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February 5, 2023

Lord of the Flies William Golding in the Classroom

Lord of the Flies William Golding novel study lessons, CLICK HERE for unit on TpT.

Clipart from Queen’s Educational Resources HERE

Lord of the Flies William Golding has been a staple of high school curricula for decades. The story follows a group of boys stranded on an island who must learn to govern themselves, and it is filled with complex themes and ideas. For teachers, teaching this novel can be both exciting and daunting. However, with a few tips and tricks, any educator can successfully introduce their students to this classic work of literature.


Organize Themes in Advance
Lord of the Flies William Golding is rife with themes that explore human nature and society. To ensure that students get the most out of the text, it is important to take some time before introducing it to organize these themes into easily understandable categories. For example, considering topics such as group dynamics, order vs chaos, or morality can help break down major ideas so that they are easier for students to process and discuss.

Incorporate Multimedia Resources
Another way to make Lord of the Flies William Golding more engaging is by incorporating multimedia resources into your lesson plans. For instance, many teachers like to show clips from film adaptations such as Peter Brook’s 1963 version or Harry Hook’s 1990 adaptation when discussing certain parts of the book. There are also plenty of documentaries about William Golding’s life which can help provide context for his works and inspire interesting conversations among students.

Assign Projects or Activities
Projects or activities related to Lord of the Flies William Golding can also be helpful when teaching this novel in class. Students may be asked to create presentations on specific characters or themes from the book, write essays comparing it to other works they have read before, or even act out scenes from the text in groups. These activities help bring the material alive for students while also allowing them to apply what they have learned in creative ways.

Teaching through Discussion
One way to engage your students in the discussion of Lord of the Flies William Golding is by having them lead their own discussions. Break your class up into smaller groups and have each group discuss a different theme or element from the book. This will give each student an opportunity to express their thoughts and gain insight from their peers. Additionally, it will help make the discussion more interactive and engaging for all involved.

Encouraging Creative Expression
Another great way to get your students engaged with the novel is by encouraging creative expression. Ask your students to create art pieces based on moments or characters from the book, or have them write short stories inspired by events in the story. Not only will this help them think critically about what they’ve read, but it will also give them an outlet to express themselves creatively while exploring elements of human nature explored in the novel.

Connecting Ideas
Finally, use Lord of The Flies as an opportunity to connect ideas from history and current events to what you’re covering in class. For example, you can discuss how certain power dynamics play out both in ancient civilizations and modern-day societies, or how war has affected different generations throughout history. By making these connections for your students, you can help them better understand not just the text itself but also how it relates to their everyday lives.

CLICK HERE for the Digital Course Above.

Encourage Discussion and Debate
Lord of the Flies is a complex novel with many themes that could open up great discussions among your students. Create a safe space for them to express their thoughts and feelings about what they have read without fear of judgement from others. Ask questions that will spark debate or encourage everyone to look at different points of view. This will help foster an environment where your students can learn from each other as well as from you.

Focus on Symbolism
The island setting in Lord of the Flies is symbolic for many things, such as civilization, morality and chaos. Make sure your students understand this by having them analyze why certain characters or objects are placed in certain places and how they interact with each other symbolically. For example, why does Ralph’s group live near the beach while Jack’s group lives up in the mountain? This kind of discussion will get your students thinking more deeply about what they are reading.

Explore Different Perspectives
This book provides many opportunities for exploring different perspectives on issues such as power dynamics, authority structures, man vs nature and more. Encourage your students to look at these topics from different angles and draw their own conclusions about them. This will help them not only better understand their own beliefs but also learn about tolerance for differing opinions on controversial topics.


Teaching Lord of the Flies does not have to be a daunting task! With just a bit of preparation and creativity, any educator can introduce their students to this classic work of literature in an informative and engaging way that will stay with them long after they leave your classroom! By organizing major themes ahead of time, incorporating multimedia resources into lessons plans when possible, and assigning projects or activities related to the text, educators can ensure that their students gain an appreciation for William Golding’s work while also having fun along the way!

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February 5, 2023

Sara Pennypacker’s Pax in the Classroom

Sara Pennypacker’s Pax novel study lessons, CLICK HERE for unit on TpT.

Have you heard about the novel Sara Pennypacker’s Pax? It’s a captivating story about an unlikely friendship between a boy and a fox. With its themes of family, friendship, and courage, it makes for an excellent teaching tool in the classroom. Read on to learn more about how to incorporate Pax into your lesson plans.


Using Literature to Teach Life Lessons
Sara Pennypacker’s Pax is a powerful story that can be used to discuss several key lessons with students. Themes such as loyalty, courage, and compassion are explored throughout the book and can spark meaningful conversations between students and teachers. Not only does this provide opportunities for class discussion and reflection, but it also encourages students to empathize with characters in literature—a critical skill for reading comprehension.

Incorporating Other Activities
In addition to discussing the book’s themes with your students, there are many other ways to use Sara Pennypacker’s Pax in your classroom. For example, you could assign students to write their own stories based on one of the themes from the book or create art projects inspired by scenes from Pax. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you could even have students act out scenes from the novel or put together their own musical performance inspired by the story! No matter what activity you choose for your class, incorporating Pax into your lesson plan will help bring the material alive for your students.

