Refugee by Alan Gratz novel study full lessons CLICK HERE for TpT.

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Refugee by Alan Gratz, a young adult historical fiction novel written by Alan Gratz, follows the stories of three different refugees from three different time periods. Through these characters, readers gain an understanding of what it means to leave home and build a new life somewhere else. This book provides an excellent opportunity for teachers to explore themes such as identity, family bonds, endangered cultures, and immigration in their classrooms. Let’s discuss how you can use “Refugee” to teach complex topics in your classroom.

Introducing Refugee by Alan Gratz to Your Students
The best way to begin teaching “Refugee” is by introducing the text to your students. Give them a brief overview of the main characters—Josef, Isabelle and Mahmoud—and let them know that each character comes from a different time period but has similar experiences when it comes to leaving home and escaping danger. You can also provide other supplemental materials that will help give context and background information about the characters’ lives before they become refugees.

Exploring Identity with Refugee by Alan Gratz
Throughout the novel, Josef, Isabelle and Mahmoud are all forced to grapple with who they are as individuals as well as their identity within their families and communities. These questions can be explored in depth through reading activities that focus on passages from “Refugee” that deal with identity questions or through creative writing assignments where students imagine themselves in one of the characters’ shoes. Additionally, if you want your students to explore these issues further you can pair “Refugee” with other texts examining similar ideas like The House on Mango Street or The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian.

Examining Immigration Issues
Immigration is a hot topic right now, so it makes sense to examine this issue through literature like “Refugee.” With this book, you can have your students explore topics related to immigration including asylum-seeking procedures, visa requirements and refugee resettlement programs. You can also have your students analyze news articles related to immigration or watch documentaries about people who have experienced immigration firsthand. Ultimately, no matter which approach you take when discussing immigration issues with your class while using “Refugee,” make sure that they are aware of current events related to immigration policy so that they have an understanding of how it relates directly back to the stories told in this novel.

Integrate Content Into Other Subjects
Refugee is a great way to bring together different subjects into one cohesive lesson plan. In order to do this, teachers can research historical events related to the characters’ stories and integrate them into classroom lessons. For example, if you’re teaching math, you could talk about the GDP of countries that had refugee crises during World War II (when Josef’s story takes place). If you’re teaching science, you could discuss the effects of climate change on global migration patterns (which directly affects Isabel’s story). Integrating content from other subjects makes learning more interesting and engaging for students.

Prompt Discussions
Refugee is filled with tough topics that can open up conversations between students and teachers alike. Start off by asking students what they think about the stories of each character—what was their experience like? How did it compare with their own life? This will lead to deeper conversations about resilience, displacement, discrimination, and more. Encourage your students to share their own experiences with these topics or ask them for potential solutions for refugee crises around the world today.

Engage With Different Learning Styles
Refugee offers many opportunities for visual learners who prefer images over words. Ask your students to draw out scenes from each character’s journey or have them create posters of key points from each chapter that they discussed in class. You could also assign projects such as roleplaying scenarios where a group of students are given roles in a refugee camp (such as camp manager or food distributor) and then have them work together to solve problems they encounter within the camp environment. This kind of hands-on activity engages visual learners while reinforcing important conversations about displacement and identity that arose during class discussions.

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Create a Safe Space
Before diving into a discussion of Refugee, it’s important to create a safe space for students where they feel comfortable expressing their own thoughts and feelings on the subject matter of the book. We want our students to feel heard and respected while discussing these difficult topics, so we must emphasize that everyone’s opinion is valid and no one will be judged or criticized for what they say. If needed, provide some structure or guidelines ahead of time on how you would like your class to engage with each other during conversations.

Encourage Students to Explore Different Perspectives
One of the most important elements of teaching Refugee is helping students understand the different perspectives presented in the novel. Ask them questions about why certain characters make certain decisions or why others might disagree with them, encouraging them to think about how people from diverse backgrounds might view similar situations differently. The goal here is not necessarily to have your students arrive at any specific conclusion but rather just get them thinking more deeply about different points of view.

Address Controversial Topics Thoughtfully
The themes explored in Refugee are complex and often controversial, so it’s important for teachers to approach these topics thoughtfully. Encourage your students to consider both sides of any argument without pushing any particular point of view on them; instead, allow them to come up with their own conclusions based on evidence presented in the text or their own personal experiences. Additionally, provide resources such as books, articles, or videos that can supplement what’s covered in Refugee if necessary, so that your students have access to additional information if they need it.

Teaching Refugee by Alan Gratz is an excellent way for teachers to explore complex topics such as identity formation within new environments, family bonds formed during times of hardship, endangered cultures due to displacement and immigration policies all over the world today. By providing background knowledge about refugee experiences throughout history and connecting those experiences directly back to current events happening around us today we can create meaningful conversations within our classrooms about how we can take action towards creating positive change for immigrants everywhere! With thoughtful discussion activities combined with creative writing tasks or further research opportunities into current refugee issues–teachers will be able provide their students with an engaging framework for learning more about these important topics! #EducatorsUnite #ForAllWhoSeekAsylum #BeTheChangeYouWishToSeeInTheWorld #WeAreOneHumanFamily #NoBordersNoBarriersNoFear #EducationNotDeportation #OpenHeartsOpenMindsOpenDoors #LetLoveLeadTheWayToABetterWorldForAll!

