“Thank You Ma’am” by Langston Hughes often leaves students perplexed because the main character instantly forgives a young boy who tries to rob her. Before reading the story, I would introduce the theme of forgiveness with the conversation about Mahatma …
Before reading The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams, I could use the conversation on sacrifice by Mahatma Gandhi, which explores the idea that serving others is the best way to discover our true purpose. I could then focus on the …
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling offers a great example of the theme of cooperation. Before reading the novel, I could use the conversation on cooperation and Helen Keller’s quote about accomplishing more when working with others. …
When teaching the novel, Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan, I would introduce the conversation surrounding Socrates and humility after reading Chapter 5 in the novel, when Esperanza is faced with the realization that she and her mother are now …
I’m teaching characterization using Jerry Spinelli’s novel, Maniac Magee. I will focus on the theme of conflict by analyzing the way Maniac interacts with different characters, specifically his “enemies” Mars Bar Thompson and Giant John McNab. At the end of …
I love the Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein. After reading the book with my 11th graders, I could hold the Seneca conversation on kindness and use the quote – “Wherever there is a human being there is an opportunity for …
Khaled Hosseini’s “The Kite Runner” is a modern tale seen in classrooms more and more often. This epic story contains a major theme of forgiveness. When teaching this story, I would connect it to the conversation with Mahatma Gandhi on …
In Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes, the main character loves her unique name until she goes to school, where she is embarrassed and bullied about her 13-letter moniker.Chrysanthemum never stands up for herself; only when a beloved teacher celebrates her beautiful …
Students of all ages enjoy Dr. Seuss stories. The title story in the collection “Yertle the Turtle” tells the tale of a know-it-all dictator turtle who refuses to listen to the members of his kingdom when they warn him of …
I’m teaching characterization in Matilda by Roald Dahl. I will focus on the theme of kindness by examining the varied character traits of Matilda, her parents, Miss Trunchbull, and Miss Honey. I would introduce the conversation surrounding Seneca and kindness …
Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters is a retelling of the classic Cinderella story and an excellent opportunity for a lesson in character. The two sisters in this tale are put through the exact same test in their quest to marry a king, …
Before reading The Lorax by Dr. Seuss, I could use the conversation on civic-responsibility inspired by Margaret Mead to explore the idea that change begins with a single person or small group. Many young people believe their own actions don’t …
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