Use Discussion Questions for Deeper Understanding
One of the best ways to help students gain a deeper understanding of Pax is by using discussion questions. Discussion questions can be used to get students thinking about the themes and events in Pax on a much deeper level. Ask them to consider why Peter made certain decisions, or why he chose not to make other decisions. Get them thinking about why Vola was so loyal, or what it meant when she decided to stay with Peter after he left her behind. These types of questions will help your students think critically about the book and its characters while also sparking meaningful conversation between them.

Incorporate Activities into Your Lesson Plans
Another great way to teach Pax in the classroom is by incorporating activities into your lesson plans. There are several fun activities you can do with your students that will encourage them to think critically about the novel while having fun at the same time. For example, you could have your students create their own board game based on elements from Pax or write poems inspired by characters from the book. These activities are both creative and engaging, and will provide some much-needed variety for your students during class time!

Encourage Student Reflection
At the end of each lesson plan involving Pax, it’s important that you give your students time for reflection. Ask them questions such as “What did you learn from this book?” or “What do you think would have happened if things had gone differently?” Encourage them to share their thoughts aloud or write down their reflections in a journal—either way, it’s important that they have time for self-reflection after reading Pax so they can fully process all that they have learned from it.

CLICK HERE for the Digital Course Above.

Setting the Scene: Before diving into the text, take some time to introduce the setting of the novel. While much of the story takes place in rural Virginia, it’s important to note that Pax is set during a time of war and political unrest in our nation’s history—the War on Terror. While discussing these themes with your students, offer them some context on this period in American history and explain why understanding this era is important today.

Character Development The novel follows two main characters—Peter and his beloved fox companion Pax—whose lives are forever changed by war. Ask your students to consider how their relationship changes over time and think about what motivates their decisions throughout the story (hint: loyalty!).

Themes & Lessons Learned As they read through each chapter, ask your students to identify themes such as courage and friendship, as well as any lessons they may have learned from these stories (e.g., “Sometimes we have to make tough choices for those we love”). Encourage them to think critically about how these themes relate back to our current world and how they might apply those lessons in their own lives or communities today.

Creative Projects Finally, allow your students to express themselves creatively! Suggest activities such as designing book covers or writing letters from one character’s perspective to another’s that shows what they’ve learned from each other’s experiences throughout the book. This will help them solidify their understanding of the text while also allowing them to express themselves creatively!

Sara Pennypacker’s Pax is a wonderful novel that can be used as an engaging teaching tool for educators all over. By exploring its themes of family, friendship, and courage through meaningful conversations and activities with your class, you’ll help them gain important skills—not just in literature but in life too! So don’t hesitate; consider using Pax in your next lesson plan today!

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    February 5, 2023

    Wilson Rawls’ The Summer of the Monkeys

    Wilson Rawls’ The Summer of the Monkeys novel study CLICK HERE for unit on TpT.

    Wilson Rawls’ The Summer of the Monkeys is a timeless classic that is beloved by readers young and old. While it may be targeted towards younger audiences, this novel contains some truly valuable lessons that can be appreciated by high school students. In this blog post, we’ll discuss why the novel is perfect for teaching in a high school classroom setting and offer some tips on how to make it an engaging lesson.


    Themes & Topics Suitable for High Schoolers
    One of the great things about The Summer of the Monkeys is that its themes are universal and applicable to all ages. In particular, themes such as perseverance, loyalty, and friendship can be discussed in depth with high schoolers. Additionally, topics such as family relationships, personal responsibility, and hard work can also be touched on during the course of this novel.

    Engaging Students with Group Activities
    Group activities are a great way to get students engaged in any lesson plan. With The Summer of the Monkeys specifically, teachers can assign group projects where each team will work together to analyze a particular theme or topic from the book. This will help bring out unique perspectives from each student while also encouraging teamwork and collaboration among them. Additionally, teachers can also ask students to create posters or other visual aids to better demonstrate their understanding of certain concepts from the book.

    Incorporating Technology into Lessons
    Technology has become increasingly common in educational settings over recent years. With The Summer of the Monkeys specifically, teachers have plenty of options when it comes to incorporating tech into their lessons. For example, they could create online quizzes based on key topics from the book or even have students use video chat platforms to hold virtual discussions about certain characters or events from the novel. By doing so, teachers can ensure that their lessons remain engaging for their students and keep them interested throughout!

    Build Background Knowledge
    Before diving into Summer of the Monkeys, take some time to build background knowledge with your students. If you have time, consider reading selections from other works by Wilson Rawls, such as Where The Red Fern Grows or The Wolf Of White River. Doing so will give your students a better understanding of Rawls’ writing style and help them appreciate all the nuances in his work. You can also spend some time talking about the geography of rural Oklahoma, where much of the novel takes place. This will help bring the world of Summer of the Monkeys to life for your class.

    Encourage Discussion & Analysis
    Novels are meant to be discussed and analyzed! As you read through Summer of the Monkeys together as a class, don’t forget to pause every now and then for discussion and analysis. Have your students share their thoughts on different characters or themes in the book. Encourage them to think critically about why certain events unfold as they do and why certain decisions are made by individual characters throughout the story. Providing thought-provoking questions can also help foster meaningful dialogue among your students while they’re discussing each part of the book.

