Thursday, October 15, 2015

3.2 Due 10/20

Write a developed paragraph  answering the following prompt: 
Atticus says, "Simply because we were licked a hundred years before we started this is no reason for us not to try to win" (101). What does he mean? Explain the significance of this statement. Use textual evidence from the novel to support your answer.

With the developed paragraph, I'd like you to use the ACES paragraph format. 
A (1) an assertion (statement) or answer to a question in the first line.  This is your “topic sentence.” Your other sentences will develop this main idea

C (2) at least one citation (quote) from a text you are reading and/or one or more comments on what you are discussing;

E (3) an explanation of or an elaboration on each citation or comment;

S (4) and a summary statement that wraps up your paragraph



Sunday, October 11, 2015

3.1 Scout's Tone

The narration of To Kill a Mockingbird is done by Scout Finch. Write a developed paragraph response to the following prompt: How would you describe Scout's tone during the first 5 chapters of To Kill a Mockingbird?

Remember, TONE is the author's attitude toward what he or she is writing about. We are going to consider Scout as the author for this blog post.



Thursday, October 1, 2015

2.2 Text-Dependent Questions for "Harrison Bergeron"

Answer the questions below in complete sentences. Make sure to use textual evidence in the form of both direct quotes from the story and examples/references to the story. Each answer must fully explain how the textual evidence supports your claims and ideas.  (20 points)

1. Indirect characterization is when an author develops the character through his actions, dialogues, thoughts, appearance, other character reactions.  How does Vonnegut use indirect characterization to create sympathy for George and Hazel?

2. George Bergeron wears a radio that broadcasts various noises to prohibit him from developing any intellectual thoughts.  Trace the increased intensity of these noises that George hears throughout the story.  How do the noises parallel the escalating tragedy of George’s and Hazel’s lives? 

3. The entire narrative takes place as George and Hazel sit in front of the television.  What is Vonnegut’s purpose in having the television set as the primary setting?  Cite textual evidence for the significance of the television.

4. What do you think Vonnegut might be trying to say about today’s society and the role a government can play in achieving equality among people?  Use examples from the story to support your opinion.

Example Format with example question and example answer (please include the question before your answer):
Mrs. Kauffman
1.  In the first paragraph, Vonnegut uses the words “unceasing vigilance.”  What do these words mean? What implications do they have in the text?
Answer: “Unceasing” means not stopping, or unending. “Vigilance” means watchfulness or alert attention.  The use of these words helps to establish a setting and tone for the piece.  Vonnegut makes his reader aware of the restrictive and oppressive nature of the government.  People in this futuristic society seemingly cannot do anything outside of the watchful eyes of the government.