#Projekt1065 - The Teaching Bank

Lead Toward Empathy and Understanding with Refugee by Alan Gratz

by Shelley | English/Language Arts, Novel Studies

In today’s diverse and interconnected world, it is essential for educators to foster empathy, understanding, and global awareness among their students. One powerful tool for achieving this goal is literature. Refugee by Alan Gratz is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that not only captivates young readers but also provides a unique opportunity for teachers to explore important themes like empathy, resilience, and the refugee experience.

Refugee by Alan Gratz

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It is crucial for educators to foster empathy, promote global awareness, and instill a deep understanding of history in their students. Alan Gratz meets these needs with Refugee.

Benefits of Using Refugee in Your Classroom

Contains Timely and Relevant Themes: In today’s global context, issues related to refugees and immigration are more relevant than ever. Refugee weaves together the stories of three young refugees from different time periods and backgrounds, highlighting the universal nature of the refugee experience. This novel allows students to explore the contemporary relevance of these themes and fosters a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by refugees in the world today and in the past.
Fosters Empathy and Perspective-Taking: One of the key benefits of using Refugee in the classroom is its ability to foster empathy. Through the stories of Josef, Isabel, and Mahmoud, students are transported into the lives of young refugees and can relate to their struggles, fears, and hopes. This empathy-building experience encourages students to develop a greater appreciation for diversity and a stronger sense of social responsibility.
Provides Cross-Curricular Opportunities: Teachers can use Refugee as a versatile tool for cross-curricular learning. It can be integrated into various subjects, such as social studies, history, language arts, and geography. By incorporating the novel into different parts of the curriculum, students can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the refugee experience and its historical and geographical contexts.
Sparks Critical Thinking and Discussion: Refugee‘s compelling narrative is an excellent catalyst for class discussions and critical thinking. Teachers can use Refugee to engage students in conversations about topics like immigration policies, human rights, and the power of storytelling. This, in turn, encourages students to develop their analytical skills and the ability to express their ideas and opinions. These discussions empower students to engage with the world and become informed, active citizens who can contribute to positive change.
Offers Diverse and Relatable Characters: Alan Gratz skillfully creates well-developed characters whom readers can connect with. By following the journey of Josef, Isabel, and Mahmoud, students of various backgrounds can find characters with whom they can identify. This diversity allows students to see the common humanity that transcends cultural, ethnic, and geographical differences.
Implements a Multidimensional Learning Experience: One of the outstanding benefits of Refugee is that it provides students with a multidimensional learning experience. The novel weaves together the stories of three young refugees from different time periods and locations: Josef in 1930s Nazi Germany, Isabel in 1994 Cuba, and Mahmoud in 2015 Syria. By following these characters on their perilous journeys to find safety, students gain an appreciation of the universal themes of displacement, resilience, and the quest for freedom.
Addresses Critical Historical Events: Using Refugee in the classroom allows teachers to connect literature with history. The novel introduces students to significant historical events such as World War II, the Cuban Revolution, and the Syrian Civil War. By examining these events through the eyes of young protagonists, students can develop a more personal and relatable connection to history, making the lessons more memorable and impactful.
Enhances Reading and Writing Skills: As a work of historical fiction, Refugee challenges students to analyze and evaluate historical context while honing their reading and writing skills. Students can engage in activities such as character analysis, thematic exploration, and creative writing, which strengthen their critical thinking and communication abilities.

Refugee by Alan Gratz is an exceptional novel that provides a unique opportunity for teachers to foster empathy, understanding, and critical thinking among their students. By exploring timely and relevant themes, encouraging perspective-taking, and offering cross-curricular opportunities, this novel serves as a valuable educational tool. Its diverse and relatable characters, along with the abundance of complementary resources, make Refugee an ideal choice for teachers looking to inspire their students and create a more inclusive and compassionate world. Introduce Refugee into your classroom and embark on a journey of empathy and learning with your students.

I offer a complete novel study to accompany Refugee, which includes informational WebQuests to learn more about the Sturmabteilung (SA), Kristallnacht, Hitler’s Youth, the MS St. Louis, Fidel Castro and Cuba, and the Syrian Civil War for use in the classroom or homeschool. The unit includes both a printable format and a Google Drive™ format for use in a paperless classroom or with Google Classroom.

