Grade Six: English Language Arts
Students will develop an understanding five general outcomes: Explore thoughts, ideas, feelings and experiences. Comprehend and respond personally and critically to oral, print and other media texts. Manage ideas and information. Enhance the clarity and artistry of communication. Respect, support and collaborate with others.
G.O 1: Explore thoughts, ideas, feelings, experiences
A Stranger at Home: A True Story
In this sequel to Fatty Legs, Margaret Pokiak is now 10 years old and can hardly wait to return home from residential school. But her homecoming is not what she hopes for. "Not my girl," is what her mother says when she arrives. The story follows Margaret as she moves through feelings of rejection and tries to reconnect with her family, language and culture.
A Stranger at Home: A True Story
In this sequel to Fatty Legs, Margaret Pokiak is now 10 years old and can hardly wait to return home from residential school. But her homecoming is not what she hopes for. "Not my girl," is what her mother says when she arrives. The story follows Margaret as she moves through feelings of rejection and tries to reconnect with her family, language and culture.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Clarify and Extend
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Personal response to reflect on how residential school has impacted identity & relationship, families & culture
- Group discussion prompt on lasting impacts of residential schools & reconciliation, self-identity and family
- Could be used for multimedia art project inspiration (i.e. photography/art/poetry/song) and making connections to other resources that focus on residential school survivors and their experiences of oppression, resistance and resiliency - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Stella by Starlight
One night 11-year-old Stella and her brother witness a Ku Klux Klan meeting in the North Carolina woods. For the African American siblings, living in the South is a dangerous, scary and often humiliating experience. Stella by Starlight is a gripping and realistic portrayal of life in the segregated South during the Great Depression.
One night 11-year-old Stella and her brother witness a Ku Klux Klan meeting in the North Carolina woods. For the African American siblings, living in the South is a dangerous, scary and often humiliating experience. Stella by Starlight is a gripping and realistic portrayal of life in the segregated South during the Great Depression.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and explore
- 1.2.1: Consider ideas of others - Suggested use:
- Good novel study that can be centred around how basic human rights were excluded from Black communities
- Highlight current events happening in society that relate to the themes of racism, inequality, and justice - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
It Ain't So Awful, Falafel
In times of the anti-Iran sentiments of the 1970s, fitting in has become even more difficult for brainy loner Zomorod Yousefzadeh. Her family has just moved again, this time to Newport Beach, California, and she is determined to fit in, even changing her name to all-American Cindy.
In times of the anti-Iran sentiments of the 1970s, fitting in has become even more difficult for brainy loner Zomorod Yousefzadeh. Her family has just moved again, this time to Newport Beach, California, and she is determined to fit in, even changing her name to all-American Cindy.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and explore
- 1.2.1: Consider ideas of others - Suggested use:
- Use as an independent, small group, or class novel study - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Viola Desmond Won’t Be Budged
Book about a Nova Scotia woman who refused to move seats in a segregated movie theatre in 1946.
Book about a Nova Scotia woman who refused to move seats in a segregated movie theatre in 1946.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Clarify and Extend
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Use this picture book as a whole class read aloud
- Would be beneficial to pre-teach about racial segregation and the history Nova Scotia's Black community. Prior to class discussion, reminders about respect and right to pass; create a safe space for students to share their voice
- Discussion questions could be: What was racial segregation? What did this look like in Canada in comparison to the United States? Why did the author choose to write this story as oral-prose? - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
As Long as the Rivers Flow
Cree author Larry Loyie writes about his last summer with his family before going to residential school, in Northern Alberta in 1944. Lawrence learns things like how to care for a baby owl, and how to gather medicinal plants with his Kokom. Loyie's story highlights how his education at home was disrupted by the residential school system.
Cree author Larry Loyie writes about his last summer with his family before going to residential school, in Northern Alberta in 1944. Lawrence learns things like how to care for a baby owl, and how to gather medicinal plants with his Kokom. Loyie's story highlights how his education at home was disrupted by the residential school system.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and Explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Personal response to reflect on how residential school has impacted identity & relationship, families & culture
- Group discussion prompt on lasting impacts of residential schools & reconciliation, self-identity and family
- Could be used for multimedia art project inspiration (i.e. photography/art/poetry/song) and making connections to other resources that focus on residential school survivors and their experiences of oppression, resistance and resiliency - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga
Otsaliheliga (oh-jah-LEE-hay-lee-gah) is a word that Cherokee people use to express gratitude. Beginning in the fall with the Cherokee New Year and ending in summer, follow a full Cherokee year of celebrations and experiences. Written by Traci Sorell, a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, and illustrated by Frané Lessac, this nonfiction look at one group of Native Americans is appended with a glossary and the complete Cherokee syllabary, originally created by Sequoyah.
Otsaliheliga (oh-jah-LEE-hay-lee-gah) is a word that Cherokee people use to express gratitude. Beginning in the fall with the Cherokee New Year and ending in summer, follow a full Cherokee year of celebrations and experiences. Written by Traci Sorell, a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, and illustrated by Frané Lessac, this nonfiction look at one group of Native Americans is appended with a glossary and the complete Cherokee syllabary, originally created by Sequoyah.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Clarify and Extend
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Read when studying traditions and celebrations, make connection to gratitude, possibly Thanksgiving if relevant
- Connect to Indigenous languages spoken in your school's community (i.e. Calgary (Mokhinstis): Blackfoot, Cree, etc). Learn Indigenous words and use them in daily classroom discussions and writing tasks
- Make connections to land based learning and land acknowledgements & the importance of honouring traditional territory & caring for the land - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
My Name is Seepeetza
Written in the form of a diary, My Name is Seepeetza recounts the story of a young girl taken from home to attend the Kamloops Indian Residential School in the 1950s. Sterling's award-winning book has been described as an honest, inside look at the residential school experience - one that highlights the resilience of a child in a place governed by strict nuns, and arbitrary rules.
Written in the form of a diary, My Name is Seepeetza recounts the story of a young girl taken from home to attend the Kamloops Indian Residential School in the 1950s. Sterling's award-winning book has been described as an honest, inside look at the residential school experience - one that highlights the resilience of a child in a place governed by strict nuns, and arbitrary rules.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and Explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Personal response to reflect on how residential school has impacted and impacts identity & relationship, families & culture
- Group discussion prompt on lasting impacts of residential schools & reconciliation, self-identity and family
- Could be used for multimedia art project inspiration (i.e. photography/art/poetry/song) and making connections to other resources that focus on residential school survivors and their experiences of oppression, resistance and resiliency - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
We Feel Good Out Here = Zhik gwaa'an, nakhwatthaiitat qwiinzii (The Land is Our Storybook)
We Feel Good Out Here offers a personal account of Julie-Ann André's family story that includes a discussion about her residential school experience. She also shares the story of her land, Khaii luk, the place of winter fish. She writes in the book, "The land has a story to tell, if you know how to listen. When I travel, the land tells me where my ancestors have been. It tells me where the animals have come and gone, and it tells me what the weather may be like tomorrow."
We Feel Good Out Here offers a personal account of Julie-Ann André's family story that includes a discussion about her residential school experience. She also shares the story of her land, Khaii luk, the place of winter fish. She writes in the book, "The land has a story to tell, if you know how to listen. When I travel, the land tells me where my ancestors have been. It tells me where the animals have come and gone, and it tells me what the weather may be like tomorrow."
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and Explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Personal response to reflect on how residential school has impacted and impacts identity & relationship, families & culture
- Group discussion prompt on lasting impacts of residential schools & reconciliation, self-identity and family
- Could be used for multimedia art project inspiration (i.e. photography/art/poetry/song) and making connections to other resources that focus on residential school survivors and their experiences of oppression, resistance and resiliency
- Connections to land based learning, i.e. student sit spots on the land, journaling, sketching, storytelling about the land, land acknowledgements, phenology calendars, seasonal & year long opportunities for land based learning - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Martí’s Song for Freedom
As a boy, José Martí believed freedom was the inherent right of all men and women. But his home island of Cuba was colonized by Spain, and some of the people were enslaved by rich landowners. Enraged, Martí took up his pen and fought against this oppression through his writings. By age seventeen, he was declared an enemy of Spain and forced to leave his beloved island. Martí traveled the world, speaking out for Cuba’s independence. But throughout his exile, he suffered from illness and homesickness. He found solace in New York’s Catskill Mountains, where nature inspired him once again to fight for independence.
As a boy, José Martí believed freedom was the inherent right of all men and women. But his home island of Cuba was colonized by Spain, and some of the people were enslaved by rich landowners. Enraged, Martí took up his pen and fought against this oppression through his writings. By age seventeen, he was declared an enemy of Spain and forced to leave his beloved island. Martí traveled the world, speaking out for Cuba’s independence. But throughout his exile, he suffered from illness and homesickness. He found solace in New York’s Catskill Mountains, where nature inspired him once again to fight for independence.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and Explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Group discussion and writing responses focused on resilience & resistance in response to oppression
- Experiment with letter writing activism and identify equity & justice issues within their own communities that could gain awareness or support in the form of letter writing campaigns - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
I'm New Here
Maria is from Guatemala, Jin is from Korea, and Fatima is from Somalia. All three are new to their American elementary school, and each has trouble speaking, writing, and sharing ideas in English. Through self-determination and with encouragement from their peers and teachers, the students learn to feel confident and comfortable in their new school without losing a sense of their home country, language, and identity. Also comes with a teacher guide.
Maria is from Guatemala, Jin is from Korea, and Fatima is from Somalia. All three are new to their American elementary school, and each has trouble speaking, writing, and sharing ideas in English. Through self-determination and with encouragement from their peers and teachers, the students learn to feel confident and comfortable in their new school without losing a sense of their home country, language, and identity. Also comes with a teacher guide.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and Explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Read aloud to build empathy for students new to Canada
- Writing with the purpose of sharing about different cultures, writing with the purpose to help others
- Personal response to reflect on how starting school in a new country has impacted and impacts identity & relationship, families & culture - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
IntersectionAllies: We Make Room For All
In poetic stanzas, IntersectionAllies introduces the stories of nine kids from diverse backgrounds. Authors Carolyn Choi, LaToya Council, and Chelsea Johnson use each character’s story to explain how children’s safety concerns are shaped by their intersecting identities, such as class, sexuality, dis/ability, race, religion, and citizenship—what is known in academic and activist circles as “intersectionality.”
In poetic stanzas, IntersectionAllies introduces the stories of nine kids from diverse backgrounds. Authors Carolyn Choi, LaToya Council, and Chelsea Johnson use each character’s story to explain how children’s safety concerns are shaped by their intersecting identities, such as class, sexuality, dis/ability, race, religion, and citizenship—what is known in academic and activist circles as “intersectionality.”
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and Explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Use to prompt students into discussion about how they can 'make room for all'
- Hook for beginning a project on advocacy - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal and hard of hearing, read aloud available
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Suki's Kimono
Suki's favorite possession is her blue cotton kimono. A gift from her obachan, it holds special memories of her grandmother's visit last summer. And Suki is going to wear it on her first day back to school --- no matter what anyone says.
Suki's favorite possession is her blue cotton kimono. A gift from her obachan, it holds special memories of her grandmother's visit last summer. And Suki is going to wear it on her first day back to school --- no matter what anyone says.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and Explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Self-reflection writing about cultural/family/community traditions and memories of these experiences and how they relate to self-identity and confidence
- Group discussions & writing prompts focused on developing empathy and respect for diversity - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Shi-shi-etko
In just four days young Shi-shi-etko will have to leave her family and all that she knows to attend residential school. A poetic account of a child who finds solace all around her, even though she is on the verge of great loss -- a loss that native people have endured for generations because of the residential schools system.
In just four days young Shi-shi-etko will have to leave her family and all that she knows to attend residential school. A poetic account of a child who finds solace all around her, even though she is on the verge of great loss -- a loss that native people have endured for generations because of the residential schools system.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and Explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Personal response to reflect on how residential schools impacted and continue to impacts identity & relationship, families & culture
- Group discussion prompt on lasting impacts of residential schools & reconciliation, self-identity and family
- Use for multimedia art project inspiration (i.e. photography/art/poetry/song) and making connections to other resources that focus on residential school survivors and their experiences of oppression, resistance and resiliency - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Shin-chi’s Canoe
This moving sequel to the award-winning Shi-shi-etko tells the story of two children’s experience at residential school. Shi-shi-etko is about to return for her second year, but this time her six-year-old brother, Shin-chi, is going, too.
This moving sequel to the award-winning Shi-shi-etko tells the story of two children’s experience at residential school. Shi-shi-etko is about to return for her second year, but this time her six-year-old brother, Shin-chi, is going, too.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and Explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Personal response to reflect on how residential schools impacted and continue to impacts identity & relationship, families & culture
- Group discussion prompt on lasting impacts of residential schools & reconciliation, self-identity and family
- Use for multimedia art project inspiration (i.e. photography/art/poetry/song) and making connections to other resources that focus on residential school survivors and their experiences of oppression, resistance and resiliency - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
The Grand Mosque of Paris: A Story of How Muslims Rescued Jews During the Holocaust
This book details how Jewish people were sheltered in the Grand Mosque of Paris and given aid with safe passage when the city was occupied by Nazis.
This book details how Jewish people were sheltered in the Grand Mosque of Paris and given aid with safe passage when the city was occupied by Nazis.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and Explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Read aloud, introduction to historical non-fiction genre
- Group discussion prompt on lasting impacts of war/the Holocaust and connections/parallels between colonization experiences of Indigenous peoples and experiences of Jewish people during the Holocaust
- Discussion around concepts of empathy, community, justice, power - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Fred Korematsu Speaks Up
Part of the Fighting for Justice Series, this book is a tale of discrimination and resistance. Fred Korematsu was jailed because he refused to go to the prison camps the U.S. government set up for Japanese Americans during the Second World War. Korematsu took his case to the Supreme Court, where he lost, though, in 1983 a federal court overturned his conviction. Korematsu was a life-long civil rights activist who fought on behalf of many other people who were unjustly treated.
