September 2024: Shakespeare's 'Macbeth' (public domain text will be provided)
October 2024: Nathaniel Hawthorne's 'The Scarlet Letter' (public domain text will be provided)
November 2024: "The Crucible" by Arthur Miller (public domain text will be provided)
December 2024: "Slaughterhouse-Five" by Kurt Vonnegut Jr. (passages provided in class, text not available in public domain)
January 2025: "Of Mice and Men" by John Steinbeck (passages provided in class, text not available in public domain)

 
In this ongoing course, learners can join at any time for the purpose of close reading a specific passage from various nonfiction and fiction books or journal articles. Depending on learner interest in the text, we will spend 3-6 weeks discussing the literary elements or historical information provided by the author. This allows learners the opportunity to decide if the novel is one that would be of interest to them. We will analyze literature from the eighteenth, nineteenth, and early twentieth century to discuss the sociological implications of American literature. I also choose novels from the dystopian genre to examine present day political policies on a global scale. 

Learners are encouraged to read the text, but passages will always be read aloud and interpreted during class. The class is scheduled to meet for 75 minutes, but the last 15 minutes will be dedicated to live writing. Our learning goal for each text will be to write a literary analysis essay. The last 15 minutes of class will be dedicated to providing feedback for learners on their writing assignment or working on a class analysis essay together. 

Skills Learners will practice:
-Cite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text, including determining where the text leaves matters uncertain.
-Draw present day connections to the passage related to race relations, consumerism, social inequalities.
-Write short response answers and practice organizing literary analysis essays. 

Flexible Entry: Your child can start whenever they're ready, with each session focusing on close reading and analysis of selected passages, ensuring they can keep up with their busy schedules.

In-depth Historical Context: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the historical settings that inspired each piece, providing your child with insights into how political and cultural environments shape literature. This not only enriches their literary knowledge but also enhances their historical awareness, making them well-rounded thinkers.
Author Insights: Learn about the authors' lives and how their personal experiences influenced their writing. This approach not only makes literature more relatable but also teaches your child about the human condition through the lens of great minds.

College Preparation: This course not only enhances literary appreciation but also prepares your child for the analytical skills required in college-level studies. They'll learn to dissect texts, argue points, and think critically, skills that are invaluable in higher education and beyond.
Interactive Learning: Each lesson is designed to be interactive, encouraging your child to engage with the material through discussions, debates, and writing exercises, fostering a deeper connection with the texts.

Lifetime Skill Development: Beyond literature, this course develops skills in critical thinking, communication, and cultural understanding, preparing your child for success in any field they choose.