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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Character Journals:
- Students write from the perspective of Arthur Owens, reflecting on his experiences and growth.
- Character Maps:
- Create visual maps showing relationships and traits of main characters like Arthur, James Hampton, and others.
- 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.
- 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?
- 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.
- Seven Important Things:
- Discuss the significance of each item James Hampton collects and what they symbolize.
- Symbolism in Art:
- Examine Hampton’s artwork and its symbolic meaning within the novel.
Creative Activities
Objective: To engage students creatively and personally.
- 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.
- 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.
- Compare and Contrast:
- Compare the novel to other works with similar themes, like “The Outsiders” by S.E. Hinton.
- Literary Essays:
- Assign essays analyzing the novel’s themes, characters, and symbolism.
Discussion and Reflection
Objective: To facilitate discussion and personal reflection.
- Group Discussions:
- Organize small group discussions on key chapters to encourage peer learning.
- 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.
- Quizzes:
- Periodic quizzes on plot, characters, and themes to check comprehension.
- 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.
- Field Trips:
- Visit local art museums to connect with the novel’s art themes.
- 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.
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