Part of the Fighting for Justice Series, this book is a tale of discrimination and resistance. Fred Korematsu was jailed because he refused to go to the prison camps the U.S. government set up for Japanese Americans during the Second World War. Korematsu took his case to the Supreme Court, where he lost, though, in 1983 a federal court overturned his conviction. Korematsu was a life-long civil rights activist who fought on behalf of many other people who were unjustly treated.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and Explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Personal response to reflect on how discrimination and oppression impacted and continue to impacts identity & relationship, families & culture
- Group discussion prompt on lasting impacts of internment camps, self-identity and family
- Discussion around concepts of empathy, community, justice, power, activism
- Connections between experiences of Japanese Canadians/Americans and Indigenous peoples - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Girl Rising
Girl Rising, a global campaign for girls' education, created a film that chronicled the stories of nine girls in the developing world, allowing viewers the opportunity to witness how education can break the cycle of poverty. Now, award-winning author Tanya Lee Stone deftly uses new research to illuminate the dramatic facts behind the film, focusing both on the girls captured on camera and many others.
Girl Rising, a global campaign for girls' education, created a film that chronicled the stories of nine girls in the developing world, allowing viewers the opportunity to witness how education can break the cycle of poverty. Now, award-winning author Tanya Lee Stone deftly uses new research to illuminate the dramatic facts behind the film, focusing both on the girls captured on camera and many others.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and Explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Personal response to reflect on how access to education has impacted and continue to impacts identity & relationship, families & culture
- Group discussion on the impacts of education and how it can be a liberating experience or part of an anti-oppressive resistance to power
- Discuss ways that education has been used in various times & places for both positive and negative purposes (i.e. residential schools) and what makes education a meaningful tool for resistance, anti-oppression, and justice
- Connect to other resources about education and gender, like Malala's Magic Pencil by Malala Yousafzai - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
How Dare The Sun Rise
This profoundly moving memoir is the remarkable and inspiring true story of Sandra Uwiringiyimana, a girl from the Democratic Republic of the Congo who tells the tale of how she survived a massacre, immigrated to America, and overcame her trauma through art and activism. Sandra was just ten years old when she found herself with a gun pointed at her head. She had watched as rebels gunned down her mother and six-year-old sister in a refugee camp. Remarkably, the rebel didn’t pull the trigger, and Sandra escaped. Note: Teacher should be prepared to discuss disturbing and potentially triggering content.
This profoundly moving memoir is the remarkable and inspiring true story of Sandra Uwiringiyimana, a girl from the Democratic Republic of the Congo who tells the tale of how she survived a massacre, immigrated to America, and overcame her trauma through art and activism. Sandra was just ten years old when she found herself with a gun pointed at her head. She had watched as rebels gunned down her mother and six-year-old sister in a refugee camp. Remarkably, the rebel didn’t pull the trigger, and Sandra escaped. Note: Teacher should be prepared to discuss disturbing and potentially triggering content.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and Explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Personal response to reflect on how immigration, trauma and lived experience as a refugee has impacted and continue to impact identity & relationship, families & culture
- Group discussion prompt on lasting impacts of trauma
- Could be used for multimedia art project inspiration (i.e. photography/art/poetry/song) and making connections to other resources that focus on folks experiences of oppression, resistance and resiliency
- Discussion around concepts of empathy, community, justice, power, activism, resistance, and the power of the arts - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Love Double Dutch!
From the creator of the popular Disney Channel original movie, Jump In! comes a double Dutch novel perfect for fans of stories about sports, summer, and friendship.
From the creator of the popular Disney Channel original movie, Jump In! comes a double Dutch novel perfect for fans of stories about sports, summer, and friendship.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and Explore
- 1.2.1: Consider ideas of others - Suggested use:
- Read aloud highlighting Black characters (ensuring to highlight BIPOC characters in everyday situations, not just overcoming trauma or racism)
- Novel for classroom library - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
I Am Not a Number
I Am Not a Number is the story of Dupuis’ then eight-year-old grandmother Irene, who is Ojibway. She was taken from her family to a residential school where she was made to use a number instead of her name, cut her hair and faced other abuses, all in the name of forcing her to forget her culture. Irene goes home on summer holiday, and her parents choose to keep her there, rather than send her back to the school. But there may be consequences for breaking the law.
I Am Not a Number is the story of Dupuis’ then eight-year-old grandmother Irene, who is Ojibway. She was taken from her family to a residential school where she was made to use a number instead of her name, cut her hair and faced other abuses, all in the name of forcing her to forget her culture. Irene goes home on summer holiday, and her parents choose to keep her there, rather than send her back to the school. But there may be consequences for breaking the law.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Reflective writing prompt from character's perspective to reflect on what they might feel & how this experience has impacted their identity & relationship with their family & culture
- Group discussion prompt on lasting impacts of residential schools & reconciliation, self-identity and family
- Discussion around concepts of empathy, community, justice, power, activism - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
The Sweetest Sound
A story of family, faith, and following your heart. For ten-year-old Cadence Jolly, birthdays are a constant reminder of all that has changed since her mother skipped town with dreams of becoming a star. Cadence inherited that musical soul, she can't deny it, but otherwise she couldn't be more different - she's as shy as can be.
A story of family, faith, and following your heart. For ten-year-old Cadence Jolly, birthdays are a constant reminder of all that has changed since her mother skipped town with dreams of becoming a star. Cadence inherited that musical soul, she can't deny it, but otherwise she couldn't be more different - she's as shy as can be.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and explore
- 1.2.1: Consider ideas of others - Suggested use:
- Read aloud highlighting a Black main character
- Starting point for discussions and writing responses around family, dreams and resiliency - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
G.O 2 Comprehend and respond critically and personally to a variety of texts
Steamboat School
An African American school is shut down by a new law forbidding African American education in Missouri. Determined to continue teaching his students, Reverend John Berry Meachum decided to build a new school — a floating school in the Mississippi River, just outside the boundary of the unjust law. These illustrations bring to life Deborah Hopkinson's tale of a resourceful, determined teacher; his bright, inquisitive students; and their refusal to accept discrimination based on the color of their skin.
Steamboat School
An African American school is shut down by a new law forbidding African American education in Missouri. Determined to continue teaching his students, Reverend John Berry Meachum decided to build a new school — a floating school in the Mississippi River, just outside the boundary of the unjust law. These illustrations bring to life Deborah Hopkinson's tale of a resourceful, determined teacher; his bright, inquisitive students; and their refusal to accept discrimination based on the color of their skin.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2: Respond to texts
- 2.1.2: Use comprehension strategies - Suggested use:
- Discussion & writing connections around concepts of equity, fairness, race & rights
- Use for multimedia art project inspiration (i.e. photography/art/poetry/song) and making connections to other resources that focus on racism and survivors experiences of oppression, resistance and resiliency - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Under the Mesquite
Lupita, a budding actor and poet in a close-knit Mexican American immigrant family, comes of age as she struggles with adult responsibilities during her mother's battle with cancer in this young adult novel in verse.
Lupita, a budding actor and poet in a close-knit Mexican American immigrant family, comes of age as she struggles with adult responsibilities during her mother's battle with cancer in this young adult novel in verse.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.3: Understand forms elements and techniques
- 2.3.3: Experiment with language - Suggested use:
- Read aloud highlighting a Mexican-American main character
- Introduction to free verse poetry in the form a story
- Discussion about resiliency, overcoming challenges and dealing with the trauma of losing a parent
- Write a reflective response to the novel touching on the themes
- Use as an introduction and example of free verse poetry - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky
Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky is the debut novel of Kwame Mbalia. Published in 2019 by Rick Riordan Presents, the middle grade novel is focused on African American folktales and West African mythology. The story follows teenager Tristan Strong, who is often urged to be a boxer by his family.
Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky is the debut novel of Kwame Mbalia. Published in 2019 by Rick Riordan Presents, the middle grade novel is focused on African American folktales and West African mythology. The story follows teenager Tristan Strong, who is often urged to be a boxer by his family.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.1: Use strategies and cues
- 2.1.3: Use textual cues - Suggested use:
- Read aloud highlighting a Black main character
- Introduction to researching folktales and mythology
- Write a response to the novel sharing their own cultural stories and legends - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
President of the Whole Fifth Grade
When Brianna Justice's hero, the famous celebrity chef Miss Delicious, speaks at her school and traces her own success back to being president of her fifth grade class, Brianna determines she must do the same. She just knows that becoming president of her class is the first step toward her own cupcake-baking empire!
When Brianna Justice's hero, the famous celebrity chef Miss Delicious, speaks at her school and traces her own success back to being president of her fifth grade class, Brianna determines she must do the same. She just knows that becoming president of her class is the first step toward her own cupcake-baking empire!
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.1: Use strategies and cues
- 2.1.2: Use comprehension strategies - Suggested use:
- Read aloud highlighting Black main character (ensuring to highlight BIPOC characters in everyday situations, not just overcoming trauma or racism)
- Discussion about following dreams, self-confidence and the pressures that students feel - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
New Kid
A graphic novel about starting over at a new school where diversity is low and the struggle to fit in is real.
Seventh grader Jordan Banks loves nothing more than drawing cartoons about his life. But instead of sending him to the art school of his dreams, his parents enroll him in a prestigious private school known for its academics, where Jordan is one of the few kids of color in his entire grade.
A graphic novel about starting over at a new school where diversity is low and the struggle to fit in is real.
Seventh grader Jordan Banks loves nothing more than drawing cartoons about his life. But instead of sending him to the art school of his dreams, his parents enroll him in a prestigious private school known for its academics, where Jordan is one of the few kids of color in his entire grade.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.1: Use strategies and cues
- 2.1.2: Use comprehension strategies - Suggested use:
- Use novel as a starting point or supplementary point to discuss systemic racism in school systems
- Discuss Jordan's experiences to build empathy and understanding
- Writing prompt where students share how new students should be welcomed into a classroom - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
The Breadwinner
Eleven-year-old Parvana lives with her family in one room of a bombed-out apartment building in Kabul, Afghanistan's capital city. Parvana's father — a history teacher until his school was bombed and his health destroyed — works from a blanket on the ground in the marketplace, reading letters for people who cannot read or write. One day, he is arrested for the crime of having a foreign education, and the family is left without someone who can earn money or even shop for food. Film version also available to rent or buy.
Eleven-year-old Parvana lives with her family in one room of a bombed-out apartment building in Kabul, Afghanistan's capital city. Parvana's father — a history teacher until his school was bombed and his health destroyed — works from a blanket on the ground in the marketplace, reading letters for people who cannot read or write. One day, he is arrested for the crime of having a foreign education, and the family is left without someone who can earn money or even shop for food. Film version also available to rent or buy.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.1: Use strategies and cues
- 2.1.2: Use comprehension strategies - Suggested use:
- Personal response to reflect on how trauma and lived experience in areas impacted by war has impacted and continue to impact identity & relationship, families & culture
- Group discussion prompt on lasting impacts of trauma
- Could be used for multimedia art project inspiration (i.e. photography/art/poetry/song) and making connections to other resources that focus on folks experiences of oppression, resistance and resiliency
- Discussion around concepts of empathy, community, justice, power, activism, resistance, and the power of the arts - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Nikki and Deja
This warm, easy-to-read chapter book from an award-winning author captures all the joys and complexities of elementary school life particularly friendships and cliques with finesse and humor.
This warm, easy-to-read chapter book from an award-winning author captures all the joys and complexities of elementary school life particularly friendships and cliques with finesse and humor.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.1: Use strategies and cues
- 2.1.3: Use textual cues - Suggested use:
- Read aloud highlighting a Black main character; pair with reader response
- Highlight the science fiction genre and discuss and compare other books with BIPOC characters (ensuring to highlight BIPOC characters in everyday situations, not just overcoming trauma or racism)
- Students can share/write a story about their best friend - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Pony on the Twelfth Floor
A hilarious and charming story of a girl, a high rise, and one very inappropriate pet, from the author of the Mango & Bambang series.
A hilarious and charming story of a girl, a high rise, and one very inappropriate pet, from the author of the Mango & Bambang series.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.1: Use strategies and cues
- 2.1.2: Use comprehension strategies - Suggested use:
- Read aloud highlighting Black main character (ensuring to highlight BIPOC characters in everyday situations, not just overcoming trauma or racism)
- A novel for classroom library - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
The Last Last-Day-of-Summer
The Last Last-Day-of-Summer reminds us that all children deserve to exist in magical spaces where their imaginations and familial bonds will them into heroism. When two adventurous cousins accidentally extend the last day of summer by freezing time, they find the secrets hidden between the unmoving seconds, minutes, and hours are not the endless fun they expected.
The Last Last-Day-of-Summer reminds us that all children deserve to exist in magical spaces where their imaginations and familial bonds will them into heroism. When two adventurous cousins accidentally extend the last day of summer by freezing time, they find the secrets hidden between the unmoving seconds, minutes, and hours are not the endless fun they expected.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.1: Use strategies and cues
- 2.1.2: Use comprehension strategies - Suggested use:
- Read aloud highlighting Black main characters (ensuring to highlight BIPOC characters in everyday situations, not just overcoming trauma or racism)
- Novel for classroom library - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Dragons in a Bag
When Jaxon is sent to spend the day with a mean old lady his mother calls Ma, he finds out she's not his grandmother--but she is a witch! She needs his help delivering baby dragons to a magical world where they'll be safe. There are two rules when it comes to the dragons: don't let them out of the bag and don't feed them anything sweet. Before he knows it, Jax and his friends Vikram and Kavita have broken both rules! Will Jax get the baby dragons delivered safe and sound? Or will they be lost in Brooklyn forever?
