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Gary Paulsen writes many
young adult stories that focus
on experiences that have
shaped his life. In this lesson
you will explore how Gary
Paulsen’s life choices have
molded his existence.
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How do our experiences shape who we become?
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The sites listed below will help you
learn more about Gary Paulsen and his
life experiences. You will use this
information to complete the graphic
organizer .
About Gary
Meet Gary Paulsen
Author Profile of Gary Paulsen
Paulsen Interview
All Stars Watch Video
Paulsen Biography
Interview with Gary Paulsen
See LMS if there are problems connecting
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Organize and share what you
have learned. Then you will be
ready for the activity on slide 4.
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Composing Paulsen’s Response
As you write, be sure to use details from
your notes. Remember, you are using
your knowledge to determine how GARY
PAULSEN would answer the questions.
Once you have finished writing, use the
checklist to see if you will need to revise
your work.
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Check out the following
journals, videos, and articles
about Gary Paulsen’s
experiences.

Paulsen's Iditarod Journal

Gary’s Survival Tips

Titles Available at your Library

Gary Paulsen Library
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BCPS Curriculum
Explain the implications of the text for the reader and/or society. (9.D)
Common Core State Standards
Reading: 1. Read closely to determine what the text says explicitly and to make logical
inferences from it; cite specific textual evidence when writing or speaking to support
conclusions drawn from the text.
Writing: 7. Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects based on focused
questions, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.
Standards for the 21st Century Learner
1.1.6 Read, view, and listen for information presented in any format (e.g. textual,
visual, media, digital) in order to make inferences and gather meaning.
2.1.3 Use strategies to draw conclusions from information and apply knowledge to
curricular areas, real-world situations, and further investigations.
Maryland Technology Literacy Standards for Students
3.0: Use a variety of technologies for learning and collaboration.
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Time Frame: Two 50 minute periods
Differentiation:

Direct students to use comprehension tools included in
databases, such as: audio read-aloud, labeled reading
levels, and embedded dictionaries.
Learning Styles: Visual, Auditory, Tactile, Active, Reflective,
Global, Analytical
Notes to the teacher:
 Review graphic organizers
 Review rubric, adjust as needed.
 Slide 2 contains colored stars. Please assign students a
star color. There is no level difference in stars.
 Slide 3 contains group work. Assign groups of mixed
star colors in order to get different perspectives.
 Slide 5 contains a link to the Destiny OPAC system.
Students may want to check out other works by Paulsen.
Last updated: July 2012
Created by Alexis Mazur Library Media Specialist
BCPS Slam Dunk Research Model, Copyright 2012, Baltimore County Public Schools, MD, all rights reserved. The models may be used for educational, non-profit school use only.
All other uses, transmissions, and duplications are prohibited unless permission is granted expressly. This lesson is based on Jamie McKenzie’s Slam Dunk Lesson module.