Unit Overview/Summary - FOCUS:

The unit is focused on how authors develop key details that lead to central ideas and themes. Students consider how authors develop meaningful themes to teach lessons and connect people. Students will consider how these themes live in the world around them and how gathering perspectives from multiple, credible sources contributes to a deeper understanding of themes and central ideas. Students will express and support their ideas through informative written responses. Teachers may choose to focus on texts related to overcoming obstacles to engage students and teach relevant themes. 

Unit Duration:

25 days (20 instructional days and 5 re-teach/enrichment days) Elementary Model - 130 minutes to 180 minutes per day; Middle School Model - five periods per week based on a traditional bell schedule