Etymology: The Language of Harry Potter

$180

This class is currently closed for enrollment.

CLASS DESCRIPTION

How did J.K Rowling come up with the names for all her characters? How can the root-words in each spell or potion reveal a little about what it might do? What actual stories and events from world history and mythology helped to inspire Harry’s wizarding world? We will investigate all these questions and find out more about the secrets behind the novels, all while studying elements of plot and storytelling to make language and literature come alive!

This 10-week course will help students unlock the mysteries of the English language using examples found in the Harry Potter series! This course focuses heavily on reading and writing, so be prepared to cover the first three novels in the series and complete short writing assignments along the way.

Although this is mainly an English/Language Arts course, we will also look into other background information on the Harry Potter series, including everything from History and Popular Culture to Ancient Legends and Mythology.

CLASS FORMAT

No live classesview lessons on YOUR schedule. In general, expect 1.5-2.5 hours to work through the lesson plan each week, and an additional 2-5 hours working on assignments (it really depends what assignment your child chooses to do and how they manage their time). For classes with two levels, the material is the same for boththe depth of the assignments differs. Younger students should usually be placed in Level 1. Older students, or younger students who want more of a challenge, should be placed in Level 2.

Each lesson consists of a fully narrated PowerPoint presentation with images and videos to enhance the topics. Students will have access to our learning management system, Canvas, for viewing their lesson, printing worksheets, taking quizzes, viewing/submitting assignments, participating in discussions, and viewing grades/feedback.

Read more details about class format.

Week 1: The Sorcerer’s Stone:

Introduction & Characters

Week 2: The Sorcerer’s Stone:

Spells & Potions

Week 3: The Sorcerer’s Stone:

History & Mythology

Week 4: The Chamber of Secrets:

Characters & Settings

Week 5: The Chamber of Secrets:

Spells & Potions

Week 6: The Chamber of Secrets:

History & Mythology

Week 7: The Prisoner of Azkaban:

Characters & Settings

Week 8: The Prisoner of Azkaban:

Spells & Potions

Week 9: The Prisoner of Azkaban:

History & Mythology

Week 10: Harry Potter Series:

Plot & Symbolism

Students taking this course should have already read J.K Rowling’s:

  • Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (book 1)
  • Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (book 2)
  • & Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (book 3)

It is not required, but strongly recommended, that students have finished the entire 7-book Harry Potter series. There are a few spoilers about spells, potions, and minor plot points from books 4-7.

Library & used copies encouraged!