Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to analyze the themes and characters in "The Watsons Go to Birmingham -- 1963" by Christopher Paul Curtis.

Materials and Prep

• Copy of "The Watsons Go to Birmingham -- 1963"
• Notebook or paper
• Pen or pencil

Activities

1. Pre-Reading Discussion: Start by discussing the title and cover of the book. Ask the student what they think the story might be about based on these elements. Encourage them to make predictions and share their thoughts.
2. Character Analysis: As the student reads the book, have them create a character chart in their notebook. They should list the main characters and include details about their personalities, actions, and motivations. This will help them understand the different characters and their roles in the story.
3. Theme Exploration: After reading a few chapters, ask the student to identify any themes they notice in the book. Have them write down these themes in their notebook and provide evidence from the text to support their ideas. Discuss these themes together and encourage critical thinking.
4. Reflection and Discussion: At the end of each reading session, have the student reflect on what they have read. Ask them to write a short paragraph or create a drawing that represents their thoughts and feelings about the story so far. Then, engage in a discussion about their reflections and encourage them to ask questions or share any insights.

Seventh Grade Talking Points

• "The Watsons Go to Birmingham -- 1963" is a historical fiction novel set during the Civil Rights Movement in the United States.
• The story follows the Watson family, an African American family from Flint, Michigan, as they travel to Birmingham, Alabama, during a pivotal time in American history.
• The book explores themes of racism, family dynamics, and the power of love and resilience.
• Through the characters, the author portrays the experiences and challenges faced by African Americans during this period, shedding light on the importance of equality and justice.
• It is important to analyze the characters' actions and motivations to better understand their roles and the impact they have on the story.
• By identifying and discussing the themes in the book, we can gain a deeper understanding of the historical context and the messages the author wants to convey.
• Reflecting on our own thoughts and feelings about the story helps us connect with the characters and empathize with their experiences.
• Feel free to ask questions, share your interpretations, and engage in meaningful discussions throughout the reading process.