Today in class the students analyzed a relationship between two characters in a book I’m using as a mentor text before trying it out with their group books.
Part of the process was to skim through chapters we’ve already read, looking for examples of how the two characters have negatively and positively affected the relationship.
As we discussed the evidence they had been gathering, I was impressed by their open-mindedness and propensity to examine multiple perspectives. One character, for example, becomes snappy and cold toward the other, but the kids were quick to point out the struggles he faces at home.
A student shared that one character spares the other character’s feelings by playing down some very exciting news, which is good for the relationship. Voices immediately arose in (respectful) protest, declaring that you don’t keep secrets in a healthy relationship.
As we concluded out discussion and they turned their attention to examining a relationship in their group books, some groups quietly and independently flipped through chapters, gathering and sorting evidence, while others preferred to confer with one another.
As I worked closely with a few who were not ready to launch, I caught snippets of a very lively debate a few tables over.
“Are you serious?! You call that healthy?” Subdued rebuttals and exaggerated eye rolling followed. She demanded evidence to the contrary.
On her way out, the passionate one lamented to me, “I think I like to argue way more than my group. They like to agree on everything. How boring is that?” She is exactly what this group needs to keep them on their toes.
My Corner of the Village 