This unit will cover several weeks of study in which students will read novels, non-fiction and short stories; reflect in journals; and prepare a presentation newscast based on their readings.
Task One:
Assign a book for the class to read together during the course of the unit. Choose a book that most students will be able to read without difficulty. Students will have an opportunity to choose other readings on their own. Instruct students to read a chapter at a time, reflecting on what they read in their journals.
Journal entries should include concepts that are puzzling, words that are new and other ideas the student might have. Do not grade what is written in the journal; however, explain that writing in the journal will count for a percentage of the overall grade.
Task Two:
Divide students into groups of 2 or 3. Each group is a news team. Each team is responsible for presenting a newscast on one of the books or stories they read during the unit. Students must decide on the book or story they will report upon during the first week of the unit lessons. The reports will last 10-15 minutes, must explain who, what, when, where, why and how of the story, compare and contrast it with the assigned book everyone has read. Each student must participate in the report.
They can be creative in doing this presentation. If they have the technology available, allow them to videotape, PowerPoint or use photographs in parts of their presentation.
Task Three:
Create a timeline of key events of the 1940's. Beneath each event, ask students to find stories written about these events. The timeline will remain up in class during the entire unit. Students can add to it throughout the unit.
Task Four:
Students present, "Decade in Review" newscast. Each group reports on the book they read, comparing and contrasting it with assigned book. Their report should only last 10-15 minutes.
