No Old White Dudes Here: A Diverse High School Literature and Writing Class
In this course, students will NOT read the typical canon of stories told from a white, male, cisgender, heterosexual, able-bodied perspective. Instead, students will read the voices that are lacking in the typical school canon. #academic
Elissa Pugh, MA & MEd
Average rating:
4.3
Number of reviews:(3)
What's included
16 live meetings
14 hrs 40 mins in-class hoursHomework
1-2 hours per week. Learners will be expected to complete 1-3 hours of work a week outside of class. There will be group activities during class time, but all outside class work will be individual in nature. Reading of the book will take place entirely outside of class.Assessment
Assessment will consist of informal observation of discussion, writing assignments, and periodic "quizzes". All assessments will take place in class except for the writing assignments which will be partially written outside of class.Grading
Grades available upon request.Class Experience
US Grade 9 - 12
Discover a semester-long journey that challenges traditional literary canons and amplifies diverse voices in literature. In this course, students will explore empathy and compassion through novels that provide perspectives often absent from typical school readings. The four engaging novels on our syllabus include: - "Juliet Takes a Breath" by Gabby Rivera - "The Plague of Doves" by Louise Erdrich - "Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus" by Dusti Bowling - "The Secret Side of Empty" by Maria E. Andreu Supplementing these novels are compelling nonfiction pieces and personal essays, fostering a rich and inclusive learning experience. Additionally, students will produce three writing pieces and a culminating project. **Weeks 1-4: Exploring Social Justice and Representation** Engage in discussions on social justice and representation in literature, examining past and present perspectives. Dive into "The Plague of Doves" by Louise Erdrich, exploring connections between history and contemporary issues. Complete a related writing assignment. **Weeks 5-8: Immigration Narratives** Delve into "The Secret Side of Empty" by Maria E. Andreu, sparking discussions on immigration, its representations, and historical contexts. Undertake a writing assignment reflecting on themes explored. **Weeks 9-12: Bildungsroman and Identity** Analyze "Juliet Takes a Breath" by Gabby Rivera, exploring themes of bildungsroman and personal growth. Engage in discussions on the concept of "Learning to Breathe" and complete a corresponding writing assignment. **Weeks 13-16: Body and Belonging** Explore "Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus" by Dusti Bowling, discussing themes of body and belonging. Conclude with final projects that synthesize learnings from the semester. Throughout the course, students are expected to complete assigned readings and tasks, actively participating in discussions with an open mind and heart. Our classroom fosters a safe environment where every voice is valued. Prepare to embark on a transformative literary journey, with the option of continuing in the second semester. Join us and expand your literary horizons!
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Please look at reviews and other information about each book, and be sure that you are comfortable with your learner reading these titles. There is mature language and situations in some of these titles, but they are important reads, and I believe your learner will grow and expand by reading them. Specifically, there is strong language, sexual situations, abuse, and mental illness.
You can support your student with these topics by talking to them as they read, and helping them process anything that is troubling them. You can also always reach out to me. Please read the Teacher Expertise section to see how I am qualified and prepared to deal with working through these books with your student and their peers. In addition to my training, I will utilize This Book is Anti Racist as a class resource.
Supply List
Learners will need the following books: Juliet Takes a Breath by Gabby Rivera The Plague of Doves by Louise Erdrich Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus by Dusti Bowling The Secret Side of Empty by Maria E. Andreu
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined November, 2019
4.3
3reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
2 Degrees
Master's Degree in Education from Xavier University
Master's Degree in English from Belmont University
Besides over fifteen years of teaching experience, I have specialized training and professional development in inclusivity and sensitivity in teaching. My background is in Montessori education, and peace education is a major tenet of the Montessori philosophy. My Montessori 6-9 certification, Montessori 12-18 certification, and Montessori Education Master's all included extensive work in peace education, conflict resolution, and inclusivity training. In addition to my training, I will utilize This Book is Anti Racist as a class resource.
I am always available to help you with conversations that may arise at home as well.Reviews
Live Group Class
$20
weekly or $320 for 16 classes1x per week, 16 weeks
55 min
Completed by 5 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 14-18
4-10 learners per class
