The View from Saturday
Investigation: Through reading a novel of realistic fiction and use of
critical thinking, discover how change affects perspective.
Process:
1. Reading: You need to complete the reading of the novel in the next
three weeks. As a group or individual set a realistic schedule of chapter
reading deadlines.
Chapters 1 – 2,
Chapters 3 – 4 ,
Chapters 5 - 12
2. Predictions
Complete prediction questions before, during and after reading of the
novel.
Answer the following questions in detailed, complete sentences.
1. Before reading, look at the cover and title of the book. What do
you think is the significance of the teacup, saucer and title?
2. Keep a running prediction of why Mrs. Olinski chose the students
she did for the Academic Bowl. Revise your predictions as you
read.
3. At the end of Chapter 1, predict, in detail, what Noah will be like.
4. At the end of Chapter 2, predict, in detail, what Nadia will be like.
5. At the end of Chapter 3, predict, in detail, what Ethan will be like.
6. At the end of Chapter 4, predict, in detail what you think Julian
will be like.
7. Predict how the novel will end after reading chapter 5.
3. Vocabulary
General Vocabulary – Define the words listed below. The page number
in the novel is given for you in some instances.
epiphany
diversity (p. 22)
paraplegic
multiculturalism
The words below are representative of a character in the novel.
Noah – ironic (p. 13)
Ethan – unfurl (p. 93)
Nadia – hybrid (p. 36)
Julian – chops (p. 118)
Individual Vocabulary – In addition to the general vocabulary, keep a
list of new and/or interesting words you find as you read the novel. If
they are new define them in the context of the novel. If they are
interesting tell why they are interesting.
Composite Vocabulary – Choose at least three words from either
vocabulary section above and complete a thorough, detailed vocabulary
map of each one. The vocabulary template is included in your contract.
Make sure it is completed thoughtfully.
4.Literary Devices: to be discussed in class:
Setting
Characterization
Irony
Point of View
Theme
Analogy
Simile, Metaphor, Personification
5. Comprehension:
Bring 3 thoughtful questions and your responses to our discussion each
week. Use Blooms question stems. You should include well-written
answers for your questions.
Do not include questions from the list below. Be prepared to discuss these
in our literature discussion.
1. On page 64, in writing about dirt, the author talks about the
different perspectives people may have of it. Farmers respect it
and suburbanites get rid of it. List examples an item that has a of
a variety contradictory values.
2. How did the Souls find kindness and how did they look for it in
others?
3. How have you found kindness and how have you found it in
others?
4. On page 147, the author writes about a loud smile. When and
where have you heard a loud smile?
5. On page 149, the author talks about less being more? List some
examples of less being more.
6. The author mentions Raphael in connection with one of the Souls.
Who is Raphael and what is his importance?
7. How can you know excellence if you have never seen it?
Product: Choose one activity to complete. Think of your strengths as you
decide what you would like to do.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Create another character for the Souls. Write his/her section of
the novel.
Pretend you are on the staff of The Epiphany Middle School
newspaper. Write a feature article about “The Souls.” Include an
interview with each of “The Souls” and Mrs. Olinski.
Have a victory tea party for “The Souls” at Sillington House.
Prepare typical foods for high English tea. Write invitations to the
party in calligraphy. Play background music that would be
especially appealing to “The Souls.” Select from among your
belongings at home an appropriate item as a gift for each of “The
Souls” and Mrs. Olinski. Be prepared to share why you chose each
specific gift.
Design a bowl game with academic bowl-type questions.
Propose an Academic Bowl competition for your school. Put
together a formal, written plan- including team rosters,
competition schedule, rules and regulations, and questions (based
on your 5th grade curriculum) to submit to your teacher.
Criteria: Evaluate your work based on the following criteria
not do)
(completed)
+ (went above and beyond)
Content:
____ Thoughtful, detailed predictions in complete sentences.
____ Reading completed.
____ Vocabulary thorough, detailed, and well-organized.
____ Comprehension activities completed with evidence of critical thinking.
Process:
____ Excellent time management.
____ Evidence of organization and planning.
Product:
____ Evidence of detailed planning.
____Evidence of unique solution.
____ Evidence of creative details.
____ Suitable for display.
Parent Signature ___________________________________________
– (did