BUY THE NOVEL STUDY HERE FROM TEACHERS PAY TEACHERS. Teaching “The Seventh Most Important Thing” by Shelley Pearsall can be a rewarding experience for both students and educators. This guide provides a comprehensive approach that includes preparation, reading strategies, activities, and assessments to ensure students deeply engage with the novel and its themes.

Preparation

Objective: To set the stage for the novel and spark interest.

1. Background Research:
   • Learn about the author, Shelley Pearsall, and her other works.
   • Research the historical context of the 1960s, particularly focusing on social issues and the art scene.
2. Introduce the Novel:
   • Discuss the book’s cover and title. What do students think the “seventh most important thing” might be?
   • Read the book blurb and ask students to make predictions about the story and its themes.

Reading Strategy

Objective: To structure reading and ensure comprehension.

1. Reading Schedule:
   • Divide the book into manageable sections, assigning chapters for each week.
   • Plan for both in-class readings and at-home assignments to maintain a steady pace.
2. Interactive Reading:
   • Encourage students to annotate their books or use sticky notes for important passages.
   • Have students keep a reading journal, noting key events, questions, and personal reflections.

Character Analysis

Objective: To explore character development and relationships.

1. Character Journals:
   • Students write from the perspective of Arthur Owens, reflecting on his experiences and growth.
2. Character Maps:
   • Create visual maps showing relationships and traits of main characters like Arthur, James Hampton, and others.
3. Discussion Questions:
   • How does Arthur change from the beginning to the end of the novel?
   • What motivates James Hampton in his creation of art?

Thematic Exploration

Objective: To delve into the novel’s major themes.

1. Themes:
   • Redemption and forgiveness: How do these themes play out in Arthur’s life?
   • The power of art: What role does art play in the characters’ lives and in the story?
   • Coping with loss: How does Arthur deal with the loss of his father?
2. Group Discussions:
   • Organize discussions on how these themes are represented in the book and how they relate to students’ lives.

Symbolism and Motifs

Objective: To analyze literary devices and their impact.

1. Seven Important Things:
   • Discuss the significance of each item James Hampton collects and what they symbolize.
2. Symbolism in Art:
   • Examine Hampton’s artwork and its symbolic meaning within the novel.

Creative Activities

Objective: To engage students creatively and personally.

1. Art Project:
   • Have students create their own “seventh most important thing” artwork inspired by James Hampton’s piece. They should explain the significance of their chosen item.
2. Writing Prompts:
   • Assign prompts related to the novel’s themes, such as writing a letter of forgiveness or reflecting on personal experiences with redemption.

Critical Thinking and Analysis

Objective: To enhance analytical skills through deeper examination.

1. Compare and Contrast:
   • Compare the novel to other works with similar themes, like “The Outsiders” by S.E. Hinton.
2. Literary Essays:
   • Assign essays analyzing the novel’s themes, characters, and symbolism.

Discussion and Reflection

Objective: To facilitate discussion and personal reflection.

1. Group Discussions:
   • Organize small group discussions on key chapters to encourage peer learning.
2. Reflection Papers:
   • Have students write reflection papers on what they learned from the novel and how it affected their views.

Assessment

Objective: To evaluate understanding and engagement.

1. Quizzes:
   • Periodic quizzes on plot, characters, and themes to check comprehension.
2. Final Project:
   • A creative or analytical project synthesizing their understanding of the book. This could be a presentation, a piece of art, or an in-depth essay.

Extension Activities

Objective: To extend learning beyond the novel.

1. Field Trips:
   • Visit local art museums to connect with the novel’s art themes.
2. Guest Speakers:
   • Invite local artists or historians to speak about the significance of art in society.

Example Weekly Lesson Plan

Week 1: Introduction and Chapters 1-3

• Day 1: Introduction to Shelley Pearsall and historical context.
• Day 2: Read chapters 1-3, discuss initial impressions and predictions.
• Day 3: Start character journals and group discussions on first impressions of Arthur and James Hampton.

Week 2: Chapters 4-7

• Day 1: Read chapters 4-5, focus on the introduction of the seven items.
• Day 2: Discussion on the symbolism of the seven items.
• Day 3: Art project brainstorming session.

Week 3: Chapters 8-12

• Day 1: Read chapters 8-10, discuss Arthur’s development.
• Day 2: Create character maps and analyze relationships.
• Day 3: Writing prompt: “A time I asked for forgiveness.”

By following this structured approach, students will gain a thorough understanding of “The Seventh Most Important Thing” while engaging in meaningful activities that enhance their literary skills and personal growth.

https://money-on-teachers-pay-teachers.teachable.com/p/novel-study-school3