"When given the choice between being right or being kind, choose kind." This is my favorite quote from Wonder and one I use often in my 6th grade classroom. You know how a good book gets under your skin and lives with you forever? That's "Wonder" by R.J. Palacio.
My students each come from economically depressed homes.
Of my 28 students, 22 speak a language other than English at home. Over 90% of my class qualifies for free or reduced price meals at school. Having even basic school supplies is often a luxury for these students. More often than not, I provide them with pencils, notebooks, paper, scissors, and folders. All of my students struggle financially and many struggle academically, but all of them can be successful in school.
My Project
My students will use "Wonder" to improve literacy. We will be reading this book to study how authors use complex plot lines and character changes to develop a story. This book explores the differences inherent in each person's perspective. The story also deals with pertinent social issues such as bullying, starting middle school, and changing/developing friendships. It is an engaging text, which although complex is not too challenging, making it not only engaging but also readable for all students. By having a copy of "Wonder" for all students, everyone will be to have the text in front of them, putting the put post-it notes of predictions, questions, analysis, etc. in their own book.
Having a class set of this book will improve my classroom in several ways.
The most tangible are increased understanding of complex text and more opportunities to work with highly engaging material. The other benefits to my class are the chance to fall in love with a powerful book, the opportunity to develop empathy for those who are different, and develop a deep love of reading.
Nearly all students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. Fiorito and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
