Game Changers: The Story of Venus and Serena Williams by Lesa Cline-Ransome and James E. Ransome

Recommended for ages 6+

Video Summary

Venus and Serena are sisters and best friends. Their father takes them to the tennis courts, starting from when they are very young, to practice their skills. They wake up early and clean the tennis courts before they start to practice. They duck on the courts when they hear gunshot ringing in their neighbourhood. People laugh at their father because he has big dreams for them but soon they play on the professional circuit and rise to the top. At times, the sisters have to verse each other and Venus, the older sister, dominates their matches. This is until Serena steps out of her shadow and wins the French Open in 2002. Venus and Serena celebrated each other’s wins.

Video Instructions

Video #1: For a more in depth understanding of the books, we have provided a video retelling an in-class story. Each pass through the text or illustrations allows students to dive deeper into the story’s meaning, preparing them for more complex narratives down the road.

Video #2 & Worksheet: Parents may print the worksheet corresponding to the story. In the second video, Ms Liann will guide students through completing the worksheet. Younger students will learn the appropriate sizes, shapes, and sounds of letters. Older students will learn the spelling of new words, helpful phonics rules, and how to write in complete sentences.