Learning Grit from Literature

Cite textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.

Determine a theme or central idea of a text and how it is conveyed through particular details; provide a summary of the text distinct from personal opinions or judgments.

Describe how a particular story's or drama's plot unfolds in a series of episodes as well as how the characters respond or change as the plot moves toward a resolution.

Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative and connotative meanings; analyze the impact of a specific word choice on meaning and tone

Analyze how a particular sentence, chapter, scene, or stanza fits into the overall structure of a text and contributes to the development of the theme, setting, or plot.

Explain how an author develops the point of view of the narrator or speaker in a text.

By the end of the year, read and comprehend literature, including stories, dramas, and poems, in the grades 6-8 text complexity band proficiently, with scaffolding as needed at the high end of the range.

Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 6 topics, texts, and issues, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly.

Come to discussions prepared, having read or studied required material; explicitly draw on that preparation by referring to evidence on the topic, text, or issue to probe and reflect on ideas under discussion.

Follow rules for collegial discussions, set specific goals and deadlines, and define individual roles as needed.

Pose and respond to specific questions with elaboration and detail by making comments that contribute to the topic, text, or issue under discussion.

Review the key ideas expressed and demonstrate understanding of multiple perspectives through reflection and paraphrasing.

Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.

Understand and explain why it’s important to do the right thing, even when no one is looking

List and explain the reasons why people sometimes lie, steal, or cheat (e.g., “everybody is doing it”)

Understand and explain why the expression “to get along, go along” may prevent some people from being an “active bystander”

List and explain the reasons why people sometimes do not care or help others

Describe a role model who demonstrates a positive attitude, effort, and grit

Explain why friends have a responsibility to speak up or take action to prevent or stop others from engaging in disrespectful, dangerous, harmful, or illegal conduct

Explain why protest and civil disobedience are essential to the democratic process

Explain what the “common good” means and offer examples

Describe how a role model challenged an unjust law

Experience and demonstrate empathy

Demonstrate respect for other people’s opinions and perspectives

Practice “perspective taking” as a strategy to strengthen your acceptance of others

Demonstrate awareness and understanding that despite differences, all people have similar needs, feelings and wants

Understand and practice positive collaboration and cooperation skills (e.g., teamwork)

Write about and share a principle you want to live by that you learned from a family member, book, movie, or personal experience