In this session, participants will engage in a cross-curricular challenge typical of my classroom. Using evidence from Esperanza Rising, participants will recreate a character's living quarters, applying engineering principles to ensure the structure both reflects the text and protects the family against an incoming dust storm. This activity serves as a model for how ELA and STEM integration can deepen comprehension and increase student investment in complex source materials. Session Slides: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1a2e7W9KOWcq7nVY0SCbg6OCQkw2NqYIzARdE35D4kYU/edit?usp=sharing