Themes in American Literature

This full-year, American literature course is grounded in the significance of Earth, Community and The Individual within the American experience. It is designed for students who can benefit from active learning and a broad approach to literacy--one that includes a range of texts related to the course’s four American themes: sense-of-place, innovation, self-reliance and identity. Alongside traditional American literature, students will engage with maps, nature writing, plant identification, first-aid practices, community documents and technologies, community careers and personnel, diverse and modern American perspectives and documentaries. Classroom environments and learning experiences extend into the forested RHAM property and garden spaces. Literacy experiences emphasize practical reading, writing and speaking opportunities that can transfer into workplaces and personal growth. Each of the three units culminates in the student addressing the essential questions we grapple with in the months prior.