    Incorporate Other Activities & Assignments
    To keep your students engaged throughout their reading journey, consider incorporating other activities into their learning experience too! For example, have them create a timeline that tracks major events in Summer Of The Monkeys or design a poster that illustrates one particular theme from within the story. Alternatively, you could assign creative writing projects related to themes or characters from within the novel itself – maybe even have them write an alternate ending! These types of assignments can really bring new life into reading literature in high school classrooms – plus, it gives teachers a chance to evaluate student understanding in multiple ways rather than just relying on tests or essays alone!

    Introducing the Novel
    The Summer of the Monkeys is a heartwarming story about a young boy named Jay Berry Lee and his adventures with a family of monkeys he encounters one summer. This novel has been around since 1978 and continues to capture the hearts and imaginations of readers, both young and old alike. It is an excellent choice for introducing children to literary elements such as theme, point-of-view, symbolism, irony, characterization, and more.

    CLICK HERE for the Digital Course Above.

    Exploring Characters
    One of the best ways to engage teens in any literature class is through character analysis. In this novel, Jay Berry Lee is an especially interesting character because he is relatable and easy for students to connect with on an emotional level. Through character analysis activities such as roleplay or writing exercises, teachers can help students explore how Jay Berry’s actions reflect his values and beliefs—and how those values might differ from their own.

    Discussing Topics & Themes
    The themes woven throughout The Summer of the Monkeys are also great discussion topics in any literature class—especially those taught in high schools where teens may be struggling with issues like identity formation or family dynamics. For example, themes such as courage, friendship, loyalty, sacrifice, and determination can all be explored through activities like group discussions or writing assignments based on quotes from the book.


    Wilson Rawls’ The Summer of the Monkeys is a timeless classic that’s perfect for teaching in high school classrooms. Not only does it contain valuable lessons that are applicable to all ages, but there are also plenty of opportunities for teachers to engage their students with group activities and technology-based projects as well. So if you’re looking for a way to make your literature classes more interesting and engaging for your students, consider giving The Summer of the Monkeys a try!

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    February 5, 2023

    Lisa Moore Ramee’s A Good Kind of Trouble in the Classroom

    Lisa Moore Ramee’s A Good Kind of Trouble novel study, CLICK HERE for unit on TpT.

    Lisa Moore Ramee’s A Good Kind of Trouble, New York Times bestselling young adult novel, is an inspiring story about a young Black girl’s coming-of-age journey and her fight for justice. Teaching this novel in a high school classroom encourages students to think deeply about racial issues and develop a sense of social justice. Let’s explore how to teach this novel.


    Providing Context
    Before diving into the book, it is important to provide context for your students. Understanding the historical context of the civil rights movement will help students better understand the nuances of the story. Additionally, familiarizing them with terms such as “intersectionality” and “allyship” will create an inclusive learning environment that allows all students to participate in conversations about race and privilege. Ask your students to research these terms before reading the book so they can apply their newfound knowledge to key elements in Lisa Moore Ramee’s A Good Kind of Trouble.

    Engaging Activities
    The best way to engage with this novel is through activities that tap into your student’s creativity and empathy. One way to do this is by having them write journal entries from one of the characters’ perspectives or create a timeline outlining key events from the book using images or videos. Through these activities, you can challenge your students to think critically about why certain choices were made throughout Ahna’s journey and how those choices reflect on social movements today. You can also facilitate group discussions where each student takes turns presenting their projects while being mindful not to make any assumptions based on gender or race.

    Choose the Right Text for Your Classroom
    Choosing a book that is appropriate for high schoolers can be a challenge. When selecting a text for your classroom, you should consider the age group of your students as well as their interests and experiences. A Good Kind of Trouble is an excellent choice for teaching in the high school classroom because it appeals to teenagers while also addressing important themes such as courage and resilience.

    Plan Meaningful Discussions
    Once you have chosen your text, it’s time to plan meaningful discussions about the book. Asking open-ended questions such as “What do you think happened when Shayla confronted her mother?” or “How did Shayla show strength in difficult situations?” encourages students to analyze the text more deeply and make connections between the characters’ experiences and their own lives. It also helps them develop critical thinking skills that they can apply beyond the classroom. For extra engagement, you could also assign group projects or activities where students create presentations or artwork based on what they have read in Lisa Moore Ramee’s A Good Kind of Trouble. This type of assignment allows students to express themselves creatively while still learning about important topics like justice and identity. Finally, developing lesson plans around difficult topics such as racism, sexism, or homophobia can help generate meaningful conversations in your classroom while helping students gain understanding into these complex issues. It is important to provide a safe space for these conversations so that all students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts without fear of judgment or ridicule from their peers.

    CLICK HERE for the Digital Course Above.

    Encouraging Reflection
    A great way to end your unit is by having each student reflect on what they have learned during this process. Ask them questions like “How has reading A Good Kind of Trouble changed how you view social justice issues?” or “What role do you think allies play in creating change?” These reflections can then be used as discussion points during whole-class discussions; this helps reinforce learning while also giving them a platform for sharing their thoughts and opinions without fear of judgment or criticism from others in class.

