Students will study the classic dystopian novel "Fahrenheit 451" by Ray Bradbury. Throughout the class, students will have the opportunity to produce written reactions to the reading and make connections to historical events that influenced the piece's creation. Students will also study connecting text--specifically a poem and a non-fiction article. They will practice making connections between different texts to increase their understanding of the material. Students will also be able to practice presentation skills through an assigned project.


How is the class structured?
Students will receive reading assignments to complete before their live lesson time. Accompanying tasks each week will have students focus on critical aspects of the story, including imagery repeatedly used in the text. During live lessons, the instructor will lead students to give their thoughts on the novel and connect with the reading. Students will also be able to ask questions of the instructor and classmates. Students will also review the previous week's assignment and complete in-class work to expand their understanding of the week's topic. 



Course Breakdown

Week 1:  Introduction to the author Ray Bradbury and a study of significant historical events which inspired and influenced the novel. This week includes background information and assignments for students and a live lesson focusing on Bradbury's life and background. 

Week 2: Students will read and dissect part 1 of the novel. The group will focus on understanding the characteristics of dystopian and utopian stories. The instructor will also direct students to focus on the specific image we will study throughout our novel study. 

Week 3: Students will read and dissect part 2 of the novel. Students will also receive a project assignment that will require them to present information during week 6. The instructor will walk students through what the project entails and answer any questions. Students will also again focus on key imagery in the novel. 

Week 4: Students will read and dissect part 3 of the novel. The group will study a classic poem that has a direct connection to the novel. The group will continue to work on imagery as seen throughout the novel.

Week 5: Students will practice reading comprehension using a non-fiction science-based article. The instructor will demonstrate to students the connection between the article and the images Bradbury presents in Fahrenheit 521. The instructor will also briefly review the project assignment and answer any questions students may have. 

Week 6: If needed, the instructor will use time at the start of class to complete the comparison between the scientific article and the novel's image. Students will present their projects and receive positive individual feedback from the instructor. 



There is no prerequisite or background knowledge required to take this course.


Students will interact with peers in between classes by posting an audio or video reaction to the reading in a private site only accessible to myself, students, and Outschool employees. They can also reply to postings from other students. While some of the live lesson time is instructional, they are interactive. Students will also have time to voice their thoughts and questions about what they have read.