50 Texts to Teach by

Graphic Novel: "Persepolis" by Marjane Satrapi

baiz6 — 2024-12-07 02:39:04 UTC

This autobiographical graphic novel depicts the author's childhood in Iran during and after the Islamic Revolution. Students gain insight into the cultural and political changes that took place. (Read it during High School, Blow my mind with its story background and the way of it narrative as a graphic novel)

Play: Our Town by Thornton Wilder

baiz6 — 2024-12-07 02:42:15 UTC

It shows the daily life of the residents of the fictional American town of Grover's Corners. It explores universal themes such as life, love, and death. Through this play, I believe that students will reflect critically on the human condition.

Music Video: "This Is America" by Childish Gambino

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 06:20:59 UTC

This is a music video that addresses complex social issues through powerful visuals and lyrics. I believe it will be suitable for student discussions on media literacy and societal critique (I spent one mouth on this music video during 10 grade. I don't like it but I really learned A LOT).

TikTok Producer: "oodhamboiii" Wagon Burner

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 06:31:05 UTC

Wagon Burne posts a collection of TikTok videos where he has a Native American perspective. He discusses their traditions and opinions. This can offer students authentic voices and perspectives. For example, he posted about Moana 2 on the indigenous culture part lately. (haven't seen Moana2 yet will do soon but anyway it's a good example)

Book: Mrs Dalloway by Virginia Woolf

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 06:34:16 UTC

Mrs. Dalloway is a rich exploration of individual, personal consciousness through a stream-of-consciousness style. This not only introduces students to a new approach to writing but also encourages students to think deeply about human experience and emotions. The plot of the book can also lead to discussions about the way society shapes identity. The novel provides a critical perspective on gender expectations in early 20th-century society. This can inspire students to discuss feminism and the history of equality, etc. （Most importantly this is my favorite book.）

Graphic Novel: American born Chinese gene luen yang

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 06:38:15 UTC

It's always important to know about belonging and cultural identity. As a Chinese who lives in an immigrant country, I feel it. Therefore I believe it becomes more significant for students from different backgrounds to learn about identity, cultural assimilation, stereotypes, and self-acceptance in general. All students can discuss how the book reflects on their own experiences. Identity or stereotypes and how they challenge societal norms can fit students from all culture backgrounds.

Book: "The Hate U Give" by Angie Thomas

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 06:50:53 UTC

This is a great book that talks about racism, police brutality, and activism. It's a book that high school students can relate to with relatable characters and contemporary themes.

Book: 1984 by George Orwell

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 06:59:39 UTC

I think this book can be a great resource for discussions about governments and organizations. The concept of "newspeak" and manipulation of truth in 1984 can spark important discussions about propaganda, fake news in the digital age. The novel can also prompt students to reflect on their own lives and society. The use of language, symbolism, and narrative structure provides an excellent opportunity to teach literary analysis of dystopian novels.

Book: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 07:00:26 UTC

This book is an excellent example of a story that leads students to explore the symbolism of metaphors, irony, and other themes in a story. TKAMBia is also perfect for hosting a classroom debate on the morality of Atticus Finch’s defense of Tom Robinson and the societal pressures he faces. This book can also assign students to write from the perspective of a character. For example, Boo Radley or Tom Robinson, to deepen their understanding of their experiences.

(BTW I hate this book for turning my 9grade into a total nightmare, but did learn a lot about the literary techniques)

Book: The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 07:07:59 UTC

The Handmaid's Tale describes a totalitarian society. The book reveals how power controls individuals through laws, religion, and social norms. Especially in controlling women's bodies and freedom. The novel shows the consequences of gender oppression and loss of autonomy from a female perspective, providing students with material for discussing women's rights, gender equality, and social structure. Although the novel is dystopian literature, many plots reflect the problems existing in modern society. This can arouse students' attention to social issues and inspire students to think critically about the current social situation. The symbolism and narrative structure in the novel are very clever. This also provides students with an opportunity to analyze literary techniques.

