how to read literature like a professor for kids

Daniel Parker

3 min read

·

16-01-2025

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Introduction:

Ever wished you could understand books like a real literature professor? It's easier than you think! This guide will show you how to dig deeper into stories and poems, finding hidden meanings and enjoying them even more. We'll unlock the secrets of reading literature like a professor, even if you're still learning to ride a bike!

Chapter 1: The Power of Observation

Professors don't just read; they observe. They pay attention to everything:

• Characters: Who are they? What are their motivations? Are they good, bad, or somewhere in between? What are their flaws? How do they change?
• Setting: Where and when does the story take place? How does the setting affect the characters and the plot? A spooky forest will feel very different from a sunny beach!
• Plot: What happens? Are there any surprises or twists? What is the main conflict (the problem)? How does it get resolved (or not)?

Example: In "The Three Little Pigs," observe how the wolf's failures (and the pigs' cleverness) build the story.

Activity:

Choose your favorite children's book. Write down three observations about the characters, setting, and plot. Share your discoveries with a friend!

Chapter 2: Uncovering Hidden Meanings

Literature is like a delicious cake—there are layers of meaning! Professors look for:

• Symbols: Objects or images that stand for something bigger. A shining sword might symbolize courage, while a dark forest might represent fear.
• Themes: The big ideas the author explores, such as friendship, bravery, or loss. Many stories have more than one theme!
• Motifs: Recurring ideas, images, or symbols that appear throughout the story. Think of repeated phrases or descriptions.

Example: In "Cinderella," the glass slipper could symbolize the hope for a better life. The theme of kindness is explored. The motif of "transformation" appears throughout the story.

Activity:

Think about a book you've read recently. What symbols, themes, or motifs can you identify? Draw pictures to represent them!

Chapter 3: Analyzing the Author's Craft

Authors are like master chefs—they use specific techniques to create their stories:

• Point of View: Who's telling the story? Is it from one character's perspective (first person), an outside observer (third person), or an all-knowing narrator (omniscient)?
• Figurative Language: Authors use metaphors, similes, and other literary devices to make their writing vivid and engaging. ("He was as strong as an ox," is a simile.)
• Tone: The author's attitude towards the subject. Is the story funny, serious, sad, or exciting?

Example: In "Charlotte's Web," the story is told from multiple points of view, giving readers a broader understanding of the characters and their relationships. The tone shifts from lighthearted to poignant throughout the narrative.

Activity:

Read a short story and identify the point of view, one example of figurative language, and the overall tone. Discuss this with an adult.

Chapter 4: Connecting to the Real World

Professors look at how stories connect to the world around us:

• Social Commentary: How does the story reflect the author's time period or society's problems? Many stories talk about issues like fairness, justice, and equality.
• Universal Themes: Stories often explore themes that are relevant to people of all ages and cultures. Love, loss, and friendship are examples.
• Personal Connections: How does the story make you feel? What connections can you make to your own life or experiences?

Example: "The Giving Tree" explores the theme of selfless love, a universal theme that resonates with readers regardless of their background. The story could also be viewed as a commentary on environmentalism.

Activity:

Think about how a book you've read relates to the real world. Discuss your thoughts with a family member.

Conclusion:

Reading literature like a professor is all about being curious, observant, and thoughtful. It's about unlocking the hidden worlds within books and experiencing stories on a deeper level. So grab a book, put on your "professor hat," and enjoy the adventure! Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and explore the wonderful world of literature!