Nim’s Island Study Unit and Island in a Jar Craft Idea

The children’s book Nim’s Island by Wendy Orr takes the reader on an adventure that isn’t soon to be forgotten! In this story a young child named Nim lives on a beautiful, exotic island with her marine biologist father and lots of colorful creatures. When Nim’s father goes missing, she turns to a friend named Alex, really a recluse named Alexandria for help. The story takes the reader on an adventure that focuses on trust, team work, and celebrating who you are!

Dive into Nim’s Island by Wendy Orr, then give this island in a jar craft idea a try to help further your enjoyment and understanding of the text!

Nim’s Island Study Unit and Island in a Jar Craft Idea

Supplies needed:

– clear mason jar
– craft sand
– assorted sea shells
– stick
– green craft paper or crafting felt
– scrap paper
– twine

Directions:
1. Begin by filling a clean mason jar about ¼ of the way full of sand.

2. Add in your sea shells of choice. You can use store bought (found at most craft and dollar stores) or use ones from a recent vacation. Smaller shells work best.

3. Create a palm tree for your jar. You can use a basic stick or twig to start. Cut out palm shape leaves (ovals with cut fringes) and glue them to the top of the stick.

4. Press the palm tree into the sand so it is secure.
5. Replace the lid of the jar. Wrap some twine around the top.

6. Attach a tag to identify the jar. We used a simple “Nim’s Island” tag.

Your Nim’s Island in a jar can now be displayed. Feeling really creative? Add miniature animals of your choice, a small piece of fabric to look like a blanket, or even small characters. You can use dollar store toys for the perfect fit.

There are other ways you can continue to explore the story Nim’s island including:

1. Write a short narrative pretending you are a creature on Nim’s Island. How did you get there? What do you look like? How big are you? Don’t forget all of the details to explain how you look and what your daily life is like.

2. Think about Nim’s feelings as the story progresses. Use adjectives to talk about how Nim might be feeling. Write a list down of emotions and feelings that could be used to describe the character.

3. So what exactly is a marine biologist? Head to the internet to find out what this job description looks like. Make a chart of duties a marine biologist would be responsible for. Would you like to be one? Write a short essay on why or why not.

4. Create a short quiz for someone who has read the book before. Include 5-7 trivia questions and see if you can stump the reader.

Nim’s Island continues to be a classic story with positive themes that can be enjoyed by many ages. Give this Nim’s Island unit study and Island in a Jar craft for kids a try. It is a great way to explore the beauty that is Nim’s Island further!