2006-2007 Neighborhood Bridges Residency Program

(formerly the vittum learning partnership)

newbery academy, 7th grade

Inquiry Question:

"How can I read analytically, write descriptively, dramatize, and use visual art to connect The Shakespeare Stealer to my own struggle to balance integrity, goal-setting, and relationships?"

Students in Ms. West's 7th grade classes examined The Shakespeare Stealer by Gary Blackwood. In this novel, the main character, Widge, encounters a variety of dilemmas as he must decide right from wrong. Through journal entries, storyboards, and class discussion, students reflected onhow these dilemmas apply to their own lives. Two common themes surfaced: Room 209 explored how to adapt to change and make new friends in foreign situations, and Room 207 examined the pressures surrounding theft and how to maintain integrity after a mistake has been made. Once these themes had been identified, each class was divided into 5 groups. One of these groups was given an excerpt from the novel. Their task was to read the text, identify playable action, and transform the paragraphs into narration and dialogue. The other 4 groups used narration and tableau (frozen images) to devise original scenes that explore the class' theme. Then each group demonstrated their mastery of how to use body, mind, and voice to communicate on a stage.

"Positive Impressions"

“The performance certianly left a positive impression on the students about attending and appreciating live performances! They are also more likely to pursue the reading of plays and novels upon which plays are based. The entire experience was extremely worthwhile, leaving a lasting, motivating impact.”

- Mary Vujic / James Ward Elementary 6th, 7th, 8th Grades