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February was a month filled with award-winning picturebooks suitable for the primary English language classroom. Our picturebook of the month was Stonewall Book Award and Flugge Prize winner Julian is a Mermaid by Jessica Love. We felt this book deserved our attention and Gail expresses her appreciation for Julian is a Mermaid by stating ” I love the realism that is portrayed in the artwork which tells so much more than the words.” The many positive comments we received, confirmed our choice. Here is a very good interview with Jessica Love by CritterLit. We feel this book is suitable for all primary aged children so have a look inside – check Jessica’s website for some pages. And of course, watch our videos to find out more about our teaching tips and how primary student teachers feel about this book.

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Awards: Point out the award out on the front cover.
Front cover: Predict what the story might be about
Front endpapers: Show Julian’s grandma and friends in their swimming session;
Back endpaper: Completes the visual, with Julian becoming his dream

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Emotional: Reading facial expressions, posture and body language; sketching out main character’s emotional journey
Gender: Questioning traditional expectations around gender roles

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Using open discussion as a tool to :
1 – express different interpretations of the story
2 – air student teachers’ concerns or doubts about the content of a story
3 – elicit feedback and teaching ideas

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Explaining the different meaning between “sex” and “gender”.
Discussing colours, toys/games, clothes, generally associated with girls and boys – brainstorming to prepare a poster
Discussing gender stereotypes.
Finding out about the Coney Island Mermaid Parade