The Langston Hughes’ poem “Dreams” provides students with a great opportunity to contemplate a person’s ability to pursue their own happiness. Without dreams, the poet states, our existence is merely “a broken-winged bird” or “a barren field.” If one just …
One of my favorite texts to teach the theme of forgiveness is The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo. In this story, the main character provides a great example of the importance of forgiveness and how holding onto anger and …
“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. …
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 …
In “Mother to Son” by Langston Hughes, I could teach the theme of perspective by examining the message the speaker gives her son– to never give up when times are hard. Before reading the poem, I could use the Theodore …
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 …
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 …
Young children benefit from texts that teach social lessons. One short story that I can use in my elementary Language Arts classroom to teach about loyalty is “Getting Even“ by Deb Westgate-Silva. In the story, Rosa and Stephanie are best …
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