Film: Wonder by Stephen Chbosky

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 07:20:57 UTC

The film tells the story of how Auggie, a boy born with facial deformities, adjusts to school life. By experiencing the different perspectives of the film, students can experience the inner world of each character. This can teach students to understand problems from the perspective of others. The film shows the harm caused by bullying and how inclusion can help individuals overcome difficulties. For students, it is an opportunity to reflect on school culture and behavior. This film is a good example of anti-bullying. It is conducive to teaching students to create a more friendly environment in school.

Film: Secret Superstar by Advait Chandan, produced by Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 07:28:08 UTC

The film reflects the oppression faced by women in Indian society. Insia and her mother's resistance symbolize the courage of women to pursue independence and freedom. I think students can think about gender equality and social justice through this film. And bravely resist when facing domestic violence.

Graphic Novel: Hey, Kiddo by Jarrett J. Krosoczka

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 07:32:01 UTC

Through his experiences, students can gain insight into the challenges faced by children and families affected by substance abuse. This can encourage students to develop empathy and understanding for their peers facing similar situations. In the book, Krosoczka uses art to cope and make sense of his life. I hope to encourage my students to explore creative outlets for emotions and struggles.

Musical Theater: Mozart, L'Opéra Rock

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 07:37:39 UTC

First of all I think it is an engaging and accessible form of learning. Mozart, L'Opéra Rock combines history, music, and drama. It is a new way for students to explore 18th century European culture. This musical humanizes a historical figure who is often seen as a "genius". I think students can learn that even the smartest people still face challenges, just like us. Through this musical, students can learn to navigate and challenge established norms in their own lives. Mozart's struggle for recognition can also resonate with students who are struggling with their own ambitions and relationships.

Musical Theater: Hamilton

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 07:42:50 UTC

Hamilton blends historical content with contemporary music. This presentation can capture students' attention and make historical learning meaningful. Students can learn the story of Alexander Hamilton and the founding of the United States through this musical. The musical shows the complexity of creating a country. The conflicting ideologies, compromises, and personal dynamics involved. Students can connect these lessons to modern political systems and debates. The musical's selective storytelling allows students to think critically about how history is written, remembered, and interpreted. Students can also examine the use of language, rhyme, and rhythm in this musical.

Graphic Novel: When Stars Are Scattered by Victoria Jamieson and Omar Mohamed

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 07:51:09 UTC

The memoir highlights the challenges Omar faces in his life as a refugee. He remains determined to pursue an education and a better future. Empathy and Community: This story shows the importance of empathy and support in the refugee community. Students learn how individuals come together during difficult times. Personal Perspectives on Global Issues: The memoir provides students with a personal perspective on the refugee experience. By learning about Omar's story, students can develop greater empathy for people around the world who face similar situations.

Book: The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 07:55:25 UTC

I think this book is a profound exploration of life, love, and humanity. This book encourages students to reflect on important questions. Like what is really important in life and how to cultivate meaningful relationships. The encounters between the little prince and various characters can teach students to understand others and value relationships. This book is full of praise for imagination. I think this is a skill that is often underutilized during adolescence. So through this book, I hope that as a teacher I can remind students to value their creativity. I hope to encourage my students to look at the world with eyes of wonder.

Book of Poetry: The Witch Doesn't Burn in This One by Amanda Lovelace

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 08:04:13 UTC

This poetry collection uses the metaphor of witches to explore themes of gender equality and female empowerment. I think this could be a tool for discussing feminism and identity with students. This book celebrates the process of regaining strength after experiencing trauma. This could inspire students to face challenges in their own lives head-on. This poetry collection is written in free verse. The style is direct and emotional. I think it would be a great read and comprehension for students who are intimidated by more traditional or abstract poetry.

(My favorite quote: I am the daughter of the witches that you never get to burn.)

Film: Soul directed by Pete Docter

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 08:11:23 UTC

The film talks about the relationship between purpose and career achievement and passion. I think this aspect can resonate with high school students as they begin to make important decisions about their future path. This film can encourage students to be bold in exploring their life goals. It emphasizes the importance of finding beauty in the imperfections in life.

Novel: Kristin Lavransdatter by Sigrid Undset.