    Bringing the Novel into the Classroom
    When teaching a novel such as Lisa Moore Ramee’s A Good Kind of Trouble, it’s important to keep students engaged through activities that make them think critically about what they are reading. Here are some ideas for incorporating this book into your high school classroom:

    • Reading circles – Break your students up into smaller groups with 3-4 members each. Have each group read the novel together over a series of days or weeks and discuss their thoughts as they read. This will help them stay accountable for reading while also giving them space to share their views on the text.
    • Character analysis – Have each student pick one character from the book that resonates with them most strongly, then have them write an essay analyzing why this character stands out to them. Encourage students to use quotes from the book to back up their claims and develop a cohesive argument about why this character is significant.
    • Creative writing – Ask students to pick a scene from the book that speaks most deeply to them and use it as inspiration for creating something new—whether it be a poem, short story, songwriting piece, or script for a play. This exercise will allow your students to explore their own creativity while still staying grounded in understanding how literature works.


    Lisa Moore Ramee’s A Good Kind of Trouble is an inspiring story about a young Black girl’s coming-of-age journey and her fight for justice that encourages deep conversations about race and privilege in the classroom. To successfully teach this novel, it is important for educators to provide context around key topics discussed within its pages, engage with their students through creative activities, and encourage reflection at the end of each lesson plan. This approach helps foster empathy among classmates while challenging them to think critically about our current society’s efforts towards creating lasting social change. With thoughtful teaching practices, educators can use A Good Kind of Trouble as an invaluable tool for promoting inclusion and understanding amongst their high schoolers!

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    February 4, 2023

    The House on Mango Street Sandra Cisneros

    The House on Mango Street Sandra Cisneros novel study lessons, CLICK HERE for unit on TpT.

    Clipart from Queen’s Educational Resources HERE

    The House on Mango Street is a classic novel written by Sandra Cisneros, and it has been used in the high school classroom for many years. It is an excellent tool for teaching students about life experiences and identity. Through a series of vignettes, Cisneros tells the story of Esperanza, a young girl growing up in a Latino neighborhood in Chicago. In this blog post, we will discuss how to effectively teach The House on Mango Street in the high school classroom.


    Introduce the Novel
    Before introducing the novel to your students, you should provide them with some background information about the author and her work. This will help set the stage for their reading experience and allow them to build a connection to Esperanza’s story. As you introduce the novel, you can also talk to your students about some of the themes that appear throughout the book such as family dynamics, identity, gender roles, and more. Start introducing the themes of The House on Mango Street early in your course plan. This will help set up conversations about identity, family relationships, poverty, and resilience throughout the year. You could use journaling activities to get your students thinking about these topics from day one. For example, you could ask them to write down their hopes and dreams for their future or what they think it means to “belong” somewhere.

    Discuss Each Vignette
    The House on Mango Street consists of 44 short vignettes that together form one cohesive narrative. After each chapter or vignette has been read aloud or assigned as homework, lead your class discussion by asking open-ended questions that encourage students to think critically about what they have read. Encourage students to draw connections between Esperanza’s experiences and their own lives or those of people they know or have heard about from others. You can also ask them to evaluate different characters’ actions or decisions and consider how those actions might impact their lives in both positive and negative ways.

    Lesson Plans
    When teaching The House on Mango Street, it is important to create lesson plans that engage your students in meaningful discussion and critical thinking. For example, you can have your students focus on the main character Esperanza’s relationships with other characters as she tries to find her place in the world. You can also discuss themes such as identity, dreams, family dynamics, and life in a marginalized community.

    Integrating Writing Assignments
    Writing assignments are an important part of teaching literature because they help students think critically about what they have read and express their own thoughts and feelings in response to the text. When teaching The House on Mango Street, you can assign writing prompts such as having students write a letter from Esperanza’s perspective or reflect on how one of Esperanza’s relationships has changed over the course of the book. You can also ask them to write a poem about their own personal experience with identity or belonging.

    Incorporating Other Media
    To further engage your students in the content of The House on Mango Street, you can incorporate other media such as films, podcasts, music, and artwork into your lesson plans. For example, you could have them listen to songs from Latinx music artists that relate to the themes of identity or belonging featured in the book or watch films like Coco (2017) which explore similar themes within a Mexican American family context.

    CLICK HERE for the Digital Course Above.

    Assign Creative Projects
    To really bring The House on Mango Street alive for your students, assign creative projects related to topics discussed in the book. For example, have your students create artwork based on certain scenes from the novel or write poems inspired by their favorite characters’ stories. These types of activities help students engage with literature at a deeper level while developing their creativity at the same time.

    Make Connections Between Texts
    The House on Mango Street is a great book to pair with other texts that explore similar themes. For example, if you’re teaching a unit on immigration and assimilation, The House on Mango Street could be paired with Julia Alvarez’s How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents or Junot Diaz’s The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao. These novels all explore themes of identity formation in different contexts and can lead to interesting discussions about how these characters grapple with their pasts as they try to create a future for themselves.

    Engage With Different Modes of Expression
    Encourage your students to express themselves through different modes such as art or music when discussing The House on Mango Street. For example, have them listen to songs that explore similar themes (such as Selena Quintanilla’s “Amor Prohibido”) or view artwork that relates back to passages from the novel (like Frida Kahlo’s “Self-Portrait Dedicated To Dr Eloesser”). Through creative expression, your students will engage more deeply with the text while also developing critical thinking skills as they analyze how various forms of media relate back to literature.

