A Single Shard by Linda Sue Park contains the SEL themes of cultural competence, dealing with challenges such as loss and poverty, perseverance, alienation, and belonging. Our fun fact about this novel is that Celadon ceramics (often referred to as greenware) are some of the finest pottery produced anywhere and are coveted by collectors. The name Celadon comes from the French word of Greek origin, which refers to the colors ranging from blue-green to soft grey-green.
Overview
A Single Shard is the story of an orphan boy named Tree-ear living in a Korean potter's village in the 112th century. Tree-ear becomes interested in learning the craft of making the beautiful celadon pottery after he watches Min, a pottery master in the village. He realizes that he cannot just walk up to Master Min and ask to be his apprentice so he works hard to prove that he has earned the right to learn the skills. Master Min is reluctant to show Tree-ear because tradition is that the skill is passed down from father to son, but Master Min doesn't have any living children to share this skill with. Tree-ear goes through many trials but eventually proves his value when he displays tremendous courage during adversity. The SEL themes highlighted in this novel are cultural competence, dealing with challenges such as loss and poverty, perseverance, alienation, and belonging.
Socratic Seminar Questions
Chapter 1
- Why is the traditional Korean greeting the Crane-man and Tree-ear greet each other ironic?
- What happened to the farmer on the street because of his impatience? Have you ever been impatient? What happened as a result?
- What ethical decision does Tree-ear have to make? What would you do in this situation?
The farmer tells Tree-ear that "good deserves good."
- Do you agree that what Tree-ear did was good? Why or why not?
Crane-man says that "Work gives a man dignity, stealing takes it away."
- What does Tree-ear think of this advice? Is Crane-man a mentor to Tree-ear?
"Scholars read the great words of the world. But you and I must learn to read the world itself" is another piece of advice from Crane-man.
- What does this mean?
Emozi middle school lesson connections
Grade 8, Unit 1
- Lesson 1: Introductions to Emotions
- Lesson 2: Identifying Strengths and Interests
- Lesson 3: Balancing Your Body Budget
- Lesson 4: Problem Solving
- Lesson 5: Cultural Competency
- Lesson 6: Community Support
- Lesson 7: Belonging and Rejection
- Lesson 8: Getting Your Point Across
- Lesson 9: Identifying Mentors
- Lesson 10: Ethics and Integrity
- Lesson 11: Goal Setting
- Lesson 12: Kindness and Compassion
For the full Socratic Seminar for this novel and full lesson plans for the topics listed, please visit our website for more details on how to get Emozi for your classroom!
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