Lecture on 'New Kid' by Jerry Craft - Chapter 2

Introduction

• Chapter 2 Title: The Road to Riverdale, There and Back Again
• Map from Washington Heights to Riverdale.
• Theme: First day of school, feeling nervous.
• Zombie metaphor: Students are tired and unprepared for the end of summer break.

Key Events

• Arrival at Riverdale Academy Day School
  • Jordan's first impression of the school: big and intimidating.
  • Introduction to Riverdale regulars: Liam's siblings, Kirsten and Grayson.
• Meeting New People
  • Encounter with Murio, who has been at the school since kindergarten.
  • Introduction to bullies: Andy, Winston, and Eric (sophomores).
    • Andy's rude comments on Murio's clothes.
  • Andy's stereotypes about students:
    • Gossip girls: Ashley and Ruby Woo
    • Anime dork
    • Computer geeks
    • Awkward kids
    • Other new kids
  • Interaction with Drew (Andy Ellis) who went by the name Drew to avoid confusion.
  • Introduction to Jordan and other new students in homeroom.
• Mr. Pierre will pick up Jordan and other students.

Emotional Experiences

• Jordan's feelings of being lost and alone.
• Drew's introduction and Jordan's observation of him.
• First day struggles.
• Reflecting on diversity and feeling different.

Analysis

• Importance of Diversity: Jordan feels more interested in Murio and Drew due to shared experiences as people of color.
• Realization: Despite appearances, Jordan isn't alone; he has friends like Liam and even Andy.
• Teacher’s insight: Everyone experiences feelings of being different at times but can find common ground.
• Personal anecdote: The speaker compares their feelings of isolation in college to Jordan's experience.

Conclusion & Reflection Question

• Key takeaway: Inclusivity and ensuring no one feels alone.
• Reflection Question: How can you help a new student feel included?
• Encouragement to think about actions that can foster inclusiveness in new environments.

Closing

• Thank you for watching and reminder for the next chapter in subsequent videos.