English 6
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  1. Välkommen till Naturkunskap 1A1
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  3. Unit 3 - Literature and Culture
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  5. Introduction

Introduction

Still Under Development
This unit is still under very very early development.

Overview:

Welcome to Unit 3 of English 6 - Literature and Culture. This unit will immerse you in a diverse range of literary works and visual narratives, each reflecting unique cultural landscapes. We’ll embark on a journey across continents, delving into rich stories that highlight the integral role language plays in shaping and transmitting cultural values.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this unit, you will:

  1. Understand how literature and visual narratives can reflect and shape cultural values and norms.
  2. Be able to analyze literary texts and visual narratives for their cultural contexts and thematic elements.
  3. Enhance your appreciation for the diversity of cultural experiences as portrayed in English literature and media.

Reading and Viewing:

Our core texts and film for this unit include:

  • Novel Choice:
    • “Esperanza Rising” by Pam Muñoz Ryan (USA)
    • “The Breadwinner” by Deborah Ellis (Canada)
    • “Purple Hibiscus” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (Nigeria)
    • “A Fine Balance” by Rohinton Mistry (India)
  • Short Story: “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson (USA)
  • TV Show Episode: “Let Sales Ring” from “Boston Legal” (USA)
  • Poetry: Selections from “The Essential Derek Walcott” (Saint Lucia)
  • Film: “Once Were Warriors” (New Zealand)

These works span different cultural contexts, from British and American to European and post-colonial societies, providing a broad landscape for our exploration.

Assignments:

  1. Written Assignment: Write a comparative analysis essay (500 - 1000 words) on the cultural values reflected in two or more of the assigned texts or media. Your essay should draw on specific examples from the texts to support your arguments.

  2. Creative Writing Assignment: Reflect on your own experiences with culture. It might be an event, a tradition, or an interaction that left a significant impression on you. Write a short narrative piece (approximately 500 words) describing this experience. Consider the emotions, perspectives, and cultural norms involved. Use descriptive language to help your reader visualize and understand your unique cultural encounter.

  3. Group Discussions: Participate in book discussions on cultural themes present in the assigned texts and media. Each discussion will focus on a different work or parts of the work, encouraging you to delve into the nuances of each cultural context.

  4. Pair Work: Choose a partner and engage in a “Cultural Exchange.” Each person should explain a significant cultural tradition or custom from their own or their family’s background to the other. Discuss the meanings, values, or beliefs associated with this tradition or custom, and how it contributes to your personal identity. After the exchange, each pair should create a brief presentation (can be a poster, a PowerPoint, a short video, etc.) that showcases what they’ve learned about each other’s cultures. This presentation should highlight the cultural tradition or custom, its significance, and any similarities or differences you noted between your cultures. This task encourages you to understand and appreciate the cultural experiences of others in the context of the diverse cultural landscapes explored in our texts and visual narratives.

Assessment:

Your understanding and participation in this unit will be evaluated based on the following:

  • Quality and depth of your comparative analysis essay and creative writing piece
  • Active participation in group discussions
  • Performance in the cultural exchange

Remember, your engagement and curiosity are key to making the most out of this learning experience. Please feel free to reach out if you need any assistance or further clarification.