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Course Profile   Canadian Literature, Grade 11, University/College Preparation, Catholic and Public

 

Course Overview

 

Course Profiles are professional development materials designed to help teachers implement the new Grade 11 secondary school curriculum. These materials were created by writing partnerships of school boards and subject associations. The development of these resources was funded by the Ontario Ministry of Education. This document reflects the views of the developers and not necessarily those of the Ministry. Permission is given to reproduce these materials for any purpose except profit. Teachers are also encouraged to amend, revise, edit, cut, paste, and otherwise adapt this material for educational purposes.

 

Any references in this document to particular commercial resources, learning materials, equipment, or technology reflect only the opinions of the writers of this sample Course Profile, and do not reflect any official endorsement by the Ministry of Education or by the Partnership of School Boards that supported the production of the document.

 

© Queen’s Printer for Ontario, 2001

 

Acknowledgments

This profile was a collaborative effort between the Institute for Catholic Education (ICE) and the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board.

 

Catholic School Board Writing Team – Canadian Literature

 

Lead Board – Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board

Patrick Cureton, Project Manager

 

Course Profile Writing Team

Deborah Carter, Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board (Lead Writer)

Matt Fitzsimmons, Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board

Donna Vanderwal, Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board

 

Internal Review Team

Patrick Cureton, Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board

Steve Henry, Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board

 

Public District School Board Writing Team – Canadian Literature

 

Lead Board - Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board

Fiona White, Project Manager

 

Course Profile Writing Team

Sheila Powell, Thames Valley District School Board (Lead Writer)

Susan Blocker, Thames Valley District School Board

Connie Bray, Thames Valley District School Board

Elaine Holt, Thames Valley District School Board

 

Internal Review Team

Carol Ricker-Wilson, English Language Arts Network

Nora Christos, Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board

Suzanne Hooke, Sir Sandford Fleming College

 

Course Overview

Canadian Literature, Grade 11, University/College Preparation, ETC3M

Secondary Policy Document:  The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 11 and 12, English, 2000

Prerequisite:  English, Grade 10, Academic or Applied

Course Description

This course emphasizes the study and analysis of Canadian writers for students with a special interest in Canadian Literature. Throughout the course, students study the themes, forms, and stylistic elements within a variety of texts representative of the various historical periods and the diverse cultures and regions of Canada. Students respond to the texts personally, critically, and creatively.

The course is structured around six units: short fiction, drama, the novel, children’s literature, poetry, and the personal profile culminating unit. Each unit focuses on various themes and devices particular to the unit as well as those that relate to the Canadian experience as a whole. Media and non-fiction selections should be integrated throughout the course.

How This Course Supports the Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations

The primary goal of Catholic education is to graduate young men and women who are discerning believers in the saving story of Christ. They are challenged to become responsible citizens, based on the centrality of a tradition of the Church’s social teaching, which balances the sacred dignity and value of the individual while striving for the common good. The goal for educators is to assist young people to think compassionately and reflectively and to act in a manner consistent with the values of Jesus Christ. Education in the Catholic school system nurtures the vision that the glory of God is realized when people, as creations of God, are able to reach their full potential while acknowledging human weakness and limitation. To that end, this course encourages students to find and to value their own voice and encounter Canadian literature as they endeavour to develop their awareness of personal growth and relationship and responsibility to the world and its peoples. Students, while they begin working towards Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations in Grade 9, continue this process throughout their high school career and for the rest of their lives.

Course Notes

The Grade 11 Canadian Literature course is open to students who have successfully completed either Grade 10 Applied or Academic English, who may be considering either university or college as their post-secondary destination. The course encourages the ongoing development of literacy skills, interpersonal skills, critical and creative thinking skills, and effective communication.

The course has been organized by genre to maximize flexibility and to encourage the recognition and appreciation of a broad range of Canadian writing. Alternatively, this course could be organized historically, regionally, or thematically depending on teacher preference, resource availability, and student interests.

In implementing the course, the teacher should be mindful of a number of considerations including the following:

·         The study of media and non-fiction should be ongoing throughout the course and integrated into each unit.

·         Accommodations, where appropriate, must be made based on individual learning needs and interests.

·         The selection of texts should reflect the rich diversity of our nation’s different cultures and regions. These texts should also be sensitive/specific to the community in which the curriculum is delivered.

·         If teachers follow this course profile and all of its suggested activities, they can be assured of giving students opportunities to fulfill all of the overall and specific expectations mandated for the Grade 11 Canadian Literature course.

·         The final activity for each unit is designed as the suggested culminating task for the unit.

·         Unit 6, the Personal Portfolio, is designed as the suggested culminating task for the course, to be used in conjunction with a final examination.

Units:  Titles and Times

Unit 1

Short Fiction and the Art of Storytelling

22.5 hours

* Unit 2

Drama

   21 hours

Unit 3

The Canadian Novel

   30 hours

* Unit 4

Children’s Literature

16.5 hours

Unit 5

Poetry

12.5 hours

Unit 6

Personal Profile

  7.5 hours

* These units are fully developed in this Course Profile.

