In this self paced class learners will read a short story by Arnold Bennett titled "News of the Engagement". This Victorian tale explores the complex relationship between parents and children, in a light hearted way. I provide a wide age range for this class because the story would be challenging for  middle school readers, who may be reading Victorian text for the first time. An annotated read aloud lesson is included to better comprehend the language and historical references. Learners in their junior and senior year of high school can explore the text's literary elements and how the author develops a central ideas. There is an instructional lesson on writing a text only literary analysis central idea paragraph, a writing prompt that often appears on standardized assessments. 

Learners will be provided an annotated copy of the text which provides definitions for unknown vocabulary terms and/or historical concepts. I also provide a literary element study guide which breaks down the elements and devices used by the author to create a central idea. Learners will receive detailed instructions and tips on writing a literary analysis essay. The final lesson will discuss ways to use textual evidence to back up even the most controversial thesis statements!