A Month of Mysteries- Part 2 Book Report

Please read my "A Month of Mysteries Part 1" for the unit kick-off.

I continued this genre by brainstorming books that are mysteries with my fourth graders.  I pulled out my mystery book collections and had way more than I thought.  Here are some of the series and books that I have in my library.  I keep the collections in bins that are labeled with the series and I have one bin for miscellaneous mysteries.

Here are some series that are popular in my class:

I showed the children their" Case Files" and they were so excited about their new book reports.  I wanted to model the project before sending it home so I chose the book "Who Stole the Wizard of Oz?" by Avi.  It  is a quick read aloud and has plenty of suspects and clues.  We completed the packet as a class.

The children were so excited to get started on their own "Case Files" so I had the kids pick out a "Just Right Mystery Book."  I allowed them to choose books from my classroom, the library or at home(they have to bring it in)  Once I approved their book selections,  I gave them their Case Files to take home.  When I assign a home project,  I always include a parent-sign off page. This helps with projects coming in on time. 

Here are samples of my Case Files. 

Click the image below to download your Case File Cover. 

Their photos fit perfectly on the sheet.

I got this idea from Beth Newingham's website.  Please visit her site for all down-loadable sheets.  They are posted under teacher resources.  She is an amazing teacher and has a lot of great resources!!!!

Case File Cover

Suspect List

Clue Clipboard

Case Report

Ingredients for a Mystery

The project is due at the end of the month and the children are going to be sharing as News Reporters and Detectives in an Interview Format.  I will video tape them and make a DVD for the kids.

Coming Soon...A Month of Mysteries Part 3- Writing