Learning Differently: Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key

Lesson 18
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ELA

Alternate Unit 5

4th Grade

Lesson 18 of 23

Objective


Explain how Joey changed and what he learned about himself and life.

Readings and Materials


  • Book: Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key by Jack Gantos  — Ch. 14-15

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Target Task


Discussion Prompt

How has Joey changed? What has he learned about himself? 

Sample Response

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Key Questions


  • Both Joey and his mom had positive but slightly different reactions to the meeting with Special Ed and the doctor. How did they both react? Why?

  • Special Ed reminded Joey that not all of his problems were from being hyper. What else did he say Joey needed to think about? Why?

  • How did getting a dog help Joey? Why?

  • On page 148, Special Ed told Joey, "'You gotta face the hand you're dealt and deal with it, and make your problems be the smallest part of who you are.'" How did these words influence Joey?

  • How does Joey feel when he returns to the special education room? Why?

Vocabulary


neurological

adj.

(p. 139)

the scientific study of the nervous system and the diseases that affect it

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Common Core Standards


  • RL.4.2 — Determine a theme of a story, drama, or poem from details in the text; summarize the text.
  • RL.4.3 — Describe in depth a character, setting, or event in a story or drama, drawing on specific details in the text (e.g., a character's thoughts, words, or actions).

Supporting Standards

L.4.4
L.4.5
RF.4.3
RF.4.4
RL.4.1
RL.4.4
RL.4.10
SL.4.1
W.4.10
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Lesson 17

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Lesson 19

Lesson Map

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