675.Resource, Gordon, There's No Dream Too Tall: Mentor Text for Identity and Agency (K-2)

Identity is our self-concept. Agency refers to our capacity to act. The theme of Identity and Agency beginS with the self-awareness of one’s own strengths and weaknesses and expands to our capacity to take action and attain goals. This theme includes self-efficacy (believing in oneself), the self-confidence to try difficult or new tasks, perseverance, and resilience.  Identity and Agency are affected by our experiences.

There’s No Dream Too Tall presents the choices we have about what we want to be when we grow up. Knowing our strengths will help us decide. The author advises readers to be true to what they want. Many professions, and what they require, are explained.  For example, nurses are kind, tough, calm, and patient. Builders use their hands, know numbers, and follow directions. Dean offers examples of how weaknesses can be strengths. For example, having a voice that others think is too loud turns out to be helpful if you want a stage career. By knowing who we are, we can reach the goal of who we want to be as we grow up.

Heart of Georgia RESA teachers may request a free copy of the book to use with their classes by listening to the short VoiceThread about the book, reading a brief handout that includes the ELA standards and suggested strategies for using the mentor text, and completing a request form.