Seventh grader Jordan Banks loves nothing more than drawing cartoons about his life. But instead of sending him to the art school of his dreams, his parents enroll him in a prestigious private school known for its academics. Jordan is one of the few kids of color in his entire grade and finds himself torn between two worlds - both of which he doesn't really fit into. As he makes the daily trip from his Washington Heights apartment to Riverdale Academy Day School, Jordan tries to balance his new school life with his neighborhood friends, all while staying true to who he is.
Additional Book Information:
Copyright: 2019 by Jerry Craft
Publisher: Quill Tree Books
Publishing Date: February 5, 2019
Reading Level (Lexile): GN320L
5 key words to describe this book:
Meaningful
Contemporary
Character-driven
Real
Witty
ELA CT Common Core Standard that might be met by reading this book:
RL.4.7 Make connections between the text of a story or drama and a visual or oral presentation of the text, identifying where each version reflects specific descriptions and directions in the text.
Suggested Delivery:
Independent Read
Electronic Resources:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OCy7gjdMvjU
This video can be shown during or after reading to share with students what inspired Jerry Craft's writing.
https://www.storyboardthat.com/lesson-plans/new-kid-by-jerry-craft
This site provides a summary and book overview for students to use prior to reading, as well as various activities that can be used throughout and after reading.
Video to Build Schema:
ELA Teaching Suggestions:
Key vocabulary that may have to be taught for students to better understand the text:
Stereotype: an assumption or belief many people have about all members of a social group
Diversity: ways people may be different, including race, age, culture, appearance, or religion
Discrimination: when someone is treated differently or unfairly based on an aspect of their identity
Culture: the "way of life" of groups of people; food, clothing, language and celebrations are all a part of culture
Social class: a grouping based on similar social factors like money, education, and jobs
Prejudice: unfair treatment toward a person or group without cause or reason
Reading strategy suggestions to increase literal and/or inferential comprehension:
Before Reading
Introduce vocabulary terms using a Google Slides presentation.
Show students this video to students to support vocabulary.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lsl31fj4V0E
During Reading
After reading each chapter, ask students to write a diary entry as though they are one of the main characters. They should include the character's thoughts and feelings and reflect on the book's events.
After Reading
Design a poster to advertise the book using multimedia elements.
Writing activity that requires students to demonstrate inferential comprehension:
Students will write the first paragraph for a possible sequel and outline what would happen in the rest of the book. This can motivate students to read the sequel "Class Act".