Shakespeare in Urban Slang

sparking student interest in Shakespearean classics

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Adapted by a New York City English teacher, the books in the Shakespeare in Urban Slang Series condense and modernize Shakespeare’s original plays using contemporary inner-city slang. Classroom tested with much success, the books in this series promise to be a sensational read for any preteen, teen, or person young at heart that either identifies with American urban pop culture or is curious about it. Two titles are currently available: Romeo & Juliet in Urban Slang and Macbeth in Urban Slang. These books are a great way to supplement a study of Shakespeare's great classics. Each book includes questions and activities related to each act to stimulate critical thinking skills.

Shakespeare in Urban Slang is ideal for:
• a middle school or high school students
• a classroom, school ,or young adult library
• reader’s theatre lesson
• a literary circle
• an after school program
• a book club for youth
• a drama club or class
• a parent to use to enrich his or her child’s education
• a summer reading program
• a person who is interested in reading a unique version of Shakespeare’s plays

Key Features of a Shakespeare in Slang book:
Old “Sckool” Shakespeare
Even though the book presents an urban slang version of Shakespeare’s play, exposure to Shakespeare’s works in its original language is encouraged. Included at the end of each act is either a key scene from the original play or a Shakespearean sonnet left in the poetic beauty of the Elizabethan text.

Enlarging Your Vocabulary
Sprinkled in the play are fifteen words designed to build the vocabulary of its readers.

Reader's Response Section

Reading Comprehension Questions
Two layers of reading comprehension questions for each act are included in the reader’s response section titled “Reviewing the Details” and “Grasping a Deeper Understanding”. The questions in “Reviewing the Details” allow students to recall key details from the story for a basic understanding. The “Grasping a Deeper Understanding” questions promote high order critical thinking skills such as making inferences and synthesizing.

Examining Author’s Craft: Literary Elements
An introduction to literary elements such as characterization and figurative language is included for each act in the reader’s response section. An understanding of how the author uses these literary elements in the play increases the reading comprehension level of its readers.

Creative Expression Activities
Included in the reader’s response section are writing assignments, art projects, and poetry writing activities related to each act that enhance the readers’ comprehension and connection to the play.

Discussion Prompts
Questions that promote healthy discussions and debates about various issues raised in the play are included in the reader’s response section for each act. Structured talking experiences help to strengthen communication skills, build community, and deepen understanding for its participants.

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