions okay?

Sure! Any abridged version is better than watching the movie. Dramatized or recorded books are fine too--even better, if your child struggles to read. The point is to get the story in his or her head, as effortlessly as possible.

What do I need to do?

Just print the papers and collect the supplies listed in your Prep Packet--we've made them easy to find, and inexpensive. It's perfectly okay to substitute anything that works better for your child's needs or your time and budget.

For extra fun, pack it up as a LitWits Kit! Put the supplies in a box with our welcome note for your child. Kids love the "slow reveal" of opening their kits with us, and taking out each item as needed, one at a time. That's it! We'll take it from there.

Once the workshop starts, you may want to be nearby in case your child needs assistance--that's up to you. (We've tried to make that unnecessary, with simplicity and careful instructions, but you know your child best.) There are also some "pause and think" moments in most workshops, where you might like to engage your child in discussion.

What if my child can't write?

Our writing handout is creative writing, where the imagination matters most. Have your child dictate his or her writing to you; after you've written it down, read it aloud with inflection and enthusiasm, so s/he can hear that their words sound "just like a real writer!"

Can my child participate in your live Zoom workshop, where you send the supplies?

Of course, if there's room--we'd love to meet him or her in person (two-dimensionally, anyway)! We limit our two sessions to 25 kids each, and the sessions usually sell out fast. Check out our live Zoom schedule here.

Can I get a refund if it doesn't work out?

Yes of course! Just email beckyandjenny@LitWits.com and let us know what could have been better, so we can improve. This is our bread-and-butter, so your feedback literally helps FEED us! :)

Any other questions? Just ask!
Ready to sign up?

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About the story

Little Sara Crewe is kind, smart, imaginative, cultivated, and thoroughly rich. When she arrives at Miss Minchin’s Select Seminary for Young Ladies in London, she’s treated like a princess—until her father dies, financially ruined. Now that she’s poor, she’s banished to the attic and treated worse than her servant friend. But her determination to stay “a princess inside” results in a new friendship that transforms her world overnight. —Buy the book/read reviews on Amazon. We make a small commission on anything you buy through our Amazon affiliate links.

What's most important

A Little Princess is a heartwarming, inspirational story about staying true to your values, no matter what. This story and our workshop activities revolve around the message of rising above circumstances, no matter what.

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