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Unpacking Holden Caulfield: An 8-Week Catcher in the Rye Book Club

Dive into Salinger’s *The Catcher in the Rye* in this 8-week book club. Students explore themes of identity, alienation, and cultural impact through discussions and creative projects, fostering critical thinking and literary appreciation.
Rick Hudgel, B.S., M.S., M.Ed.
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:
(38)
Class

What's included

8 live meetings
7 hrs 20 mins in-class hours
Mastery Evaluation
1-2 hours per week. Evidence of Mastery
Grading
Evidence of Mastery

Class Experience

US Grade 9 - 12
Beginner Level
**What will be taught?**  
Students will explore J.D. Salinger’s *The Catcher in the Rye*, focusing on its themes, characters, symbols, and cultural impact.

**What topics will you cover?**  
Topics include alienation, identity, innocence, relationships, symbolism (e.g., the red hunting hat, ducks), and the novel’s historical and cultural significance.

 **How is your class structured?**  
The class is an 8-week book club with weekly focuses. Each session includes guided discussions, creative activities, and a review of assigned reading chapters.

**How will you teach?**  
 I will use a combination of interactive discussions, creative assignments, and engaging activities like symbol analysis and debates to foster deeper understanding.

 **What’s your teaching style?**  
My teaching style is discussion-based, student-centered, and supportive, encouraging critical thinking and creativity.

**How much will learners get to interact with you?**  
Learners will engage through live discussions, group activities, and individual projects. Sessions include slides for guidance, interactive games, and optional creative assignments to deepen engagement.

Learning Goals

Students will analyze the themes of identity, alienation, and the loss of innocence in The Catcher in the Rye, connecting these themes to both the historical context of post-war America and their relevance in contemporary society.
Students will critically evaluate the use of symbolism and narrative techniques in The Catcher in the Rye, demonstrating an understanding of how literary devices contribute to the development of characters, themes, and the novel's cultural impact.
learning goal

Other Details

Learning Needs
This class can accommodate most learning needs using technological interventions.
Parental Guidance
**Content and Safety Warnings** This course discusses mature themes present in *The Catcher in the Rye*, including depression, loneliness, profanity, and references to sensitive topics such as mental health struggles and substance use. These themes are explored in an age-appropriate and respectful manner, focusing on their literary and cultural significance. No additional tools or media with official ratings will be used in this course. The book itself has been widely studied in high school settings and is suitable for mature teen readers.
Supply List
Must have a copy of Catcher in the Rye. Here is a link to a free digital version: 

https://archive.org/details/1_20191103_20191103_1326/mode/2up?utm_source=chatgpt.com
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Sources
Here is a link to a free digital copy of Catcher in the Rye https://archive.org/details/1_20191103_20191103_1326/mode/2up?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Joined August, 2024
5.0
38reviews
Profile
Teacher expertise and credentials
Ohio Teaching Certificate in Social Studies/History
Ohio Teaching Certificate
Bachelor's degree in Integrated Social Studies
Master's degree in Educational Leadership and Administration
Master's degree in Criminal Justice and Homeland Security

Reviews

Live Group Class
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$15

weekly

1x per week, 8 weeks
55 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 14-18
1-12 learners per class

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