Grade 10 literature in english FICTION AND NON-FICTION – Non-Fiction Prose Notes
Literature in English — Topic: FICTION AND NON-FICTION
Subtopic: Non-Fiction Prose (Literary Journalism) — Age: 15 (Kenya)
Specific Learning Outcomes
- Discuss themes in literary journalism for literary analysis.
- Analyse language and style in literary journalism for literary appreciation (focus on grammar and structure).
- Explore the influence of values in literary journalism for lifelong learning.
- Appreciate the importance of literary journalism for lifelong learning.
What is literary journalism?
Literary journalism (a form of non-fiction prose) uses literary techniques — vivid description, character detail and narrative structure — to report real events and ideas. In Kenya this includes feature articles, long-form newspaper pieces and online profiles in outlets such as the Daily Nation, The Standard and independent online platforms.
a) Discuss themes in literary journalism (for analysis)
Common themes you will meet in Kenyan literary journalism:
- Social justice and inequality (e.g., access to education, land disputes).
- Identity and culture (ethnic heritage, urban youth culture in Nairobi).
- Corruption and governance (local government, elections).
- Migration and livelihood (rural–urban movement, job-seeking).
- Environment and climate (drought, land use).
How to analyse a theme (step-by-step):
- Identify the central idea: what main issue keeps reappearing?
- Find evidence: quotes, facts, scenes that show the theme.
- Consider perspective: whose voice is dominant? Who is left out?
- Relate to context: local history, politics or culture in Kenya.
- State the theme in one sentence and support it with examples from the text.
b) Analyse language and style (grammar & structure) for appreciation
Key grammar and style points to look for
- Tense and Time — Literary journalism often mixes past narration (events already happened) with present-tense scenes to create immediacy. Identify why an author chooses past vs present.
- Voice — Active voice makes sentences direct; passive voice can distance responsibility. Note shifts and why they happen.
- Sentence Types — Short sentences for impact; long complex sentences for background or reflection. Markers: simple / compound / complex.
- Reported speech & quotations — Direct quotes give authenticity; indirect speech summarizes. Check punctuation and reporting verbs (said, recalled, explained).
- Word choice (lexis) — Concrete nouns, sensory verbs, and local vocabulary (Swahili or Sheng) add realism. Look for formal vs informal register.
- Punctuation & Clauses — Colons, dashes and commas shape rhythm and emphasis. Subordinate clauses add background; relative clauses give detail.
- Rhetorical devices — Simile, metaphor, personification, repetition. These are literary tools applied within factual writing.
Short annotated example (hypothetical)
"At dawn the matatu rumbled into Kibera — a metal heart pumping people to markets and schools."
Notes: present-tense scene makes it vivid; dash adds emphasis; metaphor ("metal heart") is a literary device; active verbs ("rumbled", "pumping") create movement.
Classroom grammar tasks (age 15):
- Identify all verbs and label tense and voice.
- Rewrite a passive sentence into active voice without changing facts.
- Change a formal passage into a more conversational register (or vice versa) and note which words changed.
c) Explore influence of values in literary journalism (for lifelong learning)
Values often embedded in literary journalism:
- Honesty and accuracy — correct facts and fair representation.
- Empathy — humanising subjects encourages compassion in readers.
- Civic responsibility — informed citizens can act on community issues.
- Respect for diversity — representing different cultures and voices fairly.
Learning prompts:
- How does the reporter show respect for sources? (details, background, anonymity?)
- Does the piece challenge stereotypes or reinforce them?
- How might this article change a reader's actions or opinions about a local issue?
d) Appreciate the importance of literary journalism for lifelong learning
Benefits for learners:
- Improves reading skills: inference, vocabulary and grammar in real contexts.
- Builds critical thinking: evaluate sources, bias and argument.
- Promotes civic awareness: local stories link to community action.
- Fosters empathy and cultural knowledge through lived stories.
Simple classroom activity: Students choose a local story (school, market, neighbourhood), interview one person, then write a 400–600 word feature using at least two literary techniques (imagery, direct quotation). Focus checklist: clear theme, correct grammar, honest representation.
Suggested Learning Experiences (Kenyan context)
- Reading & discussion: Provide 2 short Kenyan features (teacher-selected). In groups, identify theme, tense, and voice. Present findings with short quotes.
- Writing workshop: Field trip or virtual interview with a local vendor, teacher, or student. Draft a literary journalism piece; peer-edit focusing on grammar and representation.
- Grammar drills from texts: Extract sentences and practise changing tense, converting direct/indirect speech, and turning passive into active voice.
- Debate/reflection: Does literary journalism influence public opinion? Use a Kenyan case study (e.g., community development story) to discuss values and responsibilities of writers.
- Assessment task: Write a 500-word feature on a local issue. Marking rubric (sample):
- Theme and ideas — 30%
- Language & grammar accuracy — 30%
- Use of literary techniques (quotes, imagery) — 20%
- Values & balance (fairness, ethics) — 10%
- Presentation & clarity — 10%
Quick grammar checklist for literary journalism
- Are verb tenses consistent where needed? (or deliberately changed for effect)
- Is active voice used for clarity? (or passive used with purpose)
- Are quotations punctuated and attributed correctly?
- Do sentence lengths vary to keep rhythm and interest?
- Is vocabulary precise and appropriate for the audience?
Emoji guide: 📚 = reading task, ✍️ = writing task, 🗣️ = speaking/listening task.
Use these notes to plan 2–3 lessons: 1 reading & analysis, 1 grammar/style focus, 1 writing & ethics project. Keep examples local and relevant to Kenyan life to motivate learners aged 15.