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 08:14:12 UTC

The story is based on a specific religious or cultural environment. Through reading, students can better understand the meaning of religion, marriage, and social responsibility in different cultures. The characters in the novel experience very tangled choices when facing conflicts between faith and emotion. This provides students with a way to think about the struggles of human beings in moral and emotional dilemmas. Through the emotional experiences and choices of the characters, the work explores whether love is worth sacrificing. This is a good topic for classroom debate. Students can explore and how to realize personal values in a complex environment.

Book: If Cats Disappeared from the World by Genki Kawamura

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 08:29:42 UTC

The premise of this book is that a dying man negotiates with the devil: to erase elements from the world in exchange for more time. This book can be a great introduction to death education for students. The disappearance of each item prompts students to reflect on how seemingly mundane things affect people. This encourages students to consider the wider impact of their decisions. And to value what they have.

Book: Ready Player One by Ernest Cline

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 08:33:18 UTC

The protagonist uses the OASIS to escape a harsh reality. This can resonate with students in their own online lives. By reading this book, students can be encouraged to think about how to balance virtual and real-world experiences. Students can learn how to critically explore how technology shapes identity, relationships, and social structures.

Book: Disgust Against Women by Chizuko Ueno

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 08:42:03 UTC

The author analyzes misogyny in social culture, family relationships, and language. This can help students understand the deep roots of sexism and its impact on society. The book presents ideas that challenge traditional gender roles and prejudices. This can encourage students to reflect on gender norms and personal prejudices. I think this book can cultivate students' ability to analyze complex social phenomena. The discussion in the book can be a good topic for classroom debate.

Book: Kim Ji-young, Born 1982 by Cho Nam-Joo

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 08:46:23 UTC

The novel reflects the gender discrimination and pressure faced by women in society. Students can learn from it the widespread and hidden nature of gender inequality. The contradiction between traditional gender expectations and modern women's pursuit of self-worth described in this book is very detailed. I think this can well guide students to reflect on the restrictions on personal freedom imposed by gender roles expected by society. By reading this story, students can better understand the situation of women. This can well cultivate students' empathy and analyze the social roots behind these phenomena. I think these discussions can enhance students' critical thinking ability.

Book: Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 18:21:55 UTC

Fahrenheit 451 explores societies that suppress books and free speech. I think that through this book, students can be encouraged to reflect on the importance of freedom of thought. These are still relevant in today's world. The writing style of this book also provides students with the opportunity to analyze literary devices such as symbolism, imagery, and irony.

Film: Dead Poets Society directed by Peter Weir

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 18:30:51 UTC

The film challenges the rigid model of traditional education through teachers encouraging students to "Carpe Diem". I think this can guide students to think about the true meaning of education. In addition, the poems and literary works involved in the film are also very classic. Students can learn a lot of knowledge about language and art. The students in the film face the contradiction between traditional authority and personal freedom. This can trigger my students to think about the relationship between social expectations and self-expression.

Book: Life of Pi by Yann Martel

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 18:39:05 UTC

Life of Pi delves into the exploration of multiple religions and raises deep questions about the nature of reality. This can encourage students to think critically about religion and reality. The relationship between Pi and the tiger highlights the balance of power, respect, and survival in nature. This can also be a great argument for students.

Book: The Blue Beyond by Alex Shearer

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 18:45:28 UTC

The book tells a story about death from a child's perspective. Death education is essential for every student. This book explains death and farewell to students warmly and touchingly. The language is simple and easy to understand, but it explores profound philosophical issues. I think this can guide students to face the inevitable separation and regret in life. This book allows students to think about the meaning of life in a relaxed way.

Book: A Very Easy Death by Simone de Beauvoir

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 18:50:58 UTC

This book explores the reality and meaning of how people should face death by describing the struggle of people at the end of life. I think this kind of thinking has a profound impact on the formation of high school students' values. The novel also describes in detail the complex emotions between mother and daughter. This can remind students to cherish the emotions between family members and reflect on the deeper meaning of intimate relationships. By recording the mother's dying experience, the book raises questions about hospice care and personal dignity. This is a very suitable contemporary issue for students to explore.

