Title: Exploring the First Chapter of “Ghost” by Jason Reynolds

Grade Level: 7th Grade ELA

Objective: - Students will analyze the first chapter of “Ghost” by Jason Reynolds to identify key elements of the story, such as character development, setting, and conflict. - Students will engage in critical thinking and discussion to make predictions about the plot and themes of the book. - Students will practice their reading comprehension skills by answering questions and participating in a group activity.

Materials: - Copies of the first chapter of “Ghost” by Jason Reynolds - Whiteboard or chart paper - Markers - Sticky notes - Index cards - Timer

Procedure:

1. Introduction (5 minutes): - Begin the lesson by introducing the book “Ghost” by Jason Reynolds. Provide a brief overview of the author and the book’s genre (realistic fiction). - Explain that today, students will be diving into the first chapter of the book to analyze its key elements and make predictions about the story.

2. Pre-Reading Activity (10 minutes): - Distribute sticky notes to each student. - Ask students to write down any thoughts, questions, or predictions they have about the book based on the cover, title, or any prior knowledge they may have. - Collect the sticky notes and save them for later discussion.

3. Reading and Annotation (15 minutes): - Provide each student with a copy of the first chapter of “Ghost” by Jason Reynolds. - Instruct students to read the chapter silently, underlining or highlighting any important details or passages that stand out to them. - Encourage students to annotate the text by writing brief notes or questions in the margins.

4. Small Group Discussion (10 minutes): - Divide the class into small groups of 3-4 students. - Instruct each group to discuss their annotations and share their thoughts on the first chapter. - Encourage students to ask questions, make connections, and share their predictions about the characters, setting, and conflict.

5. Whole Class Discussion (10 minutes): - Bring the class back together and facilitate a whole-class discussion. - Ask students to share their thoughts, questions, and predictions about the first chapter. - Write key points on the whiteboard or chart paper to keep track of the discussion.

6. Character Analysis Activity (15 minutes): - Distribute index cards to each student. - Instruct students to choose one character from the first chapter and write down three adjectives that describe that character based on the information provided. - After completing their index cards, have students share their character analysis with a partner or in small groups.

7. Closure (5 minutes): - Summarize the main points discussed during the lesson, including key elements of the first chapter, student predictions, and character analysis. - Remind students to continue reading the book independently and to pay attention to how the story unfolds.

Extension Activity (Optional): - Assign students to write a short paragraph or journal entry reflecting on their initial impressions of the book after reading the first chapter. What are their expectations for the rest of the story?