Dip Ed-ers

This week was set aside for the Dip. Ed. students to engage in discussion on their adolescent reading lessons. Two groups were formed, consisting of around 7 to 8 people per group. Needless to say, the class was very loud. I’d say the adults are no different to year 8s. They teased, poked, yelled, joked at each other throughout the talks. Dip. Ed. students… fun.

On a more serious note, the content that was covered in this lesson was quite interesting. One such text that stood out to me was The Divine Wind By Garry Disher.



“On the eve of WWII, suspicion runs rampant in Hartley Penrose's small town. Even though they've done nothing wrong, the town is turning against its native Japanese residents--including Mitsy Sennosuke, the girl Hart loves despite himself. the result is a wrenching, unforgettable story of romance, betrayal and turmoil that rocks both the world and the heart.”　

ーshort blurb taken from http://www.msss.sd8.bc.ca/Library/newbooks.htm

Quite an interesting story, and I would like to read it for myself when I have the time.

Another observation throughout this lesson, is that a good way to start a novel is by looking at its cover.

As obvious as that may sound, many students neglect the importance of the cover and do not consider viewing it analytically.

Some things that should be analysed when viewing a cover:
• Significance of the title
• Characters
• Symbolism
• Size
• Orientation
• Setting
Not all book covers will reveal everything about the story, however, it is good practice to consider the meanings produced by these covers. In effect, the teacher is initiating a visual lesson, which can aid the achievement of viewing outcomes.