Cross-Cultural American Literature
Voices. Identity. Perspective.
A live, discussion-based literature course designed to help students think deeply, communicate clearly, and engage thoughtfully with a range of American voices.
1.0 Credit | $400 | Full-Year Course
Enroll NowIf you want your student to do more than skim literature for plot and symbolism, this course offers something deeper.
Cross-Cultural American Literature invites students to read, think, discuss, and write through the lens of identity, culture, and history.
In this full-year course, students explore American literature through the voices and experiences of African American, Hispanic American, Asian American, and Native American authors using selections inspired by multicultural literature anthologies from McGraw-Hill Education.
Through guided discussion, video, curated readings, and reflective writing, students examine how literature reflects lived experience and how it shapes our understanding of the world.
This is not a worksheet-driven class. It is a conversation-driven experience.
Why This Course Matters
Literature can help students do more than complete an English credit.
It can teach them how to listen carefully, think critically, notice nuance, and engage with people and ideas that stretch their understanding.
That matters in high school. It matters in college. And it matters in life.
This course gives students the opportunity to explore important American voices while building the communication and analytical skills they’ll carry into every future classroom, conversation, and calling.
What Students Will Gain
- Analyze literature through cultural and historical lenses
- Develop critical thinking and discussion skills
- Strengthen written and verbal communication
- Explore themes of identity, belonging, resilience, and perspective
- Learn to engage in thoughtful, respectful dialogue
Course Structure
The course runs from September through May and is divided into four units:
Identity, voice, and resilience
From early narratives to modern expressions
Culture, language, and belonging
Navigating multiple identities
Expectations, family, and self-definition
Generational perspectives
Storytelling, land, and legacy
Oral tradition and cultural preservation
Format & Schedule
Live Class: Once per week
Schedule: Mondays, 12:00 to 1:30 pm EST
Duration: Full academic year, September through May
Format: Interactive and discussion-based, not lecture-heavy
Between Classes, Students Will Complete:
- Short readings
- Written responses
- Essays and a final reflection or project
Credit & Writing
This is a 1.0 credit high school literature course.
Students complete regular reading, discussion participation, written responses, one to two essays per semester, and a final reflection or project.
Parents are provided with simple grading rubrics to support homeschool recordkeeping.
Grade Level
Recommended for 9th through 12th grade students.
Ideal for college-bound homeschoolers who are ready for thoughtful discussion and strong analytical work.
Teaching Approach
This course reflects Natalie’s signature style:
- Discussion over worksheets
- Real-world connections
- Student voice and engagement
- A supportive environment for thoughtful conversation
Students are encouraged to think, question, and articulate their ideas, not just complete assignments.
Materials
Students will need access to the following literature anthologies for the course:
-
African American Literature
Purchase on Amazon (Amazon Associate) -
Native American Literature
Purchase on Amazon (Amazon Associate) -
Hispanic American Literature
FREE Digital Download or Purchase on Amazon (Amazon Associate) -
Asian American Literature
FREE Digital Download or Purchase on Amazon (Amazon Associate)
Students may use either the physical books or the free digital versions where available.
Who This Course Is For
- Students who enjoy discussion and interaction
- Students preparing for college-level thinking
- Students who want to explore literature beyond a traditional textbook approach
- Students who are ready to engage thoughtfully with complex ideas
About the Instructor
Natalie Mack is a national speaker, homeschool consultant, and Subject Matter Expert on homeschooling with over 23 years of experience.
She has successfully homeschooled five children through high school and into college and specializes in helping families navigate high school, college pathways, and meaningful learning experiences.
Tuition
Full-Year Course: $400
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this course lecture-heavy?
No. This is a discussion-based course. Students will read, reflect, and engage in thoughtful conversation rather than sit through long lectures or complete piles of worksheets.
How much writing is involved?
Students will complete written responses throughout the course, along with one to two essays per semester and a final reflection or project. The writing is designed to support deeper thinking, not busywork.
Do students need to buy books?
No. All required readings are provided by the instructor.
Is this appropriate for shy or quieter students?
Yes. Students are encouraged to participate, but the class is designed to be supportive and respectful. Natalie creates an environment where students can grow in confidence over time.
Will parents receive grading support?
Yes. Parents are provided with simple grading rubrics to make homeschool recordkeeping easier.
What grade levels is this best for?
This course is recommended for students in grades 9 through 12 and is especially well suited for college-bound homeschoolers.
Enrollment
Spots are limited to maintain a high-quality discussion experience.
Early registration is encouraged.
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