The Boy in the Black Suit: Pre-Reading Lesson Bundle
 
Kick off your unit with two powerful, low-prep pre-reading lessons that engage students in movement, theme analysis, prediction, and author exploration.
 
Whether you're easing into the school year or looking to hook students with meaningful content before diving into Jason Reynolds’ The Boy in the Black Suit, this two-in-one bundle has you covered.
 
What’s Included?
 
1: Pre-Reading Theme Station Rotation Activity
Students rotate through 10 sticky-note stations, responding to thought-provoking statements tied to the novel’s major themes: grief, growth, identity, and healing
Includes a class synthesis discussion, theme formula mini-lesson, and novel reveal moment
Built-in movement + collaboration = instant student engagement
Full teacher instructions + optional share-out plan
 
2. Independent Google Slides: Building Background Knowledge
Students predict, analyze a book review, and meet the author through Jason Reynolds’ Dear Dreamer short film
Includes linked videos, student choice board, and a “you did it!” final slide for smooth submission
Comes with criteria for success, embedded directions, and editable teacher notes
Perfect for test days, sub plans, or to assign as a digital intro to the novel
 
Why Teachers Love This Bundle:
✔️ Mix of collaborative + independent work
✔️ Supports theme analysis, synthesis, and author study
✔️ Flexible for block or regular schedules
✔️ Designed to make The Boy in the Black Suit accessible and meaningful
 
This bundle sets your students up for a rich reading experience and gives you two pre-built, versatile lessons to launch your unit with clarity, depth, and ease.