Kira-Kira discussion questions

Remember to answer the following questions for class discussions this Wednesday. You can use bullet points or complete sentences to finish the assignment.

A) Create a Venn Diagram for uncle Katsu and the father

B) Uncle K’s name, “Katsu”, means triumph. How does Uncle Katsu live up to his name?

C) Why does Mr. Takeshima (dad) quietly accept the blatant racism demonstrated by the motel clerk in Tennessee en route to Georgia?

D) How does Mr. Lyndon exploit (take advantage of) the workers at the hatchery?

E) Why does Mrs. Takeshima fear the union and feel it is a bad idea?

Week of 9/1

The class of '09 will begin analysis of Kira-Kira this week with a focus on plot and characters.

Be sure to begin reading your Newberry Award selections and plan your time wisely. Remember the book report is due September 30!

Welcome Back!

Welcome back to the class of 2009! I hope that you enjoyed the summer as well as the Newberry Award winning novel Kira-Kira. This is the first time I will be teaching the novel to the 8th grade and I look forward to the analytical discussions we will be having in class. As soon as the year begins we will hit the ground running as we review the novel and each student begins work on a Newberry Award winner for their first book report!

Throughout the year I will use the blog to post information about assignments, updates on class sessions, and online resources that can be used to help develop your literary skills.

8th grade is a time of great challenges, change, and excitement! Get ready for a great year.