Are you looking for a heartwarming and humorous coming-of-age story that will make you laugh, cry, and ultimately leave you feeling inspired? Look no further than Schooled by Gordon Korman.
This novel tells the story of Capricorn Anderson, a thirteen-year-old boy. Cap has grown up in a commune and has never attended a traditional school. When his grandmother falls ill, he is forced to leave his idyllic life and attend a public school. There he finds himself struggling to fit in and navigate the complex social dynamics of middle school.
But despite the challenges he faces, Capricorn remains true to himself. He doesn’t change from his unconventional upbringing. His personality inspires those around him with his unique perspective and unwavering kindness.
With its engaging characters, relatable themes, and Korman’s trademark humor, Schooled is a must-read for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider or struggled to find their place in the world. So come along for the ride as Capricorn learns to navigate the wild and wacky world of middle school. See him discover true friendship and acceptance can be found in the most unexpected places.
Schooled Teaching Activities
Book Unit Samples
If you would like to try out the Schooled Unit, this download contains free samples including:
- Vocabulary Practice for Chapters 1-2
- Comprehension Questions for Chapters 1-2
- Constructed Response Question for Chapters 1-2 on Setting
Teaching Idea #1 – On the Web
The lesson plan handout includes projects and an author interview. One project includes Rain’s playlist. Have students listen to some of her favorites such as The Times They Are A-Changin’ by Bob Dylan and You Can’t Always Get What You Want by The Rolling Stones.
Ask students to explain why the author selected the songs he did for Rain’s playlist. Were they random songs from the time or did they have a connection to the story?
Capricorn Anderson, the protagonist, is raised in a commune where music and social activism play an important role in the community. These songs reflect the themes of the novel, including social justice, peace, and the power of music to unite and inspire people.
- “Blowin’ in the Wind” by Bob Dylan
- “Where Have All the Flowers Gone?” by Pete Seeger
- “We Shall Overcome” (traditional protest song)
- “Give Peace a Chance” by John Lennon and Yoko Ono
- “Imagine” by John Lennon
- “Redemption Song” by Bob Marley
- “This Land Is Your Land” by Woody Guthrie
Teaching Idea #2 – Compare and Contrast Activity
I created these questions to help your students compare characters from two popular books by Gordon Korman. The file contains three versions of the activity. You will find the full-color version for students to complete online. A black and white version for printing makes this activity extremely flexible. An answer key is also included. Click here to get the file.
Teaching Idea #3 – Author Interview
See the product that inspired this post.
Schooled Novel Study: Digital + Printable Book Unit includes vocabulary practice, comprehension questions, constructed response writing, and skill practice.
