facebook pixel
Back to Blog

Making Connections to AARI Books, Week 1

Each year during Black History Month, the National Council of the Teachers of English kicks off the African American Read-In. This program takes place in K–12 schools, preschools, communities, and colleges around the country. It’s a great time to share the love of reading diverse literature with students.

The following recommendations on books to share during this month and a few ideas for how these texts can be used in our classrooms come from NCTE, its members, and friends.

In After Tupac and D Foster by Jacqueline Woodson, Woodson cycles backward through the events that lead to dual tragedies: a friend’s departure and a hero’s death. Listen to this podcast episode where you’ll hear about fiction and nonfiction books that explore the importance of music in the lives of young people.

The Autobiography of Malcolm X by Malcolm X and Alex Haley tells the life story of Malcolm X. Using this activity, invite student to write about the origin of their name and explore the names that Malcolm X used during this life.

The Battle of Jericho, one of the books in a trilogy by Sharon Draper, captures the essence of teens caught up in peer pressure who must ultimately live with the results of their actions. The activity encourages students to read a book from one of Draper’s trilogies and then meet to discuss their book with students have read the other two books.

“Fences” is part of August Wilson’s “Pittsburg Cycle,” a collection of ten plays. Each drama explores a different decade in the 20th century, and each examines the lives and struggles of African-Americans. Here, using online tools, students create a decade-by-decade record and play of their community’s history.

See also  Elementary Teachers Share Expertise and Inspiration with New Monthly Digital Resource from NCTE

What other titles would be good to consider for the African American Read-In? Share on social media how you are celebrating using #AARI18!