The Color of Water by James McBride
Lesson plans and teaching resources

The Color of Water
A variety of reading strategies, including an anticipation guide, a guided imagery activity, and vocabulary support. Adobe Reader required for access.

The Color of Water
Summary and 11 discussion questions.

The Color of Water
This Sparknotes guide includes themes, motifs, symbols, key quotations, study questions, essay topics, and more.

The Color of Water and Contemporary Events
Writing prompt for a multi-paragraph essay, process support.

The Color of Water Final Summative Assessment
Two good writing prompts.

Making Meaning: The Search for Identity through Family History
To supplement the class's reading of The Color of Water students will also participate in a personal search for identity through examining their own roots and reflecting upon where they have come from and where they are going. Each student will complete a Family History Project where they will write about their family dynamics, interview family members, research important historical events that have impacted their families, and dig into their family's history in the city of New Haven (or the city that they call home).