We Need Diverse Books - Book Club
This class will offer diversity and inclusion through books. Your student will enjoy thought-provoking literature, which will foster empathy, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of different perspectives.
Paul Kopulos, MFA
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(155)
Popular
Rising Star
What's included
16 live meetings
13 hrs 20 mins in-class hoursHomework
2-4 hours per week. This is an intensive diverse reading club. Students should be aware that they may have to read on an average 20-25 pages a night to keep up with the class discussions. We will be reading one book every two weeks. I will also be including some vocabulary and weekly discussions questions for the topics/books. Please reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns.Class Experience
US Grade 6 - 8
Reading has become more than just a relaxing pastime or favorite hobby for many students in today's world. It's become an essential part of self-care for anyone feeling lost, confused, concerned, or just curious about who they are. This book club is where readers can come together and explore diverse stories and experiences through various novels. The power of literature lies not only in its capacity to entertain but also in its potential to transform us. Through this literary voyage, we will journey together, discovering the profound impact that books can have on our lives and the lives of those around us. In this intensive class, we will be reading seven diverse novels and three short stories, complemented by author interviews to deepen our understanding. These stories will ignite your student's minds and leave them wanting more! Our discussions may extend into your homes, fostering ongoing dialogue. I will guide them in a safe, friendly, and fun environment, ensuring that this class remains a safe space to educate, empathize, inspire, comfort, motivate, and calm readers, no matter what else is going on in the world.
Learning Goals
Students will learn to analyze and interpret themes, characters, and narratives in diverse novels and short stories, enhancing their ability to think critically about literature and its broader societal implications.Through reading and discussing stories from various cultural, social, and personal perspectives, students will develop a deeper empathy and understanding of the diverse experiences and challenges faced by people different from themselves.
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created Curriculum16 Lessons
over 16 WeeksLesson 1:
Introduction
We'll start by introducing ourselves and sharing our favorite books. We'll also talk about the exciting books we'll be reading throughout this course. Additionally, we'll discuss two Disney+ videos, Loop and Out, with links provided in the classroom. We'll also delve into Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's TED Talk, 'The Danger of a Single Story,' which is also linked in the classroom. 50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Harbor Me by Jaqueline Woodson (176 pages)
Students will need to read Harbor Me by Jaqueline Woodson before class. We will be discussing Racial and Ethnic Diversity, Immigration and Belonging, Economic Diversity, and Family Structures and Dynamics - and much more. 50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
The Chance to Fly by Ali Stroker (Chapters 1-12)
Students will need to read Chapters 1-12 before class. We will discuss Disability and Accessibility, Representation and Visibility, Overcoming Stereotypes and Prejudices, Pursuing Dreams and Ambitions, and much more. (265 pages) 50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
The Chance to Fly by Ali Stroker (Chapters 12-23 and the end pages)
Students will need to read Chapters 12-23 before class. 50 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Parental Guidance
This class has age appropriate books that deal with a wide range of diverse characters or situations. The books we will be reading in the class will be in the age range of 10-16 years old (according to Amazon). Some of the books (very few) have violence, some profanity, and some deal with race. These books are noted in the course description. We will discuss all diverse experiences during this class, including (but not limited to) LGBTQIA, Native, people of color, gender diversity, people with disabilities, and ethnic, cultural, and religious minorities. These discussions could include racism, sexism, and discrimination. These topics will be handled in an age-appropriate manner. All my classrooms are safe, respectful, and supportive places for all students. If you or your students have any questions or concerns, please feel free to email me and let me know. I will respond as quickly as possible.
Supply List
Students will need to have a physical, digital, or audio copy of the books to participate in the class discussions. Most of these books should be attainable through your local library. Please plan ahead when joining this club. We do not read the books in class.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined April, 2020
4.9
155reviews
Popular
Rising Star
Teacher expertise and credentials
Master's Degree in English from Simmons University
I have taught diversity to many people, not just kids, throughout my life. I have taught and continue to teach the compassion of diversity to kids daily. I have been teaching on Outschool since June 2020. In many of my classes we have covered the topics of women's rights, race, gender, ethnic background, LGBTQ+, and much more that falls under the diversity umbrella. My husband and I have two African American adopted children that have been with us since birth (age 13 and 14 now). My nephew is transgender, as well as being diabetic.Reviews
Live Group Course
$18
weekly or $280 for 16 classes1x per week, 16 weeks
50 min
Completed by 4 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 11-14
3-10 learners per class
