High School Literature: Dystopian Classics - Novel Study & ELA Book Club

🌟 Course Overview 🌟

Authoritarian regimes, forbidden knowledge, and dangerous rebellion—step into the gripping worlds of dystopian classics!

In this once-a-week high school literature class, homeschool learners will study five iconic novels that shaped the dystopian genre. Through engaging discussions and guided analysis, learners will explore intricate themes, powerful symbolism, and societal critiques that remain relevant today.

🌟 What to Expect 🌟

Each novel is studied over 2–4 weeks, with a focus on:
- Thematic analysis
- Symbolism and literary techniques
- Collaborative discussions and writing exercises

Featured Novels:

📚 We by Yevgeny Zamyatin: The blueprint of the dystopian genre
📚 Brave New World by Aldous Huxley: A chilling exploration of consumerism and control
📚 1984 by George Orwell: The definitive tale of surveillance and totalitarianism
📚 Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury: A vivid warning against censorship and conformity
📚 The Man in the High Castle by Philip K. Dick: A provocative alternate history and seminal work of speculative fiction

🌟 Why Take This Course? 🌟

✅ Study classic texts that inspired The Hunger Games and Divergent
✅ Build skills in literary analysis, critical thinking, and discussion
✅ Prepare for advanced English and AP Literature courses
✅ Complete a rigorous homeschool English curriculum

🌟 Who Should Enroll? 🌟

Perfect for:
✅ High school homeschool learners
✅ Teens passionate about dystopian fiction and its societal critiques
✅ Learners refining analytical writing and discussion skills

🌟 Additional Benefits 🌟

✅ Understand the origins and evolution of dystopian literature
✅ Build critical thinking by connecting texts to modern-day issues
✅ Gain confidence through collaborative discussions
✅ Enhance writing skills with optional graded assignments

🌟 Class Format 🌟

- Warm-Up Discussion: Share thoughts on the reading (~10 minutes)
- Collaborative Activities/Writing: Respond to prompts (~10 minutes)
- Analytic Discussion: Explore themes and perspectives (~25-30 minutes)
- Sign-Off: Reflect or predict future developments (~3 minutes)

🌟 Materials & Graded Assignments 🌟
Learners complete comprehension activities and two graded assignments (a mid-semester project and a final essay). Personalized feedback and grades are provided via Google Drive.

🌟 Prior Knowledge 🌟
No prior experience is needed, but learners should be comfortable reading high school-level texts over 4-week periods.

🌟 A Note About Content 🌟
These novels include mature themes. Respectful, open discussions create a safe learning environment, and families are encouraged to review book content for suitability.

🌟 A Note About Inclusion 🌟

New learners are welcome to share their pronouns to ensure an inclusive and welcoming classroom. With certifications in ELA, special education, and TESOL, I offer support for diverse and neurodivergent learners.

🌟 About the Teacher 🌟
Meg Connolly, a certified ELA and special education teacher with 11+ years of experience, holds advanced teaching degrees and a passion for classic and modern literature.

🌟 Enroll Today! 🌟

Dive into the dystopian classics that defined the genre! Perfect for homeschoolers, AP Literature prep, and teens fascinated by thought-provoking stories. Join now to explore, analyze, and discuss these timeless masterpieces!