Literature

Teaching literature is about much more than just reading stories. Literature class provides opportunities to shape communication and the understanding of traits like selfishness or courage.

Dennis uses many specific examples to illustrate the learning potential found in works of literature. He illustrates this in a hands-on way by focusing on Langston Hughes’ poem “Thank You, Ma’am.” He shows how a teacher can use a story evaluation sheet to guide analysis, discussing conflict, main character, themes, and character traits.

Literature allows the teacher to address themes such as racism, compassion, empathy, broadening worldviews, and many practical life lessons.

“Literature” was presented by Dennis Sensenig at Western Fellowship Teachers’ Institute in August of 2024 at Lighthouse Mennonite School in Halsey, Oregon.