When Jaxon is sent to spend the day with a mean old lady his mother calls Ma, he finds out she's not his grandmother--but she is a witch! She needs his help delivering baby dragons to a magical world where they'll be safe. There are two rules when it comes to the dragons: don't let them out of the bag and don't feed them anything sweet. Before he knows it, Jax and his friends Vikram and Kavita have broken both rules! Will Jax get the baby dragons delivered safe and sound? Or will they be lost in Brooklyn forever?
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2: Respond to texts
- 2.1.2: Use comprehension strategies - Suggested use:
- Read aloud highlighting a Black main character; pair with reader response
- Highlight the science fiction genre and discuss and compare other books with BIPOC characters (ensuring to highlight BIPOC characters in everyday situations, not just overcoming trauma or racism) - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Midnight's Furies: The Deadly Legacy of India's Partition
The author examines the hopes of the leaders of India and Pakistan, juxtaposing these with the actual events. In doing so, Hajari paints the sad picture of two countries who eventually became consumed by hatred. Hajari gives a look at what could have been, and the depressing reality that India and Pakistan are now confronted with. This is a great book for those with no knowledge of India, as well as those who have read a thing or two on the region.
The author examines the hopes of the leaders of India and Pakistan, juxtaposing these with the actual events. In doing so, Hajari paints the sad picture of two countries who eventually became consumed by hatred. Hajari gives a look at what could have been, and the depressing reality that India and Pakistan are now confronted with. This is a great book for those with no knowledge of India, as well as those who have read a thing or two on the region.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.1: Use strategies and cues
- 2.1.2: Use comprehension strategies - Suggested use:
- Read aloud paired with reader responses on themes of conflict
- Read sections to class to build background knowledge on history of India and Pakistan
- Resource for teacher looking to develop more background knowledge - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Don't Touch My Hair!
It seems that wherever Aria goes, someone wants to touch her hair. In the street, strangers reach for her fluffy curls; and even under the sea, in the jungle, and in space, she’s chased by a mermaid, monkeys, and poked by aliens…until, finally, Aria has had enough!
It seems that wherever Aria goes, someone wants to touch her hair. In the street, strangers reach for her fluffy curls; and even under the sea, in the jungle, and in space, she’s chased by a mermaid, monkeys, and poked by aliens…until, finally, Aria has had enough!
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2: Respond to texts
- 2.3.3: Experiment with language - Suggested use:
- Group discussion on consent, respect, body positivity, and self-identity
- Creating visuals/posters/multi-media displays to spread awareness about consent, respect, body-positivity and self-identity among school community - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Diwali: A Cultural Adventure
Diwali is the story of a brave hero, an evil villain, and an epic battle. Join Ram on his adventure to defeat darkness and despair. Journey through time in India to learn about why Diwali came to be and how we celebrate it today!
Diwali is the story of a brave hero, an evil villain, and an epic battle. Join Ram on his adventure to defeat darkness and despair. Journey through time in India to learn about why Diwali came to be and how we celebrate it today!
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2: Respond to texts
- 2.2.2: Construct meaning from texts - Suggested use:
- Students can write a personal response about celebrations they have that are similar or different to Diwali, share personal experiences with the class to build classroom community - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
The Girl with a Mind for Math: The Story of Raye Montague
After touring a German submarine in the early 1940s, young Raye set her sights on becoming an engineer. Little did she know sexism and racial inequality would challenge that dream every step of the way, even keeping her greatest career accomplishment a secret for decades. Through it all, the gifted mathematician persisted--finally gaining her well-deserved title in history: a pioneer who changed the course of ship design forever.
After touring a German submarine in the early 1940s, young Raye set her sights on becoming an engineer. Little did she know sexism and racial inequality would challenge that dream every step of the way, even keeping her greatest career accomplishment a secret for decades. Through it all, the gifted mathematician persisted--finally gaining her well-deserved title in history: a pioneer who changed the course of ship design forever.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2: Respond to texts
- 2.2.1: Experience various texts - Suggested use:
- Read aloud connected to science or math - Accessibility:
- Read aloud available
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Shannen and the Dream for a School
13-year-old Shannen Koostachin and her classmates, who lived in the Cree community of Attawapiskat, in northern Ontario, were being taught in smelly and cold portables because of the condition of their school. They felt they deserved better, and thought that the federal government needed to stop discriminating against them by underfunding their education. So the group, led by Shannen, fought back. This award-winning book, which is part of Second Story’s Kids’ Power series, documents Shannen’s story, and is a way to introduce the idea that many Indigenous people in Canada continue to be discriminated against on a systemic level. Sadly, Shannen died in a car accident in 2010 at age 15, but her dream lived on, and a new school was built in 2014.
13-year-old Shannen Koostachin and her classmates, who lived in the Cree community of Attawapiskat, in northern Ontario, were being taught in smelly and cold portables because of the condition of their school. They felt they deserved better, and thought that the federal government needed to stop discriminating against them by underfunding their education. So the group, led by Shannen, fought back. This award-winning book, which is part of Second Story’s Kids’ Power series, documents Shannen’s story, and is a way to introduce the idea that many Indigenous people in Canada continue to be discriminated against on a systemic level. Sadly, Shannen died in a car accident in 2010 at age 15, but her dream lived on, and a new school was built in 2014.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2: Respond to texts
- 2.1.2: Use comprehension strategies - Suggested use:
- Cross-curricular connection to Social Studies. Explore acts of reconciliation, connect to historical events
- Personal response to reflect on the impact of discrimination on identity & relationship, families & culture
- Group discussion prompt on lasting impacts of residential schools & reconciliation, self-identity and family
- Use for multimedia art project inspiration (i.e. photography/art/poetry/song) and making connections to other resources that focus on Indigenous resistance & activism and their experiences of oppression, resistance and resiliency
- Discussion around concepts of empathy, community, justice, power, activism
- Participate in Shannen's Dream campaign - see website for many other ways to get involved & take action (i.e. write a letter to your MP on behalf of Shannen's Dream) - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Righting Canada's Wrongs: Residential Schools
Canada's residential school system for Indigenous young people is now recognized as a grievous historic wrong committed against First Nations, Metis, and Inuit peoples. This book documents this subject in a format that will give all young people access to this painful part of Canadian history.
Canada's residential school system for Indigenous young people is now recognized as a grievous historic wrong committed against First Nations, Metis, and Inuit peoples. This book documents this subject in a format that will give all young people access to this painful part of Canadian history.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2: Respond to texts
- 2.2.1: Experience various texts - Suggested use:
- Personal response to reflect on how residential school has impacted identity & relationship, families & culture
- Group discussion prompt on lasting impacts of residential schools & reconciliation, self-identity and family
- Could be used for multimedia art project inspiration (i.e. photography/art/poetry/song) and making connections to other resources that focus on residential school survivors and their experiences of oppression, resistance and resiliency - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Lion Island: Cuba's Warrior of Words
Written in verse, Lion Island tells the story of Antonio Chuffat, a young man of African, Chinese, and Cuban descent who became a champion of civil rights in the 19th century. Cuba is fighting for freedom from Spain, and Africans and Chinese are forced to work long, backbreaking hours in the fields. Together with his Chinese friends Wing and Fan, Antonio fights for liberty and justice in this haunting yet hopeful middle grade novel.
Written in verse, Lion Island tells the story of Antonio Chuffat, a young man of African, Chinese, and Cuban descent who became a champion of civil rights in the 19th century. Cuba is fighting for freedom from Spain, and Africans and Chinese are forced to work long, backbreaking hours in the fields. Together with his Chinese friends Wing and Fan, Antonio fights for liberty and justice in this haunting yet hopeful middle grade novel.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.3: Understand forms elements and techniques
- 2.3.1: Understand forms and genres - Suggested use:
- Use as an independent, small group, or class novel study
- Discussion or personal response on themes: friendship, liberty, justice
- Would be beneficial to pre-teach about the history of Cuba in the 19th century, specifically the civil rights movement - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Lety Out Loud
Recently immigrated to the U.S, Lety Muñoz loves volunteering at the Furry Friends Animal Shelter because the dogs and cats there don’t care how fast she can find the right word in English. When another volunteer sets up a secret competition to determine who will be the official shelter scribe, Lety is worried that if the shelter finds out, they’ll kick her out of the program. And then she’ll never be able to adopt her favourite shelter dog! Lety Out Loud is a touching story about compassion, empathy and living between two cultures.
Recently immigrated to the U.S, Lety Muñoz loves volunteering at the Furry Friends Animal Shelter because the dogs and cats there don’t care how fast she can find the right word in English. When another volunteer sets up a secret competition to determine who will be the official shelter scribe, Lety is worried that if the shelter finds out, they’ll kick her out of the program. And then she’ll never be able to adopt her favourite shelter dog! Lety Out Loud is a touching story about compassion, empathy and living between two cultures.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.1: Use strategies and cues
- 2.1.3: Use textual cues - Suggested use:
- Read aloud to students
- Discuss themes of honesty, and learning how to speak up - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
G.O 3: Manage ideas and information
No Time to Say Goodbye: Children's Stories of Kuper Island Residential School
This collection of fictional stories of five children sent to residential school is based on real life experiences recounted by members of the Tsartlip First Nation in B.C. The children cope as best they can at Kuper Island Residential School but it's a far cry from the life they're used to.
No Time to Say Goodbye: Children's Stories of Kuper Island Residential School
This collection of fictional stories of five children sent to residential school is based on real life experiences recounted by members of the Tsartlip First Nation in B.C. The children cope as best they can at Kuper Island Residential School but it's a far cry from the life they're used to.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.4: Share and Review
- 3.2.1: Use a variety of sources - Suggested use:
- Personal response to reflect on how residential school has impacted identity & relationship, families & culture
- Group discussion prompt on lasting impacts of residential schools & reconciliation, self-identity and family
- Use for multimedia art project inspiration (i.e. photography/art/poetry/song) and making connections to other resources that focus on Indigenous resistance & activism and their experiences of oppression, resistance and resiliency - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
The Kid's Book of Black Canadian History
From the first Black person who came to Canada about 400 years ago to the most recent wave of African immigrants, Black Canadians have played an important role in our country''s history. In this informative overview, kids will discover the inspiring stories and events of a people who fought oppression as they searched for a place to call their own.
From the first Black person who came to Canada about 400 years ago to the most recent wave of African immigrants, Black Canadians have played an important role in our country''s history. In this informative overview, kids will discover the inspiring stories and events of a people who fought oppression as they searched for a place to call their own.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.2: Select and Process
- 3.2.3: Evaluate sources - Suggested use:
- Personal response to reflect on immigration, discrimination and oppression impacted and continue to impacts identity & relationship, families & culture
- Discussion around concepts of empathy, community, justice, power, activism, historical context - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
G.O 5 Respect, support and collaborate with others/Cross-curricular connection to Social Studies
Shooting Kabul
A fictionalized account of the author's husband's escape from Kabul and his adjustment to middle school in Fremont, California. It deals with oppression, fear, difficult choices, guilt, prejudice, and bullying, as well as friendship, hope, and family honor. As historical fiction, it also presents insights into various aspects of Afghan culture and politics, Islam, and the dangers and hardships of being a refugee, including a discussion of the impact of the 9/11 attacks on the immigrant community. Do not be misled by the title: the word "shooting" is not a violent reference.
Shooting Kabul
A fictionalized account of the author's husband's escape from Kabul and his adjustment to middle school in Fremont, California. It deals with oppression, fear, difficult choices, guilt, prejudice, and bullying, as well as friendship, hope, and family honor. As historical fiction, it also presents insights into various aspects of Afghan culture and politics, Islam, and the dangers and hardships of being a refugee, including a discussion of the impact of the 9/11 attacks on the immigrant community. Do not be misled by the title: the word "shooting" is not a violent reference.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Use as class read aloud, highlighting themes of connection between government and citizens, a depiction of life as a refugee, learning about Afghan culture
- Pair with reader response
- Cross-curricular connection to Health: discussion about the impact of trauma - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
The Circuit
A series of independent but intertwined stories follow a family through their circuit, from picking cotton and strawberries to topping carrots and back again over a number of years. As it moves from one labor camp to the next, the little family of four grows into ten. Impermanence and poverty define their lives. But with faith, hope, and back-breaking work, the family endures.
A series of independent but intertwined stories follow a family through their circuit, from picking cotton and strawberries to topping carrots and back again over a number of years. As it moves from one labor camp to the next, the little family of four grows into ten. Impermanence and poverty define their lives. But with faith, hope, and back-breaking work, the family endures.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Develop an understanding of anthologies, multiple perspectives to create one larger story
- Use as class read aloud, highlighting themes of connection between government and citizens, learning about the life experience of migrant families, understanding reasons for migration
- Pair with reader response
- Cross-curricular connection to Health: discussion about the impact of trauma - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Granddaddy's Turn: A Journey to the Ballot Box
Based on the true story of one family’s struggle for voting rights in the Civil Rights–era South, this moving tale shines an emotional spotlight on a dark facet of U.S. history.
Based on the true story of one family’s struggle for voting rights in the Civil Rights–era South, this moving tale shines an emotional spotlight on a dark facet of U.S. history.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Use as class read aloud, highlighting themes of connection between government and citizens, learning about the life experience of families living in the Southern States during the Civil Rights Era, understanding connection between government policy and racism
- Pair with reader response
- Cross-curricular connection to Health: discussion about the impact of trauma - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Bold & Brave: Ten Heroes Who Won Women the Right to Vote
Here are the stories of ten leaders who strove to win the right to vote for American women--a journey that took more than seventy years of passionate commitment.
