1. Question Gary Paulsen writes many young adult stories that focus on experiences that have shaped his life. In this lesson you will explore how Gary Paulsen’s life choices have molded his existence.

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The Path to Becoming Me

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How do our experiences shape who we become?

2. Information Sources

The sites listed below will help you learn more about Gary Paulsen and his life experiences. You will use this information to complete the graphic organizer .

About Gary Meet Gary Paulsen

Author Profile of Gary Paulsen Paulsen Interview

Paulsen BiographyInterview with Gary Paulsen See LMS if there are problems connecting

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All Stars Watch Video

3. Student Activity

Organize and share what you have learned. Then you will be ready for the activity on slide 4.

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4. Assessment Activity

As you write, be sure to use details from your notes. Remember, you are using your knowledge to determine how GARY PAULSEN would answer the questions.

Once you have finished writing, use the checklist to see if you will need to revise your work.

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Composing Paulsen’s Response

5. Enrichment Activities

Check out the following journals, videos, and articles about Gary Paulsen’s experiences.

Paulsen's Iditarod Journal Gary’s Survival Tips Titles Available at your Library Gary Paulsen Library

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6. Teacher Support MaterialsBCPS CurriculumExplain the implications of the text for the reader and/or society. (9.D) Common Core State Standards Reading: 1. Read closely to determine what the text says explicitly and to make logical inferences from it; cite specific textual evidence when writing or speaking to support conclusions drawn from the text.Writing: 7. Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects based on focused questions, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.Standards for the 21st Century Learner 1.1.6 Read, view, and listen for information presented in any format (e.g. textual, visual, media, digital) in order to make inferences and gather meaning.2.1.3 Use strategies to draw conclusions from information and apply knowledge to curricular areas, real-world situations, and further investigations.

Maryland Technology Literacy Standards for Students3.0: Use a variety of technologies for learning and collaboration.

Time Frame: Two 50 minute periods

Differentiation: Direct students to use comprehension tools

included in databases, such as: audio read-aloud, labeled reading levels, and embedded dictionaries.

Learning Styles: Visual, Auditory, Tactile, Active, Reflective, Global, Analytical

Notes to the teacher:Review graphic organizersReview rubric, adjust as needed.Slide 2 contains colored stars. Please assign students a star color. There is no level difference in stars. Slide 3 contains group work. Assign groups of mixed star colors in order to get different perspectives.Slide 5 contains a link to the Destiny OPAC system. Students may want to check out other works by Paulsen.

Last updated: July 2012Created by Alexis Mazur Library Media Specialist

BCPS Slam Dunk Research Model, Copyright 2012, Baltimore County Public Schools, MD, all rights reserved. The models may be used for educational, non-profit school use only. All other uses, transmissions, and duplications are prohibited unless permission is granted expressly. This lesson is based on Jamie McKenzie’s Slam Dunk Lesson module.

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