Sports in Literature

Course Overview

Mr. Foley

Room C211

Purpose:

The purpose of this course is to examine the world of sports and gain an understanding of the important issues, events, people, and themes that surround this aspect of society. This will be accomplished by first looking at “Sports Heroes” from a variety of viewpoints in an attempt to understand why these figures are both the most praised and most vilified. We will then examine “Controversial Issues”and topics in an attempt to understand the impact they have on our lives. Next we will attempt to answer the question, “Why do we play the game?” Why are sports valued so much in our society? Finally, we will begin a dual study: “Examining sports literature through Film” and the “Independent Novel Project.”

Requirements:

1. Weekly Article Journal: Every Friday you are required to bring in an article from any literary source (magazine, newspaper, internet source, etc.) that has something to do with an assigned topic or issue concerning sports.

For each article you will:

A) write a minimum 1 page response stating why it is you chose this article and what you feel is important about it. The format of this response is:

Section 1 – Detailed summary of the article

Section 2 - agree or disagree with the author’s opinion of the given issue. You must state the author’s opinion and why you have taken the stance you have.

B) Be prepared to discuss your article with the class. Each article is worth 10 points.

2. Major projects:

A) Beginning with our Controversial Issues unit, each class member will participate in a research debate. You will be responsible for developing an argument and researching valid evidence to support your position. A written paper stating your position will accompany your oral debate.

B) You will choose an independent novel (fiction or nonfiction – cannot be a how-to book) and present it to the class. A written summary and analysis will be required. Format will follow.

Course Materials:

Potential Novels:

Friday Night Lights

Bleachers

The Natural

Champion: The Joe Louis Story

Million Dollar Baby (Rope Burns)

Brian’s Song

Shoeless Joe

Potential Films:

“Rocky”

“Miracle”

“A League of their Own”

“Bang the Drum Slowly”

“The Great White Hope”

“The Coach”

“Hoosiers”

“Field of Dreams”

We will also use current, recently published, and older magazine and news Articles to examined current issues, trends, and controversies involving sports and society.