Historical Fiction

Historical Fiction:

        

            Historical fiction is the sister of contemporary fiction and the major difference between the two is the time setting. Both genres have the same location but the time frame that it occurred in is different. Historical fiction is considered before The Civil Rights Act in 1964. Some major eras described in historical fiction are; ancient settings, medieval times, colonial years, revolutionary era, the early frontier days, civil war, post-civil war frontier, world war I, great depression, world war II, post-world war II and civil rights movement. By encouraging the children to explore historical fiction we can improve knowledge and attitudes towards the subject.

            It is my goal to provide historical stories that:

·      Have believable characters.

·      Authentic illustrations, language and settings.

·      Avoiding any contradictions with real history.  

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Realistic Fiction

Realistic Fiction:

         This branch off of fiction focuses on in the time era after the United States Civil Rights Act of 1964. Contemporary realistic fiction has settings that occur in location of the world (usually by a city) and the characters are those of realistic people. The plots within this genre are usually a reflection of real life situations. These stories can either be humorous or serious. A few themes to realistic fiction include, families, friendship, humor, adventure, social realities, personal issues, and animals.  Books that fulfill these characteristics can play a crucial role in developing children’s emotions.

            It is my goal to ensure:

·      The topic is suitable for the correct age.

·      The author avoids stereotyping.

·      the theme and plot is credible.

·      The theme is uncovered throughout the story naturally.

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Fantasy

Fantasy:

         Fantasy is usually referred as the addition on to Traditional literature. Since both genres are so closely linked together the two main terms for describing them are traditional fantasy and modern fantasy. Children often refer to the enchantment and ability to make unrealistic worlds come alive as Magic. The ten types of fantasy are; animal fantasy, literary fairy tale, animated object fantasy, human with fantasy character, extraordinary person, enchanted journey, high fantasy, supernatural fantasy, science fiction and unlikely situation. Each sub-category has its own characteristics but they all incorporate the foundation of fantasy. In order to ‘tap-into’ this magic readers must be able to suspend disbelief and uncover the possibilities within a book.

            I strive to achieve and ask of each book:

·      Is the plot original?

·      Is the main character truly heroic?

·      Is the quest purposeful?

·      Are the fantasy elements of the story well developed?

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Traditional Literature

Traditional Literature:

        

            Stories have been told by people for many centuries, it is the oldest form of remembering. Story telling started off as an oral tradition and as language developed these verbal stories have turned into the same books we cherish today. The themes within this genre typically consist of triumph of good over evil, trickery, hero’s quest, reversal of fortune and small characters overcoming large characters (underdog winning). These stories also typically have  Once Upon A Time and Happily Ever After introductions and conclusions. Some sub-genres within traditional literature include, myths, fables, ballads and folk songs, legends, tall tales, fairy tales, and traditional rhymes (nursery rhymes). This genre encapsulates more than just cliché stories but also significant insight to past cultures.

            It is my goal to provide stories that:

·      Give students a better understanding of the nonscientific traditions of early cultures.

·      Include illustrations that complement and extend the narrative while maintaining the heritage of the tale.

·      Ensure the language retains the flavor of the older form and un-simplified. 

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Multicultural

Multicultural:

            By definition multicultural genre is a cross-cultural form of literature that includes books by and about peoples of all cultures. There are culturally neutral books (that have some characteristics of cultures but remain neutral) and culturally specific books (that incorporated details which vividly define characters as members of a particular cultural group). It is important as a classroom community to incorporate the melting pot theory, one that the foundation of our country rests on in the daily usage of our classroom. It is my goal as a teacher to infuse all cultures.

            It is my goal to ensure:

·      The books I choose help children value their own heritage and also the understanding of people with other backgrounds.

·      Authenticity to the background and social environment in which the story takes place.

·      That the quality of the literature is supported by a worthy theme.

 

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Alphabet Books and Poetry

 Alphabet Books:

         This concept book represents letters of the alphabet, which can also be known as ABC books. There is a variety of literature that surrounds this genre and encapsulates a wide range of reading levels. There are potpourri alphabet books (a version with no uniformity), sequential alphabet books (these have a story being told), and themed alphabet books (are about one specific topic e.g. fruit). The repetition and unpredictability of alphabet books make this genre very enjoyable.

Poetry:

        

            Poetry by definition is verse in which word images are selected and expressed to create strong, often beautiful impressions. These images and mindsets often allow individuals to view the world from a new perspective. Marvelously, poetry is able to express all of this in very few words. When looking into your favorite poetical quotes, you do not them only once, however, you read them over and over again. Children fulfill this same process with books like Dr. Seuss and Mother Goose rhymes. Many types of poetry have rhythm and rhyme, but not all need to.  There is free verse, narrative, concrete, lyric, limerick and haiku. Each type of poetry is different and unique in its own way, just like children are. One thing to remember when discussing poetry is that, different children have different tastes and allowing an exploration of a variety of poems can encourage positive poetry in our loved ones.

 

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Non-Ficiton/ Bibilography/ Graphic Novel/ Poetry

Non-Fiction:

            Nonfiction can be considered a genre to a multitude of different structures such as, how-to-do it manuals, direct texts, informational, and picture books. Non-fiction also encompasses many topics such as endangered animals, how to make paper airplanes, and even shapes and architect. This informational way have in-depth ideas expressed is the main purpose of the non-fiction genre.

Biography:

         This informational way to learn about individuals of society is always written from the person’s perspective. It is derived from the Greek word ‘Bio’ which means live and ‘graphy’ which is to write. When looking for a good biography, ask yourself;

·      Is the information being conveyed, accurate and authentic to the subject?

·      Is their evidence of careful research and accurate bibliography’s?

·      Is the author qualified to write about this subject?

Graphic Novels:

         Most easily visualized by viewing them in a comic book format. The story is conveyed through a mix of text and illustrations. These books are usually bound in more sustainable materials than a magazine or newspaper comic. One of the most well known graphic novel is The Boxcar Children.  There are a multitude of graphic novels for children and as a supportive care provider it is a crucial element for children when discovering literature.  

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