The following assignment is due Thursday, December 10th.
Please complete a 3-5 page essay focusing on symbolism within the play. You may discuss the play itself being a symbol for life, focus on an individual character, or focus on the Wingfield family as a symbol.
3rd person only, and use quotes to back up your argument. 50 points.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Act I Scene I-III
After you have completed the first three scenes, respond to the following prompt:
Discuss the atmosphere of the play. Reflect on the relationships (mother/son, mother/daughter, brother/sister) in the household. How does each character act/react differently to situations? Last, discuss which character you enjoy the most at this point in the play. Do you think your opinions will change as we read?
You must respond to the prompt in 3 paragraphs by Friday, November 27th at Midnight. You must then respond to at least two of your classmates by Sunday, November 29th at midnight.
Discuss the atmosphere of the play. Reflect on the relationships (mother/son, mother/daughter, brother/sister) in the household. How does each character act/react differently to situations? Last, discuss which character you enjoy the most at this point in the play. Do you think your opinions will change as we read?
You must respond to the prompt in 3 paragraphs by Friday, November 27th at Midnight. You must then respond to at least two of your classmates by Sunday, November 29th at midnight.
Monday, November 23, 2009
The Glass Menagerie Part I
DUE MONDAY @ MIDNIGHT
At the beginning of Act I, Tom opens the scene by introducing the production. After reading the introduction, studying Williams' past, and historical context, analyze Tom's character. Using direct quotes from the first scene, discuss Tom's personality, his tone, and perhaps how he may embody Williams himself.
You must respond in no less than 2 paragraphs, and respond to at least 1 of your classmates by tomorrow, Tuesday, November 24th at midnight.
At the beginning of Act I, Tom opens the scene by introducing the production. After reading the introduction, studying Williams' past, and historical context, analyze Tom's character. Using direct quotes from the first scene, discuss Tom's personality, his tone, and perhaps how he may embody Williams himself.
You must respond in no less than 2 paragraphs, and respond to at least 1 of your classmates by tomorrow, Tuesday, November 24th at midnight.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Tan and Cisneros
After completely "A Pair of Tickets" and the House on Mango Street selections, respond to the following prompt. Be sure to complete at least 2 paragraphs of your own and respond to at least 2 of your classmates. I hoping to see some great discussion!
This is due by Sunday, November 8th at midnight
Please respond:
After reading selections from both Amy Tan and Sandra Cisneros, discuss the cultural differences between each author. For example, both main characters, Jing Mei, and Esperanza feel a sense of not belonging. Use both texts to support your ideas. (You may need to read more selections out of House on Mango Street) Discuss each author's tone, and the decision to use specific dialect. What do you believe to be the theme of each piece? Was it effective? Back up your points.
Next, discuss the historical implications of the text. During the early and mid 20th century, immigration was not only on the rise, but a controversial issue. How do you believe these authors captured the issues of immigration; both from society's perspective and the perspective of the immigrant?
I realize this post is long, so please take your time and think about each question thoroughly. I want you to use some of your own interpretation. Approach this as if you are speaking to a well-educated audience. Arguments are fine, but casual talk is not. Do your best, you have 5 days to do this, so DO NOT wait unil the last minute!
This is due by Sunday, November 8th at midnight
Please respond:
After reading selections from both Amy Tan and Sandra Cisneros, discuss the cultural differences between each author. For example, both main characters, Jing Mei, and Esperanza feel a sense of not belonging. Use both texts to support your ideas. (You may need to read more selections out of House on Mango Street) Discuss each author's tone, and the decision to use specific dialect. What do you believe to be the theme of each piece? Was it effective? Back up your points.
Next, discuss the historical implications of the text. During the early and mid 20th century, immigration was not only on the rise, but a controversial issue. How do you believe these authors captured the issues of immigration; both from society's perspective and the perspective of the immigrant?
I realize this post is long, so please take your time and think about each question thoroughly. I want you to use some of your own interpretation. Approach this as if you are speaking to a well-educated audience. Arguments are fine, but casual talk is not. Do your best, you have 5 days to do this, so DO NOT wait unil the last minute!
Friday, October 30, 2009
What did Bradbury have to say?
