weekly
or for 16 classes
Recreating the Canon: A Diverse High School Literature and Writing Class
New class
Ages 14-18
Live Group Class
Live video meetings
1x per week, 16 weeks
4-10 learners per class
55 min
What's included
16 live meetings
14 hrs 40 mins in-class hoursHomework
2-4 hours per week. Reading and some writing assignments will need to be completed 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 are available upon request.Class Experience
US Grade 9 - 12
Join our transformative semester-long course, where students explore diverse voices in literature, fostering empathy and understanding. In this inclusive classroom environment, we challenge traditional literary canons by delving into narratives that represent a broader spectrum of perspectives. The four captivating novels on our syllabus include: - "The God of Small Things" by Arundhati Roy - "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian" by Sherman Alexie - "Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood" by Marjane Satrapi - "With The Fire On High" by Elizabeth Acevedo Supplementing these novels are compelling nonfiction pieces and personal essays, enriching the learning experience. Additionally, students will produce three writing pieces and a culminating project. **Weeks 1-4: Exploring Social Justice and Representation** Delve into discussions on social justice and representation in literature, examining past norms and the evolving value of diverse narratives. Analyze themes of love, memory, history, and colonialism in "The God of Small Things" by Arundhati Roy. Engage in a related writing assignment. **Weeks 5-8: Personal Expression and Identity** Explore "Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood" by Marjane Satrapi, delving into themes of personal expression, identity, and resistance. Discuss gender dynamics, power relations, and forms of oppression and resistance. Undertake a writing assignment reflecting on the novel's themes. **Weeks 9-12: Identities and Expectations** Analyze "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian" by Sherman Alexie, exploring themes of identity, expectations, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Complete a corresponding writing assignment. **Weeks 13-16: Home and Limitations** Engage with "With The Fire On High" by Elizabeth Acevedo, discussing themes of home, chosen family, motherhood, and overcoming limitations. Conclude with final projects that synthesize learnings from the semester. Our classroom fosters a safe environment where every voice is valued. Active participation, especially in discussions, is encouraged and crucial for an interactive learning experience. The teacher actively participates to facilitate engagement, offering regular office hours for additional support. Prepare to embark on a literary journey that broadens perspectives and deepens understanding. Join us and embrace the power of diverse narratives!
Syllabus
Standards
Aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS)4 Units
16 Lessons
over 16 WeeksUnit 1: Exploring Social Justice and Representation
Lesson 1:
The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy
55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy
55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy
55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy
55 mins online live lesson
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 copies of The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy, The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie, Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood by Marjane Satrapi, and With The Fire On High by Elizabeth Acevedo.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Meet the teacher
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.
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