Saturday, October 15, 2011

Novel Ideas

Greetings, Scholars!

In 5th Grade, we are deep in the heart of The Secret Garden, and exploring the literary element of character arc.  We are noticing some changes that are occurring in the characters of Mary and Colin and discussing the IB profiles we see in these characters.  What have you noticed?  How has Mary changed?  Is she beginning to fit more profiles?  Which ones?  What is your evidence?


In 6th Grade, we have begun our reading adventure in The Iliad with a discussion of the tragic hero and his/her tragic flaw.  What do you think are the qualities that make Achilles a tragic hero?  What is his tragic flaw, and what is your evidence?  Does Achilles fit any of the IB profiles?  Which ones?


I hope you are enjoying our novel studies and your analysis of these great characters!  I look forward to reading your thoughts!

Saturday, September 3, 2011

What's Your Favorite?

Hello, Fellow Literary Enthusiasts!

We have made it through the first couple weeks of school, and you have all been busy reading and posting your summaries in your Reading Logs.  What are you enjoying most about the book you are currently reading?  Have you encountered many interesting or mysterious characters?  How about any crazy conflicts?  Do you have any predictions?  Have you made any personal connections to the story?

Below on my blog, I have compiled a list of my favorite books of all time.  I chose these books because they had characters I adore, stories that really stuck with me, and writing that struck many emotional chords.  What are some of your favorites?  I would LOVE for you to share them with me.  Post your answers over the next week or so, and let's compare:  any books that stand out?  That's evidence of an extra fabulous author that may be worth your time.  Any books you would like to recommend to me or your classmates?  We'd LOVE to learn all about your favorite reads!!

Saturday, July 23, 2011

The Power of a Good Read


Welcome to Literally Speaking!

This is a blog created for the fifth and sixth grade language arts students of Mrs. Caraway at The Odyssey Preparatory Academy. This is the spot where you can review books you have read, recommend books you have loved, and "share journal" about books you are currently reading.

I am very excited to hear your honest thoughts and critiques of literature but remind all to make sure the tone and words reflect respect and wise word choices, whether you are commenting on a book you have read, a specific author, or responding to the posts of others. Also, keep in mind this is a blog for language arts; please do your very best to use correct English, spelling, and punctuation. It's important to practice these skills whenever we can!

As you read and respond, it is my hope that you will discover new books and authors you will love and share with your fellow readers stories that have inspired you.

Thank you, and happy reading!
Mrs. Caraway