Cultural Connections
Speak is considered to be a problem novel. The problem novel is a sub-genre of YA literature in which the protagonist deals with a problem that is familiar to many of its readers. Problem novels can help readers learn to deal with their own problems by exploring them safely through the conflicts of the protagonist. Unfortunately, rape and depression are issues which are all-too familiar for many of our students. I encourage you to take time while teaching this novel to discuss these unavoidable issues. Although these sensitive subjects may be hard to talk about, it is important that we work to clear up the many misconceptions surrounding rape and depression--this discussion could save a life.
RAINN (The Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network) has a wonderful website to assist teachers and students in learning more about rape and sexual violence. http://www.rainn.org/
You might begin by discussing the statistics provided under the information tab. Then, let students explore the website. Students could make presentations on several aspects of rape: defining rape, identifying the effects of rape, seeking support, preventing rape, reporting rape, etc.
Depression is also another major issue in the novel. As Melinda sinks deeper and deeper into depression, the adults and teens around her ignore all of the symptoms (bad grades, trouble at school, silence, hiding, lack of concern about physical appearance, lack of interest in fun activities, etc.) Students could also search the web for information regarding teen depression and develop presentations about identifying teen depression and helping victims of depression. Here are some useful links:
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/depression_teen.htm
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/depression_teen_teenagers.htm
RAINN (The Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network) has a wonderful website to assist teachers and students in learning more about rape and sexual violence. http://www.rainn.org/
You might begin by discussing the statistics provided under the information tab. Then, let students explore the website. Students could make presentations on several aspects of rape: defining rape, identifying the effects of rape, seeking support, preventing rape, reporting rape, etc.
Depression is also another major issue in the novel. As Melinda sinks deeper and deeper into depression, the adults and teens around her ignore all of the symptoms (bad grades, trouble at school, silence, hiding, lack of concern about physical appearance, lack of interest in fun activities, etc.) Students could also search the web for information regarding teen depression and develop presentations about identifying teen depression and helping victims of depression. Here are some useful links:
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/depression_teen.htm
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/depression_teen_teenagers.htm