The minicourse/electives English program outlined in this guide focuses on the reading of short stories containing themes of interest and provides a study of the act of the short story. This course may center either on genre or on theme and may be planned for 8, 10, 12, or 20 weeks. Contents of the guide include sections on the scope of the course, suggested basic and additional materials, the basic considerations in planning a minicourse/electives program, goals and objectives for the course, teaching the short story, using the materials in junior and senior high school, course outlines, and strategies for students. A reading list for teachers is also provided. (JM)