Book Talk Between the Fiction Lines: Hatchet and Gone to the Woods book discussions
In this four week class, students engage in book discussion about an author's memoir and similar novel.
Kayla Stierwalt, Writing Instructor/Creative Coach
Average rating:
4.6
Number of reviews:(128)
What's included
4 live meetings
3 hrs 40 mins in-class hoursHomework
1-2 hours per week. Students will read half a book per class prior to the meeting. The breakdown for this class is as follows: Week One Gone to the Woods: Parts I-II (pages 1-163 in my copy) Week Two Gone to the Woods: Parts III-V (pages 167-357 in my copy) Week Three Hatchet chapters 1-10 (pages 1-102 in my copy) Week Four Hatchet chapters 11-epilogue (pages 103-195 in my copy)Class Experience
US Grade 5 - 7
In this discussion based class series with Kayla Stierwalt, we dig into two of an author's works, a memoir and a novel inspired at least in part by their life. Students examine themes in the books and note the author's experience and knowledge. This class explores Gary Paulsen's memoir Gone to the Woods and his novel Hatchet. Students read the books at a half a book a week pace. Each session will cover half the book. During the sessions, students respond to questions that encourage them to engage deeply with the text. They also explore the connections between the works and the line between fact and fiction. They have an opportunity to consider how an author chooses what type of book to write and how to incorporate real life experience and expertise. Themes and big picture details for Paulsen's books include, but are not limited to, survival, wilderness, isolation, curiosity, childhood, and more. Students will explore these topics in both books as well as compare.
Learning Goals
Students will learn how to engage with a text through a reader and writer's perspective. They will gain an appreciation for an author's background experience and expertise.
Other Details
Supply List
Learners need to have access to the books Gone to the Woods and Hatchet by Gary Paulsen.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined February, 2020
4.6
128reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Hello! I'm Miss K, and I teach English. My classes involve book clubs and writing. I have tutored and taught English, writing, and language for 10 years. Currently, I teach and assist English language learners at a middle school and instruct adults privately. I especially love research and books.
I aim for personal growth, and I strive to provide a warm, welcoming environment for everyone to thrive. Learning together helps us progress together.
My regular activities include reading, writing and running. I also paint my nails every Sunday evening and watch a movie while they dry. Reviews
Live Group Class
$65
for 4 classes1x per week, 4 weeks
55 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-13
3-10 learners per class
