Teachers
Guide to "When I Was Eight"
Synopsis:
This story is about an 8-year-old girl named Olemaun (later known as Margaret) and her desire to go to a residential school to learn to read. It is a picture book that depicts this true story and the many hardships the little girl has to endure during her time at residential school. It tells a tale of how her spirit would not be broken despite those broken around her and how she persevered in the face of obstacles.
Background Information:
This story is adapted from the novel, "Fatty Legs," also by the same authors. This picture book makes the story more relatable for a younger audience while still maintaining the message of the story. It is recommended for Grades 1-4.
For more information and resources about Residential Schools please visit the About section of this website.
Lesson
For discussion questions with this story please visit the Students page.
To access this resource created by Cowie's Class visit their TeachersPayTeachers store.