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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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January 29, 2023

The False Prince Jennifer Nielsen in the Classroom

The False Prince Jennifer Nielsen in the Classroom novel study lessons, CLICK HERE on TpT.

The False Prince by Jennifer Nielsen is an exciting and action-packed novel that should be included as part of any secondary school curriculum. This story follows Sage, an orphan who is kidnapped by a nobleman with a plan to pass him off as an heir to the throne of Carthya. With thrilling plot twists and a cast of colorful characters, this book will captivate students from start to finish. Here are some tips for teaching this book in the classroom.

Introducing the Novel
The False Prince is an ideal choice for introducing your students to the genre of historical fiction. Before assigning it, ask them what they know about historical fiction and allow them to discuss their ideas in small groups. This can be done virtually or in person depending on your current circumstances. You could also give them some background information about when and where the novel takes place (Medieval Carathon) that will help contextualize their reading experience with real-world knowledge.

Engaging Activities
As your students read through The False Prince, you can assign activities and tasks that will help them think more deeply about the text. For example, you could have one student write a blog post from Sage’s perspective or create a timeline outlining important events from the book. You could also have each student pick an individual character from the novel and create a “profile” for them based on how they were portrayed in the text. Additionally, you could assign some creative writing assignments that involve retelling certain scenes from different characters’ points of view or even having students come up with their own alternate ending for the story! All these activities will help bring The False Prince to life for your students while also providing ample opportunity for learning and growth.

Engaging Students with Discussion Questions
The best way to get your students interested in this book is to ask thought-provoking discussion questions. These can range from simple recall questions like “Who was Sage’s rival on his quest?” to deeper questions about character motivations or themes in the novel. This will help keep your students engaged and allow them to express their own thoughts and opinions on the material they’re reading.

Analyzing Characters
Asking your students to analyze the various characters in The False Prince can be a great way to get them thinking critically about how each character’s actions drive the plot forward. For example, have your students reflect on how Conner uses manipulation as a tool for achieving his goals, or how Sage learns important lessons about loyalty throughout his journey. This can also lead into meaningful conversations about morality and ethics, which can be especially powerful when discussing books such as The False Prince which features morally ambiguous characters who often make difficult decisions between what’s right and what’s easy.

Developing Writing Skills
The False Prince provides many opportunities for your students to practice their writing skills. Have them write essays comparing and contrasting different characters or analyzing key scenes from the novel. You can also assign creative writing projects inspired by elements of the book; these could take form of short stories or poems related to concepts explored in The False Prince such as friendship, courage, or leadership.

CLICK HERE for the Digital Course Above.

Choose Discussion Topics Carefully
The False Prince contains numerous themes and topics that are ripe for discussion. You could focus on power dynamics between characters or explore ethical dilemmas as they arise throughout the novel. However, it’s important to pay attention to what your students are comfortable talking about and choose topics accordingly. If you don’t feel like discussing some of the heavier themes in the book, you could always talk about Sage’s growth as a character or the importance of friendship and loyalty throughout his journey.

Encourage Group Work
The False Prince is full of interesting characters who come from different backgrounds and beliefs – which makes it perfect material for group work! Ask each student to choose one of the characters in the book and create an analysis based on their point of view. Students can then share their analysis with one another during class discussions. This exercise will help bring different perspectives into the conversation while also giving students an opportunity to practice their creative writing skills.

Incorporate Technology
Technology can be a great way to spice up classroom lessons – especially if you’re teaching a novel like The False Prince! There are plenty of online activities available that will help students better understand and engage with the story. For example, you could have them create digital storyboards that depict key scenes from the book or create a podcast episode discussing their favorite part of the book. You could also assign research projects related to historical figures mentioned in The False Prince or have them write blog posts about what they think may happen after Sage returns home at the end of his journey.

Teaching The False Prince with thoughtful discussion questions, character analysis activities, and creative writing assignments will help bring this exciting story alive for your secondary school classroom! With its thrilling plot twists and complex characters, this book will captivate students while helping them develop valuable literary skills such as critical thinking, analysis, and writing ability that they can use both inside and outside of school settings. So don’t hesitate—add The False Prince by Jennifer Nielsen to your curriculum today!

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January 19, 2023

Book Scavenger Jennifer Chambliss in the Classroom

Book Scavenger Jennifer Chambliss novel study lessons, CLICK HERE on TpT.


