| Text Connections | |
|---|---|
| Text to Text | Connection that reminds you of something in another book or story |
| Text to Self | Connection that reminds you of something in your life. |
| Text to World | Connection that reminds you of something happening in the world. |
Asking students to make connections to the text is one way to encourage active reading and improve reading comprehension. Text connections can also spark meaningful discussions about a story and its themes and can act as precursors to some essays. For this activity, have students use three storyboard frames to connect ”Seventh Grade” to themselves, another text (or film), and the world around them. Ask them to explain the connection in the text box below each frame.
TEXT TO SELF
One short conversation with Teresa changes Victor's whole outlook and puts him in a good mood. This happens to me too. When my mom made pancakes for breakfast on a school day last week, it put me in a good mood for the whole day.
TEXT TO TEXT
Victor's eagerness to impress Teresa reminds me of Tom Sawyer. Tom tries to impress his classmate Becky by doing somersaults and walking on the fence.
TEXT TO WORLD
The kids in “Seventh Grade” probably come from families of migrant workers or farm laborers since Victor refers to picking grapes over the summer. This reminds me of the migrant workers during the Great Depression who traveled to California looking for seasonal farming jobs.
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard that shows connections you have made with ”Seventh Grade”. Include a connection for text to text, text to world, and text to self.
Begin the lesson by explaining the concept of reflective writing and its importance in understanding literature. Discuss how personal experiences, feelings, and perspectives can provide a unique lens through which to interpret and connect with a narrative. Use relatable examples to show how personal reflections can offer a deeper understanding of a text, making it more meaningful.
Have the students read "Seventh Grade," either in its entirety or selected sections, depending on the time available. Following the reading, prompt them to write a short, initial reflection focusing on any aspect of the story that particularly resonated with them. Encourage them to delve into why this aspect stood out and how it might relate to their own life experiences or emotions.
Provide the students with specific prompts that help them explore their personal connections to the story. These prompts can be questions about the experiences of the characters, the themes of the story, or specific events within the narrative that mirror their own life experiences. Allocate sufficient time for the students to write their reflections, emphasizing the importance of honesty and introspection in their responses.
Create an environment conducive to sharing and respectful discussion. Allow students the opportunity to share their reflections either with the entire class or within smaller groups. This sharing should be rooted in active listening and empathy, as students will be exposed to a variety of experiences and perspectives. Wrap up the lesson with a class discussion on how personal connections to a story can enrich one’s understanding and enjoyment of literature, highlighting the value of diverse interpretations and experiences.
"Seventh Grade," by Gary Soto, reflects broader societal and cultural themes that remain relevant in today's world, particularly those concerning adolescence and the journey towards self-discovery. The story captures the universal experience of starting a new school year, the anxiety and excitement that comes with it, and the deep desire to fit in and be liked by peers. These themes resonate with the common societal narrative of adolescence, where young individuals grapple with their identity and self-perception. The story also touches on the theme of authenticity versus pretense, a concept that is increasingly relevant in the age of social media and online personas, where the pressure to present an idealized version of oneself is pervasive.
In addressing the challenges of transitioning from childhood to adolescence, "Seventh Grade" delves into the complexities of this critical developmental stage. The protagonist, Victor, represents the quintessential adolescent standing at the crossroads between childlike innocence and the more complex social world of teenage life. His attempts to impress Teresa and his subsequent realization highlight the confusion, awkwardness, and learning experiences that are characteristic of this transition. The story encapsulates the emotional turbulence of adolescence, including the desire for acceptance, the fear of rejection, and the struggle to understand and assert one's identity.
The story of "Seventh Grade" offers several lessons and insights about growing up. One of the key takeaways is the importance of being true to oneself. Victor’s experience in his French class, where his attempt to impress backfires, serves as a poignant lesson about the pitfalls of pretending to be someone you're not. The story suggests that authenticity and honesty are more valuable than putting on a facade to gain approval. Additionally, it subtly teaches the value of resilience and learning from mistakes. Victor's ability to move past his embarrassment and look forward to the rest of the year with optimism reflects a mature approach to overcoming setbacks, a crucial aspect of growing up.