 

Unit Overviews

Unit 1:  Short Fiction and the Art of Storytelling

Time:  22.5 hours

Unit Description

Students are introduced to the concepts of culture and the uniqueness of Canadian literature through a selection of short prose. Students should consider the meaning of Canadian culture in their own lives and examine the values, experiences, and perspectives that have helped to shape Canada. The selection of short prose should include writing that reflects First Nations experience, the immigrant experience, the search for cultural identity, and the discovery of a sense of place. Students should reflect upon the future role and importance of Canadian culture by studying contemporary non-fiction works such as news articles, opinion pieces, documentaries, and editorials.

Unit Overview Chart

Activity

Expectations

Assessment

Focus

1. What is Culture?

RI4.01, RI1.02, RS1.01

CGE4f, 7g, 2a

Knowledge/ Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Discover school and community through field research

Introduction to regionalism

2. Who am I as a Canadian?

RI1.02, RI4.01, RSV.02, RS2.02

CGE5e, 5g, 7b, 2b

Application

Communication

Create a personal cultural profile

3. Dislocations and Relocations

RI1.03, RIV.01, RI3.03, RI4.02, RSV.01

CGE1h, 1i, 7f

Knowledge/ Understanding

Communication

Study migration stories past and present

Written responses to the text

4. Culture and Conflict

RSV.01, RI2.03, RI3.01, RI4.01

CGE5b, 4a

Application

Thinking/Inquiry

Identify changing perspectives on place, family, and society

Write in role

5. A Place Called Home

RIV.01, RI1.03, RI4.01

CGE3c, 7f, 7h

Application

Discover identity through adaptation and acceptance in cultural and natural worlds

Create a montage of quotations of works studied in class and images inspired by these works

6. Visions of the Future

RIV.01, RI1.01, RI2.02

CGE2b, 2e, 7g

Communication

Application

Critique reflections on Canada’s culture from various non-fiction sources

 

Unit 2:  Drama

Time:  21 hours

Unit Description

Students explore Canadian drama through an in-depth study of terminology, monologue, tableau, script reading, and script writing. Students develop reflective and critical-thinking skills as they analyse the function and significance of Canadian literature in society in a local and national context. The unit culminates in an activity that reinforces drama as a unique Canadian voice and allows students to make artistic and dramatic choices concerning a Canadian play.

Unit Overview Chart

Activity

Expectations

Assessment

Focus

1. The Director’s Chair

RSV.02, CGE1d

CGE2a, 2c, 3c

Knowledge/Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Application

Study terminology and dramatic devices

Learn personal movement vocabulary and vocalization

2. Such a Long Journey, Telling Stories

RIV.01, RSV.02, RIV.03, RI1.01, RI1.02

CGE4a, 4f, 5b, 7g

Thinking/Inquiry

Application

Knowledge/Understanding

Communication

Interpret history and character through monologue and tableau

3. Setting the Stage, the Power and the Impact of Canadian Drama

RIV.03, RIV.04, RSV.01, RS2.03

CGE5d, 5g, 7a, 7f

Thinking/Inquiry

Knowledge/Understanding

Communication

Respond in writing to Canadian writing

Conduct a gallery walk (written and oral component)

Study regional theatre

4. Putting Theory into Practice, It’s Your Turn

RIV.02, RIV.03, RSV.01

CGE4b, 4d, 4g

Thinking/Inquiry

Application

Communication

Knowledge/Understanding

Read and analyse a Canadian play

Create a director’s portfolio for a dramatic performance

 

Unit 3:  The Canadian Novel

Time:  30 hours

Unit Description

The novel, as an expression of cultural-regional context and of the author’s craft, will be investigated through a whole-class novel study. A novel that allows for analysis of the narrative elements of setting, plot, narrative voice, characterization, and theme is recommended (e.g., Obasan, Barometer Rising, or Such is my Beloved). Activities 1-5 represent the whole-class novel study while Activities 6-8 represent the independent small group novel study. The teacher may wish to divide the whole-class novel study and the independent small group novel study into two separate units to provide balance in the course and sufficient reading time for students.

Unit Overview Chart

 

Whole-Class Novel Study

Activity

Expectations

Assessment

Focus

1. Historical and Regional Context

RI1.04, RIV.04, RI3.03

CGE5b, 5g, 7f

Knowledge/ Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Conduct a print and on-line resource-based inquiry (e.g., geographic, biographical, and historical study)

2. Action: Structure and Effects of Plot

RI2.01, SV.01

CGE2b, 2c

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Use graphic organizers, timelines, and plot graphs to analyse plot structure

3. Narrative Voice: the Author

RI2.02, RI2.03

CGE7g

Thinking/Inquiry

Use short fictional texts to compare / contrast narrative stance and voice

4. Characterization: Distinctive Voices

RI3.01, RSV.01, RI4.01

CGE3c, 5b

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Examine imagery and dialogue as they convey and develop character

5. Theme: Common Voices

RIV.02, RI4.02, RI4.01

CGE2e, 4e, 4f

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Write an in-class expository essay based on a thematic focus

 