Teaching a novel in the classroom can be a daunting task, as there is often so much material to cover and engage students with. Many teachers tend to shy away from this type of literature-based learning, but Book Scavenger Jennifer Chambliss Bertman is an excellent choice for the classroom. This exciting adventure story combines mystery, suspense, and technology into an entertaining read that will keep your students engaged and captivated. Let’s discuss how you can use this novel to teach your students in the classroom.


Reading Activity
Before beginning the novel itself, ask your students to read and respond to some discussion questions related to its themes. Ask them what they know about book scavenging, which is when people search for books hidden in public places by other book scavengers. This activity will help get their creative juices flowing as they think about how books can be used as a form of entertainment beyond just reading them for pleasure or knowledge. Additionally, it might be interesting for your class to create a “Book Scavenger Hunt” on campus or around town where they have to find certain books hidden by their peers.

Group Discussion
Once your class has finished reading Book Scavenger Jennifer Chambliss, break them up into small groups (or pairs) so they can discuss it together. The group discussion should focus on major themes of the novel such as friendship, loyalty, problem-solving skills, communication, trustworthiness and teamwork. It’s also important for them to talk about their opinions on how technology was used throughout the story and how it helped move the plot along. Encourage each group member to contribute their thoughts and ideas so everyone feels like their opinion matters during this discussion time.

Technology Project
To conclude your unit on Book Scavenger Jennifer Chambliss, assign each student (or group of students) a technology project that relates back to some aspect of the novel . For example , ask them create a web page that describes book scavenging in detail or create an interactive game based on book scavenging activities . Encourage them to use special effects or graphics if they wish , as this adds another layer of engagement with the material . You could also suggest other projects such as creating an app or designing a logo related to book scavenging . These projects are great ways for your students to demonstrate their understanding of both literature and technology , while having fun at the same time!

Create a Book Trail Map
As part of their mission, Emily and James go on a wild ride all around San Francisco solving puzzles and clues that lead them closer to their goal. Use this as inspiration for your own lesson plan by having students create a map of their own “book trail”! Have them imagine that they are Emily and James, traveling around the city trying to figure out what happened to Garrison Griswold’s lost invention. They can use online maps or draw out their own version on paper or poster board. Label each stop with important locations from the book, such as Fort Point National Historic Site or Coit Tower.

Hold a Treasure Hunt
Book scavenging is very similar to geocaching, which is an outdoor recreational activity in which participants use GPS coordinates to find hidden containers called “geocaches” or “caches”. Host your own treasure hunt inspired by the novel! You can hide different clues or items around the room (or outside if possible) and have students search for them using coordinates on a map of your own creation. Bonus points if you have them crack codes like Emily and James did!

Have Discussion Questions Ready
Book discussion questions are an easy way to engage younger readers in deeper conversations about literature. Ask questions about plot points, characters, setting, etc., but make sure you also provide open-ended prompts that allow students time to reflect and respond thoughtfully. For example, consider asking “What do you think makes Emily such an interesting protagonist?” or “What does this story say about loyalty?” Such questions will help foster critical thinking skills while also allowing students to express themselves more freely.

Using Book Scavenger to Foster Critical Thinking Skills
Book Scavenger is full of mystery and suspense that will keep students engaged from start to finish. As they read, ask questions to get them thinking critically about what is happening in the story—questions like “What do you think will happen next?” or “How do you think Emily will solve this problem?” This encourages them to make predictions and come up with solutions on their own.

CLICK HERE for the Digital Course Above.

Encouraging Students’ Creative Writing Skills
The characters in Book Scavenger are creative problem solvers who rely on their wits rather than technology or adults. Have your students write stories of their own featuring similar characters and plotlines. This will help them tap into their own creativity and learn how to craft compelling narratives. You can also have them create alternate endings or continue the story from where it ends in the novel.

Exploring Themes Beyond The Novel
Book Scavenger touches on themes like friendship, family, resilience, courage, loyalty, and more. Discussing these themes as a class can help broaden students’ understanding of the world around them while still being fun and interactive. Ask questions like “What do you think would have happened if Emily had given up?” or “How did Emily use courage in her journey?” You can even expand the discussion by talking about how these themes appear in everyday life outside of literature.


Jennifer Chambliss Bertman’s novel Book Scavenger is an excellent choice for teaching in any classroom setting because it provides plenty of opportunities for both literary analysis and technological exploration. While reading this exciting adventure story together , you can facilitate engaging group discussions about major themes such as loyalty , trustworthiness , teamwork , and problem solving skills . And once you’ve completed reading it together , you can assign fun technology projects that relate back to some aspect of the novel – such as creating a web page describing book scavenging in detail – so that your students can demonstrate their understanding of both literature and technology . So don’t hesitate ; pick up Book Scavenger today and start teaching it in your classroom tomorrow !

