Barron's Literature Made Easy

Description

These guides help high school students fully comprehend the classics. They do not include the actual books, rather they are meant to be used alongside of or after the book to enhance understanding of the plot, characters, and language. Each guide follows the same basic format. The first several pages provide suggestions for studying and using the guide. Then an informational background for the book is given, followed by a summary of the story. After this, a "Who's who?" section provides detailed paragraphs describing the key characters, while a similar "Themes" section explores the main themes of the book. The largest part of the book is the Commentary. The Commentary divides the chapters into sections, beginning with a short preview and then discussing the important events in the chapter. Special icons call attention to notable details. The Commentary is designed to be read after the corresponding chapter in the book, and it also includes brief questions for the student to pause and think about. The last several pages provide additional aid especially for students who have to write about the literary work. Subjects covered here include topics for discussion and brainstorming, how to get an "A" in English Literature, the exam essay, and model answers. A glossary and index complete the guide. These guides help unlock the language and complexities of classic literature. Digest size, 80+ pgs. - Melissa

Teaching Method
Traditional
Teacher-centered curriculum commonly used in classrooms that may include a text, teacher manual, tests, etc.
Charlotte Mason
A methodology based on the work of a 19th century educator who maintained that children learn best from literature (Living Books), not textbooks.
Classical
A methodology based on the Latin Trivium (three stages of learning), including the grammar stage (memorization and facts), logic stage (critical thinking), and rhetoric stage (developing/defending ideas).
Unit Study
A thematic or topical approach centered around one topic that integrates multiple subject areas.
Montessori (Discovery)
A methodology based on the work of a 20th century educator that emphasizes student and sensory-driven discovery learning and real-life applications.
Other
Other methodologies
Religious Content
Secular
Contains content contrary to common Christian beliefs (i.e. evolution).
Neutral
Avoids religious or theoretical topics or presents multiple viewpoints without preference.
Christian/Religious
Faith-based or including instructional religious content.
Learning Modality
Auditory
Learns through listening, talking out loud or reading out loud.
Visual
Learns through seeing, prefers written instructions and visual materials.
Kinesthetic/Tactile (Hands-On)
Learns through moving, doing and touching.
Multi-Sensory
Curriculum that employ a variety of activities/components.
Presentation
Sequential
Curriculum progresses through well-defined learning objectives. Emphasizes mastery before moving to the next topic.
Spiral
Topics and concepts are repeated from level to level, adding more depth at each pass and connecting with review.
Conceptual/Topical
Focus is on the “why,” often with a unifying concept as well as specific skills; coverage may be broader.
Teacher Involvement
Low Teacher Involvement
Student-led materials; parent acts as a facilitator.
Medium Teacher Involvement
A mix of teacher-led time and independent student work.
High Teacher Involvement
Teacher-led lessons; may utilize discussions, hands-on activities and working together.
Additional Materials Required
No other materials needed
Everything you need is included.
Other Materials Required
There are additional required resources that are a separate purchase.
Other Materials Optional
There are additional resources mentioned or recommended but are not absolutely necessary.
Consumable
Consumable
Designed to be written in; not reusable.
Non-Consumable
Not designed to be written in; reusable.