As a former teacher of students in pre-kindergarten through graduate school, a teacher-trainer, and mom of one of the best teachers this side of the moon, I know how to excite and involve learners old enough to hold a crayon—and beyond.
WORKSHOPS AND PLAYSHOPS FOR YOUNG READERS AND WRITERS
“Truly an empowering session highlighting how students can be powerful leaders”
“Knows just what appeals to kids”
“Made the kids laugh and groan—and then get to work”
“I really liked your presentation because you had everyone act a part and you didn’t lecture us.”
“The photographs and the music also added such a real-life dimension…” Adriana Murphy, Green Acres School
* “DO YOU HAVE TO JAIL NINE-YEAR-OLDS TO GET CHANGE AROUND HERE? HOW 3,000 KIDS IN BIRMINGHAM CHANGED AMERICA.”
In Spring 1963, the Civil Rights Movement was barely moving. But, 3000 black young people got it back on its feet by marching, in defiance of segregation laws, and going to jail. Sing, march, and take a role in this participatory, multimedia presentation to feel what they were up against and what they accomplished.
"Bull" Connor
Arnetta, the Peace Pony (see her props?)
* “SO, HOW MANY OF YOUR FRIENDS BELONGED TO THE KKK?”
There’s interviewing—and then there’s asking the questions that get sources to confess juicy details. Your students’ oral history techniques will never be the same.
* “WHO ARE YOUR HEROES?”
When asked this question, most young people point to great men and women like Dr. King and Rosa Parks. Or, to celebrities. But, ordinary kids can be heroes, too. The activities in this workshop help students pinpoint their everyday heroes–possibly including themselves and each other.
PRESENTATIONS AND WORKSHOPS FOR GROWN-UP WRITERS
“Masterful!”
“Brilliant and really knows her stuff”
Each session can be either a one-hour presentation or a two-hour hands-on workshop.
* “WRITING NONFICTION FOR THE KIDS’ MAGAZINE MARKET”
Learn how to find the right magazines for your interests, write a killer query, and then—because you’re sure to get the ‘go-ahead’—write a smashing article!
* “A FEEL FOR THE FACTS”
‘Just the facts’ is just the beginning. Learn how to use detail, vocabulary, structure, voice, and, above all, empathy, to turn facts into heartfelt, suspenseful, and compelling truth.
PRESENTATIONS AND WORKSHOPS FOR TEACHERS
“This was a fantastic presentation. I enjoyed the readers theater. I can’t wait to demontrate this activity with my students.”
“It was evident that Cynthia Levinson has used her book with students and has developed great activities that teachers can easily use.”
“More presentations like this!”
* “RELUCTANT READER: MEET RELUCTANT HERO”
Whole books, especially nonfiction, can be daunting to reluctant readers. Using graphic organizers, you can follow the thread of one person, a real-life “bad boy” who becomes a hero, to entice students–and still get the big picture.
* “THE HERO’S JOURNEY: IT’S NOT JUST FOR FICTION”
Use a map of the mythic “Hero’s Journey” to follow the route of real heroic children. This is Literature and Social Studies rolled into one.
ADDITIONAL TOPICS
Additional topics related to We’ve Got a Job: The 1963 Birmingham Children’s March can be arranged. Please contact me for scheduling and fees. You can share travel expenses by coordinating visits with another school nearby. Or, take a look at my Appearances page to see when I will be in your area.