Here are the stories of ten leaders who strove to win the right to vote for American women--a journey that took more than seventy years of passionate commitment.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.3: Celebrate accomplishments and events - Suggested use:
- Use a class read aloud, highlighting themes of connection between government and citizens, learning about the life experience of American women and the battle of voter equality, understanding connection between government policy and racism
- Pair with reader response
- Discussion around voter equity in Canada
- Cross-curricular connection to Health: discussion about the impact of trauma - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Lifting as We Climb: Black Women's Battle for the Ballot Box
Women of color, especially African American women, were fighting for their right to vote and to be treated as full, equal citizens of the United States. Their battlefront wasn't just about gender. African American women had to deal with white abolitionist-suffragists who drew the line at sharing power with their black sisters. They had to overcome deep, exclusionary racial prejudices that were rife in the American suffrage movement. And they had to maintain their dignity--and safety--in a society that tried to keep them in its bottom ranks.
Women of color, especially African American women, were fighting for their right to vote and to be treated as full, equal citizens of the United States. Their battlefront wasn't just about gender. African American women had to deal with white abolitionist-suffragists who drew the line at sharing power with their black sisters. They had to overcome deep, exclusionary racial prejudices that were rife in the American suffrage movement. And they had to maintain their dignity--and safety--in a society that tried to keep them in its bottom ranks.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Use in comparison and in relation to Bold & Brave: Ten Heroes Who Won Women the Right to Vote
- Use as class read aloud, highlighting themes of connection between government and citizens, specifically Black women, learning about the life experience of Black American Women and the battle of voter equality, understanding connection between government policy and racism
- Pair with reader response
- Prompt discussion around voter equity in Canada
- Cross-curricular connection to Health: discussion about the impact of trauma - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
The Boy Who Lived with the Bears and Other Iroquois Stories
Presents 6 Iroquois tales, where animals showcase the best of human emotions and spirit. Buzzard flies to the Creator to bring back clothes for all the birds. Tiny Chipmunk takes on a massive Bear in a challenge to determine whether or not the sun will keep rising, and a young boy has lost his human family and finds love in the home of the Bears.
Presents 6 Iroquois tales, where animals showcase the best of human emotions and spirit. Buzzard flies to the Creator to bring back clothes for all the birds. Tiny Chipmunk takes on a massive Bear in a challenge to determine whether or not the sun will keep rising, and a young boy has lost his human family and finds love in the home of the Bears.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.2: Relate texts to culture - Suggested use:
- Discussion question: How do the stories in the novel reflect the values of the Haudenosaunee? - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Life in a Longhouse Village
The people who lived in the northeastern woodlands belonged to many nations and spoke many languages including Iroquoian and Algonkian. Life in a Longhouse Village was a way of life all of the nations shared. Children will learn about the fascinating lifestyle of these hunters and farmers and discover what life was like in a longhouse clan.
The people who lived in the northeastern woodlands belonged to many nations and spoke many languages including Iroquoian and Algonkian. Life in a Longhouse Village was a way of life all of the nations shared. Children will learn about the fascinating lifestyle of these hunters and farmers and discover what life was like in a longhouse clan.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.2: Relate texts to culture - Suggested use:
- Students can use the information to compare the roles of women and men - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
The Iroquois: Longhouse Builders
Discusses Iroquois lifestyles of the past and into the present, covering topics such as the formation of the Confederacy, exterior and interior of a longhouse, living in a longhouse, food, clothing, the clan structure. Includes recipe for maple syrup candy, instructions for making and playing the game of bone dice and a braided wristband.
Discusses Iroquois lifestyles of the past and into the present, covering topics such as the formation of the Confederacy, exterior and interior of a longhouse, living in a longhouse, food, clothing, the clan structure. Includes recipe for maple syrup candy, instructions for making and playing the game of bone dice and a braided wristband.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.2: Relate texts to culture - Suggested use:
- Could make the recipe for maple candy that is included at the back of the book - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
People of the Longhouse: How the Iroquian Tribes Lived
A well-written and well-organized book deals with many aspects of the life of the Iroquois tribes in the Great Lakes/St. Lawrence region of Canada. Detailed charcoal sketches add much to the presentation. The six page chapter on Social and Political Structure includes information on the formation of the League of the Iroquois, the legend of Hiawatha and Dekaniweah, the constitution, council structure of the League, decision-making processes, the role of the sachems, use of the wampum belt.
A well-written and well-organized book deals with many aspects of the life of the Iroquois tribes in the Great Lakes/St. Lawrence region of Canada. Detailed charcoal sketches add much to the presentation. The six page chapter on Social and Political Structure includes information on the formation of the League of the Iroquois, the legend of Hiawatha and Dekaniweah, the constitution, council structure of the League, decision-making processes, the role of the sachems, use of the wampum belt.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.2: Relate texts to culture - Suggested use:
- Students can use this non-fiction book as a resource when learning about the decision-making process of the Iroquois, the social and political structure, wampum, and the legend of Hiawatha - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Underground to Canada
This timeless novel, by Canadian author Barbara Smucker, is sure to captivate student interest as they follow two enslaved teenage runaways trying to reach freedom. The story is an excellent example of historical fiction intertwining fictitious characters with historical figures who worked on the "Underground Railway." Julilly, the main character, is truly heroic and her deeds and actions underline this fact. The themes, ideas and issues presented in this novel definitely give students something to think about.
This timeless novel, by Canadian author Barbara Smucker, is sure to captivate student interest as they follow two enslaved teenage runaways trying to reach freedom. The story is an excellent example of historical fiction intertwining fictitious characters with historical figures who worked on the "Underground Railway." Julilly, the main character, is truly heroic and her deeds and actions underline this fact. The themes, ideas and issues presented in this novel definitely give students something to think about.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Use this historical fiction book as an individual, small group, or class novel study
- Would be beneficial to pre-teach about the Underground Railway prior to reading this novel
- Discussion questions could be centred around the theme, characters, plot, history
- Projects could include: historical research project about the Underground Railway, character sketch, student-made graphic novels, visual plot diagram - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Young Water Protectors: A Story About Standing Rock
At the not-so-tender age of 8, Aslan arrived in North Dakota to help stop a pipeline. A few months later he returned - and saw the whole world watching. Read about his inspiring experiences in the Oceti Sakowin Camp at Standing Rock. Learn about what exactly happened there, and why. Be inspired by Aslan’s story of the daily life of Standing Rock’s young water protectors. "Mni Wiconi ... Water is Life."
At the not-so-tender age of 8, Aslan arrived in North Dakota to help stop a pipeline. A few months later he returned - and saw the whole world watching. Read about his inspiring experiences in the Oceti Sakowin Camp at Standing Rock. Learn about what exactly happened there, and why. Be inspired by Aslan’s story of the daily life of Standing Rock’s young water protectors. "Mni Wiconi ... Water is Life."
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Use this story (written by 10 year-old, Aslan) to teach students about Standing Rock
- This book shows a young boy's first-hand experience at Standing Rock and the importance of water protection
- This book would work well as a whole class read-aloud
- Following the reading, discussions could centre around what happened at Standing Rock and the significance of the event
- This book could work as one of many perspectives about water protectors and access to clean water on reserves
- Could compare Aslan's story to 16 year old Autumn Peltier's fight for clean drinking water - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Lillian's Right to Vote: A Celebration of the Voting Rights Act of 1965
An elderly African American woman, en route to vote, remembers her family’s tumultuous voting history in this picture book publishing in time for the fiftieth anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
An elderly African American woman, en route to vote, remembers her family’s tumultuous voting history in this picture book publishing in time for the fiftieth anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.3: Celebrate accomplishments and events - Suggested use:
- Discussion questions can be: What are voting rights? How did individuals fight for their right to vote? Why is it important we have voting rights? - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
If I Ran for President
A multicultural cast of children imagines what it would be like to run for president. The entertaining yet informative text is a good conversation starter for discussions on the election process. A note about this process accompanies the story.
A multicultural cast of children imagines what it would be like to run for president. The entertaining yet informative text is a good conversation starter for discussions on the election process. A note about this process accompanies the story.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Use this picture book as a whole class read aloud
- Would work well as an introduction to democracy and more specifically, the pillars of democracy
- Would make an interesting comparison to the Canadian democratic process as this book focuses on the American political process - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Equality's Call: The Story of Voting Rights Act in America
The founders of the United States declared that consent of the governed was a key part of their plan for the new nation. But for many years, only white men of means were allowed to vote. This history of voting rights looks back at the activists who answered equality’s call, working tirelessly to secure the right for all to vote, and it also looks forward to the future and the work that still needs to be done.
The founders of the United States declared that consent of the governed was a key part of their plan for the new nation. But for many years, only white men of means were allowed to vote. This history of voting rights looks back at the activists who answered equality’s call, working tirelessly to secure the right for all to vote, and it also looks forward to the future and the work that still needs to be done.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Discussion questions can be: What are voting rights? How did individuals fight for their right to vote? Why is it important we have voting rights? - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
The Voting Booth
When Marva sees Duke turned away from their polling place, she takes it upon herself to make sure his vote is counted. She hasn't spent months doorbelling and registering voters just to see someone denied their right. And that's how their whirlwind day begins, rushing from precinct to precinct, cutting school, waiting in endless lines, turned away time and again, trying to do one simple thing: vote. They may have started out as strangers, but as Duke and Marva team up to beat a rigged system (and find Marva's missing cat), it's clear that there's more to their connection than a shared mission for democracy.
When Marva sees Duke turned away from their polling place, she takes it upon herself to make sure his vote is counted. She hasn't spent months doorbelling and registering voters just to see someone denied their right. And that's how their whirlwind day begins, rushing from precinct to precinct, cutting school, waiting in endless lines, turned away time and again, trying to do one simple thing: vote. They may have started out as strangers, but as Duke and Marva team up to beat a rigged system (and find Marva's missing cat), it's clear that there's more to their connection than a shared mission for democracy.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Use this novel as an individual, small group, or whole class novel study
- Discussion questions could be: Why is important that everyone has the right to vote? How does this story demonstrate citizen participation in democracy?
- Projects could include: historical research project about the right to vote, character sketches, student-made graphic novel - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Papa's Mark
A man casts his ballot on the first Election Day on which African Americans were allowed to vote.
A man casts his ballot on the first Election Day on which African Americans were allowed to vote.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Discussion questions can be: What are voting rights? How did individuals fight for their right to vote? Why is it important we have voting rights? What was racial segregation? - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
The Art of the Possible
We all know what a politician looks like, right? They’re old people who wear suits and make long, boring speeches full of indecipherable words. Not so fast! As The Art of the Possible explains, everyone is a politician — even young people who aren’t yet eligible to vote. We all have influence over how politics function.
We all know what a politician looks like, right? They’re old people who wear suits and make long, boring speeches full of indecipherable words. Not so fast! As The Art of the Possible explains, everyone is a politician — even young people who aren’t yet eligible to vote. We all have influence over how politics function.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Use this non-fiction book as a resource for an introduction to politics (Local and Provincial Government, Democracy)
- The case studies in this book provide great historical examples of many of the topics covered in Social Studies
- Students can examine the case studies and do their own research to find out more and teach their classmates about each one
- Includes a glossary of important vocabulary words that students could be added to word walls, personal or visual dictionaries - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Voice of Freedom: Fannie Lou Hamer: The Spirit of the Civil Rights Movement
Fannie Lou Hamer is sick and tired of being sick and tired. Black people are not being treated fairly, and she sees firsthand the effects that racism has on her family and the people around her. She experiences an awakening when she's in her 40s and is asked to help motivate African Americans to become voters. It's the first time she realizes Blacks even have the right to vote. She goes on to become the spirit and the voice of the civil rights movement and helps change the country for the better.
Fannie Lou Hamer is sick and tired of being sick and tired. Black people are not being treated fairly, and she sees firsthand the effects that racism has on her family and the people around her. She experiences an awakening when she's in her 40s and is asked to help motivate African Americans to become voters. It's the first time she realizes Blacks even have the right to vote. She goes on to become the spirit and the voice of the civil rights movement and helps change the country for the better.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Discussion questions can be: What are voting rights? How did individuals fight for their right to vote? Why is it important we have voting rights? - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Crow
In 1898 in Wilmington, N.C., 11-year-old Moses is looking forward to summer. Though his grandmother was born a slave and his mother works as a housekeeper for a rich white family, Moses takes for granted that his journalist father is right: A good education will allow a man to be anything he wants to be, no matter what the color of his skin. But as the summer heats up, so does the political climate. A long-anticipated train trip with his father turns into a run for their lives as they barely escape a rally by white supremacists. A local election triggers a violent race riot, and Moses must reconcile the world his father has told him exists with the world he sees around him.
In 1898 in Wilmington, N.C., 11-year-old Moses is looking forward to summer. Though his grandmother was born a slave and his mother works as a housekeeper for a rich white family, Moses takes for granted that his journalist father is right: A good education will allow a man to be anything he wants to be, no matter what the color of his skin. But as the summer heats up, so does the political climate. A long-anticipated train trip with his father turns into a run for their lives as they barely escape a rally by white supremacists. A local election triggers a violent race riot, and Moses must reconcile the world his father has told him exists with the world he sees around him.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Would work best as either a small group novel study or individual novel study (based on maturity of students)
- Would be beneficial to pre-teach about racial segregation, slavery, and race riots
- Discussion/personal response questions could be: What was racial segregation? How does the main character, Moses, change throughout the novel?
