“Let us consider the way in which we live our lives.”—Thoreau

“Robert Bly says that to be wild is not to be crazy like a criminal or psychotic, but “mad as the mist and snow.” It has nothing to do with being childish or primitive, nor does it manifest as manic rebellion or self-damaging alienation. The real marks of wildness, he asserts are a love of nature, a delight in silence, a voice free to say spontaneous things, and an exuberant curiosity in the face of the unknown.”

Guiding Question(s): What matters? And how do we know it matters?
What do our actions and choices say about who we are and what we believe in?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of conforming to society’s expectations?

Semester Standards:
1. Critical Thinking and Analysis: Students can identify and analyze key concepts in literary works, and relate them themes in society and their lives.
2. Communication: Students can give formal and informal talks to various audiences and for various purposes using appropriate level of formality. Students participate in class discussions according to group norms.
3. Composition: Students can write creative essays with explicit themes and details that contribute to a definite mood or tone.
4. Students can use evidence and quotations from texts to support a unifying argument or thesis.