In the grade 8 reading strategies class, students will engage in a comprehensive exploration of critical reading skills designed to deepen their understanding and interpretation of various types of texts. The class aims to provide students with essential skills to comprehend, analyze, and interpret a wide range of texts critically. By mastering reading strategies and engaging in meaningful discussions and activities, students will develop the confidence and proficiency to navigate complex texts and become more thoughtful and discerning readers and writers. 

We are proud to be the first and only accredited Montessori school on the Outschool platform, featuring certified teachers who bring their expertise from our brick-and-mortar school located in Ontario, Canada.

Topics covered include:

Main Idea, Author's Purpose, Tone, and Theme:
Students will learn to identify the main idea or central message of a text, discerning the author's purpose (persuade, inform, entertain) and tone (attitude toward the subject). They will explore how these elements contribute to developing themes—underlying messages or lessons conveyed by the text.

Point of View and Text Structure:
Understanding different points of view (first-person, third-person) and text structures (chronological, cause and effect, problem-solution) will be emphasized. Students will analyze how these choices influence the presentation and organization of information in both literary and informational texts.

Literary Devices:
Students will study various literary devices (metaphor, simile, symbolism, imagery, foreshadowing) used by authors to create meaning and enhance their writing. They will practice identifying these devices within texts and analyzing their impact on the overall narrative or descriptive quality.

Analyzing Literature and Visual Elements:
This topic involves examining how visual elements (illustrations, graphs, photographs) contribute to the understanding and interpretation of informational texts. Students will also analyze literary works (novels, short stories, poems) focusing on elements such as character development, plot structure, setting, and the use of figurative language.

Analyzing Informational Texts and Comparing Texts:
Students will learn strategies for analyzing informational texts (articles, essays, textbooks) to identify key information, evaluate sources, and distinguish between fact and opinion. They will also compare texts on similar topics to identify similarities, differences, and varying perspectives, developing critical thinking skills.


Class Structure: 

The class is structured to incorporate a variety of instructional methods. Each topic will be introduced with clear objectives and essential questions to guide learning, engaging discussions and activities will be provided to encourage students to share their interpretations and perspectives. close reading exercises will take place where we will analyze excerpts or complete texts to practice identifying key elements in collaborative  literature circles.

My teaching method is student-centered, fostering a supportive environment that encourages exploration and critical thinking. I will demonstrate and model examples of how to apply reading strategies effectively, offer structured activities and exercises to reinforce skills and concepts, encourage students to articulate their ideas and interpretations through guided discussions, and provide constructive feedback on assignments to support student growth and improvement.

I employ a blend of direct instruction, collaborative learning, and inquiry-based exploration. I encourage active participation and empower students to take ownership of their learning. I aim to create a positive learning atmosphere that motivates students to engage with the material and provide encouragement and support to help students build confidence in their reading and analytical skills.

Students will have ample opportunities to interact with me through various activities, classroom discussions, feedback sessions, and anytime they need to interact with me.