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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A Study Guide to Using OUT OF THE DUST in the Classroom...
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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A Study Guide to Using OUT OF THE DUST in the Classroom...
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.
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