Black History Book Club: Stella by Starlight
Journey with me to the American south in the 1930s to discover bravery and strength in the face of hate. In this four week course, students will explore Sharon M. Draper's inspiring tale through discussion and creative thinking activities.
Sara Gatilogo
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(164)
What's included
4 live meetings
2 hrs 40 mins in-class hoursHomework
1-2 hours per week. Students will be required to read the assigned chapters before class, approximately 80 pages.Class Experience
US Grade 5 - 7
Stella by Starlight is an inspiring book full of courage and kindness that is sure to provoke thought and discussion. In this four week class, learners will participate in meaningful discussions and engaging activities as we read Sharon M. Draper's novel together. Book clubs are an excellent way to engage reluctant readers or help enthusiastic readers dig a little deeper. Students will need their own copy of the text to complete assigned readings before attending class. We will explore the text and it's themes through discussion and a variety of engaging critical thinking activities. Class will be conducted in a casual, book club style with plenty of time for discussion. The reading schedule will be as follows: Lesson 1: chapters 1-13 Discussion and activities will focus on author and setting: fun facts about Sharon Draper and discussion of the American south in the 1930s. Lesson 2: chapters 14-25 Focus on character contrast and development: How does Draper develop the character of Stella into such an inspiring yet relatable individual? Which characters offer a contrast to Stella? Lesson 3: chapters 26-38 Focus on plot and predictions: We will fill out a plot map with what we have read so far and predict what may happen in the end of the novel. Lesson 4: chapters 39-50 (finish book) Focus on themes developed through the story: What is bravery? How does the written word help us process our pain?
Learning Goals
Students will sharpen their literacy skills and foster their love of reading, as well as engage in thought provoking discussion.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
This novel deals with racism in the American south in the 1930s, so parents should be ready to discuss this with their student. I have included a link to Common Sense Media for your reference. Feel free to reach out to me with any specific concerns.
https://www.commonsensemedia.org/book-reviews/stella-by-starlight
Supply List
A copy of Stella by Starlight by Sharon M. Draper
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined June, 2021
5.0
164reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Bachelor's Degree in Education from Western Carolina University
Just a little about my relevant experiences: my husband is Filipino-American. When I married him, race and combating racism became a much more prominent aspect of my life. While this is in no way the same as the experiences of segregated African Americans described in the novel, it does help me empathize and connect with them.
I, like many others, am on a journey to recognize and combat my own white privilege. One way in which I do so is to consume books and other art created by people who's background and experiences are different from my own. So while I do not consider myself an expert in teaching about racism by any means, I find that honest and gracious conversations can lead to positive and productive shifts in our mindsets. Reading books like Stella By Starlight is so important and is a great way to foster such conversations with kids.
Through out the class, I intend to differ to the author herself in the form of videos and interviews. I hope to fill the gaps left by my own inexperience by leaning on her perspective. Reviews
Live Group Class
$48
for 4 classes1x per week, 4 weeks
40 min
Completed by 5 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-13
2-8 learners per class
