Pictured above is an image from the novel Uglies.
The search for belonging, which was an important theme in English 8, continues to be important this year. Another important theme is empowerment; as people are excluded, either on a small scale or a big scale, how do they empower themselves? The texts you read (and watch) in English 9 centre on the conflicts that are generated when a society discriminates against a particular group of people, whether for political, economic or other reasons. These conflicts are reflected in Uglies, The Long Walk Home, and Swing Kids, with settings ranging from the United States to Nazi Germany to a dystopian future.
This year (2027-18) we are doing 3 novel studies. The first two novels will probably be We are all Made of Molecules, and Speak, which focus on the kind of bullying, discrimination, and empowerment that goes on the lives of teenagers. In the third novel study, students choose one of several novels to read and do a lit circle on it. Uglies will be one of the choices on the list.
This year (2027-18) we are doing 3 novel studies. The first two novels will probably be We are all Made of Molecules, and Speak, which focus on the kind of bullying, discrimination, and empowerment that goes on the lives of teenagers. In the third novel study, students choose one of several novels to read and do a lit circle on it. Uglies will be one of the choices on the list.