"Matilda" is a great book to use at the end of the school year. The novel lends itself to

learning about the following reading skills:

making connections, characterization, point of view/perspective, compare and contrast, and comprehension.

Discussion topics and extension activities are included for several chapters. These topics can be discussed as a whole class, in small groups, or can be turned in to a writing assignment. The extension activities are independent activities that can be shared with partners or in small groups.