Library News
May 2016
Author Visit
Mr. Kennedy was an incredibly energetic and engaging speaker. He spoke about his time teaching middle school, living in Japan, as well as read from his novel The Order of Odd Fish. He answered students questions about writing and where he gets his inspiration. Hopefully some students were inspired to pursue their own dream of becoming a writer after hearing his story.
Below is a presentation that was shared with the students in preparation of his arrival, there is also a silly video of Mr. Kennedy sharing his singing skills with the 8th graders.
If you are interested in learning more about James Kennedy here is the link to his website.
If students are interested in purchasing his book here is the link on Amazon.
Argumentative Writing
The analogy that was used was how argumentative writing is like a sandwich, and students had to come up with an argument for or against banning junk food on campus. For the second day, students applied what they learned to the outsiders, the novel they are reading in class. Students had to argue whether any of the Greasers could be considered a hero. Both days made for delicious conversations.
Great Summer Reads
The Last Star by Rick Yancey
The Crown by Kiera Cass
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child by J.K. Rowling
United as One by Pittacus Lore
The Trials of Apollo by Rick Riordan
Theodore Boone: The Scandal by John Grisham\
Are none of these books appealing? Below are some other suggestions.