Date of Award
Spring 2026
Degree Type
Thesis
Director of Thesis
Catherine Keyser
Second Reader
Cami Reid
Abstract
This project aims to provide middle school English teachers with an easy way to update their curriculum to be culturally relevant using ready-to-teach unit plans based on diverse novels. Since research shows students benefit from reading texts from diverse cultures, each novel features minority voices. Both units include lesson plans for each day, and resources like slideshows, worksheets, and discussion questions. They were created using the South Carolina College and Career Ready Standards for English Language Arts. While these units are tailored to South Carolina teachers, they can be used by any educator whose standards align with the units’ learning goals. Both units are grounded in research and focus on improving literacy skills. Additionally, these units create positive reading experiences by exposing students to a variety of text formats and relevant topics. After students have a positive reading experience, their motivation to read will increase. Additionally, both novels were published recently, making them relevant to today’s students. Since each unit comes fully prepared, teachers can easily implement them in their classrooms. By using this project, teachers can increase their class’s literacy skills and cultural relevance.
First Page
1
Last Page
170
Recommended Citation
Duvall, Elizabeth, "Ready-to-Teach Reads: Standards-Aligned Novel Studies for Seventh Grade Using Contemporary Middle Grade Fiction" (2026). Senior Theses. 833.
https://scholarcommons.sc.edu/senior_theses/833
Rights
© 2026, Elizabeth Duvall
Included in
Curriculum and Instruction Commons, Educational Methods Commons, Junior High, Intermediate, Middle School Education and Teaching Commons, Language and Literacy Education Commons