Trends and Movement in Young adult literature
This survey course on the development and changing visions of Young Adult Literature examines themes and trends in literature that has been written specifically for teens. Students read young adult novels, drama, short stories, and poetry. They participate in literature circles, write analyses of work, do research, and develop projects - as well as take part in an ongoing Independent Reading Project.
Be sure to check out the syllabus for more details!
Be sure to check out the syllabus for more details!
unit iHow does the literature mirror today’s teens?
Speculative Fiction thinks about the world that is set in a world that is not. In this unit, students will look at the role that science fiction, fantasy, and dystopian texts deal with the very real problems facing young adults today. |
unit iiWhat is the key impact of culture on writers?
Students will get a little historical in this unit, studying the rise of the concept of literature for kids. They will examine the culture and context of each of the texts presented, as well as think about how these tales have been revamped for modern audiences. |
unit iiiWho is the target audience and what are the moral values and lessons that they are to learn?
In this unit, students will study characters who are nonconformists and think about the ways in which they, themselves, choose to fit in or stand out. |
unit ivWhat do the "adults" of this time period want to teach the "kids" of today?
In this unit, students will look at social conflict prevalent in today’s society and reflect on how this is portrayed in young adult literature and what lessons writers (and they) feel our society should take from these conflicts. |