Students will learn and apply literary concepts such as plot comprehension, character examination, and theme analysis through a close reading of "Because of Mr. Terupt." This E. B. White Read-Aloud Honor Book addresses topics of individuality, bullying, friendship, blame, and family influence. Students are provided material outlining major plot points and questions for reflection, giving them the tools to explore character and theme development and ensuring plot comprehension along the way. Our first class meeting will provide an overview of the novel and introduction to key literary terms. From there, students can expect to read approximately 50 pages on their own between each class meeting, completing the novel by the final week of class.

"Because of Mr. Terupt" is told from the perspective of seven fifth-grade students. The plot follows Mr. Terupt's class as he tries to teach his students lessons about personal responsibility, but his good intentions backfire when he falls victim to a tragic schoolyard accident. Join us as we follow the students in Mr. Terupt's class as they learn to forgive one another -- and themselves -- as they reflect on the lessons they've learned from their teacher.

Class Breakdown
Class 1: Introductions, class overview, outline of reading assignments and literary terms
Class 2: Narrative style and character identification
Class 3: Foreshadowing
Class 4: Themes
Class 5: Plot development
Class 6: Character development
Class 7: Finishing the novel
Class 8: Reflections

This class is ideal for students who:
- Enjoy reading and can read approximately 50 pages between each class meeting.
- Are interested in learning and discussing plot comprehension, character development, and theme analysis.
- Can discuss topics such as divorce, family values, special needs, prejudice, and guilt with maturity and respect.
- Are interested in reading perspectives from multiple characters.
- Want to practice close reading and gain confidence in small group discussions.