Jon Krakauer’s Into the Wild novel study full lessons, CLICK HERE.

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Jon Krakauer’s Into the Wild is an iconic work of non-fiction that has captivated readers for decades. In it, Krakauer tells the story of Chris McCandless, a young man who ventured off into the Alaskan wilderness in search of adventure and ultimately perished. The book is a timeless tale of human perseverance, ambition, and determination—all qualities that make it perfect for teaching in the classroom. Here are some tips on how to teach this classic work of literature in a meaningful and engaging way.

Set the Stage by Exploring McCandless’s Motivations
Before diving into the book itself, spend some time exploring why McCandless decided to take his journey in the first place. Discuss what drew him to nature – was it a desire to escape from society or something else? Talk about how our motivations can often lead us down paths we never anticipated. This will help your students appreciate why McCandless embarked on his ill-fated journey and will provide them with valuable insight into his character.

Discussing Different Perspectives
In Into the Wild, Krakauer presents several different perspectives on McCandless’s life and death. He interviews many people who knew McCandless as well as those who encountered him during his travels. Ask your students to compare these perspectives and discuss how they shape our understanding of what happened to McCandless. This exercise will give them practice in analyzing multiple points of view on complex topics—a skill that is essential for success both inside and outside of the classroom.

Exploring Nature vs Nurture
One of the themes at play in Into the Wild is nature versus nurture – did Chris’s upbringing influence his decision to venture off into nature or was he simply born with an adventurous spirit? Hold a class discussion about this topic and ask your students which side they think had more influence over Chris’s decisions before having them read excerpts from the book to back up their opinions. This type of analysis will help your students develop their critical thinking skills while also immersing themselves in Krakauer’s text.

Create an Engaging Discussion
One of the most important pieces of teaching any book is creating an engaging discussion about it. Before beginning to read, ask your students questions such as “What makes this story interesting?” or “What do you think will happen throughout the story?” After reading each chapter or section, have your students discuss their thoughts and feelings about what they just read. This encourages critical thinking and active engagement with the text. Additionally, when possible, draw connections between what your students are reading and their own lives. This can help bring relevance to the material and make it more meaningful to them.

Teach Different Perspectives
Into the Wild is told from multiple perspectives and is full of difficult-to-answer questions about life and morality. During your discussion of each character’s perspective, encourage your students to consider other points of view and weigh different sides in order to form their own opinion on various topics raised in Krakauer’s novel.

Integrate Technology into Your Lessons
Using technology in the classroom is a great way to keep your students engaged with challenging material like Into the Wild. Have them create podcasts or short videos about their favorite part of each chapter or share digital presentations about their interpretations of characters’ motivations or actions within the story. By allowing them to express themselves creatively through technology, you can help make sure they stay involved with learning this book inside and outside of class time!

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Choose Your Format
The first step in teaching “Into the Wild” is to decide which format you want to use. You can assign it as required reading, or you can break it up into smaller sections and assign each section over several weeks or months. Both formats have their advantages and disadvantages; for example, assigned reading requires less preparation but also takes longer to complete. On the other hand, breaking up sections allows for more flexibility and customization but requires more preparation time upfront.

Create Discussion Questions
Once you have chosen your format, it’s time to create discussion questions. This is important because it helps students think critically about what they are reading and encourages them to engage with the text on a deeper level. If you are assigning sections of “Into the Wild” over several weeks or months, then create discussion questions for each section so students can interact with each other as they read through different parts of the book. Some good topics might include Chris McCandless’ character development throughout his journey, his motivations for living off the land in Alaska, and his interactions with other people he meets along the way.

Encourage Deeper Thinking
Once students have finished reading Jon Krakauer’s Into the Wild, encourage them to think critically about what they’ve read by asking them open-ended questions such as: What did you learn from this book? How do you think Chris McCandless would feel if he could see himself today? What advice would he give his younger self if given the chance? These types of questions help students explore ideas on their own without being constrained by predetermined answers or responses from instructors or peers. They also encourage students to reflect on their own values and beliefs based on what they’ve read in “Into The Wild.”

Jon Krakauer’s Into the Wild is a powerful story that offers plenty of opportunities for exploration and discussion when taught in a classroom setting. Through examining different perspectives, discussing motivations, and looking at nature versus nurture, teachers can help their students gain valuable insights about human behavior while also giving them practice with essential reading comprehension skills such as interpretation, analysis, synthesis, and evaluation. By introducing this classic work into their lesson plans, educators can ensure that their classes have an engaging experience with one of literature’s most enduring works!

Markus Zusak’s The Book Thief novel study lessons, CLICK HERE on TpT.

Markus Zusak’s The Book Thief is a beloved story of courage and resilience set against the backdrop of World War II. It is often taught in the classroom as a way to explore themes of identity, justice, and morality. If you are looking for ways to bring this powerful novel to life in your classroom, read on for some creative teaching ideas!

Using Music to Illuminate Meaning
Music plays an important role in The Book Thief. Whether it’s Liesel’s accordion playing or the Nazi songs she hears while on the streets, music carries both literal and metaphorical meaning throughout the novel. Asking students to identify pieces of music that can add layers of meaning to particular scenes can be a great starting point for discussions about how music can capture emotion and evoke powerful feelings. You could even have students create their own musical compositions inspired by particular scenes from the book!