    Teaching The House on Mango Street in your high school classroom is an excellent way to get your students thinking deeply about important topics related to life experiences and identity. By introducing background information about Sandra Cisneros’ work before diving into each vignette, leading meaningful discussions after each chapter has been read aloud or assigned as homework, and assigning creative projects related to topics discussed in the book, you can ensure that your lesson plans are engaging and effective!

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    February 4, 2023

    A Separate Peace John Knowles in the Classroom

    A Separate Peace John Knowles novel study lessons, CLICK HERE for unit on TpT.

    Clipart from Queen’s Educational Resources HERE

    John Knowles’ classic novel, A Separate Peace, is a staple of high school literature classes. The novel’s story of friendship, betrayal, and coming-of-age resonates with teen readers, making it an ideal book for teaching in the high school classroom. This guide will provide teachers with tips on how to engage students in discussing this powerful work of fiction.


    Identifying the Theme of Friendship and Betrayal
    A Separate Peace revolves around two friends, Gene and Finny. Their relationship is at the center of the novel’s themes of loyalty, betrayal, and friendship. As such, one way to introduce the novel is by engaging students in a discussion about these themes. Ask them to think about what constitutes true friendship and how betrayal can be used as a tool to further one’s own agenda. Encourage students to draw on their own experiences when discussing these topics; this will help make the material more relevant and relatable for them.

    Exploring Character Development
    The character arc that Gene undergoes throughout A Separate Peace is essential to understanding this novel. In order for teachers to ensure that their students are able to track Gene’s development throughout the story, they should assign close reading exercises focused on his actions and motivations at various points in the narrative. Additionally, teachers can ask students questions about how Gene’s relationships with others (specifically Finny) are changing over time. This type of analysis will help students gain insight into why certain characters behave they way they do and why events take place as they do throughout the story.

    Analyzing Symbolism & Metaphors
    John Knowles makes use of numerous symbols throughout A Separate Peace that help convey certain themes or ideas within his story. For example, he uses both physical objects (such as a marble staircase) and abstract concepts (such as war) as symbols throughout his narrative. Encourage your students to think deeply about how these symbols relate back to larger ideas within A Separate Peace—this type of analysis will help them gain insight into some of the deeper messages found within this classic text.

    Exploring the Setting
    The setting of a novel can often be just as important as the characters and plot. In A Separate Peace, the Devon School serves as both an actual physical location and a symbol for much larger themes within the novel. During World War II, many schools closed as boys left to fight abroad or were drafted into military service. With Devon School staying open, it serves as a representation of innocence that is slowly lost throughout the course of the novel. Exploring how Devon School changes over time can help your students understand how war can have an effect on even those who are not fighting directly on the front lines.

    Analyzing Character Development
    The two main characters in A Separate Peace—Gene and Finny—are incredibly complex. As student read through the novel, they will watch Gene and Finny grow from children filled with innocence to young men who must make difficult decisions about their future during wartime. Encouraging your students to analyze these character arcs and follow along with Gene and Finny’s journey will help them better understand how war has its own effects on youth coming of age during that time period.

    Connecting with Current Events
    When teaching literature, it is always helpful to connect it back to current events whenever possible. With A Separate Peace, you can discuss topics like friendship, loyalty, self-discovery, mental health issues triggered by war (such as PTSD), moral ambiguity during wartime, and more through engaging conversations based on current events from today’s world or past wars such as Vietnam or Afghanistan. Connecting literature to real world events helps bring history alive for your students and encourages them to think critically about what they are reading instead of simply memorizing facts or dissecting plot points superficially.

    CLICK HERE for the Digital Lesson Above.

    Developing a Lesson Plan
    When teaching A Separate Peace in the high school classroom, it’s important to have a well-developed lesson plan in place before jumping into the text. Think about what topics you want to focus on as you discuss this book with your students. Do you want to focus more on themes of war and its effects? Or do you want to explore themes such as identity and growth? Once you have identified the main topics you want to cover, then you can craft a detailed lesson plan. This will help keep your class focused on the material at hand and ensure that everyone has an equal chance to participate in discussions.

    Engaging Students in Discussions
    Once your lesson plan is developed, it’s time for students to start engaging with the text. Encourage students to think critically about what they are reading by posing questions throughout your class discussion. Ask questions like “How does Gene feel when he meets Finny?” or “What do Finny’s actions tell us about his character?” Asking these types of questions will get your students thinking deeply about the text and developing their own interpretations of it. Additionally, it will help keep them engaged with the material by providing opportunities for meaningful discussion within the classroom setting.

    Using Technology in Your Classroom
    Finally, don’t forget to incorporate technology into your classroom when teaching A Separate Peace. Utilizing digital tools such as video chats or online polls can help bring the text alive for your students by connecting them with peers from around the world who are also studying this book or offering them new ways of expressing their ideas about characters or plot lines. Additionally, incorporating digital tools into your lesson plans can make learning more interactive, which allows for greater engagement during class discussions while still staying true to traditional methods of teaching literature.

    Teaching John Knowles’ A Separate Peace in your high school classroom can be an incredibly rewarding experience for both you and your students alike! By focusing on some key elements—such as exploring character development, analyzing symbolism & metaphors, and identifying themes—you can create an engaging learning environment where your students can explore this timeless piece of literature in-depth while developing important critical thinking skills along the way! With these strategies in mind, you’ll have everything you need to make teaching A Separate Peace an enjoyable experience for everyone involved!

