Set up work stations so that students are able to progress through them at their own pace.
Provide paper divided into four sections. Ask students to choose one character and print the name at the top of the paper across all the sections. In each section. ask them to show through illustration a situation where one of the other characters is describing how the chosen character reacts during that scene or interaction. (An example would be Howard meeting Molly for the first time: Howard at his first lunch at school: Howard and Mr. Jeeter: Howard and Ollie.)
Provide large sheets of paper, crayons, markers, etc. Ask students to draw a picture of their chosen character and write down their observations of him or her at the beginning of the book. How do they look? How do they act? What do they like? What do they not like? Who do they like? Who do they not like? What do other people think about them? On the other side of the paper, draw a picture of the same character and write down the observations of him or her at the end of the book. The students might like to list their questions on a separate shhet of paper for easy reference.
Provide note paper, a microphone, some dress up "reporter" clothes. Set up this scenario: You are a reporter for a local radio station (or newspaper) and you are conducting a survey on how newcomers see the town. Is it welcoming? Do they feel comfortable? How do the students treat newcomers at the school? Interview Howard and report his observations.
Ask students to choose one of the characters and make a "Wanted" poster. Add to the poster the "Suspect Description"
Provide large sheets of light tagboard, string or yarn, crayons, markers or paint. Invite students to make "sandwich boards" advertizing a character from the book. Make the picture more creative by adding fabric or felt scraps, googly eyes, etc.