Exploring Historical Context
The Book Thief is set during World War II and gives readers an up close and personal look at what life was like during that time period. As such, it provides teachers with a unique opportunity to explore history in a more interactive way. Have students research aspects of everyday life during WWII, such as food shortages or rationing, or ask them to compare major events from before and after the war. This will help provide context for why certain things happen or why characters behave the way they do in the novel.

Bringing Literature Alive Through Art
Art can be a great way to engage students with literature in a more visual way. Art activities related to The Book Thief can range from making puppets based on characters from the novel to creating collages that represent key moments from the story. You could also have students draw pictures based on specific descriptions from passages of text; this could be done individually or as part of a group project where each student draws something different, but all parts come together into one larger piece.

Differentiated Instruction
The Book Thief is an excellent book to use when creating differentiated instruction strategies in the classroom. Because of the novel’s unique narrative structure, educators can choose to focus on specific characters, story arcs, or themes. This allows teachers to create activities that are tailored to meet each student’s individual needs and interests. For example, teachers might have some students focus on understanding the character development of Liesel while others explore the symbolism of books throughout the text. Differentiated instruction also allows teachers to assess student learning more effectively by focusing on specific skills or learning objectives related to each activity.

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Creative Exploration
The Book Thief is full of creative possibilities for students to explore in the classroom. From exploring visual arts such as painting or drawing, writing their own stories inspired by the events in The Book Thief, or even researching World War II history related to certain scenes from the novel—there are countless ways that students can engage with this text creatively. One great activity for students to do is create their own timeline of events from The Book Thief using visuals such as drawings or photographs. This will help them understand how events unfolded during different points of time throughout the story while expressing themselves creatively at the same time.

Critical Analysis
One of the best ways that educators can use The Book Thief in their classes is through critical analysis activities. By having students analyze key themes such as identity formation and power dynamics within different relationships they will be able to develop strong analytical skills while engaging with meaningful topics within a text they already enjoy reading! Critical analysis activities also provide a great opportunity for discussion-based learning which encourages collaboration between peers and makes studying more enjoyable for all participants involved!

1. Focus on Different Types of Reading
   The Book Thief is a great opportunity to discuss different types of reading and how they can be used to interpret various texts. Start by having students compare their own experiences with reading the novel to different ways they have read or heard stories in the past (e.g., orally, listening to audiobooks, etc.). Ask them to identify patterns and fill out graphic organizers with their thoughts on how different types of reading can be used to understand literature better. They should also consider how these methods might affect their perception of the text.
2. Analyze Characters Intentionally
   Throughout The Book Thief, characters are presented with difficult circumstances that force them to grapple with moral issues and make decisions that will shape their lives forever. Have your students analyze each character’s motivations and actions in order to think critically about how those choices fit into larger themes like justice, mercy, heroism, and other topics related to morality. This will help them develop empathy for characters who may take paths that are morally ambiguous or even wrong—and gain an understanding of why we make certain choices even when it’s hard or unpopular.
3. Engage With Historical Context
   This book was written during a time when World War II was still fresh in people’s memories—which makes it all the more poignant today as we celebrate its 75th anniversary since the end of the war this year (2020). Use this opportunity to engage your students with primary sources such as photographs, letters, diaries, etc., so they can get a deeper understanding of what life was like during this period of history through Liesel’s eyes in The Book Thief.. Additionally, encourage them to consider what lessons they can learn from her story that may apply today in our world full of social unrest and political uncertainty.

No matter how you choose to teach it, Markus Zusak’s The Book Thief offers educators an excellent opportunity to explore themes of identity, justice, morality, and history through literature in creative and engaging ways. From exploring historical context through research projects to bringing literature alive through art activities—there are plenty of fun and inventive ways you can use this beloved novel as a teaching tool!

The Call of the Wild graphic novel study lessons, CLICK HERE.

Clipart from Queen’s Educational Resources HERE

Graphic novels are a great way to engage learners in the classroom. Not only do they offer an alternative way for students to connect with literature, but they also make content more accessible for those who struggle with traditional reading. The Call of the Wild by Jack London is a timeless classic that can be used to introduce and discuss themes like survival, courage, and loyalty. Here, we will explore how this graphic novel can be used to teach these important concepts in the classroom.

Approaching The Call of the Wild Graphic Novel
One way to introduce this classic novel is through its graphic novel version. Published in 2020 by HarperCollins Children’s Books, this stunning graphic novel brings London’s narrative to life with vivid illustrations that capture each moment of Buck’s journey. Reading such a visually stimulating version of the text can help engage young readers who may not be as interested in traditional reading formats. Furthermore, examining how each artist interprets scenes from the book can lead to interesting conversations about artistry, visual storytelling, and interpretation.

Exploring Nature Through Art Projects
The Call of the Wild Graphic Novel is full of beautiful descriptions of nature and wildlife that offer plenty for students to explore in their own artwork. For example, have them create original drawings or collages based on specific passages from the book that feature animals or landscapes; or ask them to illustrate aspects from their own lives in nature-inspired drawings and paintings. Integrating art projects into literature study often sparks creativity within young learners and can even open up topics for discussion about personal connections with nature and conservationism.

Getting Creative With Role-Playing Activities
One effective way to dive deeper into The Call of the Wild Graphic Novel is through role-playing activities. Ask students to create costumes or props related to characters from the book; then have them act out scenes from different points in Buck’s adventure while discussing what they think his motivations were at each stage in his journey—and why he chose certain paths over others. This type of interactive activity encourages students to think critically about how different decisions can lead us down different roads—a valuable lesson no matter what age we are!

