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Grades level iconsGrades 4–6
Session time icon60+ Minutes
Genre information iconFantasy/SciFi, Narrative
Video resource type iconVideos

Superhero-O-Matic with Lisa Brown

by 826 National
Author and illustrator Lisa Brown reads "Owl Girl. In this lesson, you will write a superhero story that introduces your character and establishes the context for your reader.
About the Author

Lisa Brown is a best-selling illustrator, author, and cartoonist. Her illustration work can be seen in Goldfish Ghost by Lemony Snicket, The Airport Book, and Mummy Cat by Marcus Ewert. She teaches illustration at California College of the Arts.

What Your Students Will Learn

You  will learn how to imagine and develop a superhero character.

Common Core Standards
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.4.3.A Common Core Standards Icon
Orient the reader by establishing a situation and introducing a narrator and/or characters; organize an event sequence that unfolds naturally.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.5.3.A Common Core Standards Icon
Orient the reader by establishing a situation and introducing a narrator and/or characters; organize an event sequence that unfolds naturally.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.3.A Common Core Standards Icon
Engage and orient the reader by establishing a context and introducing a narrator and/or characters; organize an event sequence that unfolds naturally and logically.
What You Will Do

Step right up to the Superhero-O-Matic, the only superhero character-creator you need! Brainstorm ideas for your own superhero character, put them into the Superhero-O-Matic, and then write a story about that superhero that introduces your character and establishes the context for your reader.

STEP 1

First, watch the video, while reading along with the mentor text on page 1 of the Superhero-O-Matic —Handouts. Then, find the Practice Worksheet on page 2. Fill in the boxes with the answers you learned from “Owl Girl.” You can rewatch the video, or reread the mentor text, if you need reminders. 

STEP 2

Now it’s your turn! On page 3, there is a blank Superhero-O-Matic worksheet. Answer the questions in the boxes again, but this time, with your own ideas about the superhero character you’d like to create. 

STEP 3

Draw a picture of your superhero confronting their...

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