- Projects could include: history research project, character sketches, student-made graphic novel, visual plot diagrams - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Count Me In
Karina Chopra, an Indian American seventh-grader who's just trying to make it through middle school without having to deal with the mean boys in her class. When her beloved grandfather, Papa, moves in with her family, Karina's not sure what to expect. She certainly doesn't anticipate that one of the mean boys, Chris Daniels, will start getting tutored by Papa and actually become her friend. When Papa gets attacked by a racist man telling him to "go home" in front of Karina and Chris, they see that the stories they've heard about on TV are real. The kids decide that they can't stay quiet anymore and use the power of social media, their friends, and their story to showcase the beauty of diversity. Karina uses her voice to bring together her community, fight against hate, and make her home a better place.
Karina Chopra, an Indian American seventh-grader who's just trying to make it through middle school without having to deal with the mean boys in her class. When her beloved grandfather, Papa, moves in with her family, Karina's not sure what to expect. She certainly doesn't anticipate that one of the mean boys, Chris Daniels, will start getting tutored by Papa and actually become her friend. When Papa gets attacked by a racist man telling him to "go home" in front of Karina and Chris, they see that the stories they've heard about on TV are real. The kids decide that they can't stay quiet anymore and use the power of social media, their friends, and their story to showcase the beauty of diversity. Karina uses her voice to bring together her community, fight against hate, and make her home a better place.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Use this novel as an individual, small group, or whole class novel study
- Discussion questions/personal responses could be: What is diversity and how is it shown in the novel? What is racism and how do the characters in this novel experience racism? How can you use social media to stand up for what you believe in?
- Projects could include: character sketches, student-made graphic novel, visual plot diagram, faux social media campaign - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
The Lions of Little Rock
Two girls separated by race form an unbreakable bond during the tumultuous integration of Little Rock schools in 1958.
Two girls separated by race form an unbreakable bond during the tumultuous integration of Little Rock schools in 1958.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Novel study
- Discussion about democracy and social justice: What does having a voice look like? - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Other Words for Home
Jude never thought she’d be leaving her beloved older brother and father behind, all the way across the ocean in Syria. But when things in her hometown start becoming volatile, Jude and her mother are sent to live in Cincinnati with relatives. At first, everything in America seems too fast and too loud. The American movies that Jude has always loved haven’t quite prepared her for starting school in the US—and her new label of “Middle Eastern,” an identity she’s never known before. But this life also brings unexpected surprises—there are new friends, a whole new family, and a school musical that Jude might just try out for. Maybe America, too, is a place where Jude can be seen as she really is.
Jude never thought she’d be leaving her beloved older brother and father behind, all the way across the ocean in Syria. But when things in her hometown start becoming volatile, Jude and her mother are sent to live in Cincinnati with relatives. At first, everything in America seems too fast and too loud. The American movies that Jude has always loved haven’t quite prepared her for starting school in the US—and her new label of “Middle Eastern,” an identity she’s never known before. But this life also brings unexpected surprises—there are new friends, a whole new family, and a school musical that Jude might just try out for. Maybe America, too, is a place where Jude can be seen as she really is.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Discussion on refugees and the immigration experience in Canada
- Discussion questions/personal responses could be: What is 'home'? What is 'home' to you? What are some potential challenges and difficulties with leaving home to a new country? - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Turning 15 on the Road to Freedom: My Story of the Selma Voting Rights March
As the youngest marcher in the 1965 voting rights march from Selma to Montgomery, Albama, Lynda Blackmon Lowery proved that young adults can be heroes. Jailed nine times before her fifteenth birthday, Lowery fought alongside Martin Luther King, Jr. for the rights of African-Americans. In this memoir, she shows today's young readers what it means to fight nonviolently (even when the police are using violence, as in the Bloody Sunday protest) and how it felt to be part of changing American history.
As the youngest marcher in the 1965 voting rights march from Selma to Montgomery, Albama, Lynda Blackmon Lowery proved that young adults can be heroes. Jailed nine times before her fifteenth birthday, Lowery fought alongside Martin Luther King, Jr. for the rights of African-Americans. In this memoir, she shows today's young readers what it means to fight nonviolently (even when the police are using violence, as in the Bloody Sunday protest) and how it felt to be part of changing American history.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Discussion about different ways to resolve conflict
- Discussion about freedoms and rights of protesting and marching - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Almost American Girl
A teen graphic novel memoir about a Korean-born, non-English-speaking girl who is abruptly transplanted from Seoul to Huntsville, Alabama, and struggles with extreme culture shock and isolation, until she discovers her passion for comic arts.
A teen graphic novel memoir about a Korean-born, non-English-speaking girl who is abruptly transplanted from Seoul to Huntsville, Alabama, and struggles with extreme culture shock and isolation, until she discovers her passion for comic arts.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Discussion about culture shock, assimilation, moving from another country and fitting in
- Discussion about the healing properties of art - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
March: Book One
March is a vivid first-hand account of John Lewis’ lifelong struggle for civil and human rights, meditating in the modern age on the distance traveled since the days of Jim Crow and segregation. Rooted in Lewis’ personal story, it also reflects on the highs and lows of the broader civil rights movement.
March is a vivid first-hand account of John Lewis’ lifelong struggle for civil and human rights, meditating in the modern age on the distance traveled since the days of Jim Crow and segregation. Rooted in Lewis’ personal story, it also reflects on the highs and lows of the broader civil rights movement.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Discussion about our rights and freedoms and how we fight for them - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
1919: The Year That Changed America
1919 was a world-shaking year. America was recovering from World War I and black soldiers returned to racism so violent that that summer would become known as the Red Summer. The suffrage movement had a long-fought win when women gained the right to vote.Now, one hundred years later, these same social issues are more relevant than ever. Sandler traces the momentum and setbacks of these movements through this last century, showing that progress isn’t always a straight line and offering a unique lens through which we can understand history and the change many still seek.
1919 was a world-shaking year. America was recovering from World War I and black soldiers returned to racism so violent that that summer would become known as the Red Summer. The suffrage movement had a long-fought win when women gained the right to vote.Now, one hundred years later, these same social issues are more relevant than ever. Sandler traces the momentum and setbacks of these movements through this last century, showing that progress isn’t always a straight line and offering a unique lens through which we can understand history and the change many still seek.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Discussion about our rights and freedoms and how we fight for them
- Study on the history of change in America and how it has impacted Canada - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Wampum Belts of the Iroquois
Guided by their teacher, Tehanetorens, students of the Indian Way School at Akwesasne Mohawk Nation present their authentic replicas of sacred Iroqouis wampum belts and strings, along with descriptions of the meanings of each piece and how they fit into the history of the Iroquois People.
Guided by their teacher, Tehanetorens, students of the Indian Way School at Akwesasne Mohawk Nation present their authentic replicas of sacred Iroqouis wampum belts and strings, along with descriptions of the meanings of each piece and how they fit into the history of the Iroquois People.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.2: Relate texts to culture - Suggested use:
- Use as a supplement to learning about Wampum belts
- Discussion about collective identity - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Goodbye Buffalo Bay
Set during the author's teenaged years. In his last year in residential school, Lawrence learns the power of friendship and finds the courage to stand up for his beliefs. He returns home to find the traditional First Nations life he loved is over. He feels like a stranger to his family until his grandfather's gentle guidance helps him find his way.
Set during the author's teenaged years. In his last year in residential school, Lawrence learns the power of friendship and finds the courage to stand up for his beliefs. He returns home to find the traditional First Nations life he loved is over. He feels like a stranger to his family until his grandfather's gentle guidance helps him find his way.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.2: Relate texts to culture - Suggested use:
- Use this as an independent, small group, or class novel study
- Discussion about growing up, gaining independence, and freedom
- Discussion about individual and collective identity
- Projects could include: character sketches, student-made graphic novel, visual plot diagram, faux social media campaign - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Secret Path
Secret Path is a ten song album by Gord Downie with a graphic novel by illustrator Jeff Lemire that tells the story of Chanie “Charlie” Wenjack, a twelve-year-old boy who died in flight from the Cecilia Jeffrey Indian Residential School fifty years ago.
Secret Path is a ten song album by Gord Downie with a graphic novel by illustrator Jeff Lemire that tells the story of Chanie “Charlie” Wenjack, a twelve-year-old boy who died in flight from the Cecilia Jeffrey Indian Residential School fifty years ago.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- How can learning about Chanie's experience help us better children's rights in the present?
- Discussion about rights and freedoms and how in the past (and present) marginalized groups were/are excluded from certain ones - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Apple (Skin to the Core)
Apple: Skin to the Core, is a memoir-in-verse. Eric Gansworth tells the story of his life, of an Onondaga family living among Tuscaroras, and of Native people in America, including the damaging legacy of government boarding schools—and in doing so grapples with the slur common in Native communities, for someone “red on the outside, white on the inside,” and reclaims it.
Apple: Skin to the Core, is a memoir-in-verse. Eric Gansworth tells the story of his life, of an Onondaga family living among Tuscaroras, and of Native people in America, including the damaging legacy of government boarding schools—and in doing so grapples with the slur common in Native communities, for someone “red on the outside, white on the inside,” and reclaims it.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.2: Relate texts to culture - Suggested use:
- Discussion about assimilation, residential schools, truth and reconciliation, reclamation
- Link the story to how the act of truth and reconciliation is bringing about change through an examination of our past and its effects on the Indigenous Peoples in Canada - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Children of the Longhouse
When Ohkwa'ri overhears a group of older boys planning a raid on a neighboring village, he immediately tells his Mohawk elders. He has done the right thing—but he has also made enemies. Grabber and his friends will do anything they can to hurt him, especially during the village-wide game of Tekwaarathon (lacrosse). Ohkwa'ri believes in the path of peace, but can peaceful ways work against Grabber's wrath?
When Ohkwa'ri overhears a group of older boys planning a raid on a neighboring village, he immediately tells his Mohawk elders. He has done the right thing—but he has also made enemies. Grabber and his friends will do anything they can to hurt him, especially during the village-wide game of Tekwaarathon (lacrosse). Ohkwa'ri believes in the path of peace, but can peaceful ways work against Grabber's wrath?
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.2: Relate texts to culture - Suggested use:
- Discussion about conflict, peace, and doing the right thing
- Novel study - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Giving Thanks
Giving Thanks is a special children's version of the Thanksgiving Address, a message of gratitude that originated with the Native people of upstate New York and Canada and that is still spoken at ceremonial gatherings held by the Iroquois, or Six Nations.
Giving Thanks is a special children's version of the Thanksgiving Address, a message of gratitude that originated with the Native people of upstate New York and Canada and that is still spoken at ceremonial gatherings held by the Iroquois, or Six Nations.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Use at Thanksgiving time, acknowledging its problematic past
- Discussion about tradition, gratitude - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Walking Two Worlds
So begins this inspiring story of the early education of a famous Native American who gained greatness in the white man's world while staying true to his Seneca people. Hasanoanda was his Indian name. But in mission school he became Ely. He encountered racism and deceit but, against all odds, did not give up on his quest to walk between two worlds.
So begins this inspiring story of the early education of a famous Native American who gained greatness in the white man's world while staying true to his Seneca people. Hasanoanda was his Indian name. But in mission school he became Ely. He encountered racism and deceit but, against all odds, did not give up on his quest to walk between two worlds.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Discussion about authenticity, resiliency, racism, residential schools, assimilation
- Novel study - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
The Legend of the Skeleton Man: Skeleton Man and the Return of the Skeleton Man
Molly’s father grew up on the Mohawk Reserve of Akwesasne, where he learned the best scary stories. One of her favorites was the legend of Skeleton Man, a gruesome tale about a man with a deadly, insatiable hunger. But ever since her parents mysteriously vanished, those spooky tales have started to feel all too real.
Molly’s father grew up on the Mohawk Reserve of Akwesasne, where he learned the best scary stories. One of her favorites was the legend of Skeleton Man, a gruesome tale about a man with a deadly, insatiable hunger. But ever since her parents mysteriously vanished, those spooky tales have started to feel all too real.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Compare tales or folklores that students have heard with The Legend of the Skeleton Man
- Novel study - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
The Mask That Sang
Cass and her mom have always stood on their own against the world. Then Cass learns she had a grandmother, one who was never part of her life, one who has just died and left her and her mother the first house they could call their own. But with it comes more questions than answers.
Cass and her mom have always stood on their own against the world. Then Cass learns she had a grandmother, one who was never part of her life, one who has just died and left her and her mother the first house they could call their own. But with it comes more questions than answers.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Novel study - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Fatty Legs: A True Story
Eight-year-old Margaret Pokiak has set her sights on learning to read, even though it means leaving her village in the high Arctic. Faced with unceasing pressure, her father finally agrees to let her make the five-day journey to attend school, but he warns Margaret of the terrors of residential schools.
Eight-year-old Margaret Pokiak has set her sights on learning to read, even though it means leaving her village in the high Arctic. Faced with unceasing pressure, her father finally agrees to let her make the five-day journey to attend school, but he warns Margaret of the terrors of residential schools.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Discussion about residential schools, resiliency, determination, access to education
- Link the story to ideals of equity and fairness in education
- Related reading: When I Was Eight, makes the bestselling Fatty Legs accessible to younger readers - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
If You Lived With the Iroquois
This book describes what life was like for the Iroquois hundreds of years ago. By putting the reader in the empathetic position of posing the information as questions, the reader is drawn into the subject matter in a realistic and exciting way. The reader discovers the rich culture of the Iroquois from their festivals, religion, education, work, and beliefs.
This book describes what life was like for the Iroquois hundreds of years ago. By putting the reader in the empathetic position of posing the information as questions, the reader is drawn into the subject matter in a realistic and exciting way. The reader discovers the rich culture of the Iroquois from their festivals, religion, education, work, and beliefs.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.2: Relate texts to culture - Suggested use:
- Novel study - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Jingle Dancer
The warm, evocative watercolors of Cornelius Van Wright and Ying-Hwa Hu complement author Cynthia Leitich Smith's lyrical text as she tells the affirming story of how a contemporary Native American girl turns to her family and community to help her dance find a voice.
