World Literature and Composition focuses on a number of world masterpieces of literature that deal with different aspects of human identity throughout history. Students will examine major texts from different periods between the seventeenth and the twenty-first century and discuss works from different genres, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and drama. Students will read actively, discuss thoroughly, think critically, and write effectively as they engage with this literature. Students will also learn how to connect the literature being studied with themes of current life and society, the eternal question of what it means to be human, and what they can learn about themselves as followers of Christ through this course. Texts will represent the following countries: Russia, Romania, Israel, England, America, Spain, South Africa, Norway, Japan, and Germany. Expectations and requirements will be at the high school level, so it is imperative that students are committed to diligence and excellence in all reading, discussing, and writing. Students should be in each class session as each is vital to understanding the material and instruction. Additionally, students should expect to spend approximately three hours a week on homework assignments, sometimes more in advance of a formal essay or substantial reading assignment. Major essays: 1) Analysis 2) Compare & Contrast 3) Research 4) Persuasive 5) Reflection
*Texts: 1) Feodor Dostoevsky's Crime and Punishment 2) Etgar Keret's Bombs Away 3) Eli Wiesel's Night 4) German Fairy Tales 5) Shusaku Endo’s Silence 6) Miguel de Cervantes Don Quixote 7) Shakespeare’s Macbeth 8) various poems and short stories
* Not all texts will need to be purchased for the class. Necessary purchases will be emailed to parents on August 1. Also, some of the larger novels will be experienced via excerpts.
HS English I or II or adequate completion of the KEYS English placement evaluation
Parents are responsible for purchasing all textbooks and supplies before the first day of class.
Supply fees are due to each teacher on the first day of class. This fee covers materials, lab supplies, and other expenses incurred by the teacher. They are a one-time fee.
Please note the grade level for this class. Students younger than the recommended grade levels need special permission before signing up for the class. Please contact the office for more information.
What happens if a class is full? You may email administration@keysofva.org to be waitlisted.