LITR 4332 American Minority Literature 2008 Syllabus

Student Presentation: Minority-Culture Reader / Discussion Leader

A web posting is required of all presentations--see general requirements for student presentations

Purpose of the Literary-style reader / discussion leader: focus attention on on cultural or social issues in the day’s reading assignment relevant to minority identity (objectives 1-4)

Overall Description of presentation:

• Select & share 1-2 passages from day’s reading assignment relating to 1-2 aspects of Minority-Culture Objectives (1-4).

• Relate readings to objectives

• Ask questions & lead discussion based on presentation

Timing:

• The presentation itself should run from 5-10 minutes.

• Discussion may run indefinitely.

• Discussion may be coordinated with that of the day's Literary-Style Reader.

Format or process:

1. Locate passage(s) and preview their connection to 1-2 Minority-Culture Objectives (1-4)

2. Read the passage(s) aloud and briefly comment (before and after reading) on connections to Minority-Culture Objectives

3. Lead discussion by asking questions:

Initial questions: “Do you agree with my analysis? Did anyone else notice this passage? Were other objectives suggested by the passage?"

+ focus on the objectives. If class doesn't respond, ask about other passages to which the objective might apply.

Extended questions: “What do we learn about minority culture (or the particular ethnic group) from these examples?”

Also welcome to raise issues or ask questions that extend beyond course objectives as long as they connect to the course's interests.