Red Scarf Girl Novel Study

A Secular High School Literature Study

Go beyond basic comprehension questions with an in-depth literary study of Red Scarf Girl: A Memoir of the Cultural Revolution by Ji-li Jiang. Designed for high school students, this secular novel study challenges students to think critically about literature, history, propaganda, individual freedom, and moral courage while developing advanced analytical writing skills.

Rather than simply asking students what happened in the story, this course teaches them how to analyze why it happened, how the author communicates meaning, and how historical events shaped individual lives.

Perfect for grades 9–12, this flexible curriculum can be completed in 2, 3, or 4 weeks, allowing families to choose the pace that best fits their schedule.

What You'll Study

Students will examine:

• Memoir as a literary genre
• Point of view and narration
• Symbolism
• Voice and tone
• Imagery
• Foreshadowing
• Characterization
• Conflict
• Setting as an antagonist
• Structure and literary organization

Students will also explore major historical and ethical themes including:

• Propaganda and indoctrination
• Conformity vs. loyalty
• Individualism and identity
• Class, power, and justice
• Family and moral courage
• Crowds and complicity
• Memory and historical testimony

Throughout the course, students support their conclusions using textual evidence while strengthening analytical reading and writing skills.

Included in this Study

✔ Flexible 2-, 3-, and 4-week schedules

✔ Day-by-day lesson plans

✔ Literary analysis lessons

✔ Historical background activities

✔ Comprehension worksheets

✔ Vocabulary activities

✔ Character tracker

✔ Theme evidence log

✔ Quote analysis activities

✔ Reader-response journal prompts

✔ Discussion questions

✔ Final analytical essay

✔ Choice of two major projects

✔ Complete grading rubrics

✔ Parent answer keys

Designed for Independent Learning

Every lesson speaks directly to the student, making this course ideal for independent learners. Parents don't need teaching experience—simply choose a schedule, review completed work, discuss the novel when desired, and grade using the included rubrics.

Flexible Scheduling

Choose the pace that works best for your homeschool:

• 2 Weeks: Intensive study for strong readers
• 3 Weeks: Recommended pace with balanced reading and analysis
• 4 Weeks: The most in-depth option with additional discussion, writing, and project time

Course Details

• Grades: 9–12
• Subject: English Language Arts / Literature
• Approach: Secular
• Pacing: 2, 3, or 4 weeks
• Estimated Time: 20–35 instructional hours
• Daily Work: Approximately 60–90 minutes depending on schedule