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January 19, 2023

Nicola Yoon’s Everything Everything in the Classroom

Nicola Yoon’s Everything Everything novel study, lessons, CLICK HERE for the lesson on TpT.


Nicola Yoon’s Everything Everything is a contemporary and adventurous story of a teenage girl with an autoimmune disorder who falls in love with the boy next door. This book is perfect for middle and high schoolers due to its captivating story and relatable characters. It makes for a great read-aloud as it can be used to discuss themes such as family relationships, identity, and resilience. Here are some tips on how to teach this popular book in your classroom.


Assign Chapters as Homework
The chapters of this book are relatively short and accessible for students at all reading levels. You could assign one or two chapters for homework each night or day depending on how often you meet with your students. This will help keep them actively engaged with the story and allow them to move through the material at their own pace.

Offer Discussion Questions
Before class, come up with discussion questions that relate to the reading material from that particular chapter or set of chapters. At the beginning of class, use these questions to spark conversation about what happened in the text and any thoughts or feelings that students may have about it. Encourage students to draw connections between what they’ve read and their own lives if possible. This will help them dive deeper into understanding the text while engaging with each other in meaningful ways.

Incorporate Writing Exercises
If you want to assess student comprehension more formally, you could assign writing exercises related to what they’ve read that day or week. For example, you can ask students to write a letter from Madeline’s perspective reflecting on her experiences throughout the novel or have them write an alternate ending based on their own imaginations. These activities will encourage them to think critically about everything they’ve read thus far while also allowing them to express themselves creatively through writing without feeling judged by their peers for having different opinions about certain aspects of the story .

Tips for Classroom Discussions
Nicola Yoon’s Everything Everything can be used as a launching pad for discussions about identity, illness, family dynamics, relationships, and more. When discussing with students in the classroom setting it’s important to make sure everyone is familiar with the material before diving into in-depth analysis. To ensure this happens it can be helpful to assign reading ahead of time or give students the opportunity to watch movie adaptations before delving into deeper topics. That way everyone is on the same page when it comes to understanding plot points and characters. It can also be beneficial to have students come up with their own discussion questions prior to class so they have some ideas ready when it comes time for group discussion. This will make sure each student contributes their own perspectives as well as engage them further in the text itself.

Small Group Projects & Assignments
Going beyond classroom conversation can help deepen student engagement with this novel even more! Creating small groups or assigning individual projects offer another layer of implementing this book into your classroom curriculum. Small group projects such as creating video presentations or writing summaries of sections are great ways to get students working together while still enjoying the content of this book. For individual assignments consider having students write a letter from Maddy’s point of view to Olly asking him questions about his thoughts throughout their relationship or having them draw a timeline showing key events from beginning till end using symbols instead of words. These activities are great at driving home concepts from the novel but also allowing for creative freedom within student work!

CLICK HERE for the Digital Course Above.

Discussing Character Development
Everything, Everything tells the story of Maddy and her illness which forces her to stay inside her house at all times. As such, she’s never been able to live an ordinary life — until she meets Olly and begins to fall in love with him. Throughout the course of the novel, both characters experience profound changes as their relationship develops. You can use this as a platform for discussing character development with your students. Ask them questions like: How has Maddy changed since meeting Olly? Do they think Olly has changed because of his relationship with Maddy? What are some other examples of character growth in the novel?

Exploring Themes
The novel also explores a range of different themes that can help open up conversations about topics like mortality and health care access among your students. Ask them questions like: What does Maddy’s illness represent in terms of mortality? Does it make her more aware or afraid of death? How does it shape her relationships with other characters in the novel? Additionally, you can ask them how they think health care access affects people differently depending on their socioeconomic status and how this is portrayed in the novel. These questions will help them think critically about how these issues affect us all on a daily basis.

Encouraging Creative Writing
One way to engage your students is by having them write their own stories inspired by Nicola Yoon’s novel. Prompt them to imagine what would happen if one or more characters had made different choices throughout the story — or if their circumstances were different (e.g., if Maddy wasn’t confined by her illness). They could even create short stories based off secondary characters from the book like Carla or Dr. Whittaker! This exercise will not only encourage creative writing but also allow your students to explore new perspectives while honing their storytelling skills at the same time!


