Teaching literature through a critical pedagogy approach involves using literature as a means of encouraging students to think critically about the social, cultural, and historical context in which the literature was written, and to explore the ways in which the literature speaks to contemporary issues and concerns. Here are ten steps that you could follow to teach literature through a critical pedagogy approach:
Establish a safe and inclusive learning environment: Before beginning your study of literature, it is important to establish a safe and inclusive learning environment in which all students feel comfortable participating and sharing their thoughts and ideas. This can involve setting ground rules for respectful and respectful dialogue, and creating a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for all students.
Encourage student-centered learning: Instead of simply lecturing on the content of the literature, try to encourage student-centered learning by engaging students in activities that allow them to explore and analyze the literature for themselves. This could involve group discussions, debates, role-plays, or other interactive activities.
Explore the social and cultural context of the literature: Encourage your students to think critically about the social and cultural context in which the literature was written, and how this context shapes the themes and characters of the literature. This could involve looking at the historical background of the literature, the cultural values and beliefs of the time period in which it was written, and the social issues that the literature addresses.
Analyze the elements of the literature: Help your students to analyze the different elements of the literature, including its structure, language, imagery, and tone. Encourage them to think about how these elements contribute to the overall meaning and impact of the literature.
Connect the literature to contemporary issues and concerns: Help your students to see the relevance of the literature in the present day by connecting the themes and issues of the literature to contemporary issues and concerns. This could involve discussing topics such as power and corruption, gender and sexuality, and the meaning of justice and revenge.
Encourage critical thinking and analysis: Encourage your students to engage in critical thinking and analysis by asking them to consider different interpretations of the literature and to think about how the literature speaks to broader themes and issues. Encourage them to consider different perspectives and to challenge their own assumptions and biases.
Encourage creativity and self-expression: Encourage your students to express their own thoughts and ideas about the literature through creative writing or other forms of self-expression. This can help them to develop their own voices and to feel more connected to the literature.
Use a variety of teaching methods: To keep your students engaged and motivated, try using a variety of teaching methods, such as lectures, discussions, group work, and multimedia resources. This will help to keep the class interesting and dynamic, and will allow students to learn in a way that is most effective for them.
Incorporate diverse voices and perspectives: Make an effort to incorporate diverse voices and perspectives into your teaching, including literature by authors from different cultural and historical backgrounds. This can help your students to gain a more nuanced understanding of the literature and to see it in a broader context.
Monitor and provide feedback: As your students engage with the literature, pay close attention to their progress and provide feedback as needed. This will help them to understand any mistakes they may be making and to improve their understanding and analysis of the literature.
Overall, by following these steps, you can effectively teach literature through a critical pedagogy approach, which encourages students to think critically about the literature and to explore its meaning and significance in a deeper and more meaningful way.
References
Freire, P. (1970). Pedagogy of the Oppressed. New York: Continuum.
Giroux, H. A. (2003). Theories of social justice education: An introduction. In H. A. Giroux & K. Kincheloe (Eds.), Theories of social justice education (pp. 1-24). New York: Routledge.
Hooks, B. (1994). Teaching to Transgress: Education as the Practice of Freedom. New York: Routledge.
McLaren, P. (1995). Life in Schools: An Introduction to Critical Pedagogy in the Foundations of Education. New York: Longman.
Shor, I. (1987). When Students Have Power: Negotiating Authority in a Critical Pedagogy. Chicago: University of Chicago Press.
Willis, P., & Deyhle, D. (1989). Research on critical pedagogy: A review. Review of Educational Research, 59(4), 447-488
