Literature Class Summary and Homework 9/17/2012

We are off to a great start in our Literature class!  I introduced the students to our first book selection, "In the Year of the Boar
and Jackie Robinson".  We discussed some interesting facts about China, found Bandit's home, Chongqing, on the globe, talked a bit about the Chinese New Year, and looked at the Chinese calendar and animals.  Students shared their opinions about what makes a "good book" which opened the door for us to begin looking at some of the basic literary elements we will be covering in class - setting, plot, theme, and characterization.  We wrapped up our time together with the children using Chinese calligraphy paint brushes to write their names, translated into Chinese characters.

Each student received a homework handout which indicates what needs to be completed by next Monday - assigned chapters to read, several small writing assignments, and a list of vocabulary words they should be familiar with by next week.  

I have assigned the first three chapters for reading and I will use this first week to gauge how quickly we should move through the book - I know students are at varying reading levels and this is most likely not the only reading on their weekly agenda.  I will hope to move at a pace that is most enjoyable and reasonable for all.

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