Banned Book Bonanza

ABSTRACT:

From classic novels to modern books many authors cover topics such as
race, suicide, sex, and witchcraft�issues that disturb teachers,
administrators, parents, and concerned citizens alike.  We believe that
students should learn about the controversial affair of banned books
and should understand the multitude of perspectives that are involved
with the issue, including the roles of the parent, student, lawyer,
superintendent, and teacher.  Each viewpoint contributes to the issue
of banning books and allow students to understand the different
problems that can surface. 

We are teaching ninth grade
students and we feel that this topic could spark deeper thinking that
could continue into their high school career and beyond.  We are
dividing students into five groups of five individuals.  Each student
in the group will choose a banned book from a provided list and each
student in the group will take on the role of the parent, student,
lawyer, superintendent, and teacher.  In the literature circles, the
groups will read the book, discuss topics, and listen to each
perspective. 

In our WebQuest assignment, every student will
have a worksheet to fill out catered to their specified role.  They
will use the webquests and other links provided to answer questions. 
At the end of the WebQuest and with the completion of the worksheets,
each group will decide if the book should be banned or not and give
appropriate reasoning to support their conclusions. 

The
banned books issue directly applies to students' lives and impacts them
greatly.  Should adolescents be subjugated to read cushioned books that
fail to discuss real life topics?  Should authoritative figures shelter
students from the outside world?  In actuality, are the banned books
too controversial and too aggressive for teenage minds?  After this
activity, students will be able to understand different perspectives
and debate with their peers about disputable issues.  The WebQuest will
include different articles from diverse points of view.  In addition,
it will include various forms of media to help each student understand
the issue of banned books and the importance of the topic in schools.