Capretto.net - Reading Unit

Reading Unit

A Wrinkle in Time

by Madeline L'Engle

Set against the story of three children on a journey through time and space, Madeline L'Engle captures battle of good versus a subtle evil that she gives shape and teeth. Free-will, individuality, trust, the limitations of words, and learning from our faults are some of the central themes in A Wrinkle in Time. It all begins "On a dark and stormy night."

Eighth grade students will read and analyze L'Engle's Newberry Prize winning novel, studying its themes and exploring its rich language, symbolism and metaphor. Students will discuss and debate many of the themes as they read and will be responsible for writing an essay citing evidence from the novel in response to one of the following prompts:

1.) What are Meg’s Faults and what is it that she must learn in her quest? What is the value in a person’s faults?

2.) How is Meg’s hometown on Earth similar to Camazotz? How is it different? What is L’Engle’s message in her design of these two towns?

3.) Words are powerful, but have their limits. What are some examples of the limitations of words? What things are difficult to express with words? Why are they difficult to express?

4.) What is the “Happy Medium?” Explore its multiple meanings and how it can be achieved.

5.) Describe what makes Charles Wallace so extraordinary. How do these traits both hurt and help him on Camazotz?

6.) Meg says, “Like and equal are not the same thing at all.” What is L’Engle’s message in contrasting the two words?

Out Of My Mind

by Sharon Draper

Melody is one of the brightest students in her grade, she remembers every instant of her life, she is amazingly creative, and has a wonderful sense of humor. Her only problem is that nobody knows any of this. As the result of a severe genetic disorder Melody is unable to share any of her thoughts or feelings. Students can relate to Melody's exceptional gifts and great discussion will emerge considering her many struggles and limitations.

Sixth and seventh grade students will read this emotional tale, empathizing with her struggles and celebrating her accomplishments. As students read they will be asked to take careful notes and to critically analyze the text while bringing their own thoughts and perspectives toward many difficult issues. As a culminating exercise of this unit, students will write an essay which cites examples from the text to support their response to one of the following prompts:

Literary Analysis

1. In a world that does not work for her, what seems to cause the biggest frustrations for Melody? How can you relate to this?

2. What is significant about the story of Ollie the fish? How does Ollie’s life mirror Melody’s? Describe Melody’s feelings when she is unable to tell her mother what really happened.

3. What is ironic about the events at the restaurant after the competition? How does this scene foreshadow the events that led up to the airport fiasco?

4. How does Melody interact with Penny? How does she see Penny? How do Melody’s parents react when they learn Mrs. Brooks is pregnant? How does Penny change the Brooks family?

5. Who does Mrs. Brooks blame for Melody’s condition? Is her blame just? You may also add instances in your life where you could relate to Mrs. Brooks.

Persuasive Essay

6. Write a persuasive paper that discusses one of the following options: (a) “Melody is just like every other fifth grader.” (b) “Melody is very different from the rest of the world.” (c) “Melody is unique in that she is very much like other children, yet not like them at all.” Be sure to use specifics to support your answer.

7. Dr. Hugely tells Mrs. Brooks to consider putting Melody in a home and adds, “You and your husband can get on with your lives without her as a burden” (page 25). Do you think he was right to make this suggestion? Write a persuasive essay justifying your position.