Henry's Freedom Box

Today we began an excellent picture book called "Henry's Freedom Box." I only read half the book and then ask the students to record any questions that they might have. We discussed asking questions that are "thick" and would generate conversation among their peers. Here is an example of what I mean about thick versus thin questions.

How old is Henry?
This is an example of a thin question. It requires a one word answer. The answer to this question will not generate conversation and it does not help a reader make much more meaning from the text.

How might Henry be feeling knowing that his children may be sold as slaves?
This is an example of a thick question. The question generates rich conversation. Many different feelings may be brought up with different explanations for each one. The question helps the reader gain deeper meaning of the main ideas of the text as well as character feelings. 

Tomorrow we will finish up the story, ask some more questions and share our thinking as a whole group.