Real-Life Nonconformists!

As we finish our novel, Stargirl, this week, we'll segue into our nonconformist research project. While we work on exploring the life of a nonconformist of our choice, we'll also view the powerful film, Glory Road, based on the true story of the 1966 Texas Western Division I basketball team.

See the links, below, for supporting materials we'll use as we view and discuss this real-life example of nonconformity.

1) http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AWu8U06kQIhbZGYzd3R6bXBfMjJnYnNtam1nOA&hl=en

2) http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AWu8U06kQIhbZGYzd3R6bXBfMjhkamZ6ZjNnaA&hl=en

Nonconformity

Throughout this month in ELA, we'll explore what it means to be a nonconformist--in both small and large ways. As we read Jerry Spinelli's novel Stargirl, we'll also look at our own lives and ask where we might be lying about who we are so as to fit in with others. We will also consider the ways in which we break away from the mold to follow our own intuitions and beliefs.

Be ready to dig into some research, as well. We will have the opportunity to explore a nonconformist who has worked to have a positive impact on the society in which she / he lives or lived. You'll have the chance to meet some amazing people and dig into their lives, all the while considering how their voices might help strengthen and grow yours!

See this link for the full research assignment on a nonconformist:

Nonconformist Research Project

"Evil is created when good people do nothing." --Albert Einstein