Reading novels together is an excellent way to encourage reading and develop language arts skills.  In this class your student will not only read "Because of Winn-Dixie" independently, but also become a vital part of a classroom discussion about the book.  In class, students will be guided through close reading exercises to help them develop and clear understanding of the events of the story as well as understanding the underlying meanings of these events and thoughts of the characters.  Finally, students will discuss common story elements and be able to understand the characters, setting, plot and theme of the story.  

Week of Jan 7
Lesson 1:  Welcome
                 Introduce author Kate DiCamillo and  give summary of "Because of Winn-Dixie"
                 Introduce vocabulary words for Chapters 1-8
                Students will be assigned to read Chapters 1-8 before the next class meeting
Week of Jan 14
Lesson 2:  Discuss Chapters 1-8 considering the plot, characters and setting
                 Introduce new vocabulary words for Chapters 9-15 and do related activity
                 Students will be assigned to read Chapters 9-15  before the next class meeting
Week of Jan 21
Lesson 3:  Discuss Chapters 9-15 considering the characters, setting and plot
                 Introduce new vocabulary words for Chapters 16-22 and do related activity
                 Students will be assigned to read Chapters 16-22  before the next class meeting
Week of Jan 28
Lesson 4: Discuss Chapters 16-22 considering the characters, setting and plot                  
                 Introduce new vocabulary words for Chapters 23-26 and do related activity
                 Students will be assigned to read Chapters 23-26  before the next class meeting
Week of Feb 4
Lesson 5: Discuss Chapters 23-26 considering the characters, setting and plot
                Encourage students to watch the movie version of Winn Dixie and compare the book to the movie