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  • An image of the YA novel Refugee by Alan Gratz
    Book Recommendations | Novel Studies

    Symbolism and Allusion in the Novel Refugee by Alan Gratz

    The novel “Refugee” by Alan Gratz masterfully intertwines allusion and symbolism to illustrate the universal struggles of displacement, oppression, and the pursuit of freedom. Through various cultural, historical, and literary references, Gratz invites readers to confront the complexities of the human experience and the enduring quest for dignity in the face of adversity.

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  • An image of the YA novel Refugee by Alan Gratz
    Book Recommendations | Novel Studies | Paired Texts | Teaching With Film

    Paired Texts for the Novel Refugee by Alan Gratz

    Explore the power of paired texts in enhancing students’ understanding of ‘Refugee’ by Alan Gratz. From allegorical tales to award-winning short films, discover how diverse texts enrich thematic exploration, foster critical thinking, and meet Common Core standards. Dive into a dynamic learning journey that cultivates empathy, analytical skills, and a deeper appreciation for storytelling across genres.

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  • A meme image showing Maury Povich looking at a students reading log and announcing "That is a lie!"
    Novel Studies

    Reading Logs: What Doesn’t Work and Five Alternatives That Do

    Make reading a public celebration, and vary how students think, talk about, share, and respond to texts with these engaging reading log alternatives. When the method you use to keep students accountable for their reading is fun and engaging, they are less likely to view reading as a chore and more likely to enjoy it.

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  • Decorative image of a novel study for The Wild Robot by Peter Brown.
    Book Recommendations | Novel Studies | Paired Texts

    A Novel Study for The Wild Robot by Peter Brown

    Peter Brown’s “The Wild Robot,” a captivating tale of survival, friendship, and the complexities of adapting to a harsh environment. As readers follow Roz’s journey, they’re not just exploring themes of resilience and belonging; they’re also delving into deeper societal issues and the consequences of climate change.

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  • A Guide to Creating Multimedia Text Sets for a Novel Study Using Thirst by Varsha Bajaj
    Interactive Notebooks | Novel Studies | Paired Texts

    A Guide to Creating Multimedia Text Sets for a Novel Study Using Thirst by Varsha Bajaj

    Add student choice, collaboration, small group instruction, and nonfiction reading skills to your novel study with this nonfiction companion to “Thirst” by Varsha Bajaj. It includes nine activities for adding connected nonfiction texts to your novel study. The lessons can be used as choice board activities or for a station rotation model that allows the teacher to work with small groups.

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  • Out of Bounds: Seven Stories of Conflict and Hope
    Book Recommendations | Novel Studies

    Out of Bounds: Seven Stories of Conflict and Hope

    Lessons for the short story: “One Day, Lily, One Day” from this collection of seven stories written by South African author Beverley Naidoo. This 21 page short story is set during the time of Apartheid in 1960s South Africa, with references to the formation of the Suppression of Communism Act and the Abolition of Passes Act, the story follows eleven-year-old…

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