This 12-week course is designed for middle and high school students who are interested in both books and films. To ensure class time is focused on discussion, question and response, thought processing and engagement, all reading will be done outside of class. Students will be asked to read 1-3 chapters between classes so that they are prepared for in-class discussions and debate.  We will watch film versions of the books in class and use these viewings as the basis for comparison, contrast, discussion of theme, characterization, and plot during class. The three books I've chosen are "Animal Farm" by George Orwell, "The Stranger" by Albert Camus, and "1984" by George Orwell. All three of these books are classic literary novels which have remained relevant and interesting since their publications. 

Students will routinely engage in reading, deep-thinking, analysis of plot and characters, and discussion of their findings with their peers and the instructor. Students will be asked to use a provided character and plot chart to organize their thoughts and to be prepared for class observations and discussions. Learners do not need any prior experience to fully participate and learn in this course. As instructor my goal is to act primarily as guide, moderator, thought-provoker, and questioner. Below is a rough layout of how the class will be structured.

WEEKS 1-4
Introduction to character and plot
Animal Farm book reading and discussion
Animal Farm animation film and book comparisons and contrasts, characterization and plot

WEEKS 5-8
1984 book reading and discussion
1984 film and book comparisons and contrasts, characterization and plot

WEEKS 9-12
The Stranger book reading and discussion
The Stranger film and book comparisons and contrasts, characterization and plot 

As a dedicated educator, I believe that the greatest teaching values are centered around fostering a love for learning, encouraging critical and creative thinking, and promoting a positive and collaborative classroom environment. I am committed to providing timely and responsive communication with parents and learners within 24 hours. I also believe in providing personalized, objective feedback on the written projects that learners turn in, as I recognize the importance of constructive feedback in supporting their growth and development.

Quality is of utmost importance to me as an educator. I am committed to delivering high-quality instruction that is tailored to the unique needs and interests of my learners. I believe in using evidence-based instructional strategies and best practices in education. I continue to engage in professional development so that I can continually improve my teaching skills and provide the best possible education to my learners.

Service is at the heart of my teaching philosophy. I am dedicated to serving my learners and developing unique classes to engage their minds and creative spirits. I believe in building strong partnerships with learners to create a collaborative approach to their education, where students remain actively involved in their own learning journey. I strive to provide timely and constructive feedback to learners on their written projects, as I believe that feedback is crucial in guiding their progress. By fostering a supportive and welcoming classroom environment and maintaining open lines of communication, I aim to create a positive and enriching classroom experience for all my learners.

My teaching style has been described by colleagues and students as engaging, objective, unique, and focused.  One of my core beliefs is that every child is capable of learning and must be given the opportunity to grow and flourish academically, socially and intellectually.  I firmly believe that one's ability to precisely communicate thoughts and ideas to others through speaking and writing is one of the greatest ways to ensure future success in whatever domain one chooses to pursue. 






Debate, comprehension, philosophy, literature, film, movie, discussion, English, critical thinking, conversation, writing, reading, middle and high school