Instructor: Leilani Melendez
Contact: leilani@class-source.com
Course Description: In this class, students will engage with high-quality literature through guided reading, discussion, and critical thinking activities. We will read a selection of classic and contemporary books that explore themes of adventure, resilience, empathy, and moral growth. Through class discussions, written reflections, and interactive activities, students will develop their reading comprehension, analytical skills, and appreciation for storytelling.
 
Students will be expected to participate in discussions, complete reading assignments, and engage in creative and analytical writing projects related to each book. Our goal is to foster a love for literature while developing critical thinking and communication skills in a collaborative learning environment.
 
Course Objectives:
Develop Critical Reading Skills – Analyze themes, character development, plot structure, and literary devices within each novel.
Enhance Comprehension & Interpretation – Read actively and thoughtfully, making connections between literature and real-life experiences.
Engage in Meaningful Discussion – Express ideas clearly and respectfully while discussing key themes, moral dilemmas, and character choices.
Improve Written Expression – Respond to literature through various writing formats, including essays, reflections, creative projects, and analytical responses.
Expand Vocabulary & Language Skills – Encounter and understand new vocabulary in context, improving language fluency and comprehension.
Foster Empathy & Perspective-Taking – Explore diverse characters and historical settings to develop a deeper understanding of different experiences, cultures, and viewpoints.
Encourage a Love for Reading – Cultivate an appreciation for high-quality literature and develop lifelong reading habits.
Connect Literature to History & Society – Recognize the historical and cultural significance of the books, understanding how literature reflects and influences society.
Apply Lessons to Personal Growth – Reflect on moral and ethical themes in the novels and consider how they relate to their own lives.
Develop Public Speaking & Presentation Skills – Present ideas, defend viewpoints, and share insights with confidence in class discussions and presentations.
 
Grade Level: 6th-8th
Class Time: Tuesday 2:30PM-3:25PM
Course Duration: Full Year
Required Book(s): The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien {ISBN-13: 978-0547928227; ISBN-10: 054792822X}, Wonder by R.J. Palacio {ISBN-13: 978-0375869020; ISBN-10: 0375869026}, Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt {ISBN-13: 978-0142426425; ISBN-10: 0142426423}, The Bronze Bow by Elizabeth George Speare {ISBN-13: 978-0395137192; ISBN-10: 0395137195}, Teddy's Buttons by Amy Le Feuvre {ISBN-13: 978-1935626460; ISBN-10: 1935626468}, Number the Stars by Lois Lowry {ISBN-13: 978-0440403272; ISBN-10: 0440403278}, The Door in the Wall by Marguerite de Angeli {ISBN-13: 978-0440227793; ISBN-10: 0440227798}, Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis {ISBN-13: 978-0553494105; ISBN-10: 0553494104}
Required Materials(s): Pen or Pencil, Binder with notebook paper
Classroom Expectations: 
Respect All Readers & Opinions – Everyone interprets literature differently. Listen actively, respect different viewpoints, and engage in discussions with kindness.
Come Prepared to Read & Discuss – Bring your book, notes, and assignments to class every day. Be ready to share insights, ask questions, and participate in discussions.
Use Text Evidence to Support Ideas – When making a point about a book, refer to specific passages or quotes to support your thoughts. This helps build strong literary analysis skills.
Stay Engaged & Think Critically – Pay attention during reading, discussions, and activities. Be open to new ideas, make connections between books and real life, and ask thoughtful questions.
Care for Our Books & Materials – Treat books with respect—no bending pages, writing in them (unless they belong to you), or losing them. Keep a reading-friendly space and contribute to a positive learning environment.
Grading Policies: Participation 50% Homework 25% Test / Quiz 25%
Grading Scale: 100%-90% A, 89%-80% B, 79%-70% C, 69%-60% D, 59%-0% F