Literature Circle: Fish in a Tree – Grades 4-7 – Winter 2021 – 10 Weeks

Ally has been smart enough to fool a lot of smart people. Every time she lands in a new school, she is able to hide her inability to read by creating clever yet disruptive distractions.  She is afraid to ask for help; after all, how can you cure dumb? However, her newest teacher Mr. Daniels sees the bright, creative kid underneath the troublemaker. With his help, Ally learns not to be so hard on herself and that dyslexia is nothing to be ashamed of. As her confidence grows, Ally feels free to be herself and the world starts opening up with possibilities. She discovers that there’s a lot more to her—and to everyone—than a label, and that great minds don’t always think alike.

Students will benefit from being introduced to Ally and her gutsy, candid, and compelling story. It speaks volumes and reveals the quiet strength and fortitude it takes to overcome disabilities and the misconceptions that go with them.

Together, we will read, discuss, analyze, write and explore both Ally’s world as well as investigate the truth about others who live with differences.  We will focus on the various literary analysis elements such as characters, setting, plot, conflict, climax and resolution.

What is a Literature Circle?

In literature circles, small groups of students gather together to discuss a piece of literature in depth. The discussion is guided by students’ responses to what they have read. You may hear talk about events and characters in the book, the author’s craft, or personal experiences related to the story. Literature circles provide a way for students to engage in critical thinking and reflection as they read, discuss, and respond to books. Collaboration is at the heart of this approach. Students reshape and add onto their understanding as they construct meaning with other readers. Finally, literature circles guide students to deeper understanding of what they read through structured discussion and extended written and artistic response.

NOTE:

There must be a minimum of 5 students to run this class.

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