Literature Circles using Esperanza Rising and Science Fiction as well as Vocabulary Building Strategies

Third quarter builds on the literature circle / elements of literature ground work that was laid in first semester. 

We will begin our study of novels with a class reading of Esperanza Rising.  While the novel fits more in with the Children of America's Past Unit, we are reading it before we attend the world premiere theatrical production at Children's Theatre in March. 

Next, we will read The Giver to introduce us to the world of science fiction and then students will be able to select the novel they wish to read and discuss as part of their literature circle.  Following the holiday break, I will build a presentation that shows the science fiction literature circle options.  Parents are STRONGLY encouraged to view the power point presentation that explains the selections and work with their child to make a choice that all will be happy and comfortable with. 

The Vocabulary Unit has been structured to provide students with a variety of strategies to build their understanding of words they encounter in the seventh grade curriculum and beyond.  We will be basing our strategies on the Reader's Handbook.  Students are expected to log new vocabulary words found in their reading each week.

Please feel free to download the vocabulary log or the strategy guide.

Vocabulary log

Strategy Guide:
Vocabulary is about learning new word.  To make educated guesses when we encounter a new or not completely familiar word, we use two broad strategies - context clues and word parts.  Each has a number of specific strategies that you need to identify on your vocabulary log.  Abbreviations are allowed i.e.:  cc:def = context clue - definition.
 

Context Clues                                   Word Parts

                                        (2nd quarter we refined our word part knowledge)
1. Definitions                                            1. Prefixes
2. Synonyms                                             2. Suffixes
3. Concrete examples i.e.:                         3.  Root or base words
words in a series
4. Contrast clues
5. Description clues
6. Words that modify
(adverbs/adjectives)
(taken from Reader’s Handbook pgs 616 – 620)