BOSTON, Sept. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Learning
Company Houghton Mifflin
Harcourt (HMH) today introduced A Chance in
the World Integrated SEL Curriculum for students in
grades 8-12, based upon the powerful memoir of the same name by
best-selling author, philanthropist, and speaker Steve Pemberton. This unique, flexible SEL
(social emotional learning) curriculum is designed to bring
students and educators together around Steve Pemberton's inspiring story of resilience,
which portrays his traumatic experiences in the foster-care system
and his quest to uncover the truth about his origins.
Through discussion questions, writing prompts, SEL activities,
related readings, and project ideas, students explore Steve's path
to overcoming adversity and consider the power of empathy,
understanding and a love of reading on his journey.
"While I initially wrote A Chance in the World for my
three children, I soon began to hear messages of hope from the
teachers and children it resonated with, who saw themselves in the
pages, and I knew we could do more to connect with students," said
Steve Pemberton. "This integrated
SEL curriculum from HMH provides a dynamic framework for
understanding the themes of empathy and resilience, and inspiring
readers to overcome challenges to create a better future."
Inspired by the creative work of teachers who used A Chance
in the World within their schools and communities, this program
allows students to address difficult topics in a safe way while
providing educators with tools for navigating those discussions,
whether in an English Language Arts (ELA) classroom, as an
all-school read, or as part of an SEL-focused advisory period.
The curriculum centers on and builds resilience and growth
mindset, teaching students that the potential to change exists even
in the face of difficulty and failure and inspiring them to spread
the word about the power of kindness and community action.
"When I first read A Chance in the
World and met Steve, I knew there was amazing potential
for an in-school program that could address the SEL needs in
today's classroom," says Jim
O'Neill, General Manager of Core Solutions at HMH. "We have
been honored to work with Steve to create an engaging curriculum
that students can relate to, provides flexibility for educators,
and has the potential to bring school communities together.
During this back-to-school season when social and emotional
learning is on the forefront of educators' minds, HMH is proud to
partner with Steve to help all students overcome challenges in
their lives and realize that they too have a chance to realize
their fullest potential."
Teachers attest to the power of Steve's story to engage students
who may normally avoid tackling full-length books as well as its
success in helping to break down barriers among students, teachers,
and staff. As part of this unique curriculum, students will use
charts, graphic organizers, and surveys to examine their own
cognitive and behavioral patterns and explore issues and concerns
that matter to teenagers.
"Steve Pemberton's honest and
authentic story builds bridges for students whose experiences are
rarely seen. Students who have experienced trauma and believe
themselves isolated become visible, without embarrassment, to those
with a stable and supportive family life. Lessons are learned on
both sides," said Nancy Libbee,
English Instructor, Great Oaks Schools. "Students discover their
own self-identity and realize how connected we are. They find they
have a significant voice in this world."
Developed in collaboration with the Chance Council (comprised of
Steve and a small group of educators focused on making a
difference in schools) A Chance in the World Integrated SEL
Curriculum is available for purchase on amazon.com or
HMHCo.com, or as an add-on to HMH's industry-leading HMH Into
Literature program, which features SEL as a strong
recurring theme. Current HMH customers looking to purchase the
curriculum – which will be available on HMH's digital teaching
and learning platform, Ed – can learn more
here.
About Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
(NASDAQ: HMHC) is a learning company committed to delivering
connected solutions that engage learners, empower educators and
improve student outcomes. As a leading provider of K–12 core
curriculum, supplemental and intervention solutions and
professional learning services, HMH partners with educators and
school districts to uncover solutions that unlock students'
potential and extend teachers' capabilities. HMH serves more than
50 million students and 3 million educators in 150 countries, while
its award-winning children's books, novels, non-fiction, and
reference titles are enjoyed by readers throughout the world. For
more information, visit www.hmhco.com.
Follow HMH on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.
Contact
Katie
Marshall
Communications Manager
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
617-351-5057
katie.marshall@hmhco.com
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SOURCE Houghton Mifflin Harcourt