Independent Small Group Novel Study

Activity

Expectations

Assessment

Focus

6. Regional and Historical Inquiry: Small Group Novel

RIV.01, RI1.04, RI2.03, RI3.02, RI4.01

CGE3b, 4b, 4c

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Conduct a resource-based inquiry related to student-selected small group texts

7. The Group Novel as an Expression of Time and Place

RI4.01, RSV.01, RS1.02

CGE5a, 5f, 5g

Thinking/Inquiry

Apply critical and analytical techniques learned in Activities 3-5

8. Virtual Tour of Canada via the Small Group Novel

RSV.02, RS2.01, RS2.02, RS2.03

CGE3b, 4a, 4f

Communication

Create a media-based interpretation of important aspects of group novel

 

Unit 4:  Children’s Literature

Time:  16.5 hours

Unit Description

Children’s literature, as a genre, offers an exceptional opportunity for the exploration of universal human experiences that transcend culture, age, and time. Throughout this unit, students build on their foundational understanding of concepts established earlier in the course such as regionalism, physical and psychological landscape, and diversity of perspective. Through reading, response, and analysis, students should experience the full diversity of Canadian children’s literature, such as regional alphabet books, young adult fiction, Native writing, and urban and rural stories. Teachers could also select appropriate non-fiction, poetry, picture books, songs, and folk tales.

Unit Overview Chart

Activity

Expectations

Assessment

Focus

1. Beginnings: the Art of Writing for Children

RSV.02, RI2.01, RI4.02

CGE2a, 3b, 3c

Knowledge/Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Discover and apply archetypes and patterns in children’s literature to a Canadian context through a short writing response

2. Canadian Perspectives: What Makes a Text Universal? What Makes a Text Canadian?

RIV.01, RSV.01, RSI.02, RI2.03, RI3.01

CGE5b, 5e, 7f

Knowledge/Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Visit a series of literature stations which reflect a range of children’s authors and illustrators

3. Narrative Voice: the Art of the Author in a Canadian Children’s Novel

RSV.01, RSI.01, RSI.02

CGE1d, 5b

Knowledge/Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Explain how the elements of good fiction are reflected in a major children’s text

4. Our Voice to the World: Promotional Pitch to the International Children’s Book Festival

RIV.01, RIV.03, RSV.01, RSV.02, RI3.03, RS2.02

CGE4a, 4b, 7g

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Application

In small groups, create and present a formal proposal for the Quintessential Canadian Children’s Book to the selection committee for the International Children’s Book Festival

 

Unit 5:  Poetry

Time:  12.5 hours

Unit Description

Students examine the history, regions and diversity of their nation as represented through Canadian poetry and song. Students are given the opportunity to respond to and to analyse poetry throughout the unit as they work toward developing their poetic voice.

Unit Overview Chart

Activity

Expectations

Assessment

Focus

1. Canadian Poetic Voices

RIV.01, RIV.02, RI1.03, RI3.03, RI4.01, RI4.02

CGE2a, 2b, 5b, 7f, 7g

Knowledge/ Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Examine history, region and diversity as represented in Canadian poetry

2. On Style and Conventions

RIV.02, RI2.01, RI2.02, RI2.03, RI3.04

CGE2b, 3c

Knowledge/ Understanding

Application

Study of poetic terminology, style, and devices through direct teacher instruction

3. Personal Voice

RSV.01, RSV.02, RI1.01, RI3.01, RSI.01, RS1.02

CGE4f, 4g, 5b, 5g, 7b

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Respond personally to poetic works of various Canadian regions and historical periods

4. Songs of the Century

RIV.04, RSV.01, RSV.02, RI2.02, RI2.03, RS1.02

CGE1g, 3a, 3f, 4a, 5a, 6c, 7f

Communication

Application

Thinking/Inquiry

Analyse voices of popular culture through media and the study of Canadian recording artists

Select a song or poem of the century that reflects their identity as Canadians and justify why this selection qualifies as the song of the century

 

Unit 6:  Personal Profile

Time:  7.5 hours

Unit Description

As a culminating activity for the course, students write a critical analysis or an interpretive response to Canadian Literature in three of the five genres they have studied. This activity allows students to demonstrate a synthesis of their understanding of the Canadian experience as represented in this course. It is recommended that students organize their final product upon a key question (e.g., “To what extent has your experience over the course of study changed or reaffirmed your understanding of the Canadian experience and/or what it means to be a Canadian?”).

Unit Overview Chart

Activity

Expectations

Assessment

Focus

1. Personal Portfolio

RIV.03, RSV.01, RI3.01, RI3.03, RI4.02, RS1.01, RS1.02, RS2.02, RS2.03

CGE3c, 3d, 5c, 5e, 7a

Knowledge/ Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Application

Create a critical and interpretive portfolio

Teaching/Learning Strategies

Students enrolled in the Grade 11 Canadian Literature course have successfully completed either Grade 10 Applied or Grade 10 Academic English. The teacher needs to select materials and resources appropriate to the range of learning styles and interests of students in the class.

