Middle School Book Club | Novel Study | Close Reading
In this 6-week course, students will meet with the teacher to select and discuss contemporary novels through the lens of the Notice & Note Strategies for Close Reading
Beth Orsini
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(8)
What's included
6 live meetings
4 hrs 30 mins in-class hoursHomework
1-2 hours per week. We will choose a novel(s) to read over the six weeks. I will provide a Notice & Note chart on the first day of class for learners to record any signposts that they notice as they read.Assessment
Progress will be assessed through verbal and written feedback. Learners will also be expected to look for the signposts between classes and record any they find on the chart provided. We will also do a Kahoot review.Class Experience
US Grade 5 - 8
In this class, we will dig deep into the Notice & Note Signposts that were developed by two really smart teachers, Kylene Beers & Bob Probst. They analyzed a bunch of fiction books, and noticed that most narrative stories contain certain "signposts" that can help readers understand narrative elements such as conflict, character development or theme. I promise you, once you learn about them, you will start to find them everywhere (even in real life)! We will be beginning this class with an overview of the signposts and then will decide on a novel and reading schedule to start with. Depending on the participants, we may choose to read one or two novels within the course time. Each week, we'll discuss what we've read, paying special attention to the Notice & Note signposts: Aha Moment, Contrast & Contradictions, Tough Questions, Words of the Wiser, Again and Again, and Memory Moment. Looking for these signposts will lead us into great discussions about plot, character, conflict, and theme! In addition to verbal discussions, we'll include a Kahoot game, Socratic seminar discussions, and quick writes. It is so much fun to discover these signposts and then discuss and debate what they tell us about the story! Please let me know if there are specific days/times or novels you'd be interested in--I am happy to accommodate! Week 1: Choose novel Create a reading schedule Overview of the six notice & note signposts Books to choose from (but not limited to) I Must Betray You Front Desk The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise Flight of the Puffin The Benefits of Being an Octopus New From Here Ghost Refugee Too Bright to See Restart Fuzzy Mud Walk Two Moons Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus Class activities: -Interactive presentation on Notice & Note strategies -Class discussions -Quick write responses -Socratic seminar discussions -Kahoot game -Debates
Learning Goals
Students will learn and understand the six notice & note signposts. They will use their knowledge of the signposts to better understand and explain narrative elements, such as theme, characterization, conflict or plot points. They will have a deeper understanding of the text, and will be able to use clear evidence to back up their thinking.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
We will be using the following third party tools:
Google Drive--I will be presenting info, no account needed
Kahoot--I will be leading a review game, no account needed
Supply List
Students will need to obtain the novel we choose to read throughout the course. I will supply a Notice & Note reference document as well as a copy of the chart that students will be asked to fill out each week.
Language of Instruction
English
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Sources
I will be referring to Notice & Note Strategies for Close Reading by Kylene Beers & Bob Probst throughout the course.
Joined July, 2022
5.0
8reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Massachusetts Teaching Certificate in English/Language Arts
Hi, I'm Beth! I have been teaching middle school ELA for over 15 years, and am certified for grades 5-12. Reading and writing are two of my greatest passions. I love books so much that I have even opened up my own pop-up bookshop!
My classes are all about supporting and guiding readers-writers-thinkers. We think about writing as a craft. We dig deep into meanings and connection. And, we celebrate good writing--whether our own or a favorite author's. My reading classes are steeped in discussion and help with comprehension, critical thinking, and evidence-based conclusions. Writing classes are interactive, using models and practicing writing and revising.
When I'm not teaching, I am busy hanging with my fam. I have two teenage girls (who keep me on my toes), and two cats whose hobbies are: sleeping in the sun, meowing for food, and chasing each other around the house. I enjoy traveling, hiking, weight-training, reading, and sharing books. One day I hope to write a children's book based on my cats, entitled, "Mr. Plumber and the Worm". Join one of my classes and ask me why!Reviews
Live Group Class
$16
weekly1x per week, 6 weeks
45 min
Completed by 1 learner
Live video meetings
Ages: 11-16
3-9 learners per class
