World Literature (9-12)
Class Overview
This high school World Literature class is designed to immerse students in some of the greatest literary works from across cultures and eras, building critical thinking, communication skills, and a deeper appreciation for storytelling.
Students will explore selections from ancient civilizations (such as Egyptian, Jewish, Greek, and Roman), through Church history, and into the modern age, examining how literature reflects human experience, cultural influences, and God's truth in creation.
Learning extends beyond rote reading. Students will engage with whole-book or whole-work selections from major genres—including prose, poetry, and drama—through thoughtful discussion, analysis, essays, and activities that encourage discernment, creativity, and connection to historical and biblical contexts. Assessments include daily concept builders, weekly tests, and writing assignments to develop strong academic skills for college and beyond, presented in a supportive and engaging way.
The goal of this class is more than just exposure to literary texts across the ages, but to push students understanding of literature to beyond the obvious into the richness of symbolism and commentary of life and human existence.
Coursework + Coursework at Home (Homework):
At Ethos Academy, we use a hybrid model, combining in-class instruction with essential weekly at-home work for mastery.
Expect an average of 30-60 minutes per day of homework, varying by reading load and assignments (some weeks lighter, others more intensive with longer readings or essays).
Student readings and work pages will be assigned from the Text Student Workbook through the Ethos LMS
Understanding the Curriculum
The Master Books World Literature curriculum (by James Stobaugh) is a full-year, 2-credit high school course structured around 34 chapters (approximately one per week). It provides narrative background on authors, historical settings, and worldviews, with a focus on rhetoric-level analysis—content-driven and assuming higher-level thinking skills.
The approach emphasizes whole texts or substantial excerpts, helping students build literary knowledge while applying a biblical lens to evaluate ideas. Some works may feel challenging at first, but this is part of deep learning—students are encouraged to persevere, ask questions, and focus on big ideas rather than every detail immediately. Concepts will often connect to broader themes revisited throughout the course.
By all accounts there is a lot of reading for this curriculum. I encourage audiobooks for the longer texts if it allows the student to get through the material in time for class.
This course is not charter reimbursable.
Classroom Supplies
Please bring the following to class:
Composition book (for notes, reflections, and in-class activities)
Loose-leaf notebook paper in a 3-ring binder
Mechanical pencils with extra lead
Pens (blue or black ink)
Highlighters or colored pencils for annotations
Post-it notes
Access to the assigned readings (some may require separate books not in the core set)
Required Curriculum
· Master Books World Literature Student Book. Runs about $45 (If you feel you need guidance during the week, you are welcome to buy the World Literature Bundle to include the teachers guide.)
· Literature: A Student’s Guide by Louis Markos. Runs about $15 on Amazon.
· Optional: Audiobook versions for longer works if helpful for accessibility
Payment Information
This one-hour course tuition is $240 per semester, plus a $15 materials fee. The material fee is to cover printing of supplementals and research.
· The materials fee is collected during registration.
· The materials fee is non-refundable and non-transferable.
⚠️ Charter Funding Notice: This class includes religious content and is not eligible for charter funding/reimbursement.
Parent Partnership, Student Expectations & Classroom Culture
High school is a key time for developing independence, responsibility, and thoughtful engagement. This class supports that growth while valuing strong parent involvement.
Parent Partnership
Parents are crucial in encouraging reading habits, providing structure for assignments, and discussing literature at home. Your support helps students thrive. Feel free to contact me anytime with questions or concerns.
Student Responsibility
Students are expected to:
Track assignments in class and via Ethos LMS
Complete readings and homework thoughtfully and on time
Participate actively and respectfully in discussions
Approach challenging texts with curiosity and perseverance
Clear expectations are always provided through class instruction, notes, and updates—no guesswork needed. Building these habits fosters lifelong learning skills.
Classroom Culture & Expectations
I aim for an encouraging, intellectually stimulating environment where students feel safe to share ideas. Respect, focus during instruction, and positive interaction are essential. Discussions are valued, but side conversations should not disrupt learning. Together, we'll create a space for meaningful exploration, growth, and enjoyment of great literature.
Contact Information
I'm thrilled to partner with you and your student this year! Reach out via text, call, or email anytime. It's an honor to guide your family in discovering the richness of world literature through a lens of faith. I pray this course sparks curiosity, sharpens minds, and deepens appreciation for God’s gift of stories and human creativity.
Mrs. Charissa McCune
208-286-8173