Facing Prejudice: All American Boys

Lesson 9
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ELA

Unit 1

8th Grade

Lesson 9 of 27

Objective


Analyze how the authors of All American Boys develop the narrator's point of view and emotions.

Readings and Materials


  • Book: All American Boys by Jason Reynolds and Brendan Kiely  pp. 61 – 93

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A Note for Teachers


Today's lesson contains profanity. Emphasize respectful communication, critical thinking, and an understanding of context for this language prior to engaging in today's reading. Name for students whether they should read the word aloud if reading the text for the whole group.

Target Task


Discussion & Writing Prompt

How do the authors develop the reader's understanding of Quinn's emotional state in this chapter? Cite specific descriptive language and explain how it reveals his emotions.

Sample Response

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Key Questions


Key Questions

  • How do the following examples of figurative language communicate Quinn's feelings about Paul?

    "But the man I'd watched grind a kid into the sidewalk—I don't know—was like someone else. Someone I couldn't place, some hulking animal stalking in the shadows of my mind all night." (p. 62)

    "But now I saw that face, Paul's, burning, a bloodred mask of rage." (p. 74)

  • On pages 80–81, Quinn witnesses another arrest at Mother's Pizza. Why did the authors include this scene in the book?

  • What does the use of verbal irony on page 86 reveal about Rashad's emotions?

Exit Ticket

Assess student understanding and monitor progress toward this lesson's objective with an Exit Ticket.

Vocabulary


Literary Terms

verbal irony

when a speaker's intended meaning is different (often opposite) from what they literally say 

imagery

vivid description that appeals to a readers’ senses to create an image or idea in their head

Text-based

oblivious

adj.

(p. 71)

not conscious or paying attention; unknowing or unaware

Homework


To ensure that students are prepared for the next lesson, have students complete the following reading for homework. Use guidance from the next lesson to identify any additional language or background support students may need while independently engaging with the text.

  • Book: All American Boys by Jason Reynolds and Brendan Kiely  pp. 94 – 120

While reading, answer the following questions.

  • What does Spoony send in to the news stations? Why?

  • What is the setting of Quinn's chapter?

  • What happens at Jill's party?

  • What does Quinn admit to Jill?

  • Why is Quinn so anxious about seeing Paul? 

  • What does Paul ask everyone to do after the news report about the assault comes on TV?

Notes for Teachers

Tonight's reading contains profanity.

Enhanced Lesson Plan

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Common Core Standards


  • RL.8.6 — Analyze how differences in the points of view of the characters and the audience or reader (e.g., created through the use of dramatic irony) create such effects as suspense or humor.

Supporting Standards

L.8.5.b
L.8.5.c
RL.8.1
RL.8.2
RL.8.10
SL.8.6
W.8.4
W.8.9.b

Next

Analyze how the authors develop the characters' perspectives of themselves and others in All American Boys.

Lesson 10
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