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:

• https://youtu.be/J9J1t8AYGfk 

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.

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1NSN7DbeS7Iyz6RLkHy5SJxlM4htDjSVsDdIQbDyqd4M/edit? usp=sharing 

• • 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".