73 pages 2 hours read

Gordon Korman

Schooled

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2007

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Introduction

Teacher Introduction

Schooled

  • Genre: Fiction; middle grade realistic
  • Originally Published: 2007
  • Reading Level/Interest: Lexile 740L; grades 5-8
  • Structure/Length: 31 chapters; approximately 224 pages; approximately 4 hours, 48 minutes on audio
  • Protagonist/Central Conflict: The story revolves around Capricorn (Cap) Anderson, a 13-year-old boy who has lived in relative isolation all his life; homeschooled by his grandmother on the site of a former commune, Cap has experienced little interaction with others. The central conflict arises when Cap must attend a public middle school after his grandmother is hospitalized. The narrative explores Cap's navigation of the complexities of the modern school system, bullying, and social norms.
  • Potential Sensitivity Issues: Themes of bullying; social ostracization; adjustment to new environments; mild humor related to the clash of different lifestyles; assault and physical injury

Gordon Korman, Author

  • Bio: Born 1963 in Canada; began writing at a young age; known for his humorous and adventure-filled children's and young adult novels; has written over 80 books; themes often include resilience, humor, and unusual predicaments; a popular figure in school-based literature
  • Other Works: The 39 Clues series (contributor; 2008-2009); Swindle series (2008-2016); Ungifted (2012); Restart (2017)

CENTRAL THEMES connected and noted throughout this Teaching Guide:

  • Idealism Versus Realism
  • Parenting Styles
  • Isolationism and Interventionism