Summer of Survival Book Camp Series: The Hunger Games
In this one-week summer book camp, learners will dive into The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins through engaging discussions, creative activities, and critical thinking challenges. This class is great for readers who enjoy dystopian fiction.
What's included
5 live meetings
5 in-class hoursAssignments
4+ hours per week. includedCertificate of Completion
includedClass Experience
US Grade 6 - 9
In this 5-day book camp, learners will explore The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins through guided discussion, creative activities, and group-based challenges. The focus is on literary analysis, character development, and thematic exploration, all grounded in the context of the novel. Each session is structured around a key concept or section of the story. We’ll begin with world-building in Panem, then move into survival strategies, alliances, rebellion, and theme-based reflection. Activities vary by day and include writing prompts, decision-based games, problem-solving exercises, and opportunities for learners to share their ideas and interpretations. Class sessions are live and discussion-based. I guide learners through structured questions, small group collaboration, and whole-class sharing. Learners will engage in both individual and group tasks. Examples include creating their own district profiles, responding to survival scenarios, writing from a character’s point of view, and designing rebellion symbols. My teaching style is learner-centered, discussion-driven, and supportive. I provide visual aids using slides when helpful, but most of our time will be spent reading, thinking, and responding together. I encourage critical thinking and open dialogue, and I make space for each learner to contribute in the way that feels most comfortable to them. Learners are expected to read The Hunger Games prior to or alongside camp. The camp does not include reading during class; instead, we build on knowledge of the story through meaningful analysis and application. Every session ends with a share-out, group reflection, or light activity to wrap up the day’s topic. By the end of the week, learners will walk away with a deeper understanding of the novel’s characters, themes, and structure—along with opportunities to express their ideas creatively and collaboratively.
Learning Goals
Develop critical thinking skills by analyzing themes, characters, and plot elements.
Enhance communication and discussion skills through thoughtful conversations about dystopian concepts, world-building, and literary techniques.
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created CurriculumStandards
Aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS)5 Lessons
over 1 WeekLesson 1:
Welcome to Panem
Activities:
•Icebreaker: "If you were in a district, which one would you choose and why?"
•Discussion: Setting, world-building, and societal structure of Panem.
•Activity: Create a District Profile—learners design their own district, including resources, traditions, and survival strategies.
•Wrap-Up: Share district profiles and discuss what it would take to survive in their chosen district.
60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
The Games Begin
Activities:
•Discussion: What strategies did Katniss use to survive? What choices made the biggest difference?
•Creative Activity: "Survival Scenario"—learners are presented with challenges in the arena and must decide what they would do.
•Game: "Arena Strategy," a game where learners make decisions based on fictional survival scenarios.
60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
The Power of Alliances
Activities:
•Discussion: What makes a strong alliance? How did Katniss's alliances affect her survival?
•Group Activity: "Form Your Alliance"—learners team up and complete a series of challenges to simulate building trust and cooperation.
•Writing Challenge: Write a short story or journal entry from Rue’s perspective, highlighting her experiences in the arena.
60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
The Rebellion Begins
Activities:
•Discussion: What makes Katniss a symbol of rebellion? How does the Capitol control the districts?
•Creative Project: Design a Rebellion Symbol—learners create their own symbol of resistance, inspired by the Mockingjay.
•Problem Solving: "Outsmart the Capitol"—learners brainstorm ways they would resist the Capitol’s control.
60 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Parental Guidance
This class is based on The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, a dystopian novel that includes themes of violence, government control, and survival. While we will not focus on graphic content, learners may reference scenes that involve death, fear, or danger as part of our discussions. Parents should be aware that the book includes mature themes and may not be suitable for all readers.
No video clips or outside media will be used in class. All materials are teacher-created and designed to encourage critical thinking and thoughtful discussion. Learners do not need to create accounts for any third-party tools—Google Slides or Docs may be used during class via shared links.
Please review the novel in advance if you are unsure whether the content is appropriate for your learner.
Pre-Requisites
Learners should read the assigned book before the first class
• June: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Supply List
A personal copy of The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (print or digital) Notebook or loose-leaf paper for writing activities Pen or pencil Optional: Colored pencils or markers for creative projects Access to Google Docs or Google Slides (no account needed; links provided during class)
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Sources
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (ISBN: 978-0439023528)
Teacher expertise and credentials
I have over 20 years of experience teaching English Language Arts to learners of all ages, from elementary school to university students. I hold a Master’s in Education and Bachelor’s degrees in English and Communications, along with experience as a university writing tutor. I’ve always loved exploring literature and storytelling, and I enjoy creating engaging, thoughtful discussions around books—especially with curious young readers! My teaching style is friendly and interactive, and I’m dedicated to making sure every learner feels welcome and supported in my classes.
Reviews
Live Group Course
$85
for 5 classes5x per week, 1 week
60 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 11-14
2-10 learners per class