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$60

for 4 classes
Class

Book Talk: Holes

Completed by 5 learners
Ages 10-15
Live Group Class
In this 4-week online course, learners will read and analyze the novel Holes by Louis Sachar, focusing on comprehension, critical thinking, and literary elements. #academic
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:
(179 reviews)
Rising Star

Live video meetings
1x per week, 4 weeks
2-6 learners per class
45 min

What's included

4 live meetings
3 in-class hours

Class Experience

US Grade 5 - 8
In this 4-session class, we will read and analyze the Newbery and National Book award-winning novel Holes. This 1998 novel by Louis Sachar is a "modern classic that will remind readers that adventure is right around the corner--or just under your feet!" My goal is to inspire learners to reflect on what they read and see the relevance of the book's elements to their own lives. We will cover reading comprehension and literary elements as we dive into the themes and writing techniques the author uses that make the story "stick with you" long after reading.

Learners will read on their own before attending class each week. Please see the reading schedule below. We will read some excerpts in class together. In addition to a guided discussion, learners will complete activities related to the book, including comprehension, analysis, and critical thinking. We will go beyond basic comprehension questions to dig deeper into the themes and literary elements of the book.

Learning Goals

Learners will improve literary analysis skills.
Learners will improve their understanding of literary elements.

Syllabus

Standards
Aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS)
4 Lessons
over 4 Weeks
Lesson 1:
Background & Historical Connections (Chapters 1-12)
 I will introduce the author and their purpose for writing the book. We will talk about the historical backdrop for the story and will discuss how to make connections to the story: text to self, text to text, and text to world. We will talk about what Jim Crow Laws were and how they relate to the story. 
45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Characters, Setting, & Literary Connections (Chapters 13-28)
 We will discuss the main characters of the book and will collaborate to reveal details about character qualities. We will also talk about the elements of setting and how it is developed through the story. 
45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Language & Literary Elements (Chapters 29-39)
 Students will learn elements of language and how the author’s choices contribute to the overall meaning of the book. We will discuss literary techniques like symbols, tone, and figurative language. 
45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Plot & Themes (Chapters 40-50)
 We will discuss and plot and complete a narrative arc activity. We will analyze themes, including the theme of racism and will attempt to make connections to those themes. 
45 mins online live lesson

Other Details

Parental Guidance
Please see Common Sense Media's commentary about this book to determine if it is a good fit for your learner: https://www.commonsensemedia.org/book-reviews/holes
Supply List
For this class, learners will need to have the novel, Holes (1998) by Louis Sachar.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.

Meet the teacher

Joined July, 2020
4.9
179reviews
Rising Star
Profile
Teacher expertise and credentials
Texas Teaching Certificate in English/Language Arts
Bachelor's Degree in English from College of Charleston
Hello! I am a certified English/Language Arts teacher and ACE Educator and believe in embracing the “light bulb” moments of discovery that happen both in and out of the classroom. My goal is to make learning relevant to students’ interests by providing unique and fun ways to strengthen reading and writing skills, explore literature, and learn about our world. 

Classes I offer on Outschool include creative writing, essay writing, literature studies, phonics, and reading skills. I also offer private tutoring, catered to your learner's needs, for all ages.

My classes are designed around the idea that kids can learn language arts through creative projects and real-world experiences. Literature and writing are more meaningful when students can relate them to their own lives and what is going on in the world around them. 

From the time I was a child, I always wanted to be a teacher. I am a certified English teacher with classroom experience (grades 6-12) in Texas and South Carolina, in addition to substitute teaching for all grade levels (K-12) and special education classes. I have a BA degree in English from College of Charleston and 30+ postgraduate hours. I am TESOL certified and taught ESL classes online to students in China for 4 years. I am also certified in Early Reading Training through the Tennessee Department of Education. I homeschooled my 3 children for over 20 years, and taught literature, writing, and public speaking classes to other homeschool students. Currently, I am employed as a student disability services coordinator at a local college.

As part of my Bachelor of Arts in English and postgraduate studies, I successfully completed college courses related to adolescent literature and development. I completed coursework in African American literature and African American history as part of my degree program. I received 4 professional development hours for the 2021-2022 Facing History Community Read Workshop, "Teaching Brown Girl Dreaming," through Facing History & Ourselves with author Jacqueline Woodson.

I have taught all levels of literature, including some books with 'sensitive' content, to students in a classroom setting. As with almost any work of literature, many themes and plot details can be controversial, and my role as an educator and facilitator in the classroom is to guide students to deal with these topics within the scope of their literary relevance. 

Additionally, I taught the 'Pace' program for at-risk students for the Southwest Independent School District in San Antonio, Texas. I also completed a training program as a high school teacher in South Carolina, becoming certified as a 'Natural Helper' faculty mentor.

In addition to my training and experience, I love children's and young adult literature and enjoy using 'fun' books to teach important language arts skills using a cross-curricular approach. Outside of my classroom, I enjoy watching movies, collecting Pokémon, and cooking.

One of my greatest joys is working with students and motivating them to enjoy learning. As the mom to 3 children, I am very patient and encouraging! My goal as a teacher is to make learning memorable, fun, and rewarding. If you have any thoughts about how I can customize a class for your learner, please send me a message. I’m always looking for ways to accommodate learners. I'm looking forward to meeting you in the classroom! :)

Reviews

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