Question: Are students in Grade 8 ELA only reading novels in class?
Answer: No. I asked Ms. Callan about this and she told me about her plans for the year. The students will be reading three novels: To Kill a Mockingbird, Lord of the Flies, and Scat. The students will also read two plays: The Diary of Anne Frank and Harvey. They will also read a variety of short stories, poems, and essays throughout the year. All of the reading is done in school and at home.
Ms. Callan was clear to remind me that she also ensures that the students are prepared for the MCAS exam through comprehension questions that mirror the type of excerpt and reading questions seen on the state-wide assessments.
She also reminded me that we want to be sure that students understand what they read fully and deeply as opposed to only having a superficial understanding of the themes, characters, and subjects of the literature.