Strategies that are used within the whole class, small group, and individual activities incorporate a variety of approaches to develop skills in the following important areas:

Literacy/Communication

Students:

1.   read a variety of text forms to understand more about the uniqueness of Canadian literature;

2.   understand implicit and explicit messages in non-print text forms (e.g., radio, television, etc.);

3.   use their knowledge of Canada and Canadian literature to write for a variety of purposes and audiences;

4.   develop and refine oral communication skills for personal expression and public presentations.

Interpersonal

Students:

1.   recognize that culture, region, and time affect point of view;

2.   express a personal point of view that demonstrates respect for others;

3.   listen with empathy.

Critical and Creative Thinking

Students:

1.   analyse and interpret texts for distinctive Canadian features, themes, and viewpoints;

2.   use writing to express feeling, explore meaning, and make connections between prior knowledge and emerging understanding.

Whole Class Activities

Whole class activities form one instructional method, which effectively promotes the learning of the core knowledge and skills described in the expectations.

In whole class activities such as direct instruction, Socratic lessons, and review, the teacher should explicitly teach and model the required skills in each of the strands. For example, by reading literary passages aloud to senior students, the teacher demonstrates engaged, confident, and proficient reading. As well, the teacher should establish standards for close reading of a text and sophisticated use of critical evidence to support interpretations. Furthermore, in whole class activities, the teacher should model clear, coherent, and organized communication as well as exemplary application of language conventions.

The teacher and students work together to create an atmosphere of trust and respect for each other. To accomplish this in the drama unit, the students use their bodies as a form of expression and communication. The environment must be conducive to the discovery of the language of drama.

Other whole class activities such as field trips, guest speakers, and video presentations provide opportunities for students to relate the concepts and skills they develop in the course to life beyond the classroom. Readings by local authors and field trips to local theatres and to the settings of literary works nourish the imagination and contribute to the appreciation of both literature in general and regional literary traditions.

In whole class discussions of literary works the teacher models empathetic listening and skillful facilitation. This modelling provides the opportunity for students to gain knowledge of and respect for diverse points of view, as well as comprehension of the influence of culture and experience on perspective and thought.

Small Group Activities

The teacher should create circumstances in which students may sometimes work in collaborative groups. Students explore ideas, clarify their thinking, and gain insight and knowledge when they work together to solve a real problem or to reach a mutual goal. Most teachers find that the best number of students in a small group is between two and five.

·         Writing groups

·         pre-writing activities, such as brainstorming, webbing, or listing

·         drafting

·         conference partners

·         revision and editing groups

·         co-authoring

·         Dramatic readings and performances

·         Research partners or workstation groups

·         Focus groups for analysis

·         Panels, debates, and round table discussions

·         Oral reports and presentations

·         Reading conferences and book talks

·         Portfolio presentations

·         Oral reading groups for poetry and drama

·         Homework buddies

·         Response groups for informal discussion

Individual Activities

The teacher should provide a variety of individual assignments to extend and consolidate the learning that takes place in the whole class and small group activities. Individual activities allow the teacher to accommodate interests and needs and to assess the progress of each student. The teacher plays an important role in supporting these activities through the provision of ongoing feedback to the students, both orally and in writing.

Teachers are encouraged to include individual activities such as the following in the course.

·         Writing

·         Reading responses

·         Personal writing

·         Creative writing

·         Report writing

·         Essay writing

·         Individual reading time

·         Independent research assignments

·         Independent novel study work

·         Portfolios

·         Oral presentations

·         Dramatic monologues

·         Tests, quizzes

·         Homework assignments

·         Student-teacher conferences

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

The word “assess” comes from the Latin root that means “to sit beside.” Good assessment is ongoing feedback, which measures growth over time, is clearly linked to expectations, is meaningful to students and is critical to the teaching/learning process. Assessment monitors student learning and allows teachers to identify student strengths and weaknesses, to develop and modify teaching strategies, and to report effectively to students, their parents, the school, and the wider community.

Assessment is defined as the collection of information on student achievement; evaluation is a judgement or decision based on the information collected over time. Under The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 11
and 12: English, 2000,
assessment and evaluation are criterion-based activities linked to the provincial curriculum expectations and the Achievement Chart. Emphasis is placed on assessment tasks that are varied in nature, administered over a period of time, and designed to provide opportunities for students to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in a meaningful context. The diversity of students’ experiences and learning styles must be respected. Self-assessment and self-monitoring are important components for students in the teaching/learning process.

The Achievement Chart for English is the basis for reporting on student progress, as outlined in The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 9 to 12, Program Planning and Assessment, 2000. The assessment information accumulated throughout the course must be sufficient (in variety and frequency) to permit teachers to evaluate the highest consistent level of performance for each student.

Seventy per cent of the grade will be based on assessments and evaluations conducted throughout the course. Thirty per cent of the grade will be based on a final evaluation in the form of a personal profile and an examination.

Assessment Tools

Rubrics: often developed in collaboration with students or with other teachers, rubrics are frequently used in the English classroom to assess performance-based tasks, or tasks incorporating a number of integrated or clustered expectations. The English essay and the oral presentation are two “performance-based” tasks, which lend themselves to assessment by rubrics.

Checklists: are particularly helpful for the monitoring of “process” components of student work, of homework, formative feedback, complete/incomplete record-keeping and for marks assignment.

