Epic Reads: Adventures in Literature
In this ongoing reading class students will explore popular books, study different characters, examine settings, and enhance their reading and comprehension skills through engaging discussions and questions.
Mrs. Durant, BA-Elem. Ed, Star Educator
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(17)
Rising Star
What's included
2 live meetings
1 hrs 30 mins in-class hours per weekHomework
1 hour per week. Students will need to do some reading outside of class.Class Experience
US Grade 4 - 7
Intermediate Level
This class is born from my love of reading and teaching. Throughout my 20 years of teaching, my read-alouds and novel studies have never become old. I look forward to it every day and am excited to bring this passion to my Outschool platform. The most important skill a child can learn is to love reading. In this ongoing book club we'll read popular novels that I've successfully taught in my classroom for several years. We will go beyond the surface to deeply explore the stories and characters. Through engaging discussions, we will practice reading and comprehension strategies while studying characters, settings, the five elements of plot, foreshadowing, flashbacks, and more. I will pose thought-provoking questions designed to help students understand and enjoy the stories fully. This club is perfect for those eager to dive deep into literature and enhance their reading skills. I also connect reading to writing so as we discuss writing styles and techniques I will reference how they can include those in their own writing. Students will be required to have a copy of the book and do some reading between classes. In my reading book clubs we will do most of the reading during class. I like to read along with the students so I can ask very specific questions and help them notice details that they might not on their own. They will need to read some on their own but not much, therefore it will take us a little longer to get through a book. They can read ahead some if they would like, but not to much because we don't want them to accidently give out spoilers in class. Each book will take us 4-8 weeks to read, students can come and go but they might need to catch up with the reading outside of class. We will have a lot of discussion in class, students can share ideas and read aloud if they would like but I would never make them. Students will play a roll in the book we read next. We will start with the novel Shiloh, then as a class we will pick our next read from the list below. The books have different reading levels, some more challenging and some not. Students can learn and enjoy all the novels. As I discover other books I will add them to the list. In each class I will explain the "target skill" we will be focusing on during class. After reading we will apply what we learned to the text. It is a very relaxed and enjoyable class. No pressure, just enjoying reading and learning skills to help. THIS CLASS WILL COVER MAOST OF THE LITERATURE READING STANDARDS FOR 4TH-6TH GRADE. We will journal as we read also. At the end of each class, I will ask a question or give a discussion topic based off of the days reading. They will respond in their journal then share if they would like to. **This is a safe place to ask question, discuss the book, discuss topics the books bring up and get to know each other. The goal if for the students to have fun and learn to enjoy a good book! Class Time Breakdown (Approx.) 5-10 minutes - Review icebreaker 10 minutes - Target Skill 20 minutes - Read and discuss 5 minutes - Journal writing Summer/Fall Section - Join anytime Week of Aug. 5th - Shiloh - Author, genre Week of Aug 12 - Setting/tone/mood Week of Aug 19 - Activating prior knowledge Week of Aug 26- Character traits Week of Sept 2 - Different types of characters Week of Sept 9- Imagery/description/visualizing Week of Sept 16 - Point of View Week of Sept 23- Writing techniques (repetition, foreshadowing, flashbacks, etc) Week of Sept 30 - Questioning/rereading/monitoring comprehension Week of Oct 7 - Types of conflict Week of Oct 14 - - 5 Elements of Plot Week of Oct 21 - 5 Elements of Plot Week of Oct. 28 - Reflecting OFF WEEK OF NOV. 26 New Fall Sections - Week of Sept. 9 - Shiloh - Author, genre Week of Sept 16 - Setting/tone/mood Week of Sept 23 - Activating prior knowledge Week of Sept 30- Character traits Week of Oct. 7 - Different types of characters Week of Oct. 14- Imagery/description/visualizing Week of Oct 21- Point of View Week of Oct 28- Writing techniques (repetition, foreshadowing, flashbacks, etc) Week of Nov 4 - Questioning/rereading/monitoring comprehension Week of Nov. 11 - Types of conflict Week of Nov 18 - 5 Elements of Plot OFF WEEK OF NOV. 25 New Fall Sections - Week of Sept. 16 - Shiloh - Author, genre Week of Sept 23- Setting/tone/mood Week of Sept 30 - Activating prior knowledge Week of Oct 7- Character traits Week of Oct. 14- Different types of characters Week of Oct. 21- Imagery/description/visualizing Week of Oct 28- Point of View Week of Nov 4- Writing techniques (repetition, foreshadowing, flashbacks, etc) Week of Nov 11 - Questioning/rereading/monitoring comprehension Week of Nov. 18 - Types of conflict OFF WEEK OF NOV. 25 Week of Dec. 1 - Elements of Plot *Book List* We will start with Shiloh. Hatchet Where the Red Fern Grows Because of Winn Dixie The War the Saved Me Bud Not Buddy Number the Stars Percy Jackson series Harry Potter series The Outsiders The Downsiders The Giver The Cay Pay it Forward Wonder Charlottes Web Bridge to Terabithia The Book Thief Black Beauty The Secret Garden Little House on the Prairie series The True Confessions of Charlette Doyle *Sibling discount available
Learning Goals
1. Enhance reading comprehension through in-depth discussions and analysis.
2. Develop critical thinking skills by examining characters, settings, and plot elements.
3. Expand vocabulary and improve language skills through exposure to diverse texts.
4. Identify and understand literary devices such as foreshadowing and flashbacks.
5. Practice and refine reading strategies to improve overall reading fluency and enjoyment.
6. Engage in thoughtful discussions to deepen understanding and appreciation of literature.
7. Cultivate a lifelong love of reading through exposure to popular and engaging novels.
Other Details
Learning Needs
With over 20 years of experience in accommodating unique learning styles, I've crafted an inclusive environment where every learner can thrive.
Parental Guidance
Our book club will read a variety of engaging and impactful books, including titles like *The Outsiders*, *Hatchet*, and *Wonder*. These books are chosen for their rich narratives and valuable life lessons. While each book is age-appropriate, they do contain themes that may prompt meaningful discussions about friendship, adversity, resilience, and empathy. We encourage parents to be aware of these themes and to join in the conversations at home to support their child's reading journey and comprehension. If you have any concerns about specific content, please feel free to reach out to discuss further.
Supply List
Students will need a copy of the book we are reading and a notebook of any kind to journal in. The first book required will be Shiloh.
Joined June, 2023
4.9
17reviews
Rising Star
Teacher expertise and credentials
Nevada Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
With two decades of dedicated experience, I am a highly qualified K-12 teacher passionate about fostering academic growth and a love for learning. My extensive career demonstrates a deep understanding of diverse teaching methods, curriculum development, and classroom management. I tailor my instructional approaches to meet the unique needs of students across all grade levels, consistently creating engaging and inclusive learning environments that promote student success and a positive educational community.Reviews
Live Group Class
$30
weekly ($15 per class)2x per week
45 min
Completed by 2 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-15
2-8 learners per class
