A Long Walk to Water - Empathy and Social Justice Through Story

Salva loses his home and family during the Second Sudanese Civil War. 23 years later, Nya walks eight hours a day to collect water for her family. What connection do the two children share? 

Throughout their lives, children will face harrowing circumstances of their own and of others.  Literature is an incredibly effective tool for teaching empathy and perseverance in the face of overwhelming odds. Story can be a training ground for children to explore some of the most difficult parts of life in a controlled setting, with the ability to discuss their feelings and ideas. 

This short novel by Linda Sue Park dives into the grim reality of survival in South Sudan and is based on a true story. During this multidisciplinary course, students will be challenged to learn about modern and historical refugee crises and develop ideas that could have positive and lasting social impact.

Meeting One: 
Who is Linda Sue Park?
What is realistic fiction?
Geography of Sudan
Africa mapping exercise

Meeting Two:
Chapters 1-7
Reading discussion
The Dinka and the Nuer 

Meeting Three:
Chapters 8-13
Reading discussion
The Second Sudanese Civil War

Meeting Four:
Chapters 14-18 
Reading discussion
Modern refugee crises

Meeting Five:
Author's notes
The life and work of Salva Dut 
Begin final project

Meeting Six:
Final project presentations