The Remarkable Farkle McBride

By: John Lithgow

In John Lithgow's The Remarkable Farkle McBride, a brilliant child prodigy grows bored and frustrated after quickly mastering the violin, flute, trombone, and drums. He finally discovers his true calling when he steps in to lead the orchestra, finding ultimate satisfaction as a conductor

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Students will read The Remarkable Farkle McBride and explore how the main character’s changing interests and passions shape his identity as a musician. Through discussion and analysis, students will examine how authors use character voice, emotions, and experiences to influence a story’s mood. Students will then connect narrative themes to sound by exploring how digital signals and frequencies create musical notes. Using a microelectronic controller, students will design and program a digital piano that transforms character traits and emotions from the story into musical expressions.

• Core Content: Reading, Writing, Science, and Creative Arts

• Grade Levels: Grade level 4

• Time Required: 2 days post read aloud

• ME Career Connection: Students will see how software engineers and electrical engineers collaborate to use microelectronics to solve problems.

• Author: Julie Gillespie