Lesson Plan Ideas for Teaching The Call of the Wild
The Call of the Wild offers a great opportunity for students to engage with literature on their own terms. Here are some lesson plan ideas that educators can use when teaching this iconic novel:

1) Have students create a timeline of events – Ask your students to create a timeline of key events in The Call of the Wild. This exercise will help them better understand the story’s plot and characters while also encouraging critical thinking and analysis skills.
2) Assign group projects – Have groups of students work together to research different aspects of Jack London’s life or related topics such as dog sledding or Alaskan wildlife. These projects should be tailored so that each student has an opportunity to contribute something unique and meaningful.
3) Discuss themes – With the aid of visuals from the graphic novel, have your class discuss important themes from The Call of the Wild such as survival, courage, loyalty, and friendship. Encourage students to think critically about these themes and how they relate to their own lives.
4) Allow for student-led debates – At points throughout the novel, readers are presented with different interpretations of Buck’s experiences in Alaska. Give your class an opportunity to debate these interpretations in a respectful manner by allowing them time for open discussion or creating structured debates between opposing sides in your classroom.

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Discussion Questions
Incorporating discussion questions into your lesson plan is an effective way for students to discuss and analyze important themes from The Call of the Wild. To get students thinking about the text in more depth, you can ask open-ended questions such as “What do you think motivated Buck’s transformation?” or “What are some of the major themes found throughout the book?” These types of questions will help connect students with their peers, spark meaningful conversations, and ultimately help them become better readers.

Comparing Texts
One effective technique for getting students engaged with literature is by having them compare different texts on similar subjects. For example, have your class compare Jack London’s original novel with its graphic novel adaptation side by side. Ask them to look at how different elements like setting and character development were translated from one medium to another. This activity can also be used to highlight changes in literary style over time, giving students an opportunity to explore different genres in depth.

Writing Assignments
Writing assignments are a great way for educators to assess how well their students understood particular themes or characters from The Call of the Wild. You could assign a creative writing assignment that has students write their own short story inspired by one or more elements from the book such as setting, plot points, or characters. Alternatively, you could assign an essay prompt that asks students to analyze specific aspects from both texts such as Buck’s character development or how nature influences his decisions throughout the story.

Teaching The Call of the Wild using a graphic novel offers an engaging way for educators to incorporate classic literature into their classrooms without compromising on content quality or engagement levels from their pupils. By using creative lesson plans such as those mentioned above, educators can ensure that their students get an enriching experience from reading this timeless classic while also developing important skills such as critical thinking and analysis—skills which will serve them well regardless of what subject matter they choose to pursue later in life!

Jason Reynold’s As Brave as You novel study lessons, CLICK HERE.

Jason Reynold’s As Brave as You is an award-winning coming of age novel that offers educators a unique opportunity to teach literature in the classroom. The story follows two brothers, Genie and Ernie, who embark on a journey from Brooklyn to rural Virginia to visit their grandparents. Along the way, they must face their fears and learn about themselves and each other. This book is perfect for teaching in middle school classrooms, as it is accessible yet thought-provoking. Here are some tips on how to incorporate this book into your lesson plans.

Encourage Discussions
The best way to engage students with this book is through discussions. Ask open-ended questions that require more than just a “yes” or “no” answer. For example, after reading each chapter, ask the class what they think will happen next and why? This encourages critical thinking and gets students invested in the story. It also allows them to make predictions based on what they have read so far.

Focus on Character Development
Jason Reynold’s As Brave as You has many themes that can be explored such as family dynamics and identity formation. But one of the most important aspects of the book is character development. Genie and Ernie both go through major changes throughout the story, learning lessons about courage, friendship, and self-acceptance along the way. Encourage students to analyze how these characters change over time and how their actions influence their growth as individuals.

Integrate Writing Assignments
Writing assignments are an important part of any literature curriculum because they allow students to further explore the text in depth while developing writing skills at the same time. After completing each chapter or section of As Brave as You, assign essays that focus on analyzing Genie’s or Ernie’s motivations or exploring certain themes from different perspectives. Another option would be to have students write journal entries from one of the character’s points of view about a particular scene or event from the book. These types of assignments can help bring out deeper insights into the text that would not be discovered otherwise.

Exploring Identity
One of the major themes explored in As Brave as You is identity. Throughout the narrative, both Ernie and Genie grapple with questions related to identity—Who am I? What makes me unique? Who do I want to be? These are all important questions for middle-grade and young-adult readers to consider as they navigate adolescence and adulthood. By exploring these topics through literature, teachers can create safe spaces for students to explore difficult questions without feeling judged or criticized for their thoughts or ideas.

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Increasing Empathy Through Discussion Prompts
Another key theme in As Brave as You is empathy—the ability to put yourself in someone else’s shoes without judgment or criticism. By asking open-ended discussion questions about the characters’ motivations and emotions throughout the novel, teachers can help students better understand what it means to empathize with others even if they don’t always agree with them. Additionally, encouraging students to reflect on how they would have responded in similar situations helps foster compassion between classmates while deepening understanding of this important concept.

