Guided Reading Wednesday Group – From the Desk of Zoe Washington, by Janae Marks

Book Description 

From the desk of Zoe Washington by Janae Marks is about 12 year old Zoe Washington. A remarkable 12 year old who wants nothing more than to become the first female Black winner of a Food Network’s Kids Baking Challenge. However, on her 12th birthday, she receives a surprising letter from her incarcerated father, (Marcus), whom she’s never met. He was sent to prison for murder just before Zoe was born. A murder he says he never committed. And, after receiving the letter from her father, Zoe does something she has never done before, she begins withholding the truth from her mother in order to uncover the truth about her dad’s innocence. 

Course Description

During this 6 week session, students will develop a deeper understanding of the book From the Desk of Zoey Washington by Janae Marks.  Through group discussions, guided questions, and best practice strategies students will be challenged to think critically about the text as well as make connections that relate to personal and world situations. 

What to expect from each class

• Students will listen to a reading of the novel. No assigned readings.
• Reading strategies will be modeled during read aloud.
• Students will participate in group discussions that will either take place as a whole group or with 1 or 2 other students in Zoom breakout rooms.

Student Expectations

• A personal computer or iPad is needed with Zoom
• Access to a Google/Gmail account. Students will need to check email through the week and have access to Google Classroom. 
• A quiet work space or headphones 
• Commitment to completing weekly assignments