Fahrenheit 451: Sci-Fi Lit With Censorship and Other Themes
In this three week class, learners will explore the themes of freedom and censorship in Ray Bradbury's Fahrenheit 451.
Lit Lady, Roberta Stein, M.A. English
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(11)
What's included
3 live meetings
2 hrs 45 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
Learners will read about Guy Montag in this engrossing Sci-Fi novel, which addresses the danger of censorship and the courage to express thoughts and emotions. Each session will examine Ray Bradbury's brilliant depiction of a man questioning his identity in a world where communication is stifled or expressed through bombarding messages. In session one, learners will discuss Guy's connection with his neighbor Clarisse, whose name alludes to the word, clear. We will talk about how meeting a deep thinker makes Guy Montag begin to shift his perspective on life and his job as a book burner. In session two, we will uncover the motives that lead Montag to seek out the college professor who represents open-mindedness and knowledge. We will ask, Why is Montag taking so many risks in a society that has banned books? In session three, learners will ask why Montag's wife goes against him and we will discuss his courageous choices to go forward in a society that has alienated him. This class uses the Socratic teaching method and there are many opportunities for learners to express their ideas and marvel at how a book from 1953 could predict technologies we use today.
Learning Goals
Students will learn about the Cold War and censorship issues in the U.S.
The goal is for them to feel comfortable asking questions and discussing their perspectives regarding the novel's themes and ideas.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
This book addresses mature subjects such as book burning and censorship/ freedom of speech and a troubled marriage. Please see details here: (https://www.commonsensemedia.org/book-reviews/fahrenheit-451).
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Sources
We will use the novel and read from the U.S. Constitution's Bill of Rights regarding freedom of speech.
Joined October, 2020
5.0
11reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Hi,
My name is Roberta Stein and I have been an English classroom teacher for over twenty years. I have a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in English; I completed the equivalent of a minor in creative writing during college. In addition, I completed a teacher training program in the late 1990s for grades 6-12. I hold a teaching certificate from the state of New Jersey; I currently live in Florida.
I have taught English at all levels, including middle school, high school, and college-level courses. One of my favorite experiences as a teacher was when I taught ancient literature from India to a very large classroom in a magnet high school. I am extremely animated when I teach because I have a passion for sharing knowledge with students and their families. I am open-minded and I love to learn from my students' comments and their written reactions to the content.
Personal tidbits about me: I enjoy painting with bright colors, singing, riding my bike, going on the canoe with my husband, travel, and entertaining ( with food and laughter).
Reviews
Live Group Class
$10
for 3 classes1x per week, 3 weeks
55 min
Completed by 3 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 14-16
3-12 learners per class