Your assignment for this weekend is to look through the notes on Ray Bradbury and read his short story "There will come soft rains." After you have read the story, respond to the prompt below. Respond in 2-3 paragraphs, and respond to two of your classmates by Sunday at midnight.
Below, you will find a brief analysis of Bradbury's story "There will come soft rains"
"There Will Come Soft Rains" is one of Ray Bradbury's most famous stones. Also known as "August 2026: There Will Come Soft Rains," the story was written and published in Bradbury's highly acclaimed collection of stories, The Martian Chronicles, in 1951. Written in an era in which many people were concerned about the devastating effects of nuclear weapons, the story depicts a world in which human beings have been destroyed by nuclear force. The central irony of the story is the fact that humans have been destroyed rather than saved by their own technology. The atomic bombings of Nagasaki and Hiroshima, Japan, were recent memories in 1951, and many readers and critics found Bradbury's images of a desolate planet haunting and cautionary. In a further moral lesson, Bradbury shows how human technology is able to withstand the demise of its maker, yet is ultimately destroyed by nature, a force which prevails over all others. The story, which happens in the future but takes its title from a poem by a nineteenth-century writer, is a prime example of how science fiction literature can encompass moral and philosophical concerns."
**Discuss areas of the story that are evident in this passage. Locate evidence to support this analysis**
Then, discuss the realities of Bradbury's writing. What similarities do you see today? If this story were published today, how do you think it would be perceived? Essentially, discuss the comparisons of today, to what Bradbury was trying to communicate through his story. You may want to discuss the purpose of the poem that Bradbury chose to include in his story.
Below, you will find a brief analysis of Bradbury's story "There will come soft rains"
"There Will Come Soft Rains" is one of Ray Bradbury's most famous stones. Also known as "August 2026: There Will Come Soft Rains," the story was written and published in Bradbury's highly acclaimed collection of stories, The Martian Chronicles, in 1951. Written in an era in which many people were concerned about the devastating effects of nuclear weapons, the story depicts a world in which human beings have been destroyed by nuclear force. The central irony of the story is the fact that humans have been destroyed rather than saved by their own technology. The atomic bombings of Nagasaki and Hiroshima, Japan, were recent memories in 1951, and many readers and critics found Bradbury's images of a desolate planet haunting and cautionary. In a further moral lesson, Bradbury shows how human technology is able to withstand the demise of its maker, yet is ultimately destroyed by nature, a force which prevails over all others. The story, which happens in the future but takes its title from a poem by a nineteenth-century writer, is a prime example of how science fiction literature can encompass moral and philosophical concerns."
**Discuss areas of the story that are evident in this passage. Locate evidence to support this analysis**
Then, discuss the realities of Bradbury's writing. What similarities do you see today? If this story were published today, how do you think it would be perceived? Essentially, discuss the comparisons of today, to what Bradbury was trying to communicate through his story. You may want to discuss the purpose of the poem that Bradbury chose to include in his story.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Franz Kafka--"In the Penal Colony"
After reading Kafka's "In the Penal Colony," please respond the following prompt:
Discuss your reactions to the story as a whole. It is said that Camus looked up to Kafka. Do you see any comparisons? Why do you think Camus would look up to Kafka? (besides, perhaps, the obvious, almost morbid, writing styles).
Complete your response in two paragraphs (minimum and maximum).
Discuss your reactions to the story as a whole. It is said that Camus looked up to Kafka. Do you see any comparisons? Why do you think Camus would look up to Kafka? (besides, perhaps, the obvious, almost morbid, writing styles).
Complete your response in two paragraphs (minimum and maximum).
Monday, October 19, 2009
"A Respectable Woman"--Kate Chopin
This homework assignment will span the next two days.
Tonight, October 19th, you will need to read the short story by Kate Chopin entitled, "A Respectable Woman."
Post your answers to the following questions on this blog as a comment. You must have all 5 questions answered by TONIGHT, October 19th, by midnight.
Then, respond to at least one other person by Wednesday night, October 20th, at midnight.
Respond to the following questions:
1. Based on the quote, "Her mind only vaguely grasped what he was saying. Her physical being was for the moment predominant. She was not thinking of his words, only drinking in the tones of his voice. She wanted to reach out her hand in the darkness and touch him with the sensitive tips of her fingers upon the face or the lips. She wanted to draw close to him and whisper against his cheek--she did not care what--as she might have done if she had not been a respectable woman."
