The central focus of this class is on classic works of literature. I aim to give your student a leg up moving into high school by giving them the opportunity to read books often assigned in later grades. 

 

As an example of the kinds of books we read, here is this year's reading list:

Lord of the Flies by William Golding (ELA and ALA)

The Giver by Lois Lowry (ALA only)

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee (ELA and ALA)

The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank (ELA and some excerpts for ALA)

Night by Elie Wiesel (ALA only)

The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton (ELA and ALA)

 

Looking at this list, it should come as no surprise that students will be expected to read and write about, as well as discuss, complicated and difficult topics. We will be covering works that include discussion of uncomfortable realities of the world we inhabit. I will approach these subjects with sensitivity; I will ask that you continue the conversations we started in class at home.

 

With some experience now under my belt, I know without a shadow of doubt that seventh graders are not only more than capable of having these kinds of discussions, they want to have them. Have faith that they can make sense of the things we are reading. They are thirsty for knowledge of the world they have inherited. I hope this class will give them the perspective they seek!

 

Your students' special schedule is available on the backside of their planner.