Course Outline

World Literature
Mrs. Trainor
CTRAINOR@PIUSXI.ORG
http://mrstrainorenglish.weebly.com/

Course Description
In this one-semester course you will examine literature from Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Spanish-
speaking worlds. The course will focus on diverse approaches to the themes of ancestry, family,
authority, freedom and love. World Literature is intended as a contrast to the more familiar thoughts
and behaviors as witnessed in American and British culture. Using cross-curricular knowledge of
Theology and History, you will explore each culture in its modern setting. You will be required to discuss,
write essays, research salient topics and present your findings.
Texts and Materials
Tentative Texts: Frankenstein, 1984, Things Fall Apart, selected short stories from various countries
All texts will be checked out from the Pius XI bookstore during class time.
Materials: Spiral notebook (dedicated only to this course) or binder with loose leaf paper and tabs, pack
of post-it notes, pen, flash drive, assignment book, folder
Course Essential Question
How does the authors background and cultural/historical context affect or influence their work?
Course Goals and Objectives
The student will be able to develop discernment and appreciation for the written word from literature
that is historic, diverse, written in multiple genres and from various perspectives.
The student will be able to assess and synthesize information to challenge assumptions and relevant
issues.
The student will be able to communicate their ideas through literary analysis, narrative, and research
writing, while developing their own style and voice.
The student will be able to analyze literary elements from the texts by examining and evaluating.
The student will be able to develop an understanding of themselves and the world through purposeful,
analytical reading and through sharing their experiences.
The student will be able to master the technical skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening.

Assessment
Students will be assessed in multiple ways.
1. Reading Checks/Quizzes- With each novel study, students will be expected to be prepared for
class be completing nightly reading. Reading checks/quizzes will be given on a regular basis to
assess comprehension.
2. Tests- There will be a summative test for each novel unit.
3. Essays and Research Project- Students will be writing multiple essays and responses throughout
the course. Rubrics and guidelines will be provided. A research project will also be completed.
4. Writing Conferences- Students will be expected to write multiple drafts of their major writing
pieces. They are to be prepared for student/teacher writing conferences.
Methods of Instruction
Throughout the course of the semester, students will be participating in a variety of activities.
1. Small and large group discussions: Participation in daily discussions is vital to the course.
2. Note taking from teacher PowerPoints or handouts
3. Individual activities such as writing, analysis, and research
4. Group activities such as writing and analysis
Course Outline
Unit One: Use of knowledge for good or evil purposes/the invasion of technology into modern life
Texts: Frankenstein, 1984
Unit Two: Change vs. Tradition
Text: Things Fall Apart
Mini-Unit: Making Inferences
Text: The Night Face Up and other short stories









Grading Scale
A- 90 92.99 A 93 98.99 A+ 99 - 100
B- 80 82.99 B 83 87.99 B+ 88 89.99
C- 70 72.99 C 73 77.99 C+ 78 79.99
D- 60 62.99 D 63 67.99 D+ 68 69.99
F 50 59.99
Grading Policies
Each student is expected to be prepared for daily class assignments, tests and quizzes, and writing
assessments. Students will be graded on their daily homework, participation in small and large group
activities, oral and written work, and tests and quizzes.
For major writing assignments, students will be accountable for each part of the writing process
(brainstorming, rough draft, final draft).

Class Information
If a student is absent, they are expected to turn in the previous nights homework upon their return.
They will have one day for each day absent to make up work they missed. It is the students
responsibility to find out from the teacher what homework they missed and to get any notes from
another student.
Student is responsible for seeing teacher before a planned absence such as retreats, vacations, etc. The
student needs to get all assignments before leaving.
If a student forgets their homework or has an incomplete assignment, they are still responsible for
turning it in late. Late assignments will be deducted a point for each day late. Major papers and projects
will have a letter grade deducted for each day late.
I am here to help you. If your missing or late assignments are building up, please see me. If you are
having issues completing an assignment or project, come talk to be as soon as you can. I cannot problem
solve with you the day before or on the due date.