Here's a filled-out template based on the reading strategies you've provided for "Fire Song" by Adam Garnet Jones. Adjust as needed based on your specific observations as you read.
BEFORE READING STRATEGIES
What do you notice when you are looking at the text features of your book?
Features:
- Front Cover: An artistic depiction possibly representing an Indigenous theme.
- Back Cover: Contains a synopsis outlining the main character and hinting at emotional depth.
- Flipping Through: Various chapter titles that may indicate themes of identity, loss, and family.
What they might mean:
- The visual elements may suggest a blend of cultural elements with emotional undertones, hinting at personal stories tied to Indigenous experiences.
Background Knowledge:
- The title "Fire Song" suggests themes related to emotional expression, possibly tied to music or cultural significance.
- Adam Garnet Jones is known for writing about Indigenous experiences, giving me the impression that cultural identity, family dynamics, and grief could be central themes in the story.
What predictions do you have for what the book is going to be about?
- The book may explore Shane’s journey in finding his identity amidst loss and cultural expectations. I think it will delve into the complexities of family relationships, especially in light of tragedy.
DURING READING STRATEGIES
I read until the page…
16
OBSERVE AND INFER
Who are the characters?
- Shane (main character)
- Jackie (his mother)
- Destiny (deceased sister)
- Pete (Shaun’s uncle)
What do we know about their identities so far?
Shane is deeply affected by his sister’s death, showing signs of emotional turmoil. Jackie is portrayed as struggling with her grief and guilt related to Destiny's passing.
What is the setting?
The setting appears to be a family home, likely within an Indigenous community, reflecting personal and cultural struggles against the backdrop of loss.
What has happened in the plot so far?
Following the death of his sister Destiny, Shane has withdrawn from daily activities, reflecting his deep grief while Jackie battles her own guilt and sadness, further complicated by the negativity from Pete.
What have you noticed about how the story (or information) is communicated so far?
The narrative conveys grief through the characters' internal monologues and interactions, using a heartfelt and poignant tone to communicate their struggles.
PREDICT
What do you predict will happen next?
I predict Shane will confront his grief and possibly find a way to reconnect with his mother, leading to revelations about his sister and how to honor her memory.
ASK QUESTIONS
What am I wondering about the text so far? What information is missing?
- Why does Jackie feel such a profound sense of guilt?
- What specific circumstances led to Destiny’s death?
CONNECT
Which Indigenous topics/issues have I noticed in the book so far?
- The themes of loss and grief seem to resonate with broader Indigenous issues related to family dynamics, cultural identity, and the impacts of trauma.
How do they connect to our world/present day?
These themes are universal, reflecting how communities cope with loss, identity crises, and the need for healing, which is especially relevant in discussions about mental health in Indigenous communities today.
What are some of the big ideas (themes) that you see emerging so far?
- Grief and loss
- Family relationships and dynamics
- Cultural identity and its impact on personal struggles
VOCABULARY
What words are new to me?
- Grieving: the process of experiencing deep sorrow, especially due to loss.
- Trauma: a deeply distressing or disturbing experience.
- Identity: the qualities, beliefs, personality, looks, and expressions that make a person or group.
Feel free to modify any sections or add your thoughts and observations as you continue to read!
1 answer