This is the story of a real teenage refugee called Amira. Before students embark on their research project about refugees, this is a rather good starting point in highlighting the plight of refugees. Written from a teenage point of view, this would perhaps help the class to relate more to the text.
Diary of a teenage refugee is a comprehension pack that can be downloaded from the Common Lit website. What I liked about this comprehension pack is that the text is very accessible that enables students of varying abilities to explore the topic of refugees in a rather approachable and non-confronting way.
Differentiation: I really like that there are footnotes at the bottom of each page, explaining the meaning of words, acronyms and the historical background of organizations that is within the text. There is a good mix of comprehension questions, both multiple choice and open-ended. There is a range of questions such as "Text-Dependent"questions which are a good scaffold for weaker students and "Discussion"questions which could work as an extension for more capable students to encourage deep reflection and critical thinking on their part.
After completing the comprehension sheets, incorporating a drama activity to get students out of their seats is a good transition activity and to keep students engaged. The student with ADHD who loved drama would definitely welcome this part of the session.
"A good way to explain a freeze frame (also known as still image) is that it is like pressing the pause button on a remote control, taking a photo or making a statue. The images can be made quickly without discussion – or they can be planned and rehearsed. They are very useful as an immediate way of communicating ideas or telling a story. They can be used to represent people or objects and even abstract concepts like emotions or atmospheres. As there are no lines to learn, freeze frames can help shyer performers to gain confidence." (Farmer, 2019, para. 2).
Summary of student activities:
- Pair discussion of "Discussion Questions" for more capable students
- Write a letter to Amira to encourage her (Students can think about how to show sympathy and empathize with the plights of refugees)
- Drama activity "freeze frame", is a great activity that could be incorporated. It would be great for ADHD students as well as for shy EAL/D students who aren't so comfortable with speaking.
English K-10 Syllabus Outcomes:
EN4-1A responds to and composes texts for understanding, interpretation, critical analysis, imaginative expression and pleasure
EN4-4B makes effective language choices to creatively shape meaning with accuracy, clarity and coherence
Geography Syllabus Outcomes:Ge4-3 A student explains how interactions and connections between people, places and environments result in change.
Ge4-6 A student explains differences in human wellbeing.
References: Farmer, D. (2019). Freeze Frames. Retrieved from: https://dramaresource.com/freeze-frames/