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    February 1, 2023

    Nine, Ten: Nora Raleigh Baskin in The Classroom

    Nine, Ten: Nora Raleigh Baskin novel study lessons, CLICK HERE for TpT.

    Clipart from Queen’s Educational Resources HERE

    Nine, Ten: A September 11 Story by Nora Raleigh Baskin is a powerful and emotional novel about a group of four children who experience the 9/11 attacks from different parts of the country. The story’s vivid writing and deep characters make it an ideal choice for teaching in the classroom. Here are some tips on how to approach this book with your students.


    Encourage Discussion This book is full of emotional moments and raises tough questions that can be difficult for young readers to answer. It is important to discuss these topics with your class, as it will help them better understand the story and contextualize their own experiences. Ask open-ended questions that allow students to express themselves freely without judgment or criticism. Classroom discussions are an important part of teaching any novel. When discussing Nine, Ten, it’s important to focus on uncovering the themes and messages that lie beneath the surface of the text. Ask questions such as “What emotions did this scene evoke in you?” or “What do you think the author was trying to say here?” These kinds of questions can help your students connect more deeply with the characters and story.

    Help Students Develop Compassion The events of September 11 were tragic, but they can also provide valuable lessons about empathy and compassion for those who are suffering around us. Try to emphasize these themes while reading through the story, so that your students have a greater understanding of how they can respond when someone else is facing hardship.

    Place Emphasis on History The terrorist attacks of 9/11 are now part of our history books; however, many students today may not have much knowledge or context surrounding them outside what they learn in school. Be sure to provide historical information related to the attacks before you begin reading this book, as it will help bring richer meaning and context to the narrative while providing an opportunity for further discussion afterward.


    Incorporate Current Events
    Nine, Ten Nora Raleigh Baskin is set against a backdrop of current events—from shootings and racial tensions to economic inequality—which makes it easy to tie into what’s happening in our world today. Encourage your students to explore these issues further by finding news articles related to them or having them research real-world people who have experienced similar situations as those portrayed in the book. This will help bring even more life and meaning to their reading experience.

    Encourage Group Projects
    Group projects can be great tools for getting your students thinking more critically about what they’ve read. Have each group create a presentation based on one of Nine, Ten’s characters or storylines. For example, one group could take on the theme of gun violence while another explores how economic inequality affects young people today. This kind of project will not only help them understand the book better but also give them an opportunity to practice their public speaking skills in front of their peers.

    CLICK HERE for the Digital Course Above.

    Exploring History Through the Novel
    Nine, Ten Nora Raleigh Baskin can be used to explore historical themes such as post-9/11 America. It offers students an opportunity to gain insight into how events like 9/11 have shaped our world today. Through this novel, teachers can help students understand how people reacted emotionally and psychologically to these events and how they continue to impact our lives today. Furthermore, discussions about the novel can provide a context for broader conversations about civil rights, immigration policy, national security, and more.

    Developing Empathy And Critical Thinking Skills
    Nine, Ten Nora Raleigh Baskin provides an opportunity for students to practice empathy and critical thinking skills through discussing its characters’ experiences. By reading about what these characters go through in their daily lives—from dealing with racism to navigating family dynamics—students are encouraged to think deeply about their own experiences and those of others. This helps them build empathy while also honing their critical thinking skills. Additionally, teachers can use this book as part of lessons on cause-and-effect relationships or other related topics such as media literacy or internet safety issues.

    Nine, Ten is a poignant novel that offers valuable insight into how individuals process tragedy and grief in different ways. As an educator, it provides an opportunity for meaningful conversations about empathy and compassion with your students. By providing historical context before beginning the book and encouraging open dialogue during its reading, you can ensure that your students develop a deeper understanding of both history and literature as they explore this powerful story together.

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    February 1, 2023

    Furia in the Classroom

    Furia novel study lessons, CLICK HERE on TpT.

    Clipart from Queen’s Educational Resources HERE


    Yamile Saied Méndez’s novel Furia is an exquisite read for both young adults and adults alike. It’s a beautiful story of transformation, love, and family. As an educator, it can be difficult to determine how to use this novel in the classroom setting effectively. In this blog post, we will explore a few creative ways to teach Furia in the classroom.

    Character Analysis One way to teach Furia is to have students do a character analysis on Camila or another character of their choice. Ask them to focus on how the character changes over the course of the novel and why those changes are important. This activity allows students to gain insight into the themes of identity and family while also honing their analytical skills.

    Art Projects Another great way to teach Furia is through art projects! Have your students create a collage that demonstrates Camila’s journey throughout the novel. They could use pictures, quotes from the book, or other items that represent her struggles and triumphs throughout the story. This activity encourages visual storytelling as well as critical thinking about symbolism in literature.