Rating Scales: are numerical or symbolic statements with attached criteria. Rating scales have less detail than rubrics but provide more information than a checklist on the quality of the items completed.

CheckBrics: are an interesting blend of a rubric and a checklist, which include descriptors and a checklist.

Anecdotals: are time consuming, but useful, written personalized comments, which are usually informal.

Portfolios: are collections of student work showing growth over time. Portfolios can be course; topic or unit based and can be in either working or presentation formats.

Conferences: are dialogues with peers, the teacher, or parents allowing immediate personal feedback. Conferences are often used in conjunction with a portfolio or student work log.

Assessment Strategies for Grade 11 Canadian Literature

The teacher should establish a work log/response journal or portfolio structure to track student growth during the course. Since this course is open to students in both the university and college directed streams, the teacher should expect a rich diversity of student experiences, interests, and learning styles. Self-assessment is also an important learning skill for students in the senior division.

For both of the completed units provided with this profile, a rubric is included for the culminating task. Additional assessments should be selected to ensure consistency with the requirements outlined in the Grades 9 to 12, Program Planning and Assessment, 2000 policy document. Assessment tasks should cluster relevant and meaningful expectations; assessment tools and strategies should inform curriculum planning as well as student progress.

Accommodations

Teachers may make the following accommodations as needed:

·         pairing with another student (mentor/tutor);

·         providing supplementary texts to accommodate different reading levels;

·         providing alternative activities that suit strengths in learning styles;

·         providing audio/Braille versions of print resources;

·         audio-taping or oral assessment of pen and paper tests and assignments;

·         breaking down larger assignments into smaller, more manageable tasks;

·         allowing use of laptop computers, electronic thesauri, and spellcheckers within the classroom;

·         using an audio tape/peer helper reading aloud to individuals or small groups;

·         providing further reading of historical time periods and contexts for additional challenge (enrichment);

·         note-taking using NCR/carbon paper or scribe as required (a peer, peer tutor, or educational assistant);

·         audio taping or orally assessing of pen and paper tests and assignments;

·         restructuring tests as needed (allowing extra time, providing a scribe, rephrasing questions, reading the test aloud, using computer/word processor or voice-activated writing program as available);

·         ensuring that groups include students with a variety of abilities and skills/interests;

·         using editing equipment, if available, to create a more polished product (enrichment);

·         using a peer to assist students in the composition and revision of their written work;

·         using simplified or abridged versions of plays/novels where available;

·         using cue cards for students who are unable to memorize their lines, facilitating roles for students who have performance difficulties;

·         other accommodations as deemed necessary.

Resources

The following list provides general resources, which could be used throughout the course. For the two units developed in detail for this profile, specific resource lists are also included.

General Resources and Anthologies

Atwood, Margaret. Survival. Toronto: McClelland and Stewart, 1996. ISBN 0771008325

Atwood, Margaret and Robert Weaver. The New Oxford Book of Canadian Short Stories in English,
2nd ed. Toronto: Oxford University Press, 1995. ISBN 0195410254

Barry, James, ed. Coast to Coast: Canadian Stories, Poetry, Non-Fiction & Drama, Reflections in Literature. Scarborough: Nelson Canada, 1995. ISBN 0176047042

Bennett, Donna and Russell Brown, eds. An Anthology of Canadian Literature in English. Toronto: Oxford University Press, 1983. ISBN 0195403940

Borovilos, John, ed. Breaking Through: A Canadian Literary Mosaic. Scarborough: Prentice-Hall Canada, 1990. ISBN 0130830720

Borovilos, John, ed. Breaking Free: A Cross Cultural Anthology. Scarborough: Prentice-Hall Canada, 1995. ISBN 0133074307

Conrad, Ron, ed. The Act of Writing, 5th ed. Toronto: McGraw-Hill Ryerson, Ltd., 1998.
ISBN 0075603659

Cooke, Nathalie, ed. An Anthology of Canadian Literature in English. Toronto: Oxford University Press, 1990. ISBN 0195407857

Frye, Northrop. Mythologizing Canada: Essays on the Canadian Literary Imagination. New York: Legas, 1997. ISBN 0921252579

Karpinski, Eva, ed. Pens of Many Colours: A Canadian Reader. Harcourt-Brace and Company, Ltd., 1997. ISBN 0774735104

Moses, Daniel David and Terry Goldie, eds. An Anthology of Canadian Native Literature, 2nd ed. Don Mills: Oxford University Press, 1998. ISBN 0-19-541282-6

Petrone, Penny. Native Literature in Canada: From the Oral Tradition to the Present. Toronto: Oxford University Press, 1990. ISBN 0-19-540796-2

Rooke, Constance, ed. Writing Home: a PEN Canada Anthology. Toronto: McClelland and Stewart, 1997. ISBN 0771069618

Stouck, David. Major Canadian Authors: A Critical Introduction to Canadian Literature in English. Lincoln: University of Nebraska Press, 1988. ISBN 0803291884

Novel Suggestions

Callaghan, Morley. Such is my Beloved. Toronto: McClelland and Stewart, 1996. ISBN 077109955X

