Two Kinds

Use this activity to engage all types of learners, while requiring that they refer to and incorporate details from the text over the course of the activity.

“Two Halves of the Same Song”

In this activity, students will choose and explain two songs that describe their relationship with a parent or guardian. One song should represent the student, and the other should represent the parent or guardian.

At the end of the story, June notes metaphorically that she and her mother are two halves of the same song. In what way are you part of a similar song?

• Think about your role in the relationship with a parent or guardian. What song best represents this role?
• What role does your parent or guardian play in the relationship? What song best represents this role?
• Record (written or audio) relevant excerpts of each song and then explain your reasoning in writing.

After recording song excerpts and discussing your rationale, discuss parallels or differences in your relationship with your parent or guardian and the relationship between June and her mother.

Teaching Suggestion: Invite volunteers to play excerpts of each song or mash-up for the class and then explain the choices.

Differentiation Suggestion: Provide a visual alternative to the assignment by allowing students to choose two photos or paintings.