    Using Discussion Questions to Explore Themes of Fúria Nothing helps bring a book alive like meaningful discussion questions! Ask your students thought-provoking questions about their experience reading Furia such as “What was most challenging for Camila during her journey?” or “How did Camila’s relationships with her family members change throughout the novel?”. These types of conversations help amplify student engagement and provide a platform for further exploration into themes such as gender roles and culture. The best way to get students engaged with this novel is through discussion questions that explore its themes. Ask your students questions about identity, family relationships, tradition and culture, immigration and displacement, and other topics related to life in Argentina. Encourage them to share their own experiences and reflect on how they relate or differ from the events portrayed in the novel. This will give them an opportunity to think critically about the characters’ actions and decisions throughout the story.

    Integrating Arts And Crafts To Enhance Learning
    While exploring Fúria in class, consider incorporating arts and crafts activities into your lesson plan. For example, you could ask your students to create a collage of images that represent one or more scenes from the novel. Alternatively, they could make masks representing characters from the book or design puppets using materials found around the classroom or house. These activities can help bring the book alive for your students while also allowing them to express themselves creatively.

    Assigning Reflection Essays To Build Understanding
    To further deepen learning, assign reflection essays at the end of each chapter or after reading the entire novel. Ask your students to write about their thoughts and feelings related to certain themes or events presented in Fúria such as family dynamics, immigration issues, culture clashes between generations etc., This will give them an opportunity to think deeply about these topics and apply what they have learned from reading this story into their own lives.

    CLICK HERE for the Digital Course Above.

    Help Students Make Connections to Other Texts
    Another great way to teach this novel is by helping your students make connections between Furia and other texts they have read before. Talk about how certain elements of Furia are similar or different from other books they have read in class or for homework. For example, compare Paloma’s journey of self-discovery to that of another protagonist like Jo March in Little Women or Scout Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird. Doing this will help your students better understand how authors develop their characters over time and how those characters interact with their surroundings.

    Focus on Character Development
    Furia is full of dynamic characters who grow and change over time as they encounter different people, places, and situations throughout their lives. As a teacher, it’s important to focus on these characters’ development so that your students can really appreciate their journeys throughout the book. Discuss each character’s motivations for making certain decisions and why they behave in certain ways when faced with adversity. By doing so, you can help your students gain insight into human behavior and empathy for others which are essential life skills that everyone should learn at an early age!


    Furia is a powerful novel that can be used as an educational tool in many creative ways. Through activities like character analysis, art projects, and discussion questions, educators can foster meaningful conversations around topics such as identity and family while also providing students with an engaging learning experience. Teaching Furia in the classroom is sure to be an enriching experience for both students and teachers alike!

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    February 1, 2023

    The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise in the Classroom

    The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise novel study lessons, CLICK HERE for TpT.


    Reading is a powerful tool that can help students discover new perspectives and expand their understanding of the world. The novel, The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise by Dan Gemeinhart, provides an opportunity to explore important themes like family, courage, and identity. Here’s how you can use this book to help bring these themes to life in the classroom.


    Themes & Character Analysis
    There are several important themes that can be explored by reading The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise. One theme is courage; throughout the book, we see protagonist Coyote facing difficult situations with strength and resilience. This provides a great opportunity for students to reflect on their own capacity for courage and discuss how they might apply it in their own lives. Additionally, we learn about the importance of family through Coyote’s relationship with her dad and her grandfather. Students can discuss the significance of family and how it shapes our lives. Identity is another important theme explored in the novel; as readers follow along on Coyote’s journey, they watch as she gains greater understanding of who she is and what she stands for. These themes provide rich opportunities for discussion and analysis among students while exploring the novel.

    Activities & Discussion Questions
    When teaching The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise, there are several activities that educators can incorporate into their lessons to help bring these themes to life. For example, have students create a timeline tracking all of the different stops that Coyote makes throughout her journey – this will help them get a better sense for all of the places she visits! Additionally, have students write down some questions they would want to ask each character if given the chance – this will encourage them to think more deeply about each character’s motivations and why they act the way they do throughout the novel. Discussion questions are also incredibly helpful when exploring this book in class; some examples include “How did Coyote show courage throughout her journey?” or “What was most important thing that you learned from reading this story?”

    Exploring Character Development
    One way educators can use this book is by exploring character development. As readers follow along on Coyote’s journey, they can observe her growth as she matures and learns more about herself and her family. Through the course of the story, Coyote finds strength and courage she never knew she had, giving readers an inspiring example of resilience in the face of adversity. To further explore character development, teachers can have students analyze how characters interact with one another throughout the novel and discuss why their relationships change over time.

    Discussing Family Relationships
    The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise also provides an excellent opportunity for students to reflect on their own families as well as those featured in the book. Teachers can ask students to consider how families are affected by changes like divorce or death, or how different generations view family dynamics differently. After reading about how Coyote creates her own unique family unit with her friends, teachers can lead discussions on how people create their own definitions of “family” when traditional models don’t work for them.

    CLICK HERE for the Digital Course Above.

    Conducting Research Projects
    Finally, teachers can use this book as a jumping off point for research projects related to homelessness or mental health issues affecting children and young adults. In addition to providing helpful information on these topics, research projects also give students an opportunity to practice researching sources both online and in print while honing their analytical skills at the same time.

