Sure! Here’s a completed version of your reading response sheet for "Fire Song" by Adam Garnet Jones. You can adjust your answers based on your own observations and thoughts as you read.
BEFORE READING STRATEGIES
What do you notice when you are looking at the text features of your book?
Features:
- Front Cover: The cover may depict powerful imagery related to Indigenous culture, fire, or personal narratives, providing visual insight into the themes of the book.
- Back Cover: The synopsis may summarise key themes, characters, and possibly hint at central conflicts or emotional journeys.
- Flipping through the Book: The layout, chapter titles, or any illustrations could give clues about the tone, style, and intended audience of the book.
What they might mean:
- The imagery on the cover might suggest themes of identity, culture, and connection to the land.
- The back cover's synopsis sets the stage for the protagonist's journey, indicating a focus on personal growth and cultural exploration.
- Flipping through the book could reveal the pacing and structure, indicating that it might be a mix of narrative and poetic elements.
Background Knowledge: Based on the title “Fire Song” and the author Adam Garnet Jones, I am aware that the book explores themes related to Indigenous identity, LGBTQ+ experiences, and the interplay of personal and cultural narratives. Adam Garnet Jones is known for his work that addresses these topics through rich storytelling.
What predictions do you have for what the book is going to be about? I predict the book will focus on a young Indigenous character grappling with self-identity, familial expectations, and possibly the intersection of Indigenous culture and queer identity. Fire may symbolize passion, struggle, or transformation within the narrative.
DURING READING STRATEGIES
I read until the page… [Page number: __]
OBSERVE AND INFER
Who are the characters?
- (Example: The protagonist, a young Indigenous person exploring their identity; supporting characters including family or friends who represent various aspects of their culture and personal journey).
What do we know about their identities so far?
- The protagonist may struggle with cultural and personal expectations, indicating a rich background tied to their community. Supporting characters might represent influences from both supportive and challenging aspects.
What is the setting?
- (Example: The setting may involve an Indigenous community, showcasing natural landscapes, cultural practices, and possibly urban versus rural dynamics).
What has happened in the plot so far?
- (Summarize main events, such as the protagonist’s introduction, their initial struggles or relationships, and any significant actions that set up the story arc).
What have you noticed about how the story (or information) is communicated so far?
- The writing style may incorporate poetic elements, rich imagery, and cultural references that deepen the reader's connection to the narrative. Dialogue may reflect the characters' backgrounds and struggles.
PREDICT
What do you predict will happen next? I predict the protagonist will face a pivotal challenge related to their identity, leading to deeper insights into their culture and relationships.
ASK QUESTIONS
What am I wondering about the text so far? What information is missing?
- I’m curious about how the protagonist's family reacts to their identity and what specific cultural practices will be highlighted.
CONNECT
Which Indigenous topics/issues have I noticed in the book so far?
- Themes of cultural identity, community expectations, and perhaps challenges faced by queer Indigenous individuals.
How do they connect to our world/present day?
- These issues resonate with ongoing discussions about self-identity, cultural preservation, and the diverse experiences within Indigenous communities.
What are some of the big ideas (themes) that you see emerging so far?
- Identity struggle, the intersectionality of culture and sexual orientation, familial love versus societal expectations.
VOCABULARY
What words are new to me? (List the words/terms and their definitions that you can look up online)
- (Word 1) - (Definition)
- (Word 2) - (Definition)
- (Word 3) - (Definition)
Feel free to revise and fill in the blanks as you read "Fire Song." This template should help guide your reading reflection process!