My students and I have worked together to come up with this selection of books based on what is interesting to them and relevant to their lives.
The characters in each of these stories has to overcome a struggle with being different, and that diversity is reflected in terms of socioeconomic status, culture, race, religion, age, cognitive functioning, family make-up, and appearance.
Furthermore, these stories are being studied in the format of literature circles. This allows students to lead their own learning and practice productive discussion and collaboration skills. It is structured more like a book club than a dreaded assigned reading with required comprehension questions. Each student takes on a different role with each section of reading, such as leading the group discussion, illustrating important scenes, researching for background knowledge relevant to the story, summarizing, and connecting the story to real-life events and emotions.
About my class
My students and I have worked together to come up with this selection of books based on what is interesting to them and relevant to their lives.
The characters in each of these stories has to overcome a struggle with being different, and that diversity is reflected in terms of socioeconomic status, culture, race, religion, age, cognitive functioning, family make-up, and appearance.
Furthermore, these stories are being studied in the format of literature circles. This allows students to lead their own learning and practice productive discussion and collaboration skills. It is structured more like a book club than a dreaded assigned reading with required comprehension questions. Each student takes on a different role with each section of reading, such as leading the group discussion, illustrating important scenes, researching for background knowledge relevant to the story, summarizing, and connecting the story to real-life events and emotions.
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