Diversity novels

School:: Yulee Middle
Subject:: Language Arts
Teacher:: Melissa Jarman
Students Impacted:
Grade:: 6
Date:: March 8, 2016

Investor

Thank you to the following investor for funding this grant.

Nassau Education Foundation - $349.50

Goal

I would like to include more culturally diverse novels in my sixth grade language arts classroom. I would also like to teach novels with a strong female protagonist. I’ve found two books that satisfy both requirements. Becoming Naomi Leon by Pam Munoz Ryan follows the story of a young Hispanic girl as she tries to connect with her Mexican heritage and stand up for herself against classroom bullies. Homeless Bird by Gloria Whelan chronicles the life of a young girl in rural India who finds herself widowed as a teen. Koly, the main character, uses her sewing skills and positive attitude to survive and then thrive following personal tragedies.

What will be done with my students

We will read and discuss the novels as a class. Students will complete projects that reflect their understanding of the novels' themes. Also, students will learn about modern day Mexico and India, contrasting the lives of farm families with those of modern city dwellers.

Benefits to my students

Both novels are culturally illuminating as well as beautifully written. Becoming Naomi Leon earned an ALA Notable Children’s Book Award, and Homeless Bird won the National Book Award.

Budget Narrative

I am requesting 25 copies of each book.
Becoming Naomi Leon $6.99 X 25 =$174.75
Homeless Bird $6.99 X 25 =$174.75
Total $349.50

Items

#	Item	Cost
1	25 Becoming Naomi Leon books	$174.75
2	25 Homeless Bird books	$174.75
	Total:	$349.50

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