BelongingThis unit is designed so that students may explore the concept of belonging and its effect upon, and possible conflicts with, an individual’s sense of self. This topic is a predominant concern of a sixth grader just embarking upon his or her middle school journey. While the journey towards individuation is a universal one, the desire to feel accepted by a small group or community is quintessentially human. At times, it is difficult to remain true to oneself and, at the same time, to belong. Belonging is essentially a literary unit that features short stories, poetry, a dramatic selection, and works of literary nonfiction. Students will increase their understanding of literary elements, engage in close reading, write in narrative and explanatory modes, conduct a short research project, engage in language instruction, and develop speaking and listening skills. They will also make connections between the unit’s essential question and the thematic issues raised by analyses of the literature studied.
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Essential QuestionHow do we belong?
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