Reimaging Society: From Gilead to Barbieland
13ENGR Course DescriptionThis course explores themes of societal structures, power dynamics, and resistance through the analysis of various literary and cinematic works. Students will engage with narratives that critique totalitarian and oppressive systems, examining how characters navigate and resist their prescribed roles within different societal frameworks.
The course will also investigate contemporary works that offer imaginative perspectives on social norms and individual identity. Through comparative studies, students will explore how these works challenge stereotypes and present alternative visions of society.
Students will:
Critically analyse and compare different representations of society and power.
Understand and articulate the themes and narrative strategies of various genres.
Apply literary and cinematic analysis techniques to a range of works.
Engage in thoughtful discussion and debate about the societal implications of the narratives.
Course Overview
Term 1
This term, we’ll dive into the world of film, examining how it portrays society and the roles within it. We’ll explore the film’s depiction of societal norms, power dynamics, and the challenges faced by characters as they navigate these structures. Who holds the power to create change, and how is that power exercised? Through analysis of the film’s narrative and themes, we’ll discuss the role of hope as a catalyst for transformation and how it inspires characters to reimagine their world. Prepare to see film as more than just a fantasy—it’s a reflection on the potential for real change in our own society.
Standard covered:
AS91480: Respond critically to significant aspects of visual and/or oral text(s) through close reading, supported by evidence
Credits: 3
AS91475: Produce a selection of fluent and coherent writing which develops,
sustains, and structures ideas
Credits: 6
AS91473: Respond critically to specified aspect(s) of studied visual or oral text(s), supported by evidence
Credits: 4
Term 2
This term, we’ll immerse ourselves in the dystopian world of The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood. We’ll closely examine the character of Offred, analyzing her motivations and actions within the oppressive regime of Gilead. Is Offred a feminist icon resisting her prescribed role, or does she embody the very issues she faces? Through deep textual analysis and discussion, we’ll uncover the complexities of her character and the broader societal implications of her story.
Standard covered:
AS91475: Produce a selection of fluent and coherent writing which develops,
sustains, and structures ideas
Credits: 6
AS91479: Develop an informed understanding of literature and/or language using critical texts
Credits: 4
AS91472: Respond critically to specified aspect(s) of studied written text(s), supported by evidence
Credits: 4
Term 3
In Term Three, you’ll take the lead by selecting a film or novel to investigate how research can alter our perceptions of society. We’ll focus on developing your research and writing skills, ensuring you can substantiate your opinions with well-supported evidence. This term offers the opportunity to explore contemporary works that challenge stereotypes, question social norms, and present alternative visions of society through a comparative study.
Standard covered:
AS91479: Develop an informed understanding of literature and/or language using critical texts
Credits: 4
AS91475: Produce a selection of fluent and coherent writing which develops,
sustains, and structures ideas
Credits: 6
OPTIONAL
AS91476: Create and deliver a fluent and coherent oral text which develops, sustains, and structures ideas
Term 4
Exam Preparation
AS91473: Respond critically to specified aspect(s) of studied visual or oral text(s), supported by evidence
Credits: 4
OR
AS91472: Respond critically to specified aspect(s) of studied written text(s), supported by evidence
Credits: 4
OPTIONAL
AS91476: Create and deliver a fluent and coherent oral text which develops, sustains, and structures ideas
Assessment Information
As a class, students will select which TWO of 91472, 91473 and 91474 they will complete
Author, Secondary School Teacher, Interpreter, Early Childhood Teacher, Teacher of English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), Primary School Teacher, Kaiwhakaako Māori, Translator, Tertiary Lecturer, Private Teacher/Tutor, Youth Worker, Teacher Aide, Animator/Digital Artist, Actor, Advertising Specialist, Copywriter, Art Director (Film, Television or Stage), Artistic Director, Film and Video Editor, Film/Television Camera Operator, Journalist, Graphic Designer, Director (Film, Television, Radio or Stage), Radio Presenter, Media Producer, Production Assistant (Film, Television, Radio or Stage)
Contributions and Equipment/StationeryStationery costs only + travel cost for a non compulsory field trip to Waikato University.