Introduction to Banned Books and Censorship: Freedom to Read
In this 2 week class, students will learn and talk about banned books, read a banned book, then discuss why it was challenge and if they agree with the challenge.
Mrs. Rutan (she/her)
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(245)
What's included
2 live meetings
1 hrs 30 mins in-class hoursHomework
1-2 hours per week. Please pick either one chapter book/graphic novel or 2 picture books from the list below: Chapter books: Charlotte's Web; The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, The Giver Graphic Novel: New Kid; Go with the Flow Picture books: Strega Nona; Where the Wild Things Are; The Giving Tree You may read more but please note that it is required homework to read either 1 chapter book/graphic novel or 2 picture books.Class Experience
US Grade 7 - 10
Beginner - Intermediate Level
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. This will be done through a Kahoot game where students answer questions and after each question, the teacher will expand on the information. Students will be encouraged to ask further questions and express their thoughts on the information they learn. During the last 15 minutes of the first class session, 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 where students will have a total of 5 minutes to summarize of what they read and give their reasons why they agree or disagree with the book challenge. For the last 15 minutes of the second 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 where I teach information about the subject then allow student discussion by providing 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.
Learning Goals
Students will be able to identify what is a book challenge vs a book ban.
Students will read one to two books that has been on the ALA's banned book list.
Students will be able to articulate their thoughts/opinions about banned books.
Students will be able to identify different ways to defend or object to book challenges in their community.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
This class will include discussions on various subjects being challenged in children books. These subjects include: witchcraft, separation of church and state, racism, equality, discrimination, violence, gore, animals talking, feminine products, body image, death, bullying, e.t.c. The books are selected to show case a variety of reasons for book challenges around the United States. This is why the class is for teens and mature readers. Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns about the books and topics being selected.
Supply List
Studies MUST read the books that are listed in the homework section. This can be done in any format (physical, digital, audio) and does NOT require the purchase of a book. I highly encourage checking school and public libraries as most still have the books on their shelves. If your public library doesn't have the book, then check if your library system does Inter-library loans where libraries loan books to another library patron within a certain amount of time. You can also purchase the books from second-hand stores and websites such as BookOutlet.com, Kidsbooks.com, Thriftbooks.com, Goodwill, local thrift stores and local book stores are all highly likely to sell copies. Please reach out if you’re having trouble finding any of the books.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Joined October, 2020
4.9
245reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
I've been an English tutor/teacher the past 5 years. My education in English language and literature studies included studies in children literature and discussions of banned books. The past 3 years, I have social classes on Outschool where I encourage students to discuss differences of opinion and help lead them in nuance topics. Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns. Reviews
Live Group Class
$30
for 2 classes1x per week, 2 weeks
45 min
Completed by 1 learner
Live video meetings
Ages: 13-16
2-6 learners per class
