Save the Last Word for Me

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Reading Skills

• Rereading
• Comparing and contrasting
• Articulating meaning
• Identifying literary elements
• Analyzing descriptive writing
• Identifying theme
• Identifying conflict
• Analyzing persuasive technique
• Drawing conclusions

Overview of the "Save the Last Word for Me" Strategy

The "Save the Last Word for Me" strategy requires the students to find a passage in the text that illustrates an example of something, such as a literary element or a technique, specified by the teacher. It also requires the students to discuss their choices and defend them.

Activity for the "Save the Last Word for Me" Strategy

1. Have the students choose a passage from Wish You Well
   • that is humorous (More advanced students should also be able to explain a method used by the author to make the passage funny.)
   • that uses figurative language, explaining what is literally meant by the author
   • that clearly defines George Davis as the antagonist of the novel
   • that supports the conflict of the novel
   • in which the author uses imagery
   • that defines irony of situation in the novel
   • that presents a persuasive technique used by Southern Valley Coal and Gas to get Louisa's land.
2. Have the students copy their selected passage onto a note card.
3. Then have the students write a paragraph on the back of the card, explaining why they selected this passage. 
4. Group the students into small groups, and have each student read his or her selected passage to the group and get feedback about what the others in the group think the passage means, listening for comments related to the given assignment.
5. Then have each student turn his or her card over and read what he or she has written about why this particular selection was made - why this passage illustrates the given concept/idea.
6. Tell the other students that if they disagree with the choice, they must express their reasons for disagreeing.
7. Tell the class that the "last word" is "saved" for the student who made the selection, and he or she may choose either to alter or stand by the choice.

Blackline Master
Assessment - Save the Last Word for Me (SLWM)
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Name _____________________________________

Date _______________________

Category	Consistent	Inconsistent	Comments
Reads and understands the book
Completes assigned reading on time
Participates in SLWM discussion
Provides at least two reasons for choosing his or her passage
Contributes thoughtful comments to SLWM group discussion
Listens attentively and responds appropriately to peer comments in discussion
Completes assigned SLWM activity on time
Completes SLWM to the best of his or her ability

Final SLWM Grade __________________