How Can We Call Adolescent Literature, Sports Literature, Etc. 'Real' English Classes?

Dangers implicit in the recent back-to-basics movement--including a possible swing to the opposite of the open elective programs of the 1960s and a focus on drill and standardized tests--may lead to the neglect of students, who need to understand both the universality of their problems and how to deal with these problems. However, students can gain perspective and wisdom through the study of contemporary literature in a soundly developed set of courses which combines the strengths of the back-to-basics trend and the successful elective programs with a zest for knowledge. Materials for such courses may be adolescent novels, sports books, contemporary poems, song lyrics, television and movie scripts. Students will then be ready to study the classics, such as Dickens and Shakespeare. (JM)