Callaghan, Morley. More Joy in Heaven. Toronto: McClelland and Stewart, 1996. ISBN 0771099568

King, Thomas. Medicine River. Toronto: Viking, 1990. ISBN 0670829625

Kogawa, Joy. Obasan. Toronto: Penguin Books of Canada, 1983. ISBN 0140067779

Kogawa, J. Itsuka. Toronto: Viking, 1992. ISBN 0670844721

Laurence, Margaret. Bird in the House. Toronto: New Canadian Library, 1999. ISBN 0771099851

MacLennan, Hugh. Barometer Rising. Toronto: McClelland and Stewart, 1996. ISBN 0771099916

Mitchell, W.O. Who has Seen the Wind. Toronto: McClelland and Stewart, 2000. ISBN 0771061110

Roy, Gabrielle. Children of my Heart. Toronto: McClelland and Stewart, 2000. ISBN 0771075987

Richards, David Adams. Nights Below Station Street. Toronto: McClelland and Stewart, 1997.
ISBN 0771074670

Slipperjack, Ruby. Honour the Sun. Winnipeg: Pemmican Publications, 1987. ISBN 091914344X

Canadian Drama

Ballach, J. Drama in Perspective. Toronto: Harcourt Brace, Canada, 1993. ISBN 0-7747-1416-6

Brask, Per. Contemporary Issues in Canadian Drama. Winnipeg: Blizzard Press, 1995.
ISBN 0921368518

French, David. Leaving Home. Toronto: New Press, 1972. ISBN 0773759433

Gainas, Gratien. Yesterday the Children Were Dancing. Toronto: Clarke, Irwin, 1967.
IBSN 077200210X

Barrie, Shirley, Beverly Cooper, and Banuta Rubess. Wanna Play? Three Plays for High School. Toronto: Playwrights Canada Press, 1994. ISBN 0887544959

Stevens, J., ed. Ten Canadian Short Plays. Toronto: Dell Distributing, 1975. ISBN 0-440-9575

Swartz, Larry. Dramathemes: A Practical Guide for Teaching Drama. Heinemann, 1989.
ISBN 0435085093

Poetry

Booth, David, ed. Doctor Knickerbocker and Other Rhymes: A Canadian Collection. Toronto: Kids Can Press, 1993. ISBN 1550740792

Geddes, Gary, ed. 15 Canadian Poets x 2. Toronto: Oxford University Press, 1988. ISBN 0195406559

Davies, Gwendolyn and Carole Gerson, eds. Canadian Poetry from the Beginning through the First World War. Toronto: New Canadian Library, 1996. ISBN 0771034504

Lee, Dennis, ed. The New Canadian Poets 1970-1985. Toronto: McClelland and Stewart, 1985.
ISBN 0771052162

Children’s Literature

Egoff, S. The New Republic of Childhood: A Critical Guide to Canadian Children’s Literature in English. Toronto: Oxford University Press, 1990. ISBN 0195405765

Jones, R.E. and Jon Stott. Canadian Children’s Books: A Critical Guide to Authors and Illustrators. Toronto: Oxford University Press, 2000. ISBN 01954 1222-2

Pearson, Kit, ed. This Land: A Cross-Country Anthology of Canadian Fiction for Young Readers. Toronto: Viking. 1998. ISBN 0670878960

Websites

Note: The URLs for the websites have been verified by the writer prior to publication. Given the frequency with which these designations change, teachers should always verify the websites prior to assigning them for student use.

The Booker Prize – http://www.web.net/owtoad/

Canadian Authors Online – http://web.idirect.com/~canuck/cao/ch

Canadian Broadcasting Corporation – http://www.cbc.ca

Canadian Short Stories Video Series – http://www.nfb.ca/FMT/MSN/34/34951.html

Canadian Literature Archive – http://canlit.st-john.umanitoba.ca/Canlitx/Canadian_Writers.html

Canadian Literature Pathfinder@UNB – http://www.ucalgary.ca/library/subjects/CNST/canadianlit.htm

Giller Prize – http://www.thegillerprize.org/

Governor General’s Literary Awards – http://www.canadacouncil.ca/prizes.ggla.default.asp

Guide to Canadian Literature Materials – http://vicu.utoronto.ca/library/guides/canlit.htm

National Film Board of Canada – http://www.nfb.ca/

National Library of Canada – http://www.nlc-bnc.ca/events/illustra/eintro.htm

Playwrights – http://www.blizzard.mb.ca/catalog/Playwrights.html

The Writer’s Union of Canada – http://www.writersunion.ca/

OSS Considerations

This course encourages both community-based learning and career exploration utilizing resources offered by the community. Opportunities may exist for students to participate in cooperative and career-related endeavours by providing time in learning environments such as libraries, bookstores, elementary school classrooms, and daycare centres as a means for and/or classifying their post-secondary interests’ destinations.

The nature of the course affords the opportunity to incorporate texts that allow students to be cognizant of the differences that are common to each individual person or our nation as a means of encouraging violence prevention and acceptance and non-judgmental perspectives.

