Introduction to Banned Books and Censorship: Freedom to Read

In this class, students will be introduced and join in the discussion of the concept of censorship and banned books. Students will learn a brief history of banned books and how banning books affect our libraries and public reading today. 

1st Session: A Kahoot game will be presented where students answer questions. After each question, the teacher will expand on the information and students are encouraged to ask further questions or express their thoughts on the information they learn. 
During the last 15 minutes, students will be introduced to 8 books (2 chapter books, 2 graphic novels, and 4 picture books) that have been on the banned book list and why they were challenged for censorship. 

Between the first and second sessions, students will choose one of the chapter books, one of the graphic novels, or 2 of the picture books to read and come to their own conclusions about the book. This is to prepare for the second class.

2nd Session: Each student will give a 2-5 minute summary of what they read and their reasons why they agree or disagree with the book challenge. For the last 15 minutes of class, students will learn of different ways to advocate for and against book challenges in their communities and how to get involved. 

This class is loosely Socratic-seminar based learning where the information about the subject is taught then student discussion is encouraged by thought-provoking questions about the material. Students are encouraged to ask questions themselves and to voice their thoughts/opinions about the subject with their peers. 
Please see the homework information on how to obtain copies of the books without need of purchase.