As outlined in the Cal Lit syllabus and course description, one of the essential goals for this class is that upon completion you have a comprehensive understanding of the “California Experience.”  This experience is provided in various ways, primarily through the literature and class discussion, but also through music, art, history, politics, and your own personal experiences.  The connections and observations that you make outside of the classroom are critical to understanding the many perceptions that define California.  Thus, over the course of the year, beginning October 1st, you will be required to experience two events or activities per month. Ultimately, these experiences will culminate into your own “California Notebook.” The rationale behind this experiential component to the course is that it will afford you the opportunity to understand the dynamic pulses of the “many Californias” around us.  In order to gain a better understanding of the many perspectives that make the Golden State, try to choose events that are new to you. A good source for locating events is the “Calendar” section of the LA Times and LA Weekly.  Events will be posted on a regular bases, and there will also be space in the classroom where you may physically post events to share with your class community.  At the end of each month, you will be required to submit your two experiences. You will need to include documentation of each experience,  such as photos, ticket stubs, itineraries, pamphlets, etc., as well as a 1-2 page written reflection. Your reflection must provide details about the event / experience, in addition to addressing the following questions: How has this experience shaped your overall perspective of CA? How does it contribute to the overall cultural fabric of Los Angeles or the state? And, how does this help “define California?”  Keep in mind that not every experience will allow you to answer all three questions. Nonetheless, the idea is to closely analyze the experience in terms of how California is defined and redefined through its diverse people and offerings, and through its existence as a geographical and mythological place.        

Suggested Experiences:

Various festivals- art, music, food, etc.

Museums

Art Galleries, Openings, and Exhibits

Performances such as musicals, plays, poetry readings, concerts, etc.

Travels to various parts of our state

CA colleges or universities

Restaurants that are representative of CA culture

Lectures

Sporting events

Culturally specific neighborhoods, shops, and markets

CA state and national parks and beaches

*Remember, the idea is to provide yourself with new experiences that will allow you to see the many different aspects of California.  Journey out of familiar ground and discover the many different faces, sounds, views, tastes and histories that define what we call home.