All three middle school grades recently launched into fascinating new reads: 6th graders are enjoying Bridge to Terabithia, 7th graders are analyzing Dark They Were & Goldened Eyed, and 8th graders are deep into the modern classic, The Book Thief. In our Middle School English courses, students are challenged to read for deep comprehension, take copious notes, and answer reflective questions on plot, characters, virtues, life lessons, and more. Many students are finding their “curl up and read” English assignments some of their favorite units of Home Learning.
One middle schooler shares, “Reading has been great change from electronics as it gives me a chance to think more deeply about the author and the story line... and to imagine where the author will take the characters.”
Herself an avid reader, Ms. Lass, St. Croix Catholic’s Middle School English teacher, recognizes readings assigned through English can have added benefits during Home Learning weeks. “Technology has been a lifesaver in terms of staying in touch and imparting and receiving assignments, but unplugging has been critical, too. I find it a refreshing break for students who are on their Chromebooks clicking on multiple videos, websites, etc., every day to just grab a good read and respond to literary devices as well as thought-provoking questions.”