The warm, evocative watercolors of Cornelius Van Wright and Ying-Hwa Hu complement author Cynthia Leitich Smith's lyrical text as she tells the affirming story of how a contemporary Native American girl turns to her family and community to help her dance find a voice.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.2: Relate texts to culture - Suggested use:
- Further research the tradition of jingle dancing
- Discussion about finding your voice to self-advocate - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
A Very Small Rebellion
The man in the poster is Louis Riel, and in this powerfully wrought historical novel by Jan Truss, Paul Gauthier has been chosen to play Riel in a school play at a time in his life when new menaces threaten the small Metis settlement where he lives with his family.
The man in the poster is Louis Riel, and in this powerfully wrought historical novel by Jan Truss, Paul Gauthier has been chosen to play Riel in a school play at a time in his life when new menaces threaten the small Metis settlement where he lives with his family.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.3: Celebrate accomplishments and events - Suggested use:
- Novel study
- Discussion about advocacy
- Discussion about the different ways people have tried to fight for their rights and freedoms - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Black Sheep, White Crow and Other Windmill Tales: Stories from Navajo Country
When Kameron moves to his grandma's sheep camp on the Navajo Reservation, he leaves behind his cell phone reception and his friends. The young boy's world becomes even stranger when Kameron takes the sheep out to the local windmill and meets an old storyteller. As the seasons turn, the old man weaves eight tales that teach the deeper story of the Diné country and the Diné people.
When Kameron moves to his grandma's sheep camp on the Navajo Reservation, he leaves behind his cell phone reception and his friends. The young boy's world becomes even stranger when Kameron takes the sheep out to the local windmill and meets an old storyteller. As the seasons turn, the old man weaves eight tales that teach the deeper story of the Diné country and the Diné people.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Use during storying telling unit
- Unpack and study each story's significance
- Use as an entry point to learning more about the Diné culture - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
The Birchbark House
First book in a five book series known as The Birchbark series. The story follows the life of Omakayas and her Ojibwe community beginning in 1847 near present-day Lake Superior.
First book in a five book series known as The Birchbark series. The story follows the life of Omakayas and her Ojibwe community beginning in 1847 near present-day Lake Superior.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.2: Relate texts to culture - Suggested use:
- Novel study - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
The Hate U Give
Starr Carter, an African-American teenager, faces pressure from various communities and tries to stand up for what is right after she witnesses the shooting of her best friend by the police.
Starr Carter, an African-American teenager, faces pressure from various communities and tries to stand up for what is right after she witnesses the shooting of her best friend by the police.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Novel study
- Discussion on rights and freedoms in Canada, and how certain groups were/are not able to practice them due to systems of oppression
- Discussion on how the events that transpired in the novel sparked change - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Weedflower
Sixth-grader Sumiko's family is uprooted from its California flower farm and forced into an Arizona internment camp when the United States joins World War II. Sumiko slowly finds her way in her new life, creating a garden and befriending a boy from the Mohave reservation. But once she's settled, will her family have to move yet again?
Sixth-grader Sumiko's family is uprooted from its California flower farm and forced into an Arizona internment camp when the United States joins World War II. Sumiko slowly finds her way in her new life, creating a garden and befriending a boy from the Mohave reservation. But once she's settled, will her family have to move yet again?
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Novel study
- Discussion and analysis on past attempts and methods to fight for rights and freedoms - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
American Born Chinese
American Born Chinese tells the story of three apparently unrelated characters: Jin Wang, who moves to a new neighborhood with his family only to discover that he's the only Chinese-American student at his new school.
American Born Chinese tells the story of three apparently unrelated characters: Jin Wang, who moves to a new neighborhood with his family only to discover that he's the only Chinese-American student at his new school.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Novel study
- Project in the form of a graphic novel as a class
- Discussion about marginalized groups, self-advocacy
- Discussion about bicultural identity - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Genesis Begins Again
This is the story of a thirteen-year-old girl who is filled with self-loathing and must overcome internalized racism and a verbally abusive family to finally learn to love herself.
This is the story of a thirteen-year-old girl who is filled with self-loathing and must overcome internalized racism and a verbally abusive family to finally learn to love herself.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Discussion about self-advocacy
- Analysis on the impact of systemic racism on individuals rights and freedoms
- Discussion about liberation from oppressive systems - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Mare's War
Meet Mare, a grandmother with flair and a fascinating past. Octavia and Tali are dreading the road trip their parents are forcing them to take with their grandmother over the summer. After all, Mare isn't your typical grandmother. She drives a red sports car, wears stiletto shoes, flippy wigs, and push-up bras, and insists that she's too young to be called Grandma. But somewhere on the road, Octavia and Tali discover there's more to Mare than what you see. She was once a willful teenager who escaped her less-than-perfect life in the deep South and lied about her age to join the African American battalion of the Women's Army Corps during World War II.
Meet Mare, a grandmother with flair and a fascinating past. Octavia and Tali are dreading the road trip their parents are forcing them to take with their grandmother over the summer. After all, Mare isn't your typical grandmother. She drives a red sports car, wears stiletto shoes, flippy wigs, and push-up bras, and insists that she's too young to be called Grandma. But somewhere on the road, Octavia and Tali discover there's more to Mare than what you see. She was once a willful teenager who escaped her less-than-perfect life in the deep South and lied about her age to join the African American battalion of the Women's Army Corps during World War II.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Novel study
- Discussion and analysis on past attempts and methods to fight for rights and freedoms - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
A Moment Comes
Before India was divided, three teens, each from wildly different backgrounds, cross paths. And then, in one moment, their futures become irrevocably intertwined.
Before India was divided, three teens, each from wildly different backgrounds, cross paths. And then, in one moment, their futures become irrevocably intertwined.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Novel study
- Discussion/ analysis on past attempts and methods to fight for rights and freedoms - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
Does My Head Look Big in This?
Sixteen-year-old Amal makes the decision to start wearing the hijab full-time and everyone has a reaction. Her parents, her teachers, her friends, people on the street. But she stands by her decision to embrace her faith and all that it is, even if it does make her a little different from everyone else.
Sixteen-year-old Amal makes the decision to start wearing the hijab full-time and everyone has a reaction. Her parents, her teachers, her friends, people on the street. But she stands by her decision to embrace her faith and all that it is, even if it does make her a little different from everyone else.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1.1: Appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Novel study
- Discussion on how people practice their rights and freedoms in Canada - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Visually impaired students may benefit from a read aloud that includes descriptions of images and events on each page
G.O 1: Explore thoughts, ideas, feelings, experiences
Restorative Justice, Empathy, and Loving Engagement
This lesson is most effective if students have already begun exploring social justice issues like racism or gender stereotypes. Students will be reflecting on the difference between what others might assume about them and how they truly are on the inside.
Restorative Justice, Empathy, and Loving Engagement
This lesson is most effective if students have already begun exploring social justice issues like racism or gender stereotypes. Students will be reflecting on the difference between what others might assume about them and how they truly are on the inside.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Activities are outlined in the resource - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing, visually impaired, and nonverbal. Some accommodations required based on specific student needs, but generally accessible to all
Different Colours of Beauty: Looking at Race and Racial Identity in Children's Books
In this lesson, students examine and talk openly about the concept of beauty, especially as it overlaps with race and racial identity. This activity will help students acquire vocabulary for orally critiquing author and illustrator choices; make text-to-self and text-to-text connections using picture and chapter books; talk about racial identity openly and consider the harmful potential of racial stereotypes; become active readers capable of finding and critiquing hidden messages in texts; develop a sense of belonging in relation to the literature in their school and classroom library, and; build a safe and supportive classroom community where students can engage in literacy development together.
In this lesson, students examine and talk openly about the concept of beauty, especially as it overlaps with race and racial identity. This activity will help students acquire vocabulary for orally critiquing author and illustrator choices; make text-to-self and text-to-text connections using picture and chapter books; talk about racial identity openly and consider the harmful potential of racial stereotypes; become active readers capable of finding and critiquing hidden messages in texts; develop a sense of belonging in relation to the literature in their school and classroom library, and; build a safe and supportive classroom community where students can engage in literacy development together.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Activities are outlined in the resource - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal (excluding discussion portion)
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students and visually impaired students
Who Is An Immigrant?
In this lesson, students examine themselves within various contexts—including family, culture and community—as a means to better understand who they are as individuals and who they are in relation to people around them.
In this lesson, students examine themselves within various contexts—including family, culture and community—as a means to better understand who they are as individuals and who they are in relation to people around them.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Resource provides activity plans - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
Joelito's Big Decision
Every Friday evening 9 year old Joelito goes with his family to MacMann’s for a juicy burger. But this Friday is different. This time, Joelito’s best friend Brandon is standing in a crowd protesting the low pay his parents earn at the fast food restaurant. Will Joelito cross the picket line for a tasty burger? Find out in Joelito’s Big Decision. Activity for the book can be found here.
Every Friday evening 9 year old Joelito goes with his family to MacMann’s for a juicy burger. But this Friday is different. This time, Joelito’s best friend Brandon is standing in a crowd protesting the low pay his parents earn at the fast food restaurant. Will Joelito cross the picket line for a tasty burger? Find out in Joelito’s Big Decision. Activity for the book can be found here.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2: Respond to texts
- 2.2.1: Experience various texts - Suggested use:
- Read aloud to spark discussion on economic inequality, especially with immigrant workers - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal (excluding discussion portion) and hard of hearing
- Additional accommodations required for visually impaired students
G.O 2: Comprehend & respond critically and personally to a variety of texts
Reconciliation Conversations - Language and Culture
Explore the Google slide as a group. Afterwards, ask students to reflect on the prompts below. They may write down some of their ideas. You may also decide to discuss these questions in small groups or as a large group. Discussion questions: How are your own language and culture linked? How might your language impact how you view the world? Is your language a part of your identity? In what way? When a language disappears, what do we lose? How can we ensure the survival of Indigenous languages? How is learning an Indigenous language an act of reconciliation?
Reconciliation Conversations - Language and Culture
Explore the Google slide as a group. Afterwards, ask students to reflect on the prompts below. They may write down some of their ideas. You may also decide to discuss these questions in small groups or as a large group. Discussion questions: How are your own language and culture linked? How might your language impact how you view the world? Is your language a part of your identity? In what way? When a language disappears, what do we lose? How can we ensure the survival of Indigenous languages? How is learning an Indigenous language an act of reconciliation?
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2: Respond to texts
- 2.4.2: Elaborate on the expression of ideas - Suggested use:
- Resource has details on how to use on page 22 of the PDF - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal (excluding discussion portion)
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students and visually impaired students
G.O 3: Manage ideas and information
Looking Closely at Ourselves
In this lesson, students explore race and self-identity by creating self-portraits. The lesson aims to help students develop detailed observational skills and use these skills in relation to themselves and others. It also begins constructing a vocabulary that is crucial in helping build community and discuss some of the more challenging aspects of race and racial identity formation.
Looking Closely at Ourselves
In this lesson, students explore race and self-identity by creating self-portraits. The lesson aims to help students develop detailed observational skills and use these skills in relation to themselves and others. It also begins constructing a vocabulary that is crucial in helping build community and discuss some of the more challenging aspects of race and racial identity formation.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.3: Organize record evaluate
- 3.3.3: Evaluate information - Suggested use:
- Lesson plan included - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
Different Colours of Beauty: Reflection
The goal of this lesson is to help students develop their racial or ethnic identities in a safe and open classroom environment, and appreciate the broad spectrum of beauty in our diverse, multicultural world. This activity will help students: understand that no racial group is superior to any other; synthesize a variety of ways for understanding the importance of tolerance; appreciate the importance of reflecting on past work; see the development in their own and others’ thinking over time; apply knowledge and understandings gained to considering their role as activists in their school, home and community.
The goal of this lesson is to help students develop their racial or ethnic identities in a safe and open classroom environment, and appreciate the broad spectrum of beauty in our diverse, multicultural world. This activity will help students: understand that no racial group is superior to any other; synthesize a variety of ways for understanding the importance of tolerance; appreciate the importance of reflecting on past work; see the development in their own and others’ thinking over time; apply knowledge and understandings gained to considering their role as activists in their school, home and community.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.4: Share and Review
- 3.4.1: Share ideas/information - Suggested use:
- Connect to a writing task such as writing a series of autobiographies or biographies for the class where each part relates to one of the lessons - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing, visually impaired, and nonverbal. Some accommodations required based on specific student needs, but generally accessible to all
Understanding My Family's History
After exposure to relevant literature in class, students will research their family history by interviewing their parents. They will use this information along with visual props to tell their story to classmates. At the end of the lesson, students will: gain a deeper understanding of their family’s history and heritage identify on a world map the countries from which their families originated; understand that immigrants from all over the world come to the United States/Canada to start new lives; enduring Understanding: Understanding your family history and background helps you better understand your heritage, customs, and family values. It also helps you understand the role of your culture’s roots in shaping North American culture.
After exposure to relevant literature in class, students will research their family history by interviewing their parents. They will use this information along with visual props to tell their story to classmates. At the end of the lesson, students will: gain a deeper understanding of their family’s history and heritage identify on a world map the countries from which their families originated; understand that immigrants from all over the world come to the United States/Canada to start new lives; enduring Understanding: Understanding your family history and background helps you better understand your heritage, customs, and family values. It also helps you understand the role of your culture’s roots in shaping North American culture.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.1: Plan and focus
- 3.1.2: Determine information needs and plan together - Suggested use:
- Website has details on how to use - Accessibility:
-Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
Activism Online
In this activity, students will be able to define ways in which they can engage in online activism, consider the strengths and challenges of using internet as a tool for online activism, and identify or work on a pressing problem within their school or community.
