English courses, literary works, and learning experiences are integral parts of a student’s academic journey. For many, the 9th grade was supposed to be an exciting time to deepen their love for English and explore the rich world of British literature. However, for a significant number of students, this year has brought more disappointment than fulfillment.
The Problematic Course Design
The first issue lies in the course design. The grading system is often overly strict. Teachers seem to focus more on finding mistakes rather than encouraging creativity and progress. For example, a minor grammar error might cost a student a significant number of points on an essay. This not only demotivates students but also makes them fear making mistakes, which is a natural part of the learning process. According to this article on TeachThought, overly strict grading can have a negative impact on students’ enthusiasm for learning.
Mechanical Writing Tasks
Another aspect that dampens the learning experience is the mechanical writing tasks. Students are often required to write in a very formulaic way, following strict structures and templates. This leaves little room for self-expression and creativity. Instead of inspiring students to explore different writing styles and express their unique ideas, these tasks turn writing into a chore. For instance, when writing book reviews, students are expected to follow a set pattern, from the introduction to the conclusion. As stated in this NEA article, creativity in the classroom is crucial for engaging students.
In addition, the choice of textbooks can be rather inappropriate. Some of the literary works selected might be too complex for 9th graders, or they may not resonate with the students’ interests. This makes it difficult for students to connect with the material and understand the deeper meanings. A classic example could be choosing a highly philosophical piece of literature that is better suited for more advanced students.
Readability guidance: As we can see, the current 9th grade English and British literature courses have several flaws. These issues need to be addressed to improve students’ learning experiences. We should aim for a curriculum that balances challenge and fun, encourages creativity, and selects materials that are both educational and engaging.
