Unveiling Insights Through Deep Class Discussions in The Uppers (6th-8th)

Engaging in deep discussions within the walls of a classroom can be one of the most powerful ways for students to access and retain information. Currency is exchanged in the form of reflections, questions, and opinions, while ideas snowball from one student to the next. Silent connections are made with supportive nods or smiles, and learning extends deeper beyond the surface of a story. It’s nothing like a worksheet, an assignment on Google Classroom, or reading a story by yourself. Discussions are alive, so colorful, unpredictable, and inspiring. 

In 6th grade lit class we read Sol Painting, Inc., by Meg Medina. Although a short story, it deals with real-world issues, touching on prejudice, sacrifice, education, identity, and family dynamics. The story opens the door for students to broaden their understanding of the human experience. First, we analyzed the text while reading aloud together. Next, students got together with partners, contributing to our collaborative learning environment by sharing their interpretations, and engaging with the ideas of others. This learning experience was a dynamic and interactive process that honed in on critical thinking, communication, and social skills. 

The question posed to the class was whether one character had the right to be mad at another. Each group discussed the question, took shared notes on a mind map, and presented their ideas to the class. Each group offered a new and unique perspective and all groups demonstrated compassion, empathy, and deep consideration. These are lasting skills that are beneficial in all aspects of life. 

To make a deeper connection to the story, students spent time thinking about the sacrifices that the adults in their lives have made for them. One student wrote that their mother home-schooled them because virtual school wasn’t working. Another shared that their father stopped going on work trips for a while because it was hard on the family. A third student wrote not only about the sacrifices their mother makes for them, but for their sister too. Other students opted to take the assignment home and discuss it with their family over the weekend. It’s a wonderful thing to know that the discussion lives on outside of the classroom walls.