LESSON 1 Unit 1: The Cay
Lesson 1: Introduction to The Cay, by Theodore Taylor
Aims:
1. To enable students to appreciate the connection between multicultural literature and art.
2. To ensure students will respect each other while working cooperatively in small group situations.
3. To summarize events in literature.Grade Level: 5th grade
Estimated Time: 2-3 periods
Setting: Classroom
Interdisciplinary Areas: Literature and Art
Materials:
Novel- The Cay, by Theodore Taylor; Avon Books, 1969
Internet
Apple WorksMotivation:
How do we analyze a book jacket?
1. Look at illustrations on book jacket to familiarize students with setting, main characters, and author.
2. Read blurb on back of book jacket to become familiar with the plot of the book. What important information should be included in a blurb?
3. Analyze quote on cover- "It took blindness to make Philip truly see." Elicit what students think the quote means.
4. Analyze dedication- What was Dr. King's dream? Why did the author include Dr. King's dream in his dedication?Procedure:
1. In cooperative learning groups, students will read chapter one. Reader and recorder will answer focus questions on graphic organizers.
a. What is the setting?
b. Who are the main characters?
c. What is the plot?
2. Researchers will find further information about The Cay using the following web site:
http://mhschool.com/teach/reading/w166b.html
3. Writers will write answers to questions.
4. Presenters will share gathered information.Evaluation:
1. Students will be evaluated on:
a. The research skills used in obtaining information about The Cay;
b. Reading for information related to setting, plot, and characters.
c. Presentation of information to the class.Follow-up:
1. This lesson will lead into a follow-up lesson on an author study of Theodore Taylor and the making of book jackets.