Study Guides and Lesson Plans for "Out of the Dust"

About Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse:
When Billie Jo is just fourteen, she must endure heart-wrenching ordeals that no child should have to face.  The quiet strength she displays while dealing with unspeakable loss is as surprising as it is inspiring.

Written in free verse, this Newbery award-winning story is set in the heart of the Great Depression.  It chronicles Oklahoma's staggering dust storms, and the environmental — and emotional — turmoil they leave in their path.  An unforgettable tribute to hope and inner strength.

Reading level: Ages 9-12
Reader reviews of Out of the Dust

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Complete lesson plans for teaching "Out of the Dust". Includes introduction to the unit, unit objectives, reading assignments, unit outline, study questions (short answer), study/quiz questions (multiple choice), vocabulary worksheets, daily lessons planned, related nonfiction reading assignment, oral reading evaluation, biographical info about the author, three detailed writing assignments (inform, persuade, personal opinion), vocabulary review games & activities, unit review games & activities, at least one group activity assignment, discussion questions on all levels (factual, critical, interpretive, personal response), 2 short answer unit tests, 2 multiple choice unit tests, 1 advanced short answer unit test, unit and vocabulary crossword puzzles, unit and vocabulary extra worksheets & games, bulletin board ideas, ready-to-copy student materials, answer keys, and more!
CD-ROM: 162 pages

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This resource is directly related to "Out of the Dust" and is filled with a variety of cross-curricular lessons to do before, during, and after reading the book. This reproducible book presents an exciting approach to teaching well-known literature. It includes sample plans, author information, vocabulary building ideas, cross-curriculum activities, sectional activities and quizzes, unit tests, and many ideas for culminating and extending the novel. 48 pages.

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Everything You Need for Successful Literature Circles That Get Kids Thinking, Talking, Writing, and Loving Literature
This one-of-a-kind guide to running literature circles, based on the book Out of the Dust, shows teachers how to organize small discussion groups that work. Includes stimulating questions and writing prompts that motivate students to think and respond thoughtfully. As students dive into lively discussions, they learn to identify themes, analyze vocabulary, recognize the author's craft, and respond meaningfully to the text. 32 pages.