Kaitlyn G. MLS Blog

What did I already know about the topics? K:  While I do not have a great working definition for realistic fiction, in simplicity I think it relates to reality and things that actually occur in our world. I do not think it is limited to a time span, and I also understand that it is not non-fiction even though it deals with real-world happening.  What did I learn after I completed each assignment? W:  The first thing I was able to learn when exploring this topic, is that the time period realistic fiction relates to is contemporary or modern, and the elements in this genre of literature should all be consistent with that. In addition to being consistent with this, it should also be believable to our readers! This is very important for children, who are often not afraid to point out inconsistencies or things they do not think would really happen.  Other important aspects include a slowly emerging theme and subject matter that is applicable to re...

What did I already know about the topics?  K: Poetry tends to be in verse, may rhyme, often has a lot of imagery, and emotion. Other common devices that make it recognizable may be repetition and use of stanzas for organization. From analyzing poetry in school, I remember having to keep in mind the mnemonic device "TPCASTT" to remind me to think through the title, to paraphrase the poem, consider connotation, attitude, any shifts, go back to the title, and reflect on theme (in short, a systematic check list that could jerk the joy out of some of the best poems).  What did I learn after I completed each assignment?  W: Similar to the criteria considered when looking to evaluate picture books, keeping in mind the audience is again important with poetry for children. One of the articles mentioned an aspect of this, "Does it see childhood in a sentimental or nostalgic way, more likely to appeal to adults than to children," which may be difficult to analyze ...

What did I already know about the topics? K:  When I consider traditional children’s literature from the past, stories like Beowulf, Grimm’s Fairy Tales, and Tikki Tikki Tembo appear in my head. I think of stories that have deep roots in the past and often influence current literature as well. From another perspective, traditional children’s literature may also be the themes of Disney classics, where learning lessons and dynamic characters having meaning and worlds where good prevails over evil. I think back to stories my generation all knew as children, but those comes from such a small area of time that misses much of the prior history. What did I learn after I completed each assignment? W:  This material helped me classify tails from my memory into categories of myths, legends, folk tales, and fables.   Myths brought to mind some of the oldest stories I know including the Illiad and Odyssy and Native American literature like The Turtle and the Flood. More re...

What did I already know about the topics? K: Picture books are visually descriptive with limited or no words. The pictures play a big role in telling the story and adding to a reader’s understand. Picture books are typically targeted to younger children and appeal to visual senses. What did I learn after I completed each assignment? W: When discussing how to evaluate more of the physical aspects of picture books, I had much to learn.  The importance of picture books to children, especially those who are English language learners, is something I had not considered. Of course the books are captivating to see, but when the written language is not available to a person yet, the visual is even more valuable! Another aspect I had not considered was condescension towards child readers in the tone of the book. While the language may be simplified at times, I agree with the statement that children are much more perceptive than we often give them credit for. Other things m...

What did I already know about the topics? K:  The first thing I think of when I hear historical fiction are books like All Quiet on the Western Front and Gone with the Wind . I think of true elements of history dramatized with creative embellishment added in. I think of times I told myself I was reading for education and the factual elements, when really the author drew me in with his/her fictional enticements.  Historical fiction can be enjoyed by all ages of readers, and I think it can be a great way to draw in reluctant readers as well.  What did I learn after I completed each assignment? W:  Classifying literature as "historical" can change based on one's perspective. When I looked back at the examples that came to mind, I definitely went straight to books that depicted events before my life, but considering the different ages and experiences of readers, I will need to keep in mind, that one isolating historical fiction into a single time period w...