Explore the Book’s Themes
One way you can use this book in your classroom is by having students create artwork inspired by the characters’ emotional journey. Start off by having students brainstorm ideas about bravery and how it ties into their own lives (e.g., overcoming personal fears or standing up for something they believe in). After that, have them create drawings or paintings based on those ideas. Finally, ask them to write a reflection about the process and how it relates back to the themes of As Brave as You.

Storytelling Techniques You could also use this novel as an opportunity to explore storytelling techniques such as foreshadowing and flashbacks. Have students work together in small groups or pairs to identify examples of each technique used throughout the book; then have them share their findings with the rest of the class. This exercise will help them understand how these techniques help authors build tension and create suspenseful stories.

Jason Reynold’s As Brave as You is an excellent choice for teaching literature in middle school classrooms because it is accessible yet thought-provoking at the same time. By encouraging discussions, focusing on character development, and integrating writing assignments into your lesson plans you can help your students gain valuable insights into this novel while also improving their literary analysis skills overall!

Sharon Draper’s Blended novel study lessons, CLICK HERE.

Sharon Draper’s Blended is an incredible book that should be read and discussed by high school students. It centers around Isabella Johnson, a teenage girl who is struggling to find her identity as she navigates the difficult terrain of growing up in an interracial family. In this post, we’ll explore why Blended is such an important work of literature and how it can be taught effectively in the classroom.

Themes
There are many themes that students can explore when discussing Blended. Issues like identity, race, gender roles, and family dynamics are all explored in detail throughout the novel. Additionally, there are also discussions about friendships between teens and how those relationships can help shape one’s sense of self. These topics provide plenty of material for class discussions and debates.

Teaching Strategies
When teaching Sharon Draper’s Blended in the classroom, teachers should strive to create a safe space for students to discuss their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment or criticism. This can be achieved through activities such as group discussion or roleplay scenarios based on situations described in the book. Additionally, teachers should use activities that get students actively engaged with the material such as writing assignments or creative projects related to the text.

Integrate the Book into Writing Assignments
Blended is a great book to use when teaching writing. Ask your students to write an essay or short story about a time when they felt overwhelmed by life or had difficulty overcoming an obstacle. This will help them compare their own life experiences with those of Isabella and her family. You could also challenge your students to create their own version of Blended by having them write from the point of view of one of the characters other than Isabella.

Encourage Discussions About Diversity
Sharon Draper’s Blended is about two different families coming together and learning to appreciate each other’s differences. Ask your students how Isabella’s blended family provided her with different perspectives on life and how it has shaped her as an individual. This can lead to conversations about diversity and acceptance, which will help your students become more aware of their own biases and ways they can better understand people who are different from themselves. Another great topic for discussion is bullying and its effects on young people. In Blended, Isabella experiences bullying from both her peers and even some adults in her life. This provides teachers with a unique opportunity to talk about this issue from an honest perspective.

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Create Group Projects That Incorporate Technology The main character in Blended relies heavily on technology, so you could assign projects that require your students to use technology in creative ways. For example, assign groups of students to create a multimedia project depicting one scene from the book or have them design a website featuring information related to the themes explored in Blended such as blended families or cyberbullying. This will allow them to explore these topics while also using technology skills such as coding, graphic design, and video editing.

Create an Engaging Environment
When teaching any book, it is important to create an open and engaging environment that encourages active learning. This is especially true when teaching a book like Blended which deals with sensitive topics such as identity and family. Try having students sit in a circle rather than rows to encourage dialogue during class discussions. You can also have them use name tags or write their names on sticky notes so they can get to know each other better. Additionally, try incorporating collaborative activities such as group projects into your classroom experience.

Connect Blended to Students’ Experiences
Blended speaks powerfully about identity and navigating different cultures, which makes it perfect for connecting to students’ own experiences in the classroom. Ask them questions about their own identities and backgrounds, then tie those conversations back into what Isabella goes through in Blended. This will help reinforce key themes from the novel while also providing an opportunity for students to express themselves without judgement from others.

Overall, Blended by Sharon Draper is a powerful work of literature that provides insight into the struggles faced by teenagers today. By creating a safe environment within their classrooms where students can express themselves openly and honestly, educators can help their students gain a greater understanding of these themes while also nurturing essential skills like critical thinking and empathy towards others. With this knowledge, teachers can empower young minds with important lessons about life that will stay with them long after they have finished reading the book!

We Dream of Space Erin Entrada Kelly full novel study lessons, CLICK HERE.

In her 2020 novel, Erin Entrada Kelly’s We Dream of Space, takes readers on a journey of discovery, growth, and self-love. With its themes of identity, family, and belonging, this story provides an ideal opportunity for teachers to explore and discuss these issues with their students. Here are some tips on teaching We Dream of Space in the classroom.

Understanding Concepts Through Discussion and Writing Activities
Erin Entrada Kelly’s We Dream of Space offers educators the opportunity to explore several important concepts that are essential for any student’s development. By engaging in conversations about the book’s themes (including identity, family dynamics, resilience), teachers can help students process and understand complex ideas.

Writing activities can also be beneficial. For example, after reading an excerpt from the book or watching a related video clip/interview with author Erin Entrada Kelly, have your students write a response to a prompt such as “What did you learn from this passage/clip?” or “How do you think the characters might have felt?” This encourages creative thinking and reflection on the content in a more meaningful way.

