The Cay by Theodore Taylor tells the story of Phillip, a young boy stranded on a deserted island with Timothy, an older man, during World War II. The book teaches values like friendship, resilience, and overcoming prejudice, as Phillip learns to trust and respect Timothy despite their differences. It shows the importance of working together and finding strength in challenging times. Through their journey, young readers are inspired to embrace empathy, courage, and the power of human connection.

We use The Cay as the primary text for a three week literature unit. Here are some ways we utilize this text: 

• Critical Thinking and Ethical Discussions: Students will explore themes such as racism, survival, and the importance of communication, encouraging them to think critically about historical context and its implications today.
• Character Analysis Assignments: By examining the transformation of Phillip and Timothy's relationship, students engage in character studies that highlight growth, courage, and the impact of societal views on personal beliefs.
• Survival Skills Learning: Students will explore practical survival skills, geography, and the study of ecosystems, as Phillip and Timothy's survival techniques are dissected and related to real-world knowledge
• Creative Writing Projects: Inspired by the structured narrative of their island life, students are prompted to write their own accounts of overcoming challenges or addressing diversity.