5 Reasons You Should Read The Sandwich Swap (plus a reading skills activity)

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Don’t you love when you can teach a reading skill while teaching a life lesson at the same time? That’s exactly what you can do with the book The Sandwich Swap by Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah. We all know how important good, solid reading skills are, but we can’t neglect teaching our students how to be good people. This book gives us the opportunity to explore diversity and acceptance while being a great resource for students to practice identifying story elements. Here’s 5 reasons why you should include this book in your read aloud selections:

1. Students will learn it’s ok to be different.

When we learn just how true this statement is, I’m convinced our world will be a better place. The problem in this story was caused by a simple difference. I can’t count how many times I’ve had disagreements in my class simply because my students had a difference of opinions. If I can help my students understand that different doesn’t always mean wrong, they will be better equipped to handle conflicts in the future.

2. Students will see the power in spreading positivity.

This book shows just how fast negativity spreads and how easy it is to create a hostile environment. However, it also shows the impact of spreading positivity. What started between two friends quickly spread throughout the whole school. Our decisions don’t just affect us. Our actions impact others and I want my students to use their influence in a positive way.

3. Students will be encouraged to try something new.

Often times, when we are faced with something new, we jump to conclusions about what that experience will be like instead of having an open mind. Trying something new can be scary, but what if it turns out to be amazing? I love to encourage my students to be open minded and to understand the growth that can happen when we get out of our comfort zone.

4. Students will learn the importance of accepting other cultures.

Our country is becoming more and more diverse and by default, so are our classrooms. What would happen if every child felt valued regardless of cultural differences? By having open, honest, cultural conversations students can begin to see how our cultures shape us and how cultural diversity is what makes our world beautiful.

5. Students will have the opportunity to practice identifying story elements.

Practicing this skill is so important. Students need to be able to identify important details story in order to move on to higher level reading skills. Also, being able to restate and write the important ideas and will help them across subject areas.   There’s so much for children (and adults) to learn from this book. I hope you enjoy reading and discussing this book with your class. I’d love to know what takeaways your students came up with.