Book: Matilda

Age Group: Owlins (9-11 year-olds)
Hello, Teachers!

PREDICTION / BRAINSTORMING FOR STUDENTS
Based on the title “Matilda” and the cover image (if available), what do you think this story will be about? Who might Matilda be, and what kind of adventures do you think she might have?

WHAT STUDENTS WILL LEARN

1. How to identify and analyze the main characters in a story
2. Understanding the concept of a protagonist and an antagonist
3. Recognizing themes such as education, family, and personal growth in literature
4. Exploring the use of humor and exaggeration in storytelling
5. Developing critical thinking skills by examining characters’ motivations and actions
6. Understanding the impact of positive and negative role models on a child’s
development
7. Recognizing the power of education and reading in personal growth
8. Exploring the concept of justice and standing up against unfairness
8. Understanding the use of magical elements in realistic fiction
10. Analyzing how an author creates suspense and resolution in a story

KEYWORDS

Matilda, precocious child, telekinesis, education, literacy, family dynamics, abuse, neglect,
empowerment, friendship, courage, justice, imagination, social critique, school life, teacher-student
relationship, personal growth, resilience, supernatural abilities, bullying, moral values

A QUICK SUMMARY

Matilda is an extraordinary tale about a remarkable young girl named Matilda Wormwood.Despite being only five years old, Matilda possesses an incredibly sharp mind and a passion for reading that sets her apart from her family and peers. Born into a family that doesn’t
appreciate her talents, Matilda finds solace in books and develops her intellect far beyond her years.

At home, Matilda faces neglect and ridicule from her self-centered parents, who are more interested in watching television and making dishonest money than nurturing their daughter’s exceptional abilities. Her father, Mr. Wormwood, is a dishonest car salesman, while her mother spends most of her time playing bingo. Despite this challenging environment, Matilda’s spirit remains unbroken, and she finds clever ways to stand up to her parents’ mistreatment.

When Matilda starts school, she encounters two contrasting authority figures. Miss Honey, her kind-hearted teacher, quickly recognizes and nurtures Matilda’s gifts. On the other hand, the school’s headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, is a terrifying bully who takes pleasure in
tormenting the students. As Matilda navigates the ups and downs of school life, she discovers she has an extraordinary power: the ability to move objects with her mind.

Using her newfound telekinetic abilities and her sharp intellect, Matilda sets out to help Miss Honey, who has her own tragic backstory involving Miss Trunchbull. Together, they face the challenges posed by the cruel headmistress and Matilda’s neglectful parents. Through courage, friendship, and a touch of magic, Matilda overcomes adversity and finds a loving home where her talents can flourish.