YA Book Explorers – Fall
$157.07
“This course is amazing! The books are very fun to read. I also like that all the books assigned are all different. Thanks for a great course!” ~ Student Anelie
Enrollment
Available
Step 1: Register Your Student
Step 2: Enroll Your Registered Student
| Instructor | Prof. Suki Wessling |
| Content Levels | Grades 6-7 • Middle School Grades 7-8 • Junior High Grades 9-10 • Lower High School |
| Course Length | 8 week course over 16 weeks |
| Live Webinars Held On | Thursdays, 2:00 - 2:50 PM Pacific - Meets twice per month - 8/15/24 - 12/13/24 |
YA Book Explorers offers a flexible, fun environment for exploring, enjoying, and discussing Young Adult* and appropriate adult/classic books. This course is not age-restricted, but students should have sufficient maturity to read mainstream Young Adult and high school-level classic novels. We read two books per month and meet to talk about the books twice monthly. Most books are fiction but occasionally we may read narrative nonfiction works. We make sure to explore a variety of books, from classics to recent publications, including all genres such as fantasy, mystery, science fiction, historical fiction, realistic fiction, and adventure.
We realize that some students will only drop in for some of the books, while other readers will attend every time, so the course is priced as an 8-week course. Students may enroll in the course anytime in the semester.
- Note: Students may re-enroll for this course as often as they’d like. Book choices are unlikely to be repeated.
- Enrollment in this course is ongoing throughout the school year.
Note to Parents:
*Young Adult (YA) fiction differs from other children’s books in that it addresses themes that are of particular concern to teens. Books we read in this course may address such sensitive topics as sexuality, dysfunctional family relationships, and personal or political violence. Interest in and understanding of these themes can vary by age, so please assess your preteen’s maturity level before enrolling.
What to expect in the classroom:
- Book titles will be announced at least a month in advance, giving students ample time to read the book, learn about the author, and explore subjects related to the book.
- Students will be encouraged to interact on the forum and share their ideas.
- Students will also be able to chat about other books and learn about the author and other subject matter related to the book.
What to expect during the bi-monthly webinar:
- Webinars are 50 minutes long. Webinars are recorded and are available when students miss a meeting.
- Active Participation (via the microphone and chat) in online class discussions.
- Students should be prepared to bring their own responses to and questions about the reading.
Before taking this course, students should be able to:
- Read at a high school level or above.
- Respond to readings with at least one paragraph of analysis.
Students should be willing to:
- Actively participate (via the microphone) in the class discussion.
- Encourage class discussion by adding their questions/ideas in the chat window during the webinar.
- Respond with positive and encouraging comments on their classmates’ posts in the classroom forums.
Required books & materials:
- Students will be required to access books via the library or purchase them.
- Books will be announced at least one month ahead.
- All other materials will be available online.
Sample book titles from past sessions:
- Please note: Book choices will not be repeated in at least two years
- Student interests help guide the instructor to make book choices as the semester progresses.
- Choices will include YA current or classic fantasy and science fiction such as The Raven Boys or Fahrenheit 451, current or classic realistic fiction such as The Fault in Our Stars or The Outsiders, and current or classic adult novels such as The House on the Cerulean Sea or Emma.