During Chopin's time, why do you think this description would not be accepted? What does she mean by "respectable woman?"
2. Why do you think Mrs. Baroda wanted to tell her husband about her feelings? And, why do you think she decided not to be honest with him in the end?
3. At the proposal of Gouvernail's return, why does Mrs. Baroda whole-heartedly reject his return? Then, why does she change her mind about having him back?
4. Read the final sentences of the short story. Do these closing lines reveal anything about her future intentions?
5. If Chopin was shunned for her explicit writing, what about this story may have been perceived as explicit? Do you agree? Where do you see the theme of "man and woman are equal" throughout the story?
Tonight, October 19th, you will need to read the short story by Kate Chopin entitled, "A Respectable Woman."
Post your answers to the following questions on this blog as a comment. You must have all 5 questions answered by TONIGHT, October 19th, by midnight.
Then, respond to at least one other person by Wednesday night, October 20th, at midnight.
Respond to the following questions:
1. Based on the quote, "Her mind only vaguely grasped what he was saying. Her physical being was for the moment predominant. She was not thinking of his words, only drinking in the tones of his voice. She wanted to reach out her hand in the darkness and touch him with the sensitive tips of her fingers upon the face or the lips. She wanted to draw close to him and whisper against his cheek--she did not care what--as she might have done if she had not been a respectable woman."
During Chopin's time, why do you think this description would not be accepted? What does she mean by "respectable woman?"
2. Why do you think Mrs. Baroda wanted to tell her husband about her feelings? And, why do you think she decided not to be honest with him in the end?
3. At the proposal of Gouvernail's return, why does Mrs. Baroda whole-heartedly reject his return? Then, why does she change her mind about having him back?
4. Read the final sentences of the short story. Do these closing lines reveal anything about her future intentions?
5. If Chopin was shunned for her explicit writing, what about this story may have been perceived as explicit? Do you agree? Where do you see the theme of "man and woman are equal" throughout the story?
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Essay due Monday, October 19th, 2009
Irving vs. Poe
Your Task:
Write a 3 page essay
Write in 3rd person, pay attention to tense, and work on developing a strong, concise, and clear thesis statement.
Choose one of the following essay prompts:
• Discuss individually Irving’s and Poe’s writing styles—how are they similar, how are they different?
• Discuss how they are both romantics in their own way. What were they each focusing/reflecting on about life?
• Discuss how Poe expanded upon Irving’s writing. How did Poe make the short story more personable?
• How is it evident that “The Masque of the Red Death” was closest to Poe’s soul? Do you believe he was crazy? Why or why not? (You may need to use your notes as well as the story to support your points.)
Your Task:
Write a 3 page essay
Write in 3rd person, pay attention to tense, and work on developing a strong, concise, and clear thesis statement.
Choose one of the following essay prompts:
• Discuss individually Irving’s and Poe’s writing styles—how are they similar, how are they different?
• Discuss how they are both romantics in their own way. What were they each focusing/reflecting on about life?
• Discuss how Poe expanded upon Irving’s writing. How did Poe make the short story more personable?
• How is it evident that “The Masque of the Red Death” was closest to Poe’s soul? Do you believe he was crazy? Why or why not? (You may need to use your notes as well as the story to support your points.)
Thursday, October 8, 2009
What the "Rip Van Winkle?"
Tonight, here's what you are supposed to be doing:
1. Read the story ("Rip Van Winkle")
2. Locate/highlight examples of Romantic writing (reflections on nature, reflections on religion, reflections on life/purpose)
3. Locate the moral/theme (what was Irving trying to communicate to his readers?)
4. Answer the question: Was Irving's romantic writing productive? Did it add or take away from the story? Why or why not?
Email me if you have any questions!
Good Luck!
1. Read the story ("Rip Van Winkle")
2. Locate/highlight examples of Romantic writing (reflections on nature, reflections on religion, reflections on life/purpose)
3. Locate the moral/theme (what was Irving trying to communicate to his readers?)
4. Answer the question: Was Irving's romantic writing productive? Did it add or take away from the story? Why or why not?
Email me if you have any questions!
Good Luck!
