Our Curriculum
The information we illustrate in each production of Magic in the Library is based primarily on the outline on this page.
Please note that the information may vary based on the age range of the audience and the needs of students. For instance, routines that illustrate critical thinking skills on standardized tests are geared more towards students grades 3 - 5. For grades K - 2 however, routines are geared toward lighter subject matters such as how to explore books for recreation.
1
Fiction v. Nonfiction
We explain the basics of fiction and nonfiction in every magic show program and help students understand that both categories have their role in literature and society.
2
Literary Genres and Subgenres
After illustrating fiction and nonfiction, various major genres are listed off. These major genres include such things as reference books, fantasy fiction, realistic fiction, biographies, sciences, history, and so-on. After some major genres are listed, subgenres are also explained. These compound subgenres include such topics as crossing fantasy fiction with horror fiction to create fantasy horror fiction.
3
Literary Mediums
Students are challenged to help think of other written works besides books including newspapers, various digital formats, magazines and other periodicals, letters, reports, essays, and more.
4
Reading Comprehension
Depending on the age range and needs of the group, Magic in the Library illustrates reading comprehension skills. The program uses techniques such as PQR3 (preview, question, read, recite, review) or alternatively Stop and Think, Slow Down and Read, Go Back and Review.
5
Recreational Reading
Students are challenged to think about reading differently by exploring books that appeal to the individual.
6
Using Written Works for Research
Students are given a hypothetical problem during the program that must be solved by using valid sources of information found in books.
7
How to Write a Short Passage
Students are shown how to write a simple passage, such as a one-page paper, by using a brainstorming process and a writing plan.
8
How to Break Down Difficult Texts
Illustrating skills such as the sounding out of unfamiliar words and the dissecting complex passages, students are taught to work through passages one step at a time.
9
How to Do Better on a Standardized Test
Students are shown useful techniques for overcoming anxiety on government-mandated standardized tests and given a few practical steps on how to overcome common problems.