The Bean Trees . The Bluest Eye . Students interpret fiction from a sound critical perspective. Students develop an intellectual and aesthetic understanding and appreciation of fiction. Students strengthen their analytic skills by studying the elements of fiction, including plot, character, point of view, and theme.
Students discriminate effective writing from that which is mediocre.
Students interpret fiction for the artfulness of its language. Students develop a vocabulary for discussing and writing about fiction. Students evaluate fiction as a social catalyst and as a source of information about human nature and philosophy. Students appreciate fiction of western and other cultures. Students discern the emotional, psychological, historical, and social contexts of fiction.