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Final Test Update
After going over your scantron sheets, and the test, I have decided to drop two questions that were confusing. Therefore, each of you received two extra points.
The scores are posted on RenWeb. Those of you scoring higher than 50 received your 10points extra credit from the Jeopardy review.
Please contact me with any questions.
The scores are posted on RenWeb. Those of you scoring higher than 50 received your 10points extra credit from the Jeopardy review.
Please contact me with any questions.
Essay Portion
***Note this quote is on the first page of the Translator's Note. First paragraph, few lines in***
Complete the essay question below. Your essay should answer the question entirely. You may use your book to locate specific quotes.
Write in blue or black ink, do not double-space, only write on the front of each paper, and be sure to write your name on your paper. Staple this sheet to the front of your essay.
Essay Prompt:
About The Stranger, Matthew Ward said, “…in the mind of a moralist, simplification is tantamount to immorality, and Meursault and Camus are each moralist in their own way. What little Meursault says or feels or does resonates with all he does not say, all he does not feel, all he does not do. The ‘simplicity’ of the text is apparent and everywhere paradoxical.”
Defend this statement using examples from the text of The Stranger.
***Note this quote is on the first page of the Translator's Note. First paragraph, few lines in***
Complete the essay question below. Your essay should answer the question entirely. You may use your book to locate specific quotes.
Write in blue or black ink, do not double-space, only write on the front of each paper, and be sure to write your name on your paper. Staple this sheet to the front of your essay.
Essay Prompt:
About The Stranger, Matthew Ward said, “…in the mind of a moralist, simplification is tantamount to immorality, and Meursault and Camus are each moralist in their own way. What little Meursault says or feels or does resonates with all he does not say, all he does not feel, all he does not do. The ‘simplicity’ of the text is apparent and everywhere paradoxical.”
Defend this statement using examples from the text of The Stranger.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Essay Prompt
Hey all,
For tomorrow's test, you should be reflecting on Camus and Meursault being "moralists" in their own right, and as Ward quoted, "simplicity is the tantamount of immorality."
Decide how Camus and Meursault are moralists, and how the simplicity of the novel, as well as what Meursault says, feels, and does is completely paradoxical.
Defend this thought with examples from the text.
For tomorrow's test, you should be reflecting on Camus and Meursault being "moralists" in their own right, and as Ward quoted, "simplicity is the tantamount of immorality."
Decide how Camus and Meursault are moralists, and how the simplicity of the novel, as well as what Meursault says, feels, and does is completely paradoxical.
Defend this thought with examples from the text.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Discussion Question #2--Due Sunday, September 20th 12:00am
Alright, it's round two. After Adam's response to the novel, and the simplicity of the plot that may or may not cause you to want to finish the novel, I want to hear your thoughts. Therefore, respond to the prompt below. Same format--two paragraphs for your response, 1-2 paragraphs for each person you respond to (at least two of your peers).
Here's your prompt:
Discuss any changes in tone from Part I to the beginning of Part II. Discuss Meursault before and after his arrest. Has anything changed? (use evidence). What has changed about his perception of Marie? How do you think she feels about Meursault's situation? (we never hear her side).
Do you think that the story has reached an uneventful climax only to fall to a boring end? Why or why not? Based on your reaction to the climax, do you want to keep reading? Why or why not? If you think Camus focused on writing an uneventful climax, based on what we know of Camus, do you think he did this on purpose? If so, what is his purpose?
I know this is long, but spend some time thinking about why Camus may have constructed a "boring" "simple" "uneventful" novel. Where's the suspense?!!
Here's your prompt:
Discuss any changes in tone from Part I to the beginning of Part II. Discuss Meursault before and after his arrest. Has anything changed? (use evidence). What has changed about his perception of Marie? How do you think she feels about Meursault's situation? (we never hear her side).
Do you think that the story has reached an uneventful climax only to fall to a boring end? Why or why not? Based on your reaction to the climax, do you want to keep reading? Why or why not? If you think Camus focused on writing an uneventful climax, based on what we know of Camus, do you think he did this on purpose? If so, what is his purpose?
I know this is long, but spend some time thinking about why Camus may have constructed a "boring" "simple" "uneventful" novel. Where's the suspense?!!