In this activity, students will be able to define ways in which they can engage in online activism, consider the strengths and challenges of using internet as a tool for online activism, and identify or work on a pressing problem within their school or community.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.1: Plan and focus
- 3.1.2: Determine information needs and plan together - Suggested use:
- Lesson on internet activism and how you can make a change using your voice on social media
- Can be adapted for students who are unfamiliar with or who do not use social media by using examples of how news articles are an important tool for activism - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students depending on reading abilities
- Additional accommodations required for visually impaired students
Exploring My Identity
In this lesson, students will describe aspects of their identities such as race, gender, ability, religion and more. Then after exploring Marley Dias' Black Girls Books campaign, students will analyze book illustrations and write their own book review noting how characters are similar and different from them.
In this lesson, students will describe aspects of their identities such as race, gender, ability, religion and more. Then after exploring Marley Dias' Black Girls Books campaign, students will analyze book illustrations and write their own book review noting how characters are similar and different from them.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.3: Organize record evaluate
- 3.3.3: Evaluate information - Suggested use:
- Lesson on students' individual identities with an opportunity to explore a variety of diverse texts to compare themselves with characters they see in their books
- Can be extended to a writing activity where students rewrite familiar/common stories to change characters to themselves/people they are familiar with to adapt the story with their own unique cultural lens - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal (excluding discussion portion)
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students and visually impaired students
Examining Identity and Assimilation
In this activity, students will examine identity and assimilation by engaging in written activities and discussion about whether there is any part of their identity which they have had to hide. They will read an essay called "Magic Carpet," where Mitali Perkins writes about learning to see her rich heritage through critical colonial eyes as a young girl in New York and her struggle to reclaim her history as an adult.
In this activity, students will examine identity and assimilation by engaging in written activities and discussion about whether there is any part of their identity which they have had to hide. They will read an essay called "Magic Carpet," where Mitali Perkins writes about learning to see her rich heritage through critical colonial eyes as a young girl in New York and her struggle to reclaim her history as an adult.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.3: Organize record evaluate
- 3.3.3: Evaluate information - Suggested use:
- Lesson on identity, culture, shame, and assimilation to 'fit in' or 'belong' - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal (excluding discussion portion)
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students and visually impaired students
Slavery
In this lesson, students will have a discussion on slavery and read a book related to slavery in Canada. After this, students create a mind map of keywords that jump out at them in bubbles on a blank 11 by 17 sized page. After reading, ask students to draw connecting lines between specific words that naturally fit together for them. Ask students to write their ideas on those lines to retell part of the story in their own words or explain how those two words are related.
In this lesson, students will have a discussion on slavery and read a book related to slavery in Canada. After this, students create a mind map of keywords that jump out at them in bubbles on a blank 11 by 17 sized page. After reading, ask students to draw connecting lines between specific words that naturally fit together for them. Ask students to write their ideas on those lines to retell part of the story in their own words or explain how those two words are related.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.2: Select and Process
- 3.3.1: Organize information - Suggested use:
- Activities are outlined in the resource - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal (excluding discussion portion)
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students and visually impaired students
Family Colours: Interviewing Our Families
In this lesson, students will: understand and implement interviewing skills, including planning, asking questions, taking notes and reporting on interviews; consider issues from multiple viewpoints; make connections between their family’s values and the values of their school community; develop vocabulary for discussing race, skin color, beauty and history, and; gain oral language skills for reporting and discussing information. The goal of this session is to help students develop their racial and ethnic identities in a safe and open classroom environment, while being aware of our diverse world.
In this lesson, students will: understand and implement interviewing skills, including planning, asking questions, taking notes and reporting on interviews; consider issues from multiple viewpoints; make connections between their family’s values and the values of their school community; develop vocabulary for discussing race, skin color, beauty and history, and; gain oral language skills for reporting and discussing information. The goal of this session is to help students develop their racial and ethnic identities in a safe and open classroom environment, while being aware of our diverse world.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.3: Organize record evaluate
- 3.3.3 evaluate ideas - Suggested use:
- Activities are outlined in the resource - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal (excluding discussion portion)
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students and visually impaired students
Segregation
In this lesson, students will learn about racism through an interactive class activity. In the extension portion of this lesson plan, students will read 4 books focusing on racism and do written responses on these books.
In this lesson, students will learn about racism through an interactive class activity. In the extension portion of this lesson plan, students will read 4 books focusing on racism and do written responses on these books.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.1: Plan and focus
- 3.2.1: Use a variety of sources - Suggested use:
- Resource has details on how to use on page 3 - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal (excluding discussion portion) and hard of hearing
- Additional accommodations required for visually impaired students
Miscellaneous
I am Somebody: Story Poems for Pride and Power!
African American storyteller Linda Gorham tells this upbeat and moving celebration of Linda’s family tree and heritage. The lesson plan guides teachers to invite “pride poems” from their students.
I am Somebody: Story Poems for Pride and Power!
African American storyteller Linda Gorham tells this upbeat and moving celebration of Linda’s family tree and heritage. The lesson plan guides teachers to invite “pride poems” from their students.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and Explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Website has details on how to use - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal (excluding discussion portion)
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students and visually impaired students
Analyzing Gender Stereotypes in Media
This lesson helps students analyze and critique messages about gender that they get from various media. Students will focus on toys and toy advertisements, challenging themselves to think past what advertisements tell them about their gender identity.
This lesson helps students analyze and critique messages about gender that they get from various media. Students will focus on toys and toy advertisements, challenging themselves to think past what advertisements tell them about their gender identity.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and Explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Website has details on how to use - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal (excluding discussion portion)
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students and visually impaired students
Community Mural / Poster Campaign
Students create a large-scale artistic depiction in a community space. As an alternative to the community mural, students can create a set of informational posters that reflect a diversity topic or social justice theme.
Students create a large-scale artistic depiction in a community space. As an alternative to the community mural, students can create a set of informational posters that reflect a diversity topic or social justice theme.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1 Respect others and strengthen community: appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Website has details on how to use - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students and visually impaired students
Community Newsletter
Students compile and publish a showcase of artwork and nonfiction writing addressing issues found in the central text. The result is a creative representation of student learning, opinions and ideas.
Students compile and publish a showcase of artwork and nonfiction writing addressing issues found in the central text. The result is a creative representation of student learning, opinions and ideas.
- Curriculum connection:
- 5.1 Respect others and strengthen community: appreciate diversity - Suggested use:
- Website has details on how to use - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students and visually impaired students
View other relevant short films in Grade 6 Social Studies section that can be used for English as well.
G.O 1: Explore thoughts, ideas, feelings, experiences
The Friends of Kwan Ming
This animated short tells the story of Kwan Ming, a man who left China to live and work in the New World. Once at destination, Kwan Ming and three traveling companions look for work but find nothing. When opportunities finally arise, Kwan Ming lets his friends have the best jobs and takes a lowly position as helper to a mean storeowner. But his generosity pays off when his friends help him with a very difficult task.
The Friends of Kwan Ming
This animated short tells the story of Kwan Ming, a man who left China to live and work in the New World. Once at destination, Kwan Ming and three traveling companions look for work but find nothing. When opportunities finally arise, Kwan Ming lets his friends have the best jobs and takes a lowly position as helper to a mean storeowner. But his generosity pays off when his friends help him with a very difficult task.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and Explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Discussion prompt on sacrifice, community, found family - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, captioned by creator (dependent on student reading abilities)
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind
Based on the true story of William Kamkwamba, this film follows a 13-year-old boy as he comes up with an ingenious way to save his Malawi village from famine. As well as being an uplifting and inspiring story, it's an important reminder that living free from poverty and political unrest should never be taken for granted.
Based on the true story of William Kamkwamba, this film follows a 13-year-old boy as he comes up with an ingenious way to save his Malawi village from famine. As well as being an uplifting and inspiring story, it's an important reminder that living free from poverty and political unrest should never be taken for granted.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and explore
- 1.2.3: Extend understanding - Suggested use:
- Writing activity for reflection of the message and content of the film, character analysis, reflection on what they learned, personal connections - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, captioned by creator (dependent on student reading abilities)
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Hidden Figures
Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson - who were influential to the US space race in the 1960s. Working at NASA, these women were invaluable to ensuring that the team getting the first man on the moon - Neil Armstrong - landed and returned back to Earth safely. This movie demonstrates the invaluable contributions of these three female mathematicians, and displays the hardships they had to endure at NASA to prove their worth.
Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson - who were influential to the US space race in the 1960s. Working at NASA, these women were invaluable to ensuring that the team getting the first man on the moon - Neil Armstrong - landed and returned back to Earth safely. This movie demonstrates the invaluable contributions of these three female mathematicians, and displays the hardships they had to endure at NASA to prove their worth.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Perspective writing prompt from character's perspective to reflect on what they might feel & how this experience has impacted their identity - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, captioned by creator (dependent on student reading abilities)
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
The Color of Friendship
This Disney Channel Original Movie is set in 1977 and tells the true story of two girls: Mahree, the black daughter of a congressman from Washington, D.C., and Piper, a white girl from apartheid South Africa. The two end up learning more about each other's countries than they could have ever imagined.
This Disney Channel Original Movie is set in 1977 and tells the true story of two girls: Mahree, the black daughter of a congressman from Washington, D.C., and Piper, a white girl from apartheid South Africa. The two end up learning more about each other's countries than they could have ever imagined.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and explore
- 1.2.3: Extend understanding - Suggested use:
- Writing activity for reflection of the message and content of the film, character analysis, reflection on what they learned, personal connections - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, captioned by creator (dependent on student reading abilities)
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Queen of Katwe
This biographical drama is set in the slum of Katwe in Kampala, Uganda, telling the story of 10-year-old Phiona Mutesi, whose life is changed forever after a visiting missionary teaches her how to play chess. Phiona eventually becomes an international chess prodigy, though she contends with plenty of poverty, violence, and racism along the way.
This biographical drama is set in the slum of Katwe in Kampala, Uganda, telling the story of 10-year-old Phiona Mutesi, whose life is changed forever after a visiting missionary teaches her how to play chess. Phiona eventually becomes an international chess prodigy, though she contends with plenty of poverty, violence, and racism along the way.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Perspective writing prompt from character's perspective to reflect on what they might feel & how this experience has impacted their identity & relationship with their family & culture - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, captioned by creator (dependent on student reading abilities)
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Ruby Bridges
This movie is based on the real-life story of the titular Ruby Bridges, a six-year-old girl who became one of the first Black students to attend an integrated school in the Deep South. When Ruby is selected to attend an all-white school in New Orleans in 1960, she's totally unprepared for the uproar, but with the help of her teacher and a child psychologist, she's able to better cope with the ugliness of racism.
This movie is based on the real-life story of the titular Ruby Bridges, a six-year-old girl who became one of the first Black students to attend an integrated school in the Deep South. When Ruby is selected to attend an all-white school in New Orleans in 1960, she's totally unprepared for the uproar, but with the help of her teacher and a child psychologist, she's able to better cope with the ugliness of racism.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Personal writing prompt to reflect on what they might feel & how this impacts identity & relationship with family & culture
- Discussion around concepts of empathy, community, justice, power, activism, resistance, allyship & solidarity, equity
- Group discussion on the impacts of education and how it can be a liberating experience or part of an anti-oppressive resistance to power
- Discuss ways that education has been used in various times & places for both positive and negative purposes (i.e. residential schools) and what makes education a meaningful tool for resistance, anti-oppression, and justice - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, captioned by creator (dependent on student reading abilities)
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Balakrishna
When an extraordinary new resident – Balakrishna, an Indian elephant – arrived in the town of East River, Nova Scotia, in 1967, no one was more in awe of the creature than young Winton Cook, who became inseparable from his mammoth new friend. Using painterly animation, photographs and home-movie treasures, Balakrishna transmits the wistfulness of childhood memories, while evoking themes of friendship and loss, and issues of immigration and elephant conservation.
When an extraordinary new resident – Balakrishna, an Indian elephant – arrived in the town of East River, Nova Scotia, in 1967, no one was more in awe of the creature than young Winton Cook, who became inseparable from his mammoth new friend. Using painterly animation, photographs and home-movie treasures, Balakrishna transmits the wistfulness of childhood memories, while evoking themes of friendship and loss, and issues of immigration and elephant conservation.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Perspective writing prompt from character's perspective to reflect on what they might feel & how this experience has impacted their identity & relationship with their family & culture - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, captioned by creator (dependent on student reading abilities)
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Ice Breakers
Josh Crooks is a promising teen hockey star in a sport where Black players like him are chronically underrepresented. Ice Breakers reveals the buried history of a pioneering Black hockey league in Atlantic Canada, as Crooks discovers that his unshakable passion is tied to a rich and remarkable heritage.
Josh Crooks is a promising teen hockey star in a sport where Black players like him are chronically underrepresented. Ice Breakers reveals the buried history of a pioneering Black hockey league in Atlantic Canada, as Crooks discovers that his unshakable passion is tied to a rich and remarkable heritage.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Personal writing prompt to reflect on what they might feel & how this impacts identity & relationship with family & culture
- Discussion around concepts of empathy, community, justice, power, activism, resistance, allyship & solidarity, equity
- Research historical references in the movie about Black hockey players & leagues in Canada, and to other Canadian sports/leagues formed by Black/racialized communities (i.e. Amber Valley baseball teams) and create an educational campaign within your school to spread awareness of this rich history - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, captioned by creator (dependent on student reading abilities)
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Akeelah and the Bee
A little girl from a tough neighborhood in LA learns she's got a knack for spelling—and that she doesn't need to change herself to fit in. Lawrence Fishburn stars as the spelling tutor who coaches her to the Scripps National Spelling Bee while teaching her to believe in herself. Note: There is some mild profanity in the film, so parents who have a no-tolerance policy toward this may want to wait a few more years.
