Postreading the Kite Runner

In this weeks reading, I found so many useful tools that will be beneficial to students in post reading exercises.   In the past, I felt I had adequately addressed post reading, but after the reading, I found that my strategies were a bit boring and un-engaging!   The fourth chapter of The Kite Runner (Hosseini, 2003) is one that gives the background relationship of Baba and Ali; this parallels the relationship that Hassan and Amir have, a generation later.   The Hazara and Pashto tribe and differences are also gone into in more depth.   This chapter is one in which many relationships are introduced and it is imperative that the students understand the intricacies of these in their reading.   I chose two methods, the small group discussion and Hot Seat for the post reading strategies.
The small discussion will be beneficial in the post reading of chapter four because it deals with several inferences. Our text stated small group discussions “Provide chance for students to help each other clarify understandings of content.” (Reading in the content areas, 2004). The students will be placed by numbers in groups of four.   The students will then have directed questions in which they will discuss.
  1. When Amir changes the text in Shahnamah what do you think his purpose was?
  2. Both Baba and Amir grew up and were playmates to their “servants”.   What differences do you see in how they were treated both in public and in private?
  3. Why do you think Amir would deliberately trick Hassan in reading and his vocabulary?
  4. What so you think Amir meant when he said “Afghanistan changed forever."(Hosseini, 2003)
  5. How was Rahim reaction to Amir’s short story different from Baba’s?   Why?
By discussing these questions as a group, the students will see various opinions and theories.
The second strategy I will use is “Hot Seat” (Laureate, 2008).   I was particularly intrigued by this strategy and think it is the ideal way for students to truly have a grasp on what...