Exploring Characters Through Creative Projects
We Dream of Space is full of diverse characters with unique personalities and perspectives. To get students thinking about what makes these characters tick, try assigning creative projects based on them! For example, have your students create a visual representation (such as a collage) that represents one character or craft a poem or song inspired by another character’s story arc. Not only will this foster an appreciation for literature but it will also encourage them to reflect on how their own experiences shape their understanding of different characters’ stories.                                                                                                                                                                                                         

Developing Critical Thinking Skills
Erin Entrada Kelly’s We Dream of Space provides ample opportunities for teaching students how to think critically about a text. Through activities like group discussions, Socratic seminars, and written assignments, you can help your students learn how to analyze characters’ motivations and recognize narrative patterns. These activities will not only help them better understand Erin Entrada Kelly’s work but will also help them develop critical thinking skills that they can apply across all areas of study.

Encouraging Empathy and Inclusivity
The characters in We Dream of Space come from diverse backgrounds and experiences—from low-income families to wealthy households—and each has something unique to contribute throughout the story. Asking your students questions about why certain characters behave in certain ways or why certain events unfold as they do will help them become more aware of others’ perspectives and foster empathy for one another. Furthermore, exploring issues such as poverty, privilege inequality, racism through this book is a great way to encourage inclusion and understanding amongst your students.

Interactive Reading Activities
This book lends itself well to interactive reading activities such as literature circles or making predictions together as a class. These activities allow students to interact with the text in meaningful ways while providing them an opportunity to work on their social skills. The conversations that come out of these activities often provide teachers with insight into how students interpret the text and how they view different characters and plot points. Students can also be encouraged to take notes on their reading so they can refer back to them during subsequent lessons.

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Writing Assignments
Have your students explore various themes from the book by having them write about topics such as self-discovery and resilience. For example, ask your students to write about a time when someone overcame adversity despite all odds or what it takes to be an effective leader. When writing assignments are integrated into a larger lesson plan, it gives students an opportunity to reflect on the deeper meanings of the book while practicing important writing skills such as organizing thoughts, developing arguments, and incorporating evidence from the text.

Classroom Discussions
Classroom discussions are another great way for teachers to engage students with this text. Bring up topics such as bullying, friendship, identity, etc., and see what insights your students have based on what they read in “We Dream of Space”. Encourage everyone in the class to participate by discussing their opinions with respect and civility. Listening is just as important as speaking; make sure everyone has an equal chance at expressing their thoughts without fear of being judged or ridiculed by others in the classroom.

Reading Erin Entrada Kelly’s We Dream of Space with your class is an excellent way to explore important topics like identity, family dynamics and resilience while encouraging creativity through projects such as writing activities or visual representations. It’s sure to leave both teachers and students with something valuable to take away – whether it be knowledge about these important concepts or simply the feeling that they are part of something bigger than themselves! No matter what though – it will be an experience worth having!

Shadow Jumper by J.M. Forster full novel study lessons, CLICK HERE

Shadow Jumper by J.M. Forster is an engaging and thought-provoking novel that can bring a unique perspective to the classroom. This complex story follows the journey of two teenagers, who come from different backgrounds, as they discover what it means to be brave and challenge their own beliefs. By understanding how to teach Shadow Jumper effectively, educators can help their students develop an appreciation for literature while exploring a wide range of topics such as courage, friendship, and identity.

Introducing the Book to Students
The first step in teaching Shadow Jumper by J.M. Forster is introducing it to your students. Before you begin reading the novel, you may want to discuss why they should be reading it and what they can expect to get out of it. This could also be used as an opportunity to discuss some of the themes mentioned above, such as identity and relationships, so that your students are primed for a meaningful discussion later on in the unit. You may also want to share some background information about J.M. Forster himself – his other works, awards he won, etc – so that your students have more context when they start reading his work.

Creating Meaningful Discussions
Once your class has finished reading Shadow Jumper by J.M. Forster (or at least most of it), it’s time for meaningful discussions! There are many ways you can facilitate these conversations; one way is by having each student select a passage from the text that resonated with them personally or reminded them of something they experienced themselves, then asking them to explain why this particular passage was meaningful or significant to them. Other approaches could include having each student come up with questions related to characters or events in the novel; then using those questions as prompts for discussion or essay topics throughout the unit. You could even assign roles among your students – such as protagonist or antagonist – and have them act out scenes from the novel!

Fostering Discussion
Shadow Jumper by J.M. Forster is filled with moments of tension and suspense that will draw students in and encourage them to think deeply about each scene. Asking open-ended questions throughout the reading process will help spark conversation among your students and allow them to explore different interpretations of the text. Students should also be encouraged to make connections between events in the novel and those in their own lives or current events; this will help them gain a better understanding of how these themes play out in real life. Additionally, assigning small group discussions or debates can further engage students with the material as well as foster collaboration between classmates.

Analyzing Characters
The characters in Shadow Jumper are incredibly dynamic and flawed, making it easier for students to relate to them on some level. When teaching this book, you should encourage your students to analyze each character’s motivations and development throughout the novel so they can understand why certain decisions were made at specific points in time. You may want to assign individual character studies or have your class discuss characters’ relationships with each other; this will help them gain a better understanding of how characters interact with one another within a larger context.