Nicola Yoon’s Everything, Everything is a great option for teachers looking for a modern-day classic that resonates with teenagers at many levels – both emotionally and intellectually. With careful planning , thoughtful discussion questions , and creative writing assignments , teachers can ensure that every student engagement experience is meaningful , authentic , and enjoyable . Whether you’re teaching this novel as part of your regular curriculum or assigning it as extra credit reading material , we guarantee that your students will thank you for introducing them to this beautiful story !

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January 19, 2023

Five Feet Apart Rachael Lippincott in the Classroom

Five Feet Apart Rachael Lippincott novel study lessons, CLICK HERE for lesson on TpT.


Blog Introduction: In 2019, Five Feet Apart Rachael Lippincott novel captivated readers with its raw and honest portrayal of a young couple struggling to come to terms with the reality of cystic fibrosis (CF). The novel was recently adapted into a feature film, and now it can capture the attention of your students. Teaching this meaningful story in your classroom is an excellent way to engage students while also teaching them about CF. Here are some tips for how to effectively incorporate this novel into your classroom.


Using the Movie Adaptation as a Supplement
The movie adaptation of Five Feet Apart Rachael Lippincott may provide additional context and resources that you can use in your classroom. Showing clips from the movie is a great way to jumpstart conversations about CF and its effects on people’s lives. After watching a clip, ask your students questions about what they observed or have them discuss their reactions to certain scenes. This will help them access deeper themes in the story that may be difficult for them to discuss initially. It may also be helpful for you to use visuals from the movie when explaining concepts related to CF such as infection control procedures or treatments associated with CF care.

Incorporating Other Resources
When teaching any novel, it is important to provide additional resources so that students can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the material at hand. With Five Feet Apart, there are many opportunities for supplemental materials beyond just the book and movie adaptation. Consider having students research current scientific advancements related to CF or explore what advocacy organizations exist today that are dedicated to helping people living with CF or other chronic illnesses. Additionally, having guest speakers visit your class who have personal experience living with CF would provide powerful insight into how this medical condition affects individuals’ daily lives.

Discuss Cystic Fibrosis Before diving into the novel, it’s important for educators to discuss what cystic fibrosis actually is—a genetic condition that affects the lungs and digestive system of those suffering from it. Educators should also explain why this disease makes it difficult for sufferers like Stella and Will from Five Feet Apart to be around each other in real life, as well as how this impacts their relationship throughout the book.

Explore themes of the book Once students understand the basics of cystic fibrosis, they can begin exploring some of the deeper themes within Five Feet Apart — such as young love, isolation, empathy and understanding between different groups or individuals. Encourage students to think critically about these issues as they read through each chapter – do they agree with Stella or Will’s perspective? What would they do if they were in their shoes? How have these characters changed over time?

Provide open-ended discussion questions Open-ended discussion questions are a great way to get students thinking more deeply about what they’ve read and discussing their thoughts in class. Some examples include: “How did Stella and Will’s relationship evolve throughout the book?”; “What advice would you give them if you could?”; “How did you feel when __ happened?”; “Do you think it was right for them to break rules for one another? Why or why not?”; etc.

Themes and Morals
One way to start teaching the novel is by discussing its themes and morals. Five Feet Apart has a lot of meaningful messages that can be discussed with students, such as resilience, hope, courage, and accepting yourself. After introducing these topics, invite students to come up with their own interpretations of the text and discuss which themes they think are most important. This activity allows students to reflect on the novel and express their thoughts while engaging with one another.

CLICK HERE for the Digital Course Aboove.

In-Depth Analysis
For those looking for a more in-depth analysis of Five Feet Apart, consider breaking down different aspects of the novel such as characters or events. For example, explore Stella’s transformation throughout the book and how it impacts her relationships with others. You could also have students examine Will’s decision-making process and how his choices changed over time during specific scenarios. These activities help students develop critical thinking skills and gain a better understanding of how characters interact with each other within stories.

Group Projects
Another way to get your students excited about learning from Five Feet Apart is by assigning group projects around different topics related to the book. Assign teams different tasks like creating a poster that reflects one of Stella’s major life lessons or creating a character timeline showing key moments throughout Will’s journey in the story. These projects are great for getting your class involved while allowing them to use their creativity when exploring certain ideas from the novel!


Teaching Rachael Lippincott’s novel Five Feet Apart provides an opportunity for meaningful learning experiences while also introducing students to an important topic like cystic fibrosis in an engaging way. By utilizing resources from both within and outside of the book itself, teachers can create unique learning experiences where their students can develop empathy for those affected by chronic illness while gaining knowledge about medical science and advocacy work at the same time. Incorporating this novel into your lessons is sure to be an enriching experience for everyone involved!

