Option 1: Full/Half-Day Author Visit
I am available to visit local schools and libraries in the Calgary area and beyond. During these visits I do a group reading, focus on my career as a writer, discuss the importance of books and reading, and conduct literacy-based activities for children. Each visit is catered to time frame, learning needs and size of group. Pre-school to grade 6.
Testimonial
"One of the unique aspects of the visit was that students were engaged in reading text along with the author. This created an inclusive environment where the students felt connected with both Agnes and the book. Agnes also motivated students with shared writing by completing a brainstorming activity. Students were inspired by sharing their ideas on paper and immediately were excited to mould their ideas into a writing piece of their own." - Diana Battaglia, Teacher (Grade 4)
Fees
Rates are very reasonable. Cost is $215 for a half-day and $350 for a full day. Various program configurations are available depending on school's needs and scheduling. Each visit also includes a signed softcover copy of Absolute Alphabet for the library collection.
Option 2: Create-Your-Own- Book Grades 1 to 6.
This is a flexible 5-week program where students will be empowered
to write and illustrate their very own book.
After 2 units of writing teaching and group exercises,
children will be encouraged to write their own short story or poem and supply
illustrations for their real book (12-14 pages maximum).
Each child will create:
Cover page with by line
About the author section
Dedication
Story/Poem
Suggestions of topics of stories/poems include
If I could fly…
If I had super powers
My favourite season
My Pet
All about me
Can revolve around a holiday (mother’s day, father’s day,
valentine’s, Christmas, Hannukah, etc.)
Family
Alliteration book (tongue twisters)
Fiction, Non Fiction
Connected to a unit being studied
Anything goes!!
Teacher can assign a topic to the class or each child can
choose their story.
Fee
$25 per child.
This includes
5 sessions of visit time at 1 hr per session.
Session 1: Class discussion about writing, being a
writer, finding ideas
Session 2: Group writing exercises to start thinking like a
writer
Session 3, 4 & 5: Students write and illustrate their
stories. Author will be present alongside teacher to aid the children in
sparking their creativity and answer questions.
Children may need more time to complete their stories.
Teacher will contact me when it’s time to pick up the stories. Will return them
in approximately two weeks bound in book form.
