I’m teaching plot and characterization in Gary Paulsen’s novel, Hatchet. I will focus on the theme of isolation by analyzing what Brian learns about himself while stranded in the Canadian wilderness. I would introduce this conversation surrounding Franz Kafka and …
The young adult novel Hatchet by Gary Paulsen pairs perfectly with the Friedrich Nietzsche conversation on perseverance. This survival story lends itself to a post-reading discussion on not giving up in the face of adversity, and how people of different …
Natalie Babbitt’s novel, Tuck Everlasting provides an excellent opportunity for students to learn about the theme of responsibility. When Winnie Foster learns of the Tucks’ immortality, rather than capitalize on this opportunity for fame or fortune, she keeps their secret …
Before reading A Bargain for Frances, I could use the conversation inspired by Dr. Seuss about risk-taking. This will spark a great discussion about decision-making and the value in taking risks. During and after the reading of this story, students …
The Giver, by Lois Lowry, has become a standard in middle school classrooms. I would ask the question “How do we know when we should take risks?” towards the end of the novel to lead students in a discussion about …
The Story of Ruby Bridges by Robert Coles is a captivating telling of courage of a young girl who was escorted to school by federal marshals to stake her claim to a free education. Ruby Bridges was that girl and …
In Norma Jean, Jumping Bean the main character is a young kangaroo who must learn to follow rules. When she gets in trouble for jumping, she resolves to never jump again. By the end of the story, she has the …
Many people believe that one must suffer in order to achieve success and happiness, or that people can only appreciate success once they’ve known true hardship. Before reading James and the Giant Peach, in which a young, mistreated orphan embarks …
I would use the book Walking for My Life, written by Jennifer Dewey, to teach students about the ways in which suffering can help a person become more knowledgeable and understanding. In this story, the narrator walks through the desert …
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