"Making the Good Reader and Citizen: The History of Literature Instruction in American Schools" will take place over Zoom from 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. CT on Wednesday and Thursday, July 10 and 11.
This two-part series will investigate the history of secondary-school literature instruction in the twentieth century and educators’ and school reformers’ changing conceptions of what constitutes a "good reader." The sessions will explore how our current moment fits into a longer history of thinking about literature, society, and teaching. In investigating competing conceptions of the civic role of literature instruction in creating "good readers," participants will investigate: 1) how historical events have compelled the fluctuations; 2) the role assessment has played; and 3) the impact of technologies of literature instruction on enacting and challenging these conceptions (including high school canon and teachers' lesson plans). In developing a richer, deeper understanding of literary studies and our profession, the program will help teachers serve as stronger leaders in their schools and more effective and creative practitioners in their classrooms. Jonna Perrillo (The University of Texas at El Paso), Audrey Brimberry (Waco ISD), and Vanessa Sanders (El Paso ISD) will lead the webinar series.
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