In a “Perfect” World

Taught by Lilli Witczak

Thursdays

1:00-2:00 pm

Reading and dissecting dystopian novels. Grades 8 & up.

 CLASS BEGINS:  September 10, 2026

COURSE DURATION:  1 school year, from September 10 through May 27

Is a perfect world possible, or is the dream of utopia a trap? In this year-long exploration of dystopian literature, students will examine how authors across the 20th and 21st centuries have used fiction to sound the alarm on the fragility of freedom. By meeting once a week, we will deep-dive into the “Big Three” themes of the genre: the loss of individuality, the manipulation of truth, and the evolution of social control.

 Learning Objectives

  1. Analyze Literary Devices: Identify the use of irony, allegory, and satire in social commentary.
  2. Comparative Analysis: Compare how different authors approach the concept of “The State” and the “Rebel.”
  3. Critical Media Literacy: Connect the themes of censorship and surveillance to contemporary issues in technology and social media.
  4. Socratic Discussion: Engage in weekly high-level debates regarding the ethics of the “greater good” versus individual liberty.

 The following is a list of books and short stories for this class:

  • Animal Farm
  • Fahrenheit 451
  • “Harrison Bergeron” by Kurt Vonnegut
  • The Hunger Games
  • 1984
  • Brave New World

COST: $275.00 per semester ($300 if a charter student) plus books.

Miss Lilli is a vendor for: Sky Mountain, ILEAD, Excel Academy, Sage Oaks, Golden Valley, Gorman, Inspire, and more.

REQUIRED MATERIALS: Students are expected to bring the following to class on the first day.

-Writing paper and a writing tool such as a pen or pencil

–Animal Farm

 Assessment: Grades are based on weekly discussion participation, three short analytical essays, and a final creative project where students design their own dystopian society.