Thoughtful readers, thoughtful authors

The fourth grade summer reading list was packed with variety.
 

And yet, as these fourth graders are discovering, books - novels, at least - all have a few things in common.
 

Graphic novel, picture book, big ole chapter book: they each have a setting, characters, tone and a story arc.
 

This exercise lays the foundation for some amazing book reports.
 

It’s also foreshadowing for a legendary Gordon Middle School project.
 

In seventh grade, every student will write an original novel of their own.
 

It’s a huge undertaking, and it starts with some prompts that will seem familiar.
 

What is the setting of your novel? Who are your characters? What will your tone be, and what is your plan for your story arc?
 

They’ll know what these things are, and they’ll know why they are essential.