Educator Resources
I. Standards-Based Reading Comprehension Questions.
Reading and comprehension questions for Mystery of the Missing Candlestick related to Florida's Sunshine State Standards Benchmarks (Grades 5-8) are available as a PDF file. Click link on the far left.
The questions, prepared by an experienced teacher, address the reading standards of main idea, cause and effect, plot and character development, conflict, word analysis, relevant details, comparing and contrasting, validity and accuracy of information, and author’s purpose.
II. Other Resources for Teachers, Librarians, and Parents.
The following list of resources was developed for teachers, librarians, and parents to accompany Mystery of the Missing Candlestick by June Weltman.
1. Classroom activities for Mystery of the Missing Candlestick:
Fernandina Beach Middle School (FL) adopted the book for a One Book-One School voluntary reading program. Classroom activities utilized by the teachers included comprehension questions, character cards, and a map of St. Augustine’s historic area for the students to follow the adventures of the teen detectives.
An Accelerated Reader quiz is available for Mystery of the Missing Candlestick. Contact: www.renlearn.com
2. Resources Related to St. Augustine and Florida History:
-- Flagler’s St. Augustine Hotels by Thomas Graham. (Pineapple Press, 2004. Paperback, $12.95.) This attractive book by a noted historian provides large format color photos.
-- The National Park Service website for the Castillo de San Marcos and Fort Matanzas contains information about school visits and includes FCAT-friendly activities. http://www.nps.gov/casa/
-- The St. Augustine Historical Society website includes links to historic sites, museums, and other resources related to Florida history. www.staugustinehistoricalsociety.org
3. Using Mysteries in the Classroom
--Bringing Mysteries Alive for Children and Young Adults by Jeanette Larson. (Linworth Publishing, Inc., 2004.) This book provides a useful overview of mysteries and how they can be used to motivate young readers. She offers reading lists and suggestions on how mysteries can be integrated into the curriculum. The book includes websites for more information. Linworth Publishing: 800-786-5017; www.linworth.com
--Terrific Connections with Authors, Illustrators and Storytellers: Real Space and Virtual Links by Toni Buzzeo and Jane Kurtz. (Libraries Unlimited, Inc., 1999.) This book provides guidance on how educators and authors can make the most of school visits. The book suggests innovative ways to bring students into contact with authors, illustrators and storytellers. (Libraries Unlimited, Inc.: 800-237-6124; www.lu.com/tip) Buzzeo also maintains her own website: www.tonibuzzeo.com
4. Useful Links
--To Buy Mystery of the Missing Candlestick:
Mystery of the Missing Candlestick is available from your favorite bookseller or from Mayhaven Publishing. (Hardcover, $23.95. ISBN: 1878044-98-2.) Toll-free: 866-586-4493 or www.mayhavenpublishing.com
--For writers:
Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators: www.scbwi.org
Highlights Writers Workshop: www.highlightsfoundation.org
Malice Domestic: www.malicedomestic.org
Mystery Writers of America: www.mysterywriters.org
Sisters in Crime: www.sistersincrime.org
--To learn more about St. Augustine, FL:
St. Augustine Historical Society: www.staugustinehistoricalsociety.org
St. Johns County Visitors and Convention Bureau: www.Getaway4Florida.com
--To find award-winning children's and adult mysteries to read:
Mystery Writers of American "Edgar" Award nominees and winners: www.mysterywriters.org
Malice Domestic "Agatha" Award nominees and winners: www.malicedomestic.org