Planning a novel study
Criteria to consider when choosing a novel for students with significant disabilities:
- Age respectful topic and format
- A compelling story line with substance to support ‘big questions’
- Credible characters
- Topic or issue that readers can make personal connections to
- Careful introduction and reinforcement of difficult vocabulary and concepts
- Straightforward plot development (e.g., avoiding flashbacks, time shifts, and confusing changes in point of view)
- Simple sentence structure
- Illustrations, audio support and/or video versions available
- Reasonable length (e.g., less than 200 pages)