Reviving the Mockingbird: A Pedagogical Analysis on Adapting To Kill a Mockingbird
Major
English – Literature
Second Major
Educational Studies
Submission Type
Oral Presentation
Area of Study or Work
English-Literature
Faculty Advisor
Michael Theune
Location
CNS E103
Start Date
4-13-2024 8:30 AM
End Date
4-13-2024 9:30 AM
Abstract
This paper inquires into the use of classic literature in the classroom, specifically in middle and high school. The purpose of this research is to understand why classic literature is still taught, the benefits and disadvantages of teaching this type of literature, how classic literature holds up in the twenty-first century, and different ways to diversify and expand the teaching of classic literature. This paper focuses specifically on Harper Lee’s 1960 novel To Kill a Mockingbird (TKAM) and Fred Fordham’s 2018 adaption of the original text as a graphic novel, using both as a case study to explore the relevancy of classic literature in the classroom. In it, I explore the differences and similarities in these two versions, and the possible advantages or disadvantages of replacing the original book with the graphic novel version. This paper will add to the conversation about teaching TKAM in a different way and discovering other modifications of classics that are being used. I will include close readings of both versions of TKAM, synthesized research from scholarly journals, articles that include student and teacher testimonials, discourse that relates to teaching classic literature and the benefits of adapting that literature in the classroom, all with a focus on TKAM. Common problems in teaching classic literature include the lack of diversity and problematic representation, which lead many to question why these stories should even be taught. If they are to be taught, mihgt the manner in which young children are exposed to such stories change with the times? With this research I hope to discover whether adapting how TKAM is taught may lead to better understanding and overall engagement from students. The answer to this question could potentially impact future teaching of classic literature in the classroom.
Reviving the Mockingbird: A Pedagogical Analysis on Adapting To Kill a Mockingbird
CNS E103
This paper inquires into the use of classic literature in the classroom, specifically in middle and high school. The purpose of this research is to understand why classic literature is still taught, the benefits and disadvantages of teaching this type of literature, how classic literature holds up in the twenty-first century, and different ways to diversify and expand the teaching of classic literature. This paper focuses specifically on Harper Lee’s 1960 novel To Kill a Mockingbird (TKAM) and Fred Fordham’s 2018 adaption of the original text as a graphic novel, using both as a case study to explore the relevancy of classic literature in the classroom. In it, I explore the differences and similarities in these two versions, and the possible advantages or disadvantages of replacing the original book with the graphic novel version. This paper will add to the conversation about teaching TKAM in a different way and discovering other modifications of classics that are being used. I will include close readings of both versions of TKAM, synthesized research from scholarly journals, articles that include student and teacher testimonials, discourse that relates to teaching classic literature and the benefits of adapting that literature in the classroom, all with a focus on TKAM. Common problems in teaching classic literature include the lack of diversity and problematic representation, which lead many to question why these stories should even be taught. If they are to be taught, mihgt the manner in which young children are exposed to such stories change with the times? With this research I hope to discover whether adapting how TKAM is taught may lead to better understanding and overall engagement from students. The answer to this question could potentially impact future teaching of classic literature in the classroom.