This class is taught in English.

Use textual evidence to support claims.
Identify vocabulary terms using textual evidence.
Understand and explain how the setting propels the conflict of a novel.
Discuss a well developed central idea using literary elements in explanation.

I am a certificated New York State English Language Arts teacher for grades 7-12. I am certified in Special Education (Generalist) as well. The novel George by Alex Gino will discuss issues surrounding a transgendered youth's journey to acceptance. We will talk more about laws pertaining to LGBTQ individuals around the world than the biological journey of a transgendered youth. The book will be used as a tool to understand the mindset of a young person who is finding their gender identity. In the novel I Am Malala, the main character is shot in the face by the Taliban. The story also discusses violence that the people of Pakistan faced from the Taliban. A Long Way Gone also has some graphic violence discussed as the main character is recruited as a child soldier in Sierra Leone's Civil War. 

New York Times Article about the novel's controversy in the United States.
Human Rights Watch Article about transgender laws in the United States.
Council on Foreign Relations- Explore the countries who have the best and worst laws that effect the LGBTQ community. 
Articles will be taken from The Guardian, BBC News, and Reuters.