    Themes and Character Development
    The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise provides an excellent opportunity for students to explore themes of family, resilience and hope. Through the main character, Coyote, students can learn about the importance of family relationships and how they shape us as individuals. Additionally, the novel’s themes highlight the idea that no matter what life throws at you, it is possible to remain resilient and hopeful. Discussing these themes in class can help your students better understand their own experiences as well as those of others. It also allows them to practice empathy while examining the characters’ motivations and feelings throughout the story. Asking questions like “What do you think motivated Coyote?” or “How has her father’s absence affected her life?” can help bring these characters to life for your students.

    Writing Exercises
    Another way to use this book in class is through writing exercises that allow your students to draw connections between The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise and their own lives. Prompts like “Write a letter from one of the characters in this book” or “Describe a time when you felt just like one of the characters in this book” can spark conversations about how people experience similar emotions even when their circumstances are different from each other’s. These exercises can also encourage creative writing while helping your students deepen their understanding of this novel.


    The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise is an excellent choice for teachers looking for books with meaningful themes that will spark discussion among their students. Through activities such as creating timelines and discussing characters’ motivations, readers will gain a deeper understanding of topics like courage, family, and identity – all essential elements for growing up! With its engaging plotline full of twists and turns, your class will be captivated from beginning to end!

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    January 29, 2023

    The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora in the Classroom

    The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora by Pablo Cartaya novel study lessons, CLICK HERE on TpT.

    The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora by Pablo Cartaya is a heart-warming story about a middle schooler’s attempt to save his family-run restaurant from annihilation. It is an inspiring tale for students that teaches them about the importance of standing up for what they believe in, as well as the power of community and family. Here are some tips to help you engage your students with this novel in the classroom.


    Incorporate Current Events Into Your Lesson Plans
    Inclusivity, diversity, and representation are all hot topics in classrooms today. Incorporate these important issues into your lesson plans when discussing The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora. Ask your students to consider how they can be more inclusive and diverse in their everyday lives, as well as how they can stand up for others when they see inequality or injustice happening around them. Discussing current events will keep your students engaged and help them connect the novel to real life situations.

    Promote Critical Thinking Through Discussion Questions
    Encourage critical thinking by asking your students questions pertaining to the novel after each chapter or section. Some examples could include: What were some of Arturo’s challenges? How did he overcome them? What choices did he make that had positive impacts on his situation? What would you have done differently if you were in his shoes? These types of questions will require your students to think deeply about the material and come up with meaningful answers.

    Get Creative With Projects
    Projects are a great way to get creative with teaching The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora! Have your students create a timeline depicting key events from the book, design a poster advertising Arturo’s restaurant, or write a persuasive essay urging local politicians to pass legislation protecting small businesses like Arturo’s from being taken over by big corporations. You can also assign groups or individual presentations where each student has to act out a scene from the book or research one of its characters – this will not only reinforce what was read but also provide an opportunity for public speaking practice!

    Create an Authentic Experience
    The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora may be fiction, but it reflects the reality of many young people today. To create an authentic experience for your students while reading the book, consider connecting them with members of their local community who share similar experiences or interests as Arturo and his friends. Invite guest speakers into your classroom or take a field trip to visit a small business in your area so that students can draw real-world connections between what they read and the world around them.

    Focus on Community Building
    In The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora, community is central to the story. As such, it’s important to pay special attention to building a sense of belonging among your students while teaching this novel. Create opportunities for students to share their thoughts and reflect on their own experiences related to the themes in the book. Encourage collaboration through group projects or discussions that emphasize understanding and empathy for each other’s perspectives.

    Integrate Creative Writing Activities
    Creative writing activities are an excellent way for your students to explore their own personal relationships with The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora. Ask them to write from one character’s point of view, create a dialogue between two characters, or respond to prompts like “If I had been in Arturo’s shoes…” Encourage them to use vivid language and descriptive imagery when possible and give them opportunities to share their writing with each other. It’s important for students not only recognize how this story applies to them personally but also have an outlet for expressing those thoughts and feelings through creative writing activities.

    Exploring Characters Through Writing
    The characters in The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora are incredibly well-developed and unique. Use these characters as a springboard for writing prompts that help students explore their own feelings about different topics such as friendship, family, and community. Ask students to write about how the characters in the book handle certain situations or how they might handle them differently. This will encourage students to think critically about their own lives and experiences while also deepening their understanding of the novel’s themes.

    CLICK HERE for the Digital Course Above.

    Focus On Authentic Learning
    The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora can be used to introduce topics such as urban planning, gentrification, and community activism in an engaging way that encourages authentic learning. Have students research real-world examples of gentrification or discuss how urban planning affects people’s lives. These activities can help put what they have read into perspective while also getting them thinking outside the box and considering different points of view on these issues.

    Involve Students In Community Projects
    One great way to get students engaged with The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora is by having them take part in a relevant community project related to the book’s themes. For example, if your school is located near a gentrifying neighborhood, have students take part in a clean-up day or organize a fundraiser for residents affected by rising costs associated with gentrification. These types of projects can help bring home many of the lessons learned from reading the novel and show students how they can make meaningful change in their own communities.


    The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora is an inspiring novel that encourages readers (students) to stand up for what they believe in and fight for justice even when faced with daunting odds. By incorporating current events, promoting critical thinking through discussion questions, and getting creative with projects you can ensure that your students stay engaged while learning valuable lessons from this book. Ultimately, these activities will help bring this story alive in your classroom and make it an enjoyable experience for everyone involved!

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