The Response to Narrative Literature standard deals with the thinking standard of abstracting. You are asked to look at patterns of events and lessons in the book you have read and compare it to patterns in other books and in life. You are asked to respond to the book or short story you have read in terms of theme. You are asked to consider how the actions, reactions, thoughts and feelings of the character(s) help us understand the theme. As seventh graders you will be learning to extend your thinking about theme, characters and life. You will be working to master Benchmark 10 of the rubric. Below are the specific "I Can" statements for this benchmark. Use these statements to help plan your response. Consider different ways to word the theme you have chosen to develop. It will make your writing more interesting. Be careful to focus on one theme throughout your piece.
¶ 1: Opening
I Can: write an opening that identifies the title, author, and genre of the narrative piece. (Remember a good opening has a good lead.)
summarize the plot by explaining how the action provides the theme. This is a 2-3 sentence summary that focuses on the main character and major events that show the theme.
use very specific language to pinpoint my ideas. Be clear and concise, don't ramble.
¶ 2: Theme/Character
I Can: use specific evidence to explain why the author is writing this piece. This means events that support the theme.
support my ideas with examples of how the characters look, act, and feel as they experience the theme. In other words you are looking for specific evidence in the text to support your ideas.
¶ 3: Connection
I Can: use specific evidence to show you how the author's theme has influenced my thinking about life. What does this story make you think about in relation to your life or the lives of those around you? How can this relate to students in your age group? Why is it important?
¶ 4: Close
I Can: write a conclusion based on my assessments of the theme. What makes this an important life lesson?
evaluate the author's ability to convey the theme through the plot, character development, and author's purpose. What makes this a good book? Think about the plot of the story, how the author helps us get to know the characters, and the author's purpose.