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Read an article about why Jason Reynolds writes stories and analyze how word choice reveals the author’s message and purpose.
Distinguish literal and figurative meanings of words and use academic verbs (reveals, suggests) and reflection frames (This matters because . . .) to explain how word choice shapes meaning.
Practice distinguishing literal and figurative meanings of words in context.
How do ordinary moments reveal who we are and how we belong?
How does sharing stories help people understand one another?
Jason Reynolds: Writing What’s Real
Standard News Bureau

Directions: Think about an ordinary moment that made you feel seen and understood. Then think about an ordinary moment that taught you something about a friend or family member. Think-Pair-Share responses with a classmate.
Directions: As we read “Writing the Truth: Jason Reynolds and the Power of Being Seen,” look for words that have differing meanings. Think about how the author’s word choices help readers understand Jason Reynolds’s message.
Throughout this lesson, use the graphic organizer to keep track of the literal and figurative meanings of words. Label the columns as follows:
Column 1: Word
Column 2: Literal Meaning
Column 3: Figurative Meaning.
What are some other examples of words that have literal and figurative meanings?
Pulse Check |
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Why does the author use words like mirror, voice, and center instead of more basic words like show, opinion, and focus?
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Directions: Circulate and share an idea about the article you read with one classmate at a time. After you share, offer feedback on your classmate’s idea, using the following sentence frame if needed: “One idea I gave was ____. One idea I got was ____. Jot down both your ideas and those you hear from classmates in the Give One, Get One graphic organizer.
What does it mean for an artist to “see” young people?
How can stories show what matters to us?
What has to happen to make an ordinary moment worth sharing?
Reflection |
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Think about how the meaning of a word can change from literal to figurative depending on how it’s used. Reflect on your understanding using the Reflection routine.
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Directions: Use what you learned and discussed today to respond to the following prompt, either independently or with a partner.
When does an ordinary moment become extraordinary?