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Exploring Themes
Shadow Jumper by J.M. Forster touches upon several themes that are relevant today such as courage, friendship, identity, family dynamics, coming-of-age struggles, morality, justice/injustice etc. As you read through the novel together as a class or independently for homework assignments, you should take time after each chapter or key event/scene to talk about how these themes manifest themselves within the text and what kind of impact they have on both characters’ development and overall plot progression. Having conversations about these themes will also give your students insight into how they relate back to their own lives which can make learning more meaningful for them while deepening their engagement with the text itself.

Integrating Technology
One of the best ways to make classroom lessons more engaging is by using technology—and Shadow Jumper provides plenty of opportunities for that. After reading a chapter of the book aloud, you can have students watch related videos or listen to music that fits the theme of the chapter. Using tech doesn’t just make things more interesting; it also helps students better understand what they’ve read by providing additional context and visuals.

Creative Writing Exercises
Shadow Jumper is full of colorful characters and exciting storylines, which makes it perfect for creative writing exercises in the classroom. You can have your students creatively re-imagine a scene from the book or write their own short stories inspired by its themes or settings. Creative writing activities are great for engaging reluctant readers since they give them an opportunity to express themselves through words or art instead of just reading alone.

Shadow Jumper by J.M. Forster is an excellent choice for teachers looking for an engaging way to introduce complex topics into the classroom setting while fostering critical thinking skills among their students. Not only does this book offer plenty of opportunities for meaningful discussion but it also provides valuable insight into important issues like identity formation and moral dilemmas that are relevant today – all through an entertaining story! With careful guidance from educators who know how to teach Shadow Jumper effectively in order to maximize student engagement levels and comprehension outcomes – this could be one book that really makes a lasting impression on young minds!

We Are Not From Here Jennie Torres Sanchez full novel study lessons, CLICK HERE.

When it comes to teaching students about immigration and the immigrant experience, there is no better book than Jennie Torres Sanchez’s We Are Not From Here Jennie Torres Sanchez. This New York Times Bestseller tells the story of three Guatemalan teenagers who are forced to flee their home country for a better life in America. Through its compelling narrative and vivid imagery, We Are Not From Here serves as a powerful tool for engaging students in conversations about immigration, identity, and belonging. Let’s take a look at some of the ways you can use this book in your classroom.

Start With a Discussion
Before diving into the text itself, start by having an open discussion with your students on what they know (or think they know) about immigration and the immigrant experience. Encourage them to share their own thoughts and experiences without fear of judgement. You can also introduce some basic facts about immigration—such as statistics on how many people are immigrating to/from certain countries—to provide context for the text.

Let Students Explore Their Own Identities Through Literature
We Are Not From Here Jennie Torres Sanchez is a great way to explore themes of identity, belonging, and home with your students. As they read through it, encourage them to think critically about how each character’s identity is impacted by their circumstances and environment. Ask questions like “How does being an immigrant shape each character’s sense of identity?” or “What does it mean to have a sense of home?” These conversations will give your students an opportunity to reflect on their own identities and explore different perspectives on immigration.

Be Respectful When Discussing Immigration Issues
It’s important to remember that this is a sensitive subject for many people, so be sure to approach it with respect and sensitivity when discussing it in class. Make sure your students understand that this is not just an academic exercise; these issues are real-life concerns faced by many people around the world every day. Encourage empathy and understanding among your student body so that everyone feels comfortable expressing themselves without fear of judgement or criticism from their peers or teachers alike

Discussing Immigration Issues with Sensitivity
When teaching a sensitive topic such as immigration, it is important to create an environment where students feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgement or ridicule. It is also essential that all points of view are respected in order to foster an atmosphere of open dialogue. To ensure this kind of atmosphere, teachers should introduce respectful language guidelines at the beginning of the lesson and reinforce them throughout discussion. This will help students stay focused on the text rather than getting caught up in divisive debates about politics or current events.

Exploring Multiple Perspectives
The characters in “We Are Not from Here” come from different socioeconomic backgrounds, so it can be beneficial for students to explore how each character’s context influences their decisions and actions throughout the narrative. For example, students could explore how Paz’s upbringing on a coffee farm shapes her attitude towards risk-taking versus Paloma’s privileged background that leaves her more sheltered and naive. By exploring multiple perspectives within this one text, students will gain a deeper understanding of immigration issues while also honing their skills at analyzing literature and examining different points of view.

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Making Connections with Real World Examples
Once students have finished reading “We Are Not from Here” they should be encouraged to draw connections between these fictional characters’ experiences and those of real-life migrants around the world today. This could include researching contemporary immigration policies, examining statistics about migrant populations globally, sharing personal stories about friends or family members who have immigrated, or discussing current news stories related to migration issues. This will help bring further context to this already powerful story while giving students an opportunity to think critically about global affairs.

Integrate Multiple Disciplines
When teaching We Are Not From Here Jennie Torres Sanchez, it’s important to incorporate multiple disciplines into your lesson plans. For example, you could pair history with literature by having students research the political unrest in Guatemala and how it has affected Central American migration. This would provide students with an understanding of how current events shape people’s lives and how those events impact characters like Elva, Pancho, Beto, and Hector in the novel. You could also combine geography and art by having students map out Elva’s journey from Guatemala to Mexico City. This would give them a visual representation of her ordeal, as well as help them understand why some countries are more dangerous than others for migrants attempting to reach their destination. Additionally, it will be beneficial for students to draw connections between art forms like murals and sculptures that are featured in the book and other works of art they may have seen elsewhere.

