I have begun to understand the myriad ways young adult fiction can be used to develop students’ knowledge of their world and associated curriculum concepts. Initially I saw reading as a literacy development activity and didn’t think about the broader implications. The following list includes some of the lessons and ideas incorporated into children’s literature.

From readings and course material:

• Critical thinking skills and cultural understanding (Pear Tree Education, 2012)
• Hagar (2013):
– Drama
– Biographical information
– Understanding of Shakespeare
– Understanding and using historical sources
– Politics
– War, including the Holocaust
– Mathematics and Science
– Themes and issues

My own thoughts:
• Artistic expression and appreciation
• Emotional and empathetic development
• Personal understanding/identity
• Coping mechanisms in response to change and tragedy
• Knowledge of historical events
• Exploration of social issues
• Social skills
• Connecting with others through universal experiences

References

Hagar, R. (2013, April 14). Using picture books in the middle school [Slide presentation]. Retrieved from http://www.slideshare.net/abseconmedia/using-picture-books-in-the-middle-school

Pear Tree Education. (2012, May 12). Critical literacy: Using picture books to read the world [Video file]. Retrieved from https://youtu.be/Ireo-cdQO48