Consultant Workshop Topics:  Literature

Below is a listing of workshop topics related to literature and literature and math and the consultants who can present them. Click on the consultant name to learn more about their consulting experiences, publications, and professional experiences.

Additional NCTE consultants presenting on literature include Beverly Ann Chin, Kathy Egawa, Barbara Flores, Shari Frost, Thomas McCann, Katherine McKnight, Ernest Morrell, Bob Probst, Sarah Robbins, Sarah Robbins, Susanne Rubenstein, Isoke Titilayo Nia, Susan Stires, Katie Van Sluys, David & Phyllis Whitin.

Literature

Teaching Literature / “New Writers, New Readers—Voices of a New Generation”
Consultant:  Susanne Rubenstein
Audience: 9–12 Teachers
This workshop offers high school teachers a rationale for integrating contemporary literature (1970’s to the present) into the curriculum, along with the materials and classroom activities to make this addition successful. This literature includes minimalist fiction (with a special emphasis on Raymond Carver), “Brat Pack” fiction, the writing of the Vietnam War, diverse voices, New Journalism, and work by the newest writers of the 21st century, and the workshop can be tailored to include any or all of the above. As a supplement to the more traditional curriculum, this “new literature” has the potential to turn reluctant readers into eager readers because it addresses the concerns and issues of adolescents today in language that speaks to them.  

Literature Studies (Grades 4-12)
Consultant:  Peggy Albers
Many teachers wonder how to conduct strong literature discussions. In this presentation, teachers study several texts, linked by theme or author, and participate in a literature discussion. Following, teachers learn the importance of text sets to engage students in literature studies, and also learn how to design and ask questions that encourage students to think deeply and actively about literature.

Linking Literature and Mathematics in Meaningful Ways
This session by David and Phyllis Whitin focuses on how children’s literature can be a powerful vehicle for children to discuss and explore important mathematical ideas.  David and Phyllis will outline a rationale for integrating literature and mathematics and criteria for selecting math-related books.  They will acquaint participants with some of the best books currently available, and share examples of how teachers have used these books in interesting ways with their students.  View the workshop agendas from a recent event in Lancaster, South Carolina.