Create Supportive Spaces
When discussing sensitive topics such as immigration, it’s important to create supportive classroom spaces where everyone feels safe expressing their thoughts without fear of judgement or ridicule. To do this, you should ask open-ended questions that allow all students to share their opinions without feeling intimidated or embarrassed. You should also set ground rules at the beginning of class so that everyone knows what is expected of them during discussions—for example, no interrupting when someone else is speaking or no negative comments about anyone else’s ideas. Lastly, let each student know that they can come talk to you if they ever feel uncomfortable or overwhelmed during class discussions about We Are Not From Here or any other topic being discussed throughout the semester.

Jennie Torres Sanchez’s We Are Not From Here provides educators with an invaluable resource for exploring immigration issues with their students in a meaningful way that encourages empathy and understanding. By starting off with an open discussion, allowing students to explore themes of identity through literature, and being respectful when discussing sensitive topics like immigration, you can create an atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable expressing themselves freely while learning more about this crucial issue facing our world today. With these tips in mind, using We Are Not From Here Jennie Torres Sanchez in the classroom can be both educational and inspiring!

Graphic Novel March Book 1 John Lewis full novel study lessons, CLICK HERE on TpT.

The graphic novel March John Lewis and Andrew Aydin, illustrated by Nate Powell, is a powerful and inspiring story that chronicles the civil rights activist’s life. This multi-award-winning work offers an invaluable teaching opportunity for educators to explore the African American struggle for civil rights in the United States. Here are some tips on how to effectively teach March in your classroom.

Choose Your Approach
When teaching March John Lewis, it is important to decide on the approach you will take when discussing it with students. You can choose to focus on the narrative as a whole or break it down into individual chapters. Breaking down individual chapters allows students to hone in on specific aspects of Lewis’s journey and provides opportunities for more detailed discussion about each stage of his life. It also gives students time to process information without being overwhelmed by all three volumes at once.

Integrate Other Resources
To give students a well-rounded understanding of Civil Rights Movement history, consider integrating outside resources such as books, videos, audio recordings, lectures, etc., that provide additional context and insight into Lewis’s story. Additionally, gathering primary sources like photos or official documents from this period can be used as part of an interactive activity where students have to guess which event or location is being described based on clues provided throughout March.

Incorporate Group Activities
Group activities like role-play or debates are great ways for students to engage with the material. For example, one group activity could involve assigning each student a character from the book and having them discuss their beliefs about civil rights with each other in small groups or pairs before presenting their arguments in front of the class as if they were actually present during one of Lewis’s speeches. This would help bring some of the events described in March to life while also providing a unique platform for learning about empathy and perspective taking—two essential skills needed when discussing controversial topics like civil rights struggles.

History of March It is important to contextualize the graphic novel in a broader history lesson. This helps students understand why events like the march were necessary, and more importantly, it helps them recognize that such events had an enormous impact both then and now. Additionally, because it is a graphic novel, visual aids are essential for teaching March; these should include photographs from the era as well as maps and diagrams that illustrate the key elements of what happened during the march itself. In addition to providing visual aids, it is also important to provide supplemental material for further reading—primary sources such as speeches or other writings from John Lewis or secondary materials such as articles or books about his life and times. This gives students additional information to explore on their own and allows them to dig deeper into the history of civil rights in America.

Discussing the Novel Discussions should focus not only on what happened but also why it happened; this means looking at issues such as power dynamics between African Americans and whites during this period in American history, examining how racism played out in everyday life in the Deep South in 1965, and understanding why non-violent protest was seen as an effective tool for social change at that time. All of these discussions should emphasize why events like the march were so important then—and still are today.

Exploring the Text
One great way to get students engaged with March John Lewis is to have them read the text and discuss it as a class. You could break up the reading into sections or ask students to read it on their own at home. Then come together as a class for discussion about what they found most interesting or eye-opening about Lewis’s story. You can use critical thinking questions like “What does this text tell us about how civil rights activists were viewed during this time?” or “How did John Lewis’s faith inform his activism?” These questions can help students think more deeply about Lewis’s experiences and draw connections between his story and their own lives today.

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Comparing Sources
Once students have familiarized themselves with March John Lewis, you could then challenge them to compare other texts related to the civil rights movement. For example, you could have them read Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous “I Have a Dream Speech” while also analyzing excerpts from Malcolm X’s autobiography or essays written by James Baldwin on race relations in America during this time period. This activity will help students become more aware of differing perspectives within the civil rights movement and understand why these diverse voices are so important for understanding our history as a nation.

Creating Connections
Finally, if you want your lesson plans about March John Lewis to feel especially relevant, you could ask your students how John Lewis’s work relates to current events today. For example, what similarities can they draw between racism during Jim Crow laws and modern institutional racism? How has technology changed over time but still played an important role in protesting social injustice? Having your students make connections between past and present will help them view history as something that isn’t static but rather alive and ever changing—a concept that is incredibly valuable when teaching any subject matter!

March is an incredibly rich source material that provides valuable lessons about our country’s history while also highlighting key figures who fought against injustice and inequality during this period. By taking advantage of these teaching tips, educators can create meaningful experiences that engage their students while also helping them understand what happened during this pivotal moment in American history—and how we can use today’s struggles to further inform our actions moving forward. In short: use March as an opportunity for both education and inspiration!

Graphic Novel March John Lewis full novel study lessons, CLICK HERE on TpT.