Common Core: 9th Grade English Language Arts

This subject focuses on developing critical reading, writing, and analytical skills aligned with the Common Core standards for 9th grade English Language Arts.

Basic Concepts

Literary Analysis

Looking Deeper Into Stories

Literary analysis is about breaking down stories, poems, and plays to see how authors create meaning. You’ll look at things like character, setting, plot, and themes.

What to Focus On

  • Character: What motivates them? How do they change?
  • Setting: Where and when does the story take place?
  • Theme: What big ideas or life lessons does the story explore?
  • Literary Devices: Notice metaphors, similes, symbolism, and imagery.

Why This Matters

Analyzing literature sharpens your critical thinking and helps you appreciate creative writing. It even helps you understand movies and TV shows better!

Examples

  • Explaining how a character changes from the beginning to the end of a novel.

  • Identifying the theme of a poem and supporting your answer with evidence.

In a Nutshell

Literary analysis is taking stories apart to see what makes them tick.