Oceans, Pirates and Writing Ahoy!

Coming in September 2008

This assembly is based around the book A Pirate's Quest (written by Laura and Robert Sams, illustrated by Heiner Hertling) and the movie The Riddle in a Bottle.  What is it like to make a book or movie?  Where do ideas come from?  What is it like to swim underwater with sharks and sea turtles?  Laura and Robert will share a behind-the-scenes look at the book and movie, emphasizing that the creative process takes time and a lot of choices.  Get ready to hear Robert sing like the pirate!  Get ready to make choices about writing and editing!  Get ready to see a book printed with the four color printing process!

For nature centers and similar venues, the program can be adapted to include a bit more science and focus about moving water. 

How does this program relate to the curriculum?

After participating in the program, students will:

• Learn that most of the earth is covered by water, and that moving water is important for life on earth.
• Recognize that authors make choices as they convey meaning and influence an audience. Examples include word selection, use of illustrations, etc.
• Begin to develop and use strategies for planning, drafting, revising and editing a variety of text forms.
• Identify and use aspects of the craft of the speaker, writer and illustrator to formulate and express ideas artistically. Examples include design, perspective and dialogue.
• Experience how science concepts can be interpreted through creative expression, such as language arts and fine arts.