The LitWits Video Workshop on TREASURE ISLAND

During our "field trip" through this book's narrative arc, we'll pause to take part in Jim Hawkins' experiences. And we'll be learning a lot of BIG lessons as we go, just like him!

Your purchase gives you permanent, anytime access to this video workshop. It includes video instruction by Becky and Jenny, 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

"My kids both said unequivocally: “I want to do that again.” I was worried that it might be a little too schooly for my PTSD (post-traumatic school disorder) kids—sitting still, worksheets—but you guys clearly made it fun and engaging. Thank you for that."

"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!

Teaching activity for TREASURE ISLAND - mapmaking - LitWits Workshops

What we'll do

Once we've introduced the author and shared the concept of the narrative arc, your kids will:

"visit" old Bristol and learn its historical connections
make a map and learn geography and cartography terms
age and weather an old sea chest for map-stashing
invent a villain, using vocabulary words from the story
nibble treats from an important plot point
practice the knot Silver must have used to tie Jim
define real treasure and create gold spots to deliver
and more!

and all while bringing out the great lessons in the story actions that inspired these activities! Whew!

This workshop video (64m) 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
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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(All the printables your child needs for this workshop are included.)

Online video course on TREASURE ISLAND by Robert Louis Stevenson - LitWits Workshops

We couldn't sail the good ship LitWits without our hearty matey Mayday, catcher of bilge rats and scallywags.

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. The movie version is never the same, no matter how good (and most aren't) or how closely it sticks to the written version (and most don't). We want kids to absorb words that help them imagine, instead of going straight to someone else's imaginings.

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. Our instructions include pictures and tips to make the prep and easy and fun.

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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The black spot from TREASURE ISLAND - fun activity ideas - LitWits Workshops

About this story

In the mid-eighteenth century, an old sea captain dies at the Admiral Benbow Inn in England. The innkeeper’s son, Jim Hawkins, discovers a treasure map among the man’s belongings, and shows the map to a trusted doctor and a squire. Together they procure the Hispanolia and set sail with an ominous crew, which they soon find out includes pirates!

Read reviews / buy the book here. (We make a small commission on anything you buy through our Amazon affiliate links.)

What's most important

There’s enough mutiny, pirate talk, espionage, and swashbuckling to enthrall the most thrill-seeking reader. This story will also inspire honesty and encourage bravery, for Treasure Island is a tale of Jim’s quest for a treasure: not just for a shiny metal, but for his mettle.

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