Book: Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit by Jeanette Winterson

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 18:57:48 UTC

In the novel, the protagonist's family and religion have a profound impact on her growth. But at the same time, they also restrict her self-expression. In the novel, Jeanette's rebellion and persistence show the pursuit of independence and self-expression. This can inspire students to think about how to maintain their uniqueness in social norms. The novel also explores issues of sexual orientation, gender equality and social diversity. This can be a good perspective for students to think about and discuss contemporary social issues.

Book: Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë.

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 19:03:55 UTC

Jane grows from an orphan to a self-respecting, independent woman. She challenges 19th-century gender norms. It encourages students to critically examine traditional gender roles and feminism. The relationship between Jane and Mr. Rochester encompasses themes such as love, morality, and equality. I think this experience can teach students the importance of being true to themselves.

Play: Hamlet by William Shakespeare

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 19:11:34 UTC

Hamlet's inner struggle shows the complexity of various virtues in human nature. I think it can help students deeply understand moral dilemmas and emotional conflicts. The play also contains many classic monologues. Such as "To be or not to be, that is the question". Through these, students can not only learn Shakespeare's language art, metaphors, and drama structure, but also inspire students to think about the meaning of life. I think students can conduct literary analysis through this play. For example, explore the symbolic meaning of ghosts in the play and their influence on Hamlet.

Book: The Autobiography of Malcolm X by Malcolm X

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 19:25:17 UTC

This autobiography tells the story of Malcolm X’s struggle with systemic racism and his role as a leader in the civil rights movement. I think this can provide students with a first-person perspective on the struggle for racial justice and equality. Through the first-person perspective of identity transformation, students can understand the importance of self-education and resilience. By detailing the experience of activism, I think this autobiography can encourage students to critically examine systemic inequality and its history.

Film: 12 Years a Slave director by Steve McQueen

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 19:30:41 UTC

This film is based on Solomon Northup’s 1853 memoir. The film vividly depicts the horrors of slavery. This can give students a deeper understanding of the history they need to learn. These histories can encourage students to think about how these institutions are maintained and their lasting effects. The determination to regain freedom in the story shows the strength of human beings. Humans are strong even in the face of unimaginable adversity.

Book: The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 19:38:00 UTC

The story emphasizes how words can inspire, oppress, and heal. By reading this book, I think it allows students to understand the huge impact of language and storytelling. The narrative perspective of this book examines the Holocaust and its impact on ordinary people. Students can experience the emotional trauma caused by war. This provides a great perspective for cultivating students' empathy and a deeper understanding of historical tragedies.

Book: Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 19:43:37 UTC

This book’s exploration of grief, acceptance, and love fosters empathy, and I think through this book students can learn to express and manage their emotions constructively. The book also discusses fundamental life topics such as happiness, love, family, and death. This can help students think about what is really important in life.

Book: The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 19:49:32 UTC

The main character struggles with identity and growing up. I think these are emotions that many high school students can relate to. The book's disdain for society's "hypocrisy" can trigger students to think critically about authenticity, conformity, and social expectations. Therefore, this book is a powerful exploration of adolescence. The novel explores mental health challenges such as depression, sadness, and anxiety. Based on these, I can encourage students to discuss the importance of emotional health and seeking support.

Ted Talk: "Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance" by Angela Lee Duckworth

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 20:05:09 UTC

This TED Talk challenges the idea that talent determines success. It emphasizes that sustained effort or “grit” can be a more reliable predictor of achievement. This can empower students to believe in themselves and that they can grow through hard work. This TED Talk provides practical approaches for students by emphasizing passion and grit. I think the examples in the TED Talk can help students set long-term goals and overcome obstacles in their personal and academic journeys.

Book: Zoo by Otsuichi

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 20:14:51 UTC

Zoo is a collection of eleven short stories. Otsuichi's narratives provide perspective on the complex psychological state of people. I think reading these books can help students better understand different lives. The stories explore deep themes such as death, guilt, and human psychology. These stories can encourage students to engage in deep reflection and discussion.

Film: Marie Antoinette directed by Sofia Coppola

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 20:22:16 UTC

Why is it suitable for students to watch?

