Some good middle grades short stories include 'Flowers for Algernon' which is about a man with an intellectual disability and his experiences with an experiment to increase his intelligence. It's both sad and inspiring. 'The Monkey's Paw' is a spooky story that warns about the consequences of interfering with fate. And 'The Ransom of Red Chief' is a humorous tale about two men who kidnap a boy who turns out to be more than they can handle.
Middle grades short stories are great for group work. Students can be divided into groups to analyze a short story. They can create presentations about the story's significance, its characters' development, and how the setting affects the plot. For instance, with 'Raymond's Run', groups can discuss how the neighborhood setting impacts Squeaky's character and her journey of self - discovery. Also, short stories can be used to inspire creative writing. After reading a short story, students can write their own stories inspired by the style or theme of the original one.
One of the well - known middle grades graphic novels is 'Amulet' by Kazu Kibuishi. It has a great blend of action, magic, and family elements. The story follows a young girl and her brother as they enter a strange new world full of danger and mystery. Also, 'The Baby - Sitters Club' graphic novels are popular. They bring the classic stories to a new generation in a visually appealing format.
One interesting middle school short story could be about a shy student who overcomes his fear of public speaking during a school debate. He practices hard in secret and finally surprises everyone with his confident performance.
One interesting Middle English short story is 'The Canterbury Tales'. It features a diverse group of pilgrims on a journey, each telling their own story, which gives a great insight into the society, values, and different types of people in Middle English times. Another is 'Sir Gawain and the Green Knight'. It's a chivalric romance full of adventure, honor, and tests of character. And 'Pearl' is also a notable one, which has deep religious and emotional themes.
One interesting middle school short story could be about a group of friends who form a secret club to save an old tree in their schoolyard from being cut down. They hold rallies and talk to the school board, and in the end, they succeed.
A middle school short story might be about a girl who loves art but is discouraged by her teacher. However, she doesn't give up. She enters an art competition secretly and wins. Her talent is finally recognized, which is a great example of perseverance in the face of discouragement.
New middle grades fiction often features relatable young protagonists. These characters are usually going through the challenges of growing up, like dealing with school, friendships, and family issues. The stories are written in a way that's accessible to middle - grade readers, with language that's not too complex.
One interesting middle school level short story is 'The Gift of the Magi' by O. Henry. It tells the story of a young couple who are very poor but deeply in love. They each sacrifice their most precious possession to buy a gift for the other. It shows the selfless nature of love.
They often have strong cultural elements. For example, they might include Polynesian myths, traditions like tattooing or canoe - building. These elements are presented in a way that middle - grade readers can understand.
Rick Riordan is quite popular. His books, like the 'Percy Jackson' series, are loved by middle - grade readers. They combine mythology with modern - day adventures.