We will be reading four short stories following by a discussion about them, utilizing reading comprehension strategies. For each story, we will practice prereading strategies, such as making predictions. We will then read the story, stopping periodically to ensure understanding, then collectively write a summary of the text. With the remaining time, I will be asking the learners comprehension questions that spark a discussion about the story. This course has a mix of teacher-directed instruction and discussion-based interactions. The chosen short stories are ideal for middle schoolers, even if their reading level may be lower than that. Reading fluency is not required.

Week 1: Stray by Cynthia Rylant
Week 2: Fish Cheeks by Amy Tan
Week 3: Mr. Entwhistle by Jean Little
Week 4: Thank You M'Am by Langston Hughes