Contemporary Themes This class covered the same state content standards as World Literature but took a thematic approach to the study of literature. Traditional and contemporary literature is the basis for integrating reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. The literature selections included fiction, non-fiction, essay, drama, and poetry. Four themes--Ethics, Leadership, Work, and Success--were examined through the literature and were used as a basis for expository and persuasive writing and project assignments. This class emphasizes real-life application of curriculum.