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Discussion Question #1--Due Sunday 12:00AM
A.P. Students,
Here is your first go at responding to a prompt online, as well as responding to your peers (similar to a classroom discussion). Read the prompt below, write a 2+ paragraph response. Then, read two of your classmates' responses, and write a 1-2 paragraph reflection/response do your classmate's response.
You have until Sunday, September 13th, at 12:00AM (midnight) to complete this assignment. Feel free to email me with questions this weekend. This assignment is worth 30 points. Have fun with this.
Respond to this prompt below:
"Did you anticipate the situation in which Meursault murdered the Arab man? Why or why not? What was absurd/strange/irrational about his decision? Was it confusing? Discuss his decision as a whole, and make predictions about what might happen next.
I have posted a comment to model how this should work. I can't wait to read your responses!
Here is your first go at responding to a prompt online, as well as responding to your peers (similar to a classroom discussion). Read the prompt below, write a 2+ paragraph response. Then, read two of your classmates' responses, and write a 1-2 paragraph reflection/response do your classmate's response.
You have until Sunday, September 13th, at 12:00AM (midnight) to complete this assignment. Feel free to email me with questions this weekend. This assignment is worth 30 points. Have fun with this.
Respond to this prompt below:
"Did you anticipate the situation in which Meursault murdered the Arab man? Why or why not? What was absurd/strange/irrational about his decision? Was it confusing? Discuss his decision as a whole, and make predictions about what might happen next.
I have posted a comment to model how this should work. I can't wait to read your responses!
Essay Due Tuesday, September 15th
A.P. Lit and Comp—DUE TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15TH
The Stranger—Essay Options
Expectations:
3-5 pages
3rd person
1. Compare and contrast the relationship between Salamano and his dog with the relationship between Meursault and his mother. What are the similarities? Which is more loving?
2. Compare Meursault to Raymond Sintes. How are the two neighbors different? How are they similar?
3. How do we know the world of The Stranger is irrational? How do different characters react to this irrationability?
The Stranger—Essay Options
Expectations:
3-5 pages
3rd person
1. Compare and contrast the relationship between Salamano and his dog with the relationship between Meursault and his mother. What are the similarities? Which is more loving?
2. Compare Meursault to Raymond Sintes. How are the two neighbors different? How are they similar?
3. How do we know the world of The Stranger is irrational? How do different characters react to this irrationability?
Thursday, September 3, 2009
The Stranger Part 1 Chapters 2-3
Complete chapters 2&3
Consider the following while reading and be prepared to disccuss:
1. What is the nature of Meursault's relationship with Marie?
2. What do they do together?
3. How does he treat her? What does this reveal about his character?
4. How does Meursault's attitude towards Marie parallel his attitudes towards his mother's death?
5. Keeping in line with the theme of focusing on the physical, how is this theme portrayed in Meursault's relationship with Marie?
Consider the following while reading and be prepared to disccuss:
1. What is the nature of Meursault's relationship with Marie?
2. What do they do together?
3. How does he treat her? What does this reveal about his character?
4. How does Meursault's attitude towards Marie parallel his attitudes towards his mother's death?
5. Keeping in line with the theme of focusing on the physical, how is this theme portrayed in Meursault's relationship with Marie?
The Stranger Quote Interpretation
Write at least a five paragraph essay interpreting the opening quote of The Stranger.
Consider these questions:
Discuss what the opening lines reveal to us about Meursault, our main character. Why is it important that these are the opening lines? How do you think this this sets up the rest of the novel?
Consider these questions:
Discuss what the opening lines reveal to us about Meursault, our main character. Why is it important that these are the opening lines? How do you think this this sets up the rest of the novel?
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
The Stranger
This week we have begun reading The Stranger by Albert Camus. This novel, written simply, is truly a complex and deep novel discussing the rationality of life. As a class, we will discuss Camus' philosophy of the absurd, applying it to his novel, and life today. Paired with outside activities, we will use skills that will be required for the A.P. Test. I am excited to share my love for Camus with you!
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Welcome!
Welcome to the A.P. Lit and Comp blog site. I will use this site to communicate with you, post homework reminders, deadlines, and even discussion questions. Please use this site as a resource this year.
I am looking forward to this year, and sharing my passion for literature and writing with you!
I am looking forward to this year, and sharing my passion for literature and writing with you!
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