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January 18, 2023

Posted by John David Anderson in the Classroom

Posted by John David Anderson novel study lessons, CLICK HERE for full lesson on TpT.


Posted is an incredible novel by John David Anderson that explores the struggles of being a teen in a digital world. It’s funny, it’s moving, and it teaches valuable lessons about communication, friendship, and online safety. As educators, we can use this novel to help our students better understand the digital world they live in. Here are just a few ways to teach “Posted” in your classroom.


Using Technology as a Teaching Tool
One of the most powerful aspects of “Posted” is its accurate portrayal of technology’s role in our lives today. We can use this novel as an opportunity to talk about how technology affects us both positively and negatively. In addition to discussing these issues with our students, we can also use technology itself as a teaching tool. For example, you could assign each student or group of students to create their own blog post based on one of the themes from “Posted” and then have them share their posts with the class. This would give your students an opportunity to express themselves creatively while also exploring important topics like cyberbullying and digital privacy.

Discussion Groups
Another way to teach “Posted” is by having your students form discussion groups and talk about different aspects of the book together. This type of activity encourages critical thinking skills as well as interpersonal communication skills—both of which are essential for success in today’s world. You could assign each group a specific topic related to “Posted” and have them discuss it for a set amount of time before reconvening with the rest of the class to present their findings. This activity will give your students an opportunity to explore different perspectives while also practicing important presentation skills such as public speaking and eye contact.

Writing Assignments
Finally, you can use “Posted” as an opportunity for your students to practice their writing skills by assigning different types of writing assignments based on themes from the book. For instance, you could ask them to write a persuasive essay on why they think society should or shouldn’t be more open when it comes to talking about digital safety issues; or you could ask them to write character sketches illustrating how each character in “Posted” dealt with his or her own unique challenges related to living in a digital world. These types of assignments will help your students develop their writing ability while also challenging them think critically about important topics like cyberbullying and digital privacy.

Familiarize Yourself with the Text
Before introducing this novel to your students, it is important to familiarize yourself with the text as much as possible. Read through it multiple times and annotate important elements such as themes and symbols. This will help you create engaging lesson plans that focus on those key elements. It will also help you answer any questions your students may have throughout their reading of this book.

Engage Your Students
Engaging activities are essential when teaching literature in the classroom. This novel contains many interesting conversations between characters which can be used to spark meaningful dialogue among your students. You can also assign creative writing assignments that relate to the story or ask your students to create projects that explore certain aspects of the book more in-depth (i.e., creating a timeline of events or designing a movie poster). These activities will help keep your students engaged while they learn about literature and will provide them with a deeper understanding of the text.

Create Thoughtful Assessments
At the end of each unit, it is important to assess how well your students understood the material presented. When assessing student work related to “Posted”, consider creating assessments that require critical thinking skills such as essay questions or group discussions about certain themes found in the novel. These types of assessments will not only gauge student comprehension but also encourage them to think more deeply about what they have learned from reading this book.

CLICK HERE for the Digital Course Above.

Teaching Strategies
When teaching John David Anderson’s novels in the classroom, it is important to keep your students engaged throughout the entire process. To do this, you can start off by introducing your students to the text before reading begins. This gives them an overview of what they will be discussing and helps them form opinions about the novel before diving into it. You can also use discussion questions and activities during class time so that everyone has an opportunity to participate and share their thoughts on the text. Additionally, having students work on group projects or presentations related to specific characters or themes from the novel can give them a more hands-on approach when exploring these topics.

Incorporating Technology
To make things even more engaging for your students, you can incorporate technology into your lesson plan by having them create digital presentations or videos based on their chosen topic from the text. They can also use online resources such as blogs or discussion forums to discuss their thoughts on certain parts of the book with other readers around the world. By using technology in this way, you are encouraging your students to think critically about what they have read while also giving them an avenue for expressing their opinions and connecting with other readers who may have similar perspectives on certain topics from within the book.


The novel “Posted” by John David Anderson is an excellent tool for teaching our students about communication, friendship, and online safety – all within an engaging narrative that appeals directly to teenagers’ experiences today! Through activities such as using technology as a teaching tool, forming discussion groups around key themes from the book, or assigning writing assignments based on characters’ experiences with cyberbullying or other digital dangers, teachers can bring this powerful story into their classrooms – providing invaluable opportunities for learning along the way!

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