6th Grade English
Students explore the topic of "coming of age", reading texts that feature protagonists from diverse backgrounds, places, and time periods.
Course Summary
In 6th grade, students explore the topic of “coming of age.” They read texts that feature protagonists from diverse backgrounds, places, and time periods, all of whom face significant challenges as they struggle to define their identities and claim their place in the world. The stories of these young people are simultaneously unique and universal, and students will likely recognize parts of themselves in these texts, even as they are introduced to characters whose lives may initially look very different from their own.
1
Developing Resilience: The Watsons Go to Birmingham—1963
Students explore the topic of "coming of age" through the story of an African-American boy growing up during the civil rights era, and his family's strong bond in the face of tragedy.
29 Lessons
2
Challenging Authority: The Giver
Students explore the topic of "coming of age" through the story of one boy's life in a dystopian future, and his growing understanding that the world around him is not what it appears.
30 Lessons
3
Expressing Yourself: Women in the Arts
Students explore the topic of "coming of age" through stories about the experiences of professional female artists of color who have fought to claim their space in a world that has long excluded people who look like them.
23 Lessons
4
Finding Connection: The Outsiders
Students explore the topic of "coming of age" through the story of a young man struggling to determine right and wrong in a world defined by violence.
25 Lessons
5
Fleeing Conflict: Refugee & The Unwanted
Students explore the topic of "coming of age" through the stories of young refugees from different time periods, all of whom face unthinkable hardships as they desperately seek safety.