Dystopian Fiction draws from the immense surge in popularity following the successes of The Hunger Games, Divergent, and The Maze Runner series, but is rooted in the classics of the genre. Science fiction and dystopian philosophies predate World War One. Sir Thomas Moore’s Utopia, which is recognized as the first dystopian fiction, was published in the 1500s. Recent additions to the canon borrow heavily from the classics.
What is utopia? Where is the line between utopian and dystopian?
Which worldly truths does dystopian fiction illuminate?
Assignments are leveled in terms of requirements (length and complexity). Students earning Honors Distinction will have completed the coursework with additional expectations. Students must complete the Honor’s level requirements and maintain a grade of 85% or higher.
Major Concepts:
Utopia, dystopia, social contracts, trade-offs
Major Content:
Analyzing the idea of utopia will inform students and their understanding of society
Unit Assessments:
"Flawed Society" essay and presentation
Major Texts:
Sir Thomas Moore's Utopia
“The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas” by Ursula K LeGuin
Major Concepts:
Civil liberties, oppression, government, freedom
Major Content:
By looking at Vonnegut’s social satire, we will think about the freedoms we do have and consider the dangers of allowing these freedoms to be restricted.
Unit Assessments:
Performance task
Major Texts:
“Harrison Bergeron” by Kurt Vonnegut
2081
Major Concepts:
Science and technology, social stratification/caste systems, power imbalances, mind-control, appeasing the masses
Major Content:
One of the original and still influential texts in the genre, Brave New World highlights societal norms that continue to influence the world today.
Unit Assessments:
BNW Speech
Major Texts:
Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
Major Concepts:
genetic modification, over-population
Major Content:
This unit focuses on moral conundrums and the choices that must be made to ensure a principled future.
Unit Assessments:
"Ethical Issues" essay
Major Texts:
CASS9 technology/genetic modification
“2BR02B” by Kurt Vonnegut
“Ten with a Flag” by Joseph Haines
Major Concepts:
Individuality, social change
Major Content:
Citizens have a role in creating social change. Use your agency to promote awareness and action. This timeless and foundational American ideal and human idea is expressed through this parable and other stories.
Unit Assessments:
Speech/public speaking assessment
Major Texts:
“Anthem” by Ayn Rand
Major Concepts:
Individuality, social change
Major Content:
How do we process the information presented in class? What do we do with this information? How do you use knowledge to shape not just our thoughts, but our behavior, and how do you extend this beyond yourself?
Unit Assessments:
Final exam