SYRACUSE CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Grade 11 Unit 04 Hybrid – Literary and Informational Text
Overcoming Adversity
Special Education and Consultant Teacher Resource Guide
Big Ideas
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Essential Questions
Readers recognize and appreciate how writers use a
variety of techniques to enhance the overall meaning
of both literary and informational texts.
Readers know that word choices and structural
choices impact meaning
Readers synthesize real world significance in literature
via informational reading.
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How do an author’s choices create meaning in a
written work?
Can adversity in one’s life build character and
individual strength?
*This (PC) unit was created as a companion to the novel The Color Purple, as a
text to teach adversity.
Resources and Supports
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Celie’s home: A brief overview of African-American life in rural Georgia
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The Epistolary Novel
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The Color Purple Guide 1
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The Color Purple Guide 2
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The Color Purple Guide 3
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The Color Purple Guide 4
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The Color Purple - Companion Poems
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The Color Purple – Study Guide
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Unit Test: The Color Purple
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“Letter from Birmingham Jail”
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Strategies Organizer
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COAT Critical Lens Essay Template
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Critical Lens Review sheet
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Critical Lens Organizer – Body Paragraph
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Critical Lens Organizer – Conclusion
Writing Prompt/Assessment: In the 1990 translation of Brothers Karamazov, Fyodor Dostoevsky wrote, “fear is
simply the consequence of every lie.” Using two works of literature you have read, analyze Dostoevsky’s
statement as it relates to the two works you have chosen. In your essay, provide a valid interpretation of the
statement, agree or disagree with the statement as you have interpreted it, and support your opinion using
specific references to appropriate literary elements from the two works.
(This is the critical lens practice – use critical lens review sheet, and outlines / organizers – see above- for supports)