Making Multicultural Connections
Through Trade Books

Mary McLean and the St. Patrick's Day Parade
Written by Steven Kroll
Illustrated by Michael Dooling

Cultural Group: Other International Cultures

Content Connection: Reading/Language Arts Grade 4

Topic : Reality and Fantasy

Suggested Exemplars

• Guess Box: clover
• Collection: clover, green fabric, green leaves, a troll or leprechaun, other St. Patrick's Day symbols
• Comparison Circles: Reality vs Fantasy

Learning Sequence

1. Guess Box: shamrock or clover

2. Reflective dialogue:
   • What connections can you make with a shamrock?
   • What is special about a shamrock?
   • Why do you think Mr. Finnegan was willing to allow Mary to ride with him on his St. Patrick's float for a shamrock?

3. Ask children to suggest additions to a collection that begins with the shamrock. If the suggestion fits the Irish theme say "yes" and add that item if available. Since they have not yet heard the story their responses and modifications will be based on their background knowledge and experience as well as the teacher's responses.

4. Read Mary McLean and the St. Patrick's Day Parade .

5. Children illustrate or write summaries of sequences from the story.

6. Place two circles on the floor label one fact and one fantasy. Children sort pictures into the two sets. If they are not sure they may want to create an intersection.

Extension

• Children may write or perform skits that include dialogue they create for Mary and her family during two difficult scenes: The steerage section of the immigrant ship and the one bed the whole family shared in the basement on James Street.

Technology Link

• Use PRINT SHOP DELUXE (Broderbund) to create a sign for the St. Patrick's Day Parade.

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© 1996 MCPS Department of Academic Programs, Division of Enriched and Innovative Instruction,Program of Assessment, Diagnosis, and Instruction