Consideration should be given to board policy regarding the accepted use of computers. A school-specific contract should be made available to ensure that students and parents are aware of acceptable user policy with regards to computer-based research.


Coded Expectations, Canadian Literature, Grade 11, University/College Preparation, ETC3M

Reading and Interpreting Canadian Literary Texts

Overall Expectations

RIV.01 · read and demonstrate an understanding of Canadian fiction, drama, poetry, and non-fiction from diverse cultures, regions, and time periods;

RIV.02 · demonstrate an understanding of the use of form, language, voice, and style to communicate meaning and enhance the impact of Canadian literary texts;

RIV.03 · demonstrate knowledge and understanding of a variety of interpretations of Canadian literary texts;

RIV.04 · analyse the function and significance of Canadian literature in society.

Specific Expectations

Understanding Meaning in Canadian Literary Texts

RI1.01 – interpret a variety of Canadian literary works;

RI1.02 – interpret Canadian literary texts in performance or recorded on film or tape;

RI1.03 – explain the major themes and issues in Canadian literary texts (e.g., make a group presentation on the representation of nature in a poet’s work; compare authors’ treatments of immigrant experiences in Canadian literature);

RI1.04 – select and use reading strategies to understand Canadian literary texts (e.g., discuss regional and historical contexts before reading a novel; keep a list of unfamiliar and distinctive Canadian words and expressions while reading a play; reread a story after consulting reference sources about allusions encountered in the text).

Understanding Form and Expression in Canadian Literary Texts

RI2.01 – identify elements of literary forms in Canadian literary texts and explain how they are used to communicate meaning and enhance impact (e.g., analyse the use of action and suspense in a short story to engage the reader; discuss the use of flashbacks or multiple narrators to deepen or broaden meaning in a Canadian novel);

RI2.02 – explain how language is used in Canadian literary texts to communicate meaning and enhance impact (e.g., keep an annotated list of effective words and expressions from texts; explain why the use of regional dialect is an important element of characterization in a Canadian play);

RI2.03 – explain how voice and style are used in Canadian literary texts to communicate meaning and enhance impact (e.g., explain how a novelist uses first-person narration to establish and maintain a distinctive voice; write an essay about the style of a Canadian author based on representative works).

Understanding Interpretations of Canadian Literary Texts

RI3.01 – analyse their own and others’ interpretations of a variety of Canadian literary texts (e.g., generate questions about a Canadian novel and discuss them with peers; compare their own interpretations with those of professional critics to debate the merits of a Canadian film; compare literary reviews from a website on a Canadian author);

RI3.02 – research critical interpretations of Canadian literary texts in print and electronic sources and summarize their key ideas (e.g., report to group members the main ideas from critical articles on a novel; compile an annotated bibliography of secondary sources on a national or regional theme or issue);

RI3.03 – explain how the historical and regional contexts of the works and the differing perspectives of readers influence interpretations of Canadian literary texts (e.g., research the historical and regional background to help understand a specific text; produce a videotaped interview or audiotape oral history to depict the historical period of a novel; compare interpretations of a Canadian short story in a small group and account for the differences);

RI3.04 – select and use appropriate strategies to understand specialized language and complex concepts in literary criticism (e.g., apply contextual information or consult a specialized reference source to understand unfamiliar concepts or terminology; summarize the key ideas in a critical essay).

Understanding the Social Purposes of Canadian Literary Texts

RI4.01 – describe distinctive values, attitudes, and viewpoints in Canadian literary texts (e.g., draw conclusions about the social norms and behaviours of Canadians by examining characters in a selection of short stories; discuss the variety of attitudes to the geographical vastness of Canada by writers of Canadian essays and poetry);

RI4.02 – explain how Canadian literary works comment on the human condition or present universal themes or global issues (e.g., write a letter to the author of a literary text regarding the portrayal of members of a particular gender, class, or culture; make a small-group presentation about the diverse influences on a work of Canadian literature).

Responding to Canadian Literary Texts

Overall Expectations

RSV.01 · produce personal and critical responses to a variety of Canadian literary texts;

RSV.02 · produce creative responses to a variety of Canadian literary texts.

Specific Expectations

Responding Personally and Critically to Canadian Literary Texts

RS1.01 – compare their own thoughts, feelings, attitudes, beliefs, and values to those expressed in Canadian literary texts (e.g., record observations about the values and beliefs expressed in the work of several authors; share interpretations in a group to explore and clarify ideas, themes, and issues and to negotiate a common interpretation of a Canadian literary text);

RS1.02 – produce critical responses to ideas, themes, and issues presented in Canadian literary texts (e.g., write a review of a Canadian literary text evaluating its effectiveness in communicating ideas for a specific purpose to a specific audience; write an analytical academic essay discussing ideas presented in a novel in the light of a critical theory about Canadian literature).

Responding Creatively to Canadian Literary Texts

RS2.01 – adapt a character, scene, or idea from a Canadian literary text for presentation in another form or medium (e.g., role-play a conflict from a Canadian novel, including possible resolutions; compose a television script based on a Canadian short story);

RS2.02 – design and create, individually or collaboratively, literary or media works in response to Canadian literary texts (e.g., create visual images to illustrate a Canadian poem, story, or novel; create a multimedia presentation about a Canadian short-story writer);

RS2.03 – explain how the works created or adapted reflect key ideas, themes, and issues in Canadian literary texts (e.g., make an oral presentation explaining how their creative choices reflect aspects of Canadian literary texts).


Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations

 

The graduate is expected to be:

 

A Discerning Believer Formed in the Catholic Faith Community   who

 

CGE1a    -illustrates a basic understanding of the saving story of our Christian faith;

CGE1b    -participates in the sacramental life of the church and demonstrates an understanding of the centrality of the Eucharist to our Catholic story;

CGE1c    -actively reflects on God’s Word as communicated through the Hebrew and Christian scriptures;

CGE1d    -develops attitudes and values founded on Catholic social teaching and acts to promote social responsibility, human solidarity and the common good;

CGE1e    -speaks the language of life... “recognizing that life is an unearned gift and that a person entrusted with life does not own it but that one is called to protect and cherish it.” (Witnesses to Faith)

CGE1f     -seeks intimacy with God and celebrates communion with God, others and creation through prayer and worship;

CGE1g    -understands that one’s purpose or call in life comes from God and strives to discern and live out this call throughout life’s journey;

CGE1h    -respects the faith traditions, world religions and the life-journeys of all people of good will;

CGE1i     -integrates faith with life;

CGE1j     -recognizes that “sin, human weakness, conflict and forgiveness are part of the human journey” and that the cross, the ultimate sign of forgiveness is at the heart of redemption. (Witnesses to Faith)

 

An Effective Communicator   who

CGE2a    -listens actively and critically to understand and learn in light of gospel values;

CGE2b    -reads, understands and uses written materials effectively;

CGE2c    -presents information and ideas clearly and honestly and with sensitivity to others;

CGE2d    -writes and speaks fluently one or both of Canada’s official languages;

CGE2e    -uses and integrates the Catholic faith tradition, in the critical analysis of the arts, media, technology and information systems to enhance the quality of life.

 

A Reflective and Creative Thinker   who

CGE3a    -recognizes there is more grace in our world than sin and that hope is essential in facing all challenges;

CGE3b    -creates, adapts, evaluates new ideas in light of the common good;

CGE3c    -thinks reflectively and creatively to evaluate situations and solve problems;

CGE3d    -makes decisions in light of gospel values with an informed moral conscience;

CGE3e    -adopts a holistic approach to life by integrating learning from various subject areas and experience;

CGE3f     -examines, evaluates and applies knowledge of interdependent systems (physical, political, ethical, socio-economic and ecological) for the development of a just and compassionate society.

 

A Self-Directed, Responsible, Life Long Learner   who

CGE4a    -demonstrates a confident and positive sense of self and respect for the dignity and welfare of others;

CGE4b    -demonstrates flexibility and adaptability;

CGE4c    -takes initiative and demonstrates Christian leadership;

CGE4d    -responds to, manages and constructively influences change in a discerning manner;

CGE4e    -sets appropriate goals and priorities in school, work and personal life;

CGE4f     -applies effective communication, decision-making, problem-solving, time and resource management skills;

CGE4g    -examines and reflects on one’s personal values, abilities and aspirations influencing life’s choices and opportunities;

CGE4h    -participates in leisure and fitness activities for a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

 

A Collaborative Contributor   who

CGE5a    -works effectively as an interdependent team member;

CGE5b    -thinks critically about the meaning and purpose of work;

CGE5c    -develops one’s God-given potential and makes a meaningful contribution to society;

CGE5d    -finds meaning, dignity, fulfillment and vocation in work which contributes to the common good;

CGE5e    -respects the rights, responsibilities and contributions of self and others;

CGE5f     -exercises Christian leadership in the achievement of individual and group goals;

CGE5g    -achieves excellence, originality, and integrity in one’s own work and supports these qualities in the work of others;

CGE5h    -applies skills for employability, self-employment and entrepreneurship relative to Christian vocation.

 

A Caring Family Member   who

CGE6a    -relates to family members in a loving, compassionate and respectful manner;

CGE6b    -recognizes human intimacy and sexuality as God given gifts, to be used as the creator intended;

CGE6c    -values and honours the important role of the family in society;

CGE6d    -values and nurtures opportunities for family prayer;   

CGE6e    -ministers to the family, school, parish, and wider community through service.

 

A Responsible Citizen   who

CGE7a    -acts morally and legally as a person formed in Catholic traditions;

CGE7b    -accepts accountability for one’s own actions;

CGE7c    -seeks and grants forgiveness;

CGE7d    -promotes the sacredness of life;

CGE7e    -witnesses Catholic social teaching by promoting equality, democracy, and solidarity for a just, peaceful and compassionate society;

CGE7f     -respects and affirms the diversity and interdependence of the world’s peoples and cultures;

CGE7g    -respects and understands the history, cultural heritage and pluralism of today’s contemporary society;

CGE7h    -exercises the rights and responsibilities of Canadian citizenship;

CGE7i     -respects the environment and uses resources wisely;

CGE7j     -contributes to the common good.

 

 

 

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