Together the teacher and learners will explore important authors from around the world such as Pablo Neruda, Shakespeare, E.E. Cummings, Robert Burns, Du Fu, J.R.R. Tolkien, and more. I know that at this age literature can sometimes seem out of reach, out of touch, and out-right boring. But I have found that learners can love poetry and short stories when they are supported with new vocabulary, lots of time for discovery and discussion, and a teacher who finds it all fascinating. I love talking to learners about the ways that their interests, experiences, and ideas intersect with literature. 

For each author, we will read a short work, talk about their time and place in history, and discuss the genre and literary elements of the work we are reading.  Most classes will include a very short video, reading the poem aloud/an in-depth story structure analysis (plot, characters, protagonist/antagonist, etc), and then a discussion of the implications of the piece and connections/comparisons to other pieces of literature.

This is a discussion-intensive course. All students are expected to interact with respect and civility.  I understand that the topics and themes can be controversial and invite disagreement. However, kindness facilitates productive and persuasive conversation. 

If a student needs accommodations, I am more than willing to help out. Please contact me before the semester begins to discuss your learner’s needs.