In Conclusion...

What did you learn from this story?

Friendship

For two years, neighbors tended the apartments of Jews who escaped.  Mama says that's what friends do.  What do you think friends do?

The Letter

At the end of the book the author includes part of a letter from an actual Resistance fighter.  What is her purpose?

Where's Ellen?

Why doesn't the author have Ellen return at the end of the story?

After Reading Chapters 16-17

1.  Why does Annemarie wear Ellen's necklace?

After Reading Chapters 14-15

1. Why does Annemarie think of Little Red Riding Hood as she follows the path to the harbor?  Who would be the wolves on her journey?

Personification

Personification is when a writer gives human characteristics to inanimate objects or animals.  One example from the story includes:

"seagulls soared and cried out as if they were in mourning."

Find other examples from Number the Stars and list them below.

Chapters 11-13: Text to Text

Choose one of the events that occurred in chapters 11-13 and compare its similarities and differences to another story you've heard/read.

The Danish Resistance Movement

Click on the link below.  Read the article and write about a few things you learned.

The Occupation of Denmark Link

G.F. Duckwitz

Click on the link below.  Read the article on G.F. Duckwitz.  Does this man fit the qualities of a hero?  Why or Why not?  Use details from the article to support your ideas.

**  Pay attention to the whole article.  I hid a clue in here that may help you identify a mysterious object later in the story.


G.F. Duckwitz

The Oresund Bridge - I wonder if it would've made a difference?

This incredible structure was completed in 1999 and opened to the public in 2000.  If it existed in 1943, would it have made rescuing Denmark's Jewish population any easier?  Please defend your thoughts.

Promotional Commercial for Number the Stars

Here's your task:  Write the dialogue for a short commercial that will promote Number the Stars.  The goal of your promotional script is to influence others to run to the store or library and obtain a copy of the book.  Motivate your audience, but don't tell them too much.  Reveal only enough information that keeps them begging for more.

Number the Stars - My Inspiration

Which character from the story inspires you?  Please describe this character and explain how/why he/she inspires you.

A - Z Number the Stars

Identify a key word or phrase from the book for each letter of the alphabet.

Number the Stars - Questions for Chapters 6-10

Respond to any or all of the questions listed below.  If you are unsure, build your response with help from the ideas of others.  The questions are numbered.  List the question # next to your answers.  Use part of the question in your answer so others know what you're responding to.  Answers should be detailed and thorough.





1.  Why does Papa ask Henrik about the weather for fishing?

2.  How did the German soldier on the train try to trick Mrs. Johansen?

3. Why does Mrs. Johansen tell the girls not to talk to anyone - even Henrik's neighbors?

4. Who is Great Aunt Birte?  And why is Annemarie so upset about her?

5. Why is it easier to be brave if you don't know everything?

6. How does Annemarie and her mother become equals?

7. How would you answer Uncle Henrik's question:  How brave are you?

Story Details I Learned from Chapter 2

What facts and ideas are shared with the reader in chapter 2?  Make a list here.

Mrs. Hirsch's Button Shop

What did you learn about Mrs. Hirsch's Button Shop?  What can you assume about Mrs. Hirsch?  What other story did you think of when you read this chapter?

Number the Stars - Student Teacher

Here's your chance to be the teacher.  Invent story questions and post them here.  Or, if you have a question about something in the story, post it here.  Students are encouraged to respond to each other's questions by hitting the "reply" button beneath the post.  You get to be the teacher!

Number the Stars - Character Comparisons

This thread on the blog is devoted to comparisons that we can make between characters from Number the Stars with characters from other books.  Comparing story characters to real people, such as parents, cousins, neighbors, celebrities, or people in history is also a great thinking activity.  Please visit this thread and publish your thoughts every time you think of a comparison.  Please explain your ideas clearly.

Danish Facts from World War II

Let's create a list of facts that teach about Denmark during the World War II years.  Try not to duplicate, or copy another person's fact(s).  Remember, facts can be measured, checked, or proven.

Resistance Movements - Online Research

Germany invaded many European countries before and during World War II.  Although under occupation, people in these countries formed resistance groups.  Do a little research and share your findings below on resistance groups from other countries, such as The Netherlands, Belgium, France, Norway, Greece, and Poland.  I'll go first...

Number the Stars - Relative Location - Mapping

Describe the relative location of Copenhagen.

Number the Stars - Math

Mama gives Annemarie some kroner to buy a button.  What is kroner?  And what is it worth on the exchange today.  How does its value compare to the American dollar?