Describe in detail what you need	Available books for 7th Grade ELA Reading BIE Arizona Standards First Sem
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Available Books for 7th Grade ELA Reading BIE Arizona Standards First Sem

Introduction

The 7th Grade English Language Arts (ELA) curriculum under the BIE Arizona Standards emphasizes critical reading, analytical thinking, and comprehension skills. For the first semester, it is essential to select literature that not only aligns with these standards but engages students in meaningful learning experiences. In this document, we present a curated list of books suitable for 7th Grade ELA, along with brief descriptions and their relevance to the curriculum.

Recommended Books

1. "The Outsiders" by S.E. Hinton

Synopsis: "The Outsiders" is a classic coming-of-age novel that captures the struggles and friendships of two rival groups in 1960s America: the Greasers and the Socs. Through the eyes of Ponyboy Curtis, readers delve into themes of identity, belonging, and social conflict.

Relevance to Standards:

• Literary Analysis: Students can analyze character development and the impact of social class on relationships.
• Theme Exploration: Themes of loyalty, violence, and the search for belonging can be explored through discussions and writing assignments.

2. "Wonder" by R.J. Palacio

Synopsis: "Wonder" tells the poignant story of August Pullman, a boy with a facial difference who enters a mainstream school for the first time. The narrative explores the challenges and triumphs he faces while encouraging kindness and acceptance among peers.

Relevance to Standards:

• Character Perspectives: The book is narrated from multiple viewpoints, allowing students to examine how different characters perceive Auggie and one another.
• Theme Discussion: Themes of empathy, friendship, and resilience provide rich material for class discussions and reflective writing.

3. "Savvy" by Ingrid Law

Synopsis: "Savvy" follows the Beaumont family, where each member possesses a unique magical ability, or "savvy." When Mibs, the protagonist, turns thirteen, she discovers her own savvy during a tumultuous time that leads to a road trip filled with adventure and self-discovery.

Relevance to Standards:

• Fantasy Elements: Analyzing how fantasy elements enhance the story allows students to think critically about genre conventions.
• Theme Exploration: Students can explore themes of family, coming-of-age, and self-acceptance through writing assignments and group discussions.

4. "The Giver" by Lois Lowry

Synopsis: In a dystopian society where pain and suffering are eliminated, the protagonist, Jonas, is selected to inherit the position of Receiver of Memory. As he receives memories from the past, he begins to question the value of a life devoid of emotions, colors, and choices.

Relevance to Standards:

• Theme Analysis: Themes of freedom vs. control and the importance of emotions can drive discussions and essays.
• Critical Thinking: Students can analyze the implications of a controlled society and draw parallels to real-world issues.

5. "A Wrinkle in Time" by Madeleine L'Engle

Synopsis: "A Wrinkle in Time" is a science fantasy novel that follows Meg Murry and her friends as they embark on a journey through space and time to rescue her father from a dark force. The story explores concepts of love, sacrifice, and the battle between good and evil.

Relevance to Standards:

• Scientific Concepts: The novel can be used to discuss scientific theories such as time travel and the universe, aligning literature with science standards.
• Character Development: Analyzing Meg’s growth from uncertainty to confidence provides an excellent opportunity for character studies.

Conclusion

Choosing appropriate literature for 7th Grade ELA is crucial to meet the BIE Arizona Standards. The books listed above not only foster a love for reading but also enhance students' critical thinking, writing, and comprehension skills. These selections serve as a foundation for engaging lessons, discussions, and assignments that align with the curriculum for the first semester. By integrating these texts into the classroom, educators can support the development of well-rounded, thoughtful, and articulate students.

Academic Standards Alignment

Ensure that your selected books meet the specific academic standards set forth by the Arizona Department of Education, focusing on literary analysis, thematic understanding, and critical response to texts. The integration of these elements into the curriculum will promote student growth and achievement in English Language Arts.