Blueberries For Sal

We spent a second day on the book Blueberries for Sal. Holly started off with reading this book aloud to Hudson and I. After reading it we talked about a Story Map reviewing the theme of the book, the setting, the characters, the problem and the solution. Holly then completed a story map on Blueberries for Sal - all on her own. I am quiet impressed with how well she did too!! Holly also created a Venn Diagram comparing the two characters of Sal and Little Bear. She enjoys doing these -- I need to plan in some more that would work well while she masters this skill.

After she completed these two assignments we made blueberry muffins. We used a recipe I have used many time, so a keeper that is very simple and not over the top. Holly really enjoys cooking, this made for another great kitchen experience.

Here is the recipe we used: Easy Blueberry Muffins

Blueberries For Sal & Freezer Jam

This morning Holly read Blueberries for Sal to me and then she made some blueberry freezer jam! All by herself!!!

She really enjoyed this activity and was surprised to learn she could make jam so easy... honestly, I am too. I have never made freezer jam - this was new to us both. I found a pectin that did not require any stove top work which was nice for Holly as it kept this pretty simple.

She measured out all the berries, washed them, smashed them, added them to the sugar and pectin mixture for a final mashing and then filled the little canning jars. Really a very simple, easy process that was fascinating to her - as well as a perfect match to this book in which they come home to can blueberries. Can't beat that!

Blueberry Freezer Jam

5 cups of blueberries
2 cups of sugar
6 tablespoons of instant pectin
3 pint canning jars or 6 1/2 pint

Wash and smash the blueberries really well. In a separate bowl mix sugar and instant pectin then add the berries. Mix really, really well for at about 3 minutes. Pour into canning jars leaving about 1/2 inch for expanding in the freezer. Let set for 30 minutes, cap and freeze. You can freeze for up to one year. Use within 3 weeks of opening.

Good Stuff!