Interesting presentation of historical background:

The film presents the social outlook and court life before the French Revolution from a unique perspective. It provides students with a relaxed way to learn history. Mary's experience shows the status of women in the power system. She struggles between marriage, social expectations, and self-identity. I think this is particularly suitable as an entry point for gender studies. At the same time, the film is beautifully shot, which is very suitable for students to improve their aesthetics.

Immersive theater: Sleep No More Created by: Punchdrunk

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 20:49:32 UTC

This is a theater inspired by William Shakespeare’s Macbeth. It's a new way of theater where the audience can explore the senses. Sleep no more presents Macbeth in a unique and atmospheric way. This performance format breaks with traditional theatre norms. It makes Shakespeare's themes and characters more accessible and engaging. The story of this play deepens the understanding of themes such as ambition, guilt, and fate. Reimagining Macbeth in a modern context will allow students to re-envision Shakespeare's play from a new perspective. This non-linear format requires students to actively piece together the narrative. This can develop students' analytical and interpretive skills. This production format can also inspire students to think about how to adapt traditional texts in new and unconventional ways.

Book: The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 21:09:30 UTC

Reading this book helps students improve their literary appreciation. The characters in the novel live in a society full of wealth and luxury but lacking morality. Students can think about the relationship between love, desire, and life goals. The emotional entanglements of various characters show the social class contradictions in the United States in the 20th century. This provides students with a perspective to understand the different eras of history and society. The discussion of ideals, classes, and human nature still has profound practical significance in contemporary times. This book provides students with a perspective to connect with modern social issues.

Book: The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan 谭恩美

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 21:17:33 UTC

Through the stories of four groups of mothers and daughters, The Joy Luck Club shows the struggles of immigrant families between tradition and modernity, between the culture of their home country and that of foreign countries. This provides students with a perspective to understand multicultural identity. I think it can resonate strongly with students from multicultural backgrounds. Mothers hope that their daughters will inherit Chinese traditions, while daughters are eager to integrate into American culture. The conflicts and reconciliations between the two generations reveal the problems of universal family relationships. Students can reflect on their own family relationships from this.

Book: Letter from Birmingham Jail by Martin Luther King Jr.

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 21:29:15 UTC

Dr. King pointed out that "unjust laws are no laws." These can lead students to think about the relationship between morality, law and justice. These ideas are particularly important for cultivating critical thinking. This book emphasizes the importance and influence of non-violent protests. I think it can inspire students to think about the role of peaceful means in striving for social change. Dr. King encourages everyone to take action when faced with social injustice. I think this sense of responsibility and courage is inspiring for students' roles in contemporary society.

Book: Paradise Lost by John Milton

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 21:35:12 UTC

The blurred line between good and evil is explored in depth. This can encourage students to think about the complexity of human nature and morality. Milton reveals the power and consequences of free will through his description of Satan and human choices, providing students with questions to reflect on personal choices and responsibilities.

Book: The Odyssey by Homer

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 21:39:46 UTC

This book introduces students to epic stories. The themes of perseverance, loyalty, and identity contained in the text resonate across cultures and time periods. I think these can provide students with opportunities to reflect on their own values.

TikToker: Lena’s Little Ones @lenaslittle_ones

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 22:57:31 UTC

Lena shares interactive songs for preschoolers and more. These songs are perfect for young children. They can promote brain development and learn some concepts such as antonyms and prepositions.

Youtube Channel: Oh Gosh Kids @ohgoshkids

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 23:08:02 UTC

It provides play-based learning game or songs for children aged 0-4

Immersive theatre: Bridget Case at Salem Witch Trials

baiz6 — 2024-12-08 23:20:47 UTC

This will be an Immersive theatre experience. The witch-hunting court was recreated. As jurors, the audience can ask questions freely and participate in solving the case. Will a fair verdict be made today after countless years?

Documentary: 13th directed by Ava DuVernay

baiz6 — 2024-12-10 20:45:42 UTC

This provides historical and contemporary connections to systemic oppression and its consequences. Exploring how systemic racism impacts society.