I hope you all are well and enjoying the extended time with family as much as possible. I'm looking forward to taking the opportunity to read for enjoyment along with your students. A good book can be a great stress relief and a way to explore a new world for a little while. I hope you are able to find peace and relaxation in the novels we will be reading.
Teacher Availablility: I am always available via email at [email protected] for any questions from parents or students. We will also have a Google Hangout for students from 11:10-12:00 every weekday. This time is not mandatory, but I will be available for reading discussion and any questions from students. I encourage parents to read our book along with the students and to help with assignments where needed, but I would like to reserve the Google Classroom and the Google Hangout for student voices only in order to keep this time meaningful for students and promote their abilities as independent learners.
Class Expectations: There will be a daily check in on the Google Classroom. The Daily Check-In will ask if you are keeping up with the work and one thing you reflected on while reading. You may check in any time during the day. ***Please answer the Daily Check-In to receive credit for attendance and a participation grade*** On the Google Classroom and Hangouts, I expect you to abide by our school and technology code of conduct. Remember what you write is there forever and visible to anyone. Do not be afraid to disagree respectfully, but I expect you all to keep your comments appropriate and relevant, just like in the classroom.
Daily Schedule: I will post a video and written schedule for the week to Google Classroom by 8 a.m. every Monday. All assignments can be found on Google Classroom. Please be sure to answer the daily-check in for attendance and participation credit. Monday: Journal entry and 20 minutes of reading Tuesday: 30 minutes of reading Wednesday: 30 minutes of reading Thursday: Standards-based worksheet on the week's reading Friday: Reading check
Our Book: Students will be reading the book Inside Out and Back Again available on Amazon or in pdf format here: https://www.buffaloschools.org/site/handlers/filedownload.ashx?moduleinstanceid=8220&dataid=43479&FileName=insie_out_and_back_again.pdf
From the publisher, HarperCollins: "Inside Out and Back Again is a #1 New York Times bestseller, a Newbery Honor Book, and a winner of the National Book Award! Inspired by the author's childhood experience as a refugee—fleeing Vietnam after the Fall of Saigon and immigrating to Alabama—this coming-of-age debut novel told in verse has been celebrated for its touching child's-eye view of family and immigration. Hà has only ever known Saigon: the thrills of its markets, the joy of its traditions, and the warmth of her friends close by. But now the Vietnam War has reached her home. Hà and her family are forced to flee as Saigon falls, and they board a ship headed toward hope—toward America."
Parents can find more information on the book here: https://www.commonsensemedia.org/book-reviews/inside-out-and-back-again
A book trailer can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hh-uyi35EHQ
I am looking forward to continuing reading with students. Please contact me via email if you have any questions. Stay home, stay safe, and wash those hands!
Thank you
Phillip Hurm 6th Grade Reading/7th Grade ELA Plato Academy St. Petersburg