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Projekt 1065, A WWII Spy Novel You Can’t Put Down!

by Shelley | English/Language Arts, Novel Studies

As a teacher, you are always on the lookout for innovative ways to engage and inspire your students. One way to achieve this is through the use of literature that not only entertains but also educates. This is where Projekt 1065 by Alan Gratz comes in.

Projekt 1065 is a historical fiction novel written by Alan Gratz. The story is set in Nazi Germany during World War II and follows the life of Michael, a young Irish-German boy who becomes a member of the Hitler Youth. However, Michael’s true loyalty lies with the Allies, and he becomes a spy for the British.

Projekt 1065 by Alan Gratz

You Can Find this Novel Here

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Benefits of Using Projekt 1065 in Your Classroom

Is an Engaging and Interesting Novel: One of the primary benefits of using Projekt 1065 in the classroom is that it is an engaging and interesting read for students. The novel is set during World War II and follows the story of a young boy named Michael, who is a member of the Hitler Youth. The plot of the book is full of twists and turns, making it a captivating story for students to follow. As a result, teachers can use the book to promote independent reading, which has been shown to improve literacy and language skills.
Provides Historical Context: Projekt 1065 also provides a historical context for students to learn about World War II. By incorporating this novel into their lesson plans, teachers can help students understand the events leading up to and during the war. This can include exploring the political climate of the time, the rise of Nazi Germany, and the impact of the war on ordinary people. The book is well-researched and offers an accurate portrayal of the period, making it a valuable resource for educators.
Promotes Critical Thinking: Another benefit of using Projekt 1065 in the classroom is that it promotes critical thinking skills. Throughout the book, Michael is forced to make difficult decisions and grapple with ethical dilemmas. This provides an opportunity for students to discuss and analyze the choices that Michael makes, encouraging them to think critically about their own values and beliefs. Teachers can use these discussions to facilitate meaningful conversations about morality and decision-making.
Provides Opportunities for Multidisciplinary Learning: Projekt 1065 also lends itself to multidisciplinary learning. The novel incorporates elements of history, science, technology, and ethics, providing opportunities for teachers to incorporate these subjects into their lesson plans. For example, teachers can use the book to teach about the role of technology in World War II, the scientific principles behind the inventions featured in the book, and the ethical considerations of war.
Encourage Personal Growth: Using Projekt 1065 in the classroom can promote personal growth for students. Michael’s character undergoes significant changes throughout the book, and students can learn from his experiences. The book explores themes of identity, loyalty, and courage, providing opportunities for students to reflect on their own values and beliefs. By encouraging students to think deeply about these themes, teachers can help promote personal growth and development.
Provides Relevant Lessons for Today: Projekt 1065 can help students understand and analyze current events. The novel highlights the dangers of propaganda, the importance of standing up for what is right, and the need to fight against injustice. These are all relevant lessons that can be applied to today’s world, making the book a valuable resource for teaching important life skills.

This book will capture the attention of even your most reluctant reader with the fast-paced, action-packed story. Students will get a glimpse into the brainwashing and fear-mongering tactics that the Nazis used to gain power and do it in such a way that will make it relatable to the middle-school mindset. It really makes kids think about the Holocaust and WWII in a way that makes them want to learn more. This novel study is great to use as a complement to a history unit on WWII and the Holocaust.

Projekt 1065 is a valuable resource for teachers looking to engage their students in meaningful learning experiences. By incorporating the novel into their lesson plans, teachers can promote independent reading, historical understanding, critical thinking, multidisciplinary learning, and personal growth. These benefits make Projekt 1065 an excellent choice for teachers looking to enhance their students’ education.

I offer a complete novel study to accompany Projekt 1065, which includes informational WebQuests to learn more about the Sturmabteilung (SA), the Gestapo, Kristallnacht, Operation Paperclip, and The Manhattan Project for use in the classroom or homeschool. The unit includes both a printable format and a Google Drive™ format for use in a paperless classroom or with Google Classroom.