English III
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English III: American Literature
Explore the rich tapestry of American literary tradition through key texts, diverse perspectives, and themes unique to the American experience.
Course Description
English III, an American Literature course, explores the development of the American literary tradition, emphasizing the cultural, historical, and philosophical influences that have shaped the nation's voice. Through an examination of key texts, students will gain insight into diverse perspectives and themes unique to the American experience. This course fosters critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deeper understanding of the literary evolution in the United States.
1
Explore American Literary Tradition
Examine the development of American literature and its unique voice.
2
Gain Diverse Perspectives
Understand various cultural, historical, and philosophical influences on American literature.
3
Develop Critical Thinking
Foster analytical skills and deeper understanding of literary evolution.
4
Engage with Key Texts
Examine influential works that have shaped the American literary landscape.
Primary Texts
Contemporary Native American Literature
1. The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie
Classic American Plays
2. The Crucible by Arthur Miller
Iconic American Novels
3. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain 4. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger 5. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Units of Study (Part 1)
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1. Native American Literature
Focus: Origin myths, storytelling traditions, cultural values, and Indigenous perspectives. Key Texts and Readings: Native American origin stories, including "The Earth on Turtle's Back," "When Grizzlies Walked Upright," "The Navajo Origin Legend," and the Iroquois' "The Great Law of Peace." Themes: Identity, nature, spirituality, and resilience.
2
2. Colonial Narratives and Puritan Influence
Focus: Exploration and colonization of America, the Puritan worldview, and early American values. Key Texts and Readings: Excerpts from settler narratives and foundational documents, along with The Crucible. Themes: Community, individualism, morality, and the clash between faith and society.
3
3. The Age of Reason
Focus: Enlightenment ideals, rationality, and self-improvement. Key Texts and Readings: Excerpts from Benjamin Franklin's Autobiography and his 13 virtues. Themes: Logic, reason, personal virtue, and civic responsibility.
Units of Study (Part 2)
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4. American Romanticism and Transcendentalism
Focus: Emotion, nature, individualism, and the exploration of the human spirit.
Key Texts and Readings: Works from American Romantic authors and Transcendentalist writers like Emerson and Thoreau.
Themes: The sublime, freedom, nature, and self-reliance.
2
5. Realism and Regionalism
Focus: The shift from romantic ideals to a more truthful representation of American life, including diverse regional voices. _Key Texts and Readings:_ The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and selections from regionalist writers. Themes: Society vs. individual, racial tensions, and the authenticity of American voices.
3
6. Modernism and Disillusionment
Focus: The breakdown of traditional values and the search for meaning in a post-war world. _Key Texts and Readings:_ The Great Gatsby and The Catcher in the Rye. Themes: Identity, the American Dream, alienation, and the complexities of modern life.
Assessment Overview
Quizzes
Each quarter includes two multiple-choice quizzes focused on reading comprehension and thematic understanding.
Essays
One major essay per quarter, each focusing on different types of literary analysis: - Q1: Argumentative essay - Q2: Literary analysis essay - Q3: Poetry analysis essay - Q4: Personal essay (college preparation)
Projects
Students will complete one project each quarter, aligning with the unit themes and promoting creative expression or deeper analysis.
Learning Goals
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Analytical and Interpretative Skills
Develop analytical and interpretative skills through close reading of primary texts.
2
Historical and Cultural Context
Examine the connection between literature and historical, cultural, and social contexts.
3
Rhetorical Proficiency
Build proficiency in rhetorical skills, including argumentation and persuasive writing.
4
Engaging Discussions
Engage in discussions that foster a respectful exchange of ideas and deepen understanding of complex themes.
Course Conclusion
This course encourages students to explore the ongoing questions of American identity, values, and experiences as presented through a diverse array of voices and time periods.
Explore American Identity
Delve into the complex and evolving nature of American identity through literature.
Examine American Values
Analyze the core values that have shaped American society and literature over time.
Diverse Experiences
Gain insight into the varied experiences that contribute to the American narrative.
Literary Journey
Embark on a journey through time periods and voices that have shaped American literature.