A little girl from a tough neighborhood in LA learns she's got a knack for spelling—and that she doesn't need to change herself to fit in. Lawrence Fishburn stars as the spelling tutor who coaches her to the Scripps National Spelling Bee while teaching her to believe in herself. Note: There is some mild profanity in the film, so parents who have a no-tolerance policy toward this may want to wait a few more years.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Perspective writing prompt from character's perspective to reflect on what they might feel & how this experience has impacted their identity
- Discussion around concepts of empathy, community, justice, power, activism, resistance, identity - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, captioned by creator (dependent on student reading abilities)
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Bao
In “Bao,” an aging Chinese mom suffering from empty nest syndrome gets another chance at motherhood when one of her dumplings springs to life as a lively, giggly dumpling boy. Mom excitedly welcomes this new bundle of joy into her life, but Dumpling starts growing up fast, and Mom must come to the bittersweet revelation that nothing stays cute and small forever. This short film from Pixar Animation Studios and director Domee Shi explores the ups and downs of the parent-child relationship through the colorful, rich, and tasty lens of the Chinese immigrant community in Canada.
In “Bao,” an aging Chinese mom suffering from empty nest syndrome gets another chance at motherhood when one of her dumplings springs to life as a lively, giggly dumpling boy. Mom excitedly welcomes this new bundle of joy into her life, but Dumpling starts growing up fast, and Mom must come to the bittersweet revelation that nothing stays cute and small forever. This short film from Pixar Animation Studios and director Domee Shi explores the ups and downs of the parent-child relationship through the colorful, rich, and tasty lens of the Chinese immigrant community in Canada.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Perspective writing prompt from character's perspective to reflect on what they might feel - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, captioned by creator (dependent on student reading abilities)
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
A Ballerina’s Tale
This is the story of Misty Copeland, the first African-American principal dancer at the American Ballet Theater. Not only is Copeland a powerful role model for young aspiring dancers, but she shines a light on the very white world of classical ballet, and how people of color like her are breaking the glass ceiling.
This is the story of Misty Copeland, the first African-American principal dancer at the American Ballet Theater. Not only is Copeland a powerful role model for young aspiring dancers, but she shines a light on the very white world of classical ballet, and how people of color like her are breaking the glass ceiling.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Perspective writing prompt from Misty's perspective to reflect on what she might feel & how this experience has impacted her identity & relationship with their family & culture, and craft of ballet
- Opportunity for movement/dance/drama based learning - have students create their own dance piece (or other type of art they feel connected to) to represent Misty's story - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, captioned by creator (dependent on student reading abilities)
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Wadjda
The first movie to be directed by a Saudi Arabian woman, this story of a spunky, independent 11-year-old girl who wants to ride a bike, wears Converse sneakers and loves to compete against her (male) best friend. Beautifully done, the film explores topics such as religious traditions and laws, but it's also an incredible study of female empowerment. Follow along, and cheer for Wadjda as she fiercely makes a place for herself in the world.
The first movie to be directed by a Saudi Arabian woman, this story of a spunky, independent 11-year-old girl who wants to ride a bike, wears Converse sneakers and loves to compete against her (male) best friend. Beautifully done, the film explores topics such as religious traditions and laws, but it's also an incredible study of female empowerment. Follow along, and cheer for Wadjda as she fiercely makes a place for herself in the world.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Perspective writing prompt from character's perspective to reflect on what they might feel & how this experience has impacted their identity & relationship with their family & culture - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, captioned by creator (dependent on student reading abilities)
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
The Tale of the Princess Kaguya
This animated film is the re-telling of a 10th-century Japanese fable about a princess who sprouts from a bamboo stalk. Not only does it give kids a glimpse of traditional Japanese culture, but it also has strong messages about the importance of love and encouragement. Also available on Netflix.
This animated film is the re-telling of a 10th-century Japanese fable about a princess who sprouts from a bamboo stalk. Not only does it give kids a glimpse of traditional Japanese culture, but it also has strong messages about the importance of love and encouragement. Also available on Netflix.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Perspective writing prompt from character's perspective to reflect on what they might feel & how this experience has impacted their identity & relationship with their family & culture - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, captioned by creator (dependent on student reading abilities)
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
From Far Away
This short animation tells the story of Saoussan, a young girl struggling to adjust to life in Canada after being uprooted from her wartorn homeland. She has come to seek a quieter and safer life, although memories of war and death linger, memories that are awakened when the children at her new school prepare for a scary Halloween. From Far Away speaks to the power within us all to adapt like Saoussan and to welcome a newcomer.
This short animation tells the story of Saoussan, a young girl struggling to adjust to life in Canada after being uprooted from her wartorn homeland. She has come to seek a quieter and safer life, although memories of war and death linger, memories that are awakened when the children at her new school prepare for a scary Halloween. From Far Away speaks to the power within us all to adapt like Saoussan and to welcome a newcomer.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Discussion prompt on kindness, empathy, and cultural differences
- Write an anecdotal response to the video where you ever felt unsafe, misunderstood, scared - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, captioned by creator (dependent on student reading abilities)
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
For Angela
This short film portrays Rhonda and Angela, and the discrimination they face from a group of school boys on the bus. The impact of racial discrimination is evident for Angela, who decides to cut off her hair as a result of the incident. The mother, Rhonda, seeks retribution for the boys' actions.
This short film portrays Rhonda and Angela, and the discrimination they face from a group of school boys on the bus. The impact of racial discrimination is evident for Angela, who decides to cut off her hair as a result of the incident. The mother, Rhonda, seeks retribution for the boys' actions.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Personal writing prompt to reflect on what they might feel & how this impacts identity & relationship with family & culture
- Group discussion around concepts of media/film representation of Indigenous peoples and how that could impact feelings of the public who do not identify as Indigenous
- Discussion around concepts of empathy, community, justice, power, activism, resistance, solidarity and allyship
- Write letters to the boys on the bus who harassed Angela & her mom to help educate them about stereotypes, Indigenous history and culture - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, captioned by creator (dependent on student reading abilities)
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
And the Children Shall Lead
Direct and sensitive, this tween-friendly take on how the civil rights movement turned the South upside down in the 1960s is both direct enough to hold tweens' attention and important enough to be good family viewing.
Direct and sensitive, this tween-friendly take on how the civil rights movement turned the South upside down in the 1960s is both direct enough to hold tweens' attention and important enough to be good family viewing.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Writing activity for reflection of the message and content of the film, character analysis, reflection on what they learned, personal connections - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, captioned by creator (dependent on student reading abilities)
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Jaime Lo, Small And Shy
In this animated short, Jaime Lo's father is sent to Hong Kong for a year-long work assignment. A shy Chinese-Canadian girl, Jaime Lo must use her creativity to cope with his absence. This story offers us a lighthearted glimpse into a common dilemma that many immigrant families face, where one parent must work overseas in order to provide for the rest of the family back home.
In this animated short, Jaime Lo's father is sent to Hong Kong for a year-long work assignment. A shy Chinese-Canadian girl, Jaime Lo must use her creativity to cope with his absence. This story offers us a lighthearted glimpse into a common dilemma that many immigrant families face, where one parent must work overseas in order to provide for the rest of the family back home.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: Discover and explore
- 1.1.1: Express ideas and develop understanding - Suggested use:
- Gratitude art for guardians and loved ones
- Poem or spoken word about child's life and personality (Jaime Lo is small and shy ...) - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, captioned by creator (dependent on student reading abilities)
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
G.O 2 Comprehend and respond critically and personally to a variety of texts
Lights For Gita
This animated short is the story of Gita, an 8-year-old girl who can't wait to celebrate Divali - the Hindu festival of lights - in her new home in Canada. But it's nothing like New Delhi, where she comes from. The weather is cold and grey and a terrible ice storm cuts off the power, ruining her plans for a party. Obviously, a Divali celebration now is impossible. Or is it? As Gita experiences the glittering beauty of the icy streets outside, the traditional festival of lights comes alive in a sparkling new way.
Lights For Gita
This animated short is the story of Gita, an 8-year-old girl who can't wait to celebrate Divali - the Hindu festival of lights - in her new home in Canada. But it's nothing like New Delhi, where she comes from. The weather is cold and grey and a terrible ice storm cuts off the power, ruining her plans for a party. Obviously, a Divali celebration now is impossible. Or is it? As Gita experiences the glittering beauty of the icy streets outside, the traditional festival of lights comes alive in a sparkling new way.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2: Respond to texts
- 2.1.2: Use comprehension strategies - Suggested use:
- Discussion prompt on traditions and community
- Make your own light art for Diwali - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, captioned by creator (dependent on student reading abilities)
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
G.O 3: Manage ideas and information
Roses Sing on New Snow
In this animated short, based on a story by Paul Yee, Maylin cooks mouth-watering meals at her father's restaurant in Chinatown, but her father and brothers take all the credit. When a dignitary from China visits and tastes one her dishes, Maylin finally earns recognition.
Roses Sing on New Snow
In this animated short, based on a story by Paul Yee, Maylin cooks mouth-watering meals at her father's restaurant in Chinatown, but her father and brothers take all the credit. When a dignitary from China visits and tastes one her dishes, Maylin finally earns recognition.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.2: Select and Process
- 3.2.1: Use a variety of sources - Suggested use:
- Students write about a time when they had a similar experience (make personal connections)
- Make/present your own comfort dish (guardians' help for this)
- Create own recipe that embodies the student - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, captioned by creator (dependent on student reading abilities)
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Coco
Based on the Mexican holiday Dia de Los Muertos (or Day of the Dead), Coco tells the tale of 12-year-old Miguel who finds himself in the Land of the Dead, and with the help of his musician great-great-grandfather dives deep into his family history (and their generations-old ban on music!). There are strong family vibes in this blockbuster, as well as a strong celebration of Mexican culture.
Based on the Mexican holiday Dia de Los Muertos (or Day of the Dead), Coco tells the tale of 12-year-old Miguel who finds himself in the Land of the Dead, and with the help of his musician great-great-grandfather dives deep into his family history (and their generations-old ban on music!). There are strong family vibes in this blockbuster, as well as a strong celebration of Mexican culture.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.4: Share and Review
- 3.4.1: Share ideas/information - Suggested use:
- Perspective writing prompt from character's perspective to reflect on what they might feel & how this experience has impacted their identity & relationship with their family & culture
- Have students make connections to their own family's cultural celebrations/holidays/traditions - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, captioned by creator (dependent on student reading abilities)
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Vistas: Boxed In
In this short film, a young woman of mixed ancestry struggles with an Equal Opportunity Form that requires her to respond to the dilemma: Ethnicity - Choose One.
In this short film, a young woman of mixed ancestry struggles with an Equal Opportunity Form that requires her to respond to the dilemma: Ethnicity - Choose One.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.3: Organize record evaluate
- 3.3.3: Evaluate information - Suggested use:
- Personal writing prompt to reflect on what they might feel & how this impacts identity & relationship with family & culture
- Multimedia art project inspiration (i.e. photography/art/poetry/song) that showcases all the various parts of students' identities that are meaningful to them - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, captioned by creator (dependent on student reading abilities)
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Reconciliation Conversations - Language and Culture
Explore the Google slide as a group. Afterwards, ask students to reflect on the prompts below. They may write down some of their ideas. You may also decide to discuss these questions in small groups or as a large group. Discussion questions: How are your own language and culture linked? How might your language impact how you view the world? Is your language a part of your identity? In what way? When a language disappears, what do we lose? How can we ensure the survival of Indigenous languages? How is learning an Indigenous language an act of reconciliation?
Explore the Google slide as a group. Afterwards, ask students to reflect on the prompts below. They may write down some of their ideas. You may also decide to discuss these questions in small groups or as a large group. Discussion questions: How are your own language and culture linked? How might your language impact how you view the world? Is your language a part of your identity? In what way? When a language disappears, what do we lose? How can we ensure the survival of Indigenous languages? How is learning an Indigenous language an act of reconciliation?
- Suggested use:
- Specific set of lessons on language and culture of Indigenous groups in Canada and how history has affected it today (residential schools, Sixties Scoop, Indian Act)
- Resource can be found on page 22 of PDF
Slavery
In this lesson, students will have a discussion on slavery and read a book related to slavery in Canada. After this, students create a mind map of keywords that jump out at them in bubbles on a blank 11 by 17 sized page. After reading, ask students to draw connecting lines between specific words that naturally fit together for them. Ask students to write their ideas on those lines to retell part of the story in their own words or explain how those two words are related.
In this lesson, students will have a discussion on slavery and read a book related to slavery in Canada. After this, students create a mind map of keywords that jump out at them in bubbles on a blank 11 by 17 sized page. After reading, ask students to draw connecting lines between specific words that naturally fit together for them. Ask students to write their ideas on those lines to retell part of the story in their own words or explain how those two words are related.
- Suggested use:
- Variety of lesson plans and resources to teach racism in Canada
Indigenous Book Recommendations
List of Indigenous books teachers can teach in the classroom to build understanding of various Indigenous customs and traditions.
List of Indigenous books teachers can teach in the classroom to build understanding of various Indigenous customs and traditions.
- Suggested use:
- Books to add to personal classroom library/request for school library for Indigenous book representation
- Posters that can be added to classroom display
Anti-Oppression/Anti-Racism Resources for Educators
Document that encompasses a wide variety of anti-racism resources from books, to videos and articles.
Document that encompasses a wide variety of anti-racism resources from books, to videos and articles.
- Suggested use:
- Variety of anti-racism resources
Guiding Principles: Diversity & Globalism
Google slides presentation with activities and resources to teach anti-racism, diversity, inclusion, and intersectionality. Further lesson plans can be found here.
Google slides presentation with activities and resources to teach anti-racism, diversity, inclusion, and intersectionality. Further lesson plans can be found here.
- Suggested use:
- Variety of anti-racism resources
