When one thinks of the teaching of literature in secondary schools, authors such as Shakespeare, Hawthorne and Melville often come to mind. However, there are a number of different genres of literature including Modern American, African American, Asian and European. Teachers could also delve into one of the more specific genres of literature, such as science fiction, romance or horror. The word literature no longer applies only to dusty canonical tomes, but includes any type of creative writing with artistic value. Even graphic novels have a place in the study of literature, if one knows what to look for and how to discuss the topics at hand. Recent college courses specialize in the study of child literature, Harry Potter and feminine theory. The opportunities are simply endless.

It is important for educators and administrators to touch on several different types of literature in secondary schools. This will provide a much larger field of knowledge for their students and also offer a greater opportunity for children to develop a love of reading for pleasure. A discussion of a certain ethic type of literature can also lead to instruction on the history and sociology of the culture involved. Teachers can also encourage students to develop poetry or short stories in the same vein as the work currently being discussed.

Literature also pertains to more than just novels. Plays, poetry, sonnets and essays can also be a type of literature, and an examination of the similarities and differences between the various types can lead to a lively classroom discussion for students. Broadening the definition of literature and studying many different types and genres will definitely help to engage all those involved. Of primary importance is not the age of the written word, but the artistry behind it. Successful teachers will understand, and be able to show, the difference.

There is little question that even in today’s technologically advanced environment, illiteracy still plagues American society. The US still has a secondary school drop-out rate that rivals that of any European nation. African Americans are twice as likely to drop out as whites, and American Hispanics are more than three times as likely. Even among those who do finish high school, there are many who cannot read above a bare minimum level. Illiteracy in the United States remains a dire problem, despite the best efforts of educators.

In order to see some real improvement in American literacy rates, teachers and parents must work together to instill a love of reading in children. The earlier kids are exposed to the written the word, the better chance they have of developing the skills the need to succeed at reading and expanding their vocabulary. Studies have shown that children who are read to as babies and toddlers read substantially earlier and better than their peers.

Some recent advances in the cause for literacy involve the cooperation of school and college sports and extracurricular activity programs. The era of star basketball players receiving unearned passing grades is long gone, and there is no question that our children have benefited from that change. Students who understand that they must maintain an adequate grade average in order to participate in these programs spend more time reading and studying than their peers. However, there is still much to be done. There are still a large number of children in our public school system who are failing, whether from lack of support, lack of desire to succeed, or external factors. Focusing our efforts on these children is the key to attaining real progress in the realm of American literacy within our generation. To say that the children are our future is not enough; we must also act in accordance.