Watch The Giver

English Language Arts

• The Seventh-grade child can analyze the themes of conformity, individuality, and the power of memory portrayed in "The Giver".
• They can discuss the use of symbolism in the book, such as the color red representing strong emotions and the absence of color representing a lack of individuality.
• They can identify and analyze examples of foreshadowing in the story, like the recurring dreams Jonas has before receiving his assignment.
• They can compare and contrast the utopian society depicted in the book with their own understanding of a perfect society.

History

• The Seventh-grade child can explore the concept of dystopian societies and their historical and social implications.
• They can research and discuss totalitarian regimes throughout history and draw parallels to the control exerted by the Elders in "The Giver".
• They can analyze the impact of suppressing memories and historical knowledge on society's ability to learn from past mistakes.
• They can examine the importance of individual freedom and choice in shaping societies.

Math

• The Seventh-grade child can calculate and analyze statistics on the population control measures implemented in the community, such as birth rates, age distribution, and life expectancy.
• They can explore the concept of sameness and its implications on mathematical thinking, questioning the benefits and drawbacks of eliminating differences in abilities.
• They can study the concept of precision and how it is valued in the society depicted in the book.
• They can investigate the consequences of a society devoid of economic inequality.

Science

• The Seventh-grade child can examine the concept of genetic engineering and its ethical implications as portrayed in "The Giver".
• They can explore the role of technology in the story, such as the use of injections to suppress emotions and control behavior.
• They can discuss the importance of biodiversity and the potential consequences of a society stripping away nature and wildlife.
• They can analyze the impact of climate control and its effects on the environment.

Social Studies

• The Seventh-grade child can explore the concept of a planned society and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of centralized decision-making.
• They can investigate the concept of community and the role of social norms and expectations in shaping behavior.
• They can analyze the impact of a society where emotions and personal connections are suppressed on relationships and social dynamics.
• They can discuss the importance of diversity and inclusion in fostering a thriving society.

For continued development related to the activity, encourage the child to engage in discussions or debates about the themes and concepts presented in "The Giver". They can also explore other dystopian novels or movies, such as "1984" by George Orwell or "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins, to further examine the themes of control, individuality, and societal structure. Additionally, encourage them to write a reflective essay or create a visual representation of their own ideal society, considering the lessons learned from "The Giver".

Book Recommendations

• The Maze Runner by James Dashner: A thrilling dystopian novel where a group of teenagers find themselves trapped in a maze with their memories wiped, forcing them to navigate a dangerous world.
• Among the Hidden by Margaret Peterson Haddix: This book explores a society where families are only allowed to have two children and a young boy named Luke must hide because he is a third child.
• City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau: In a dying underground city, two children discover a hidden message that leads them on a quest to save their community and find a way to the surface.