In my four years of teaching, I've referred to teaching middle school as a constant "wave". Ups. Downs. Highs. Lows. Screeching Stops. Sudden Curves. You get the picture! You just never know what type of day you're going to have... I find it best to "ride the wave" with them. These past two weeks, I've rode a heck of ride! While doing so... Check out what we've been up too! ;)
What better way to peak the interest of middle schoolers while reading non fiction, you ask? Why learning about the notorious gangster, Al Capone! I know what you're thinking! Is this really kid appropriate? Depending upon your approach... Of course! My kids are LOVING this mini unit! We read an article called "Catching a Killer" by Scholastic Scope. My 8th graders, learned about who Capone was, what he was known for (criminally) and how he was caught! We watched a little bit of a documentary as well. After completing a comprehension crossword puzzle - students were to use evidence from our text, documentary or outside research to create "Wanted Posters" of Al Capone! Looking good so far!
So far - so good - in riding this week's wave! ;) I'll be updating more at the end of the week !!
-Ritchie