This semester shifts its focus from the question "What is an American?" to "What is the American Dream?" and "Is the Dream realistic or attainable?" In addition to examining economic, political and social aspects of American society, the student will analyze literature to determine how it portrays citizens as well as its effects on society and the individual,  beginning with the onset of the twentieth century. Selections include poetry, prose, non-fiction, music and art. Major works include THE GREAT GATSBY and DEATH OF A SALESMAN. Selections from modern literature will also be discussed.

Other aspects of the class include the study of propaganda techniques and their application in original commercials incorporated within student-written, radio plays. The student will examine music and art to determine a correlation with the changing, "American Dream." In addition to vocabulary and short, writing assignments, the major project is a persuasive, research paper relating to a factor of American life, literature, or propaganda. Further information will be supplied during class.

Please make sure you download the list for your particular class. Each period will have a different set of words to study.