Poetry Out Loud Performances

Go to the Poetry Out Loud website (poetryoutloud.org) and watch at least two performances, in addition to the performances we watched in class. Write two paragraphs about one of the performances in which you discuss how the student conveys the meaning of the poem with his/her performance.

The first paragraph should primarily discuss the effectiveness of the performance. Include language from the scoring criteria (physical presence, voice and articulation, etc.) The second paragraph should deal with your interpretation of the poem's meaning, with an emphasis on how specific details of the performance enhances the meaning. Be sure to include the title of the poem.

Due Friday, December 4.

Mockingbird Motif

At the beginning of the year we discussed the meaning of "motif" as it relates to a work of literature. How has reading To Kill a Mockingbird enhanced your understanding of the term "motif?" What is the "mockingbird motif" and how does it add a symbolic level of meaning to the other themes in the novel?

Write at least two well-developed paragraphs in which you address the questions above. Showcase your understanding of the characters, events, and themes in the novel as well as your ability to analyze literature thoroughly and with insight.

Post due Friday, November 20.

Extra Credit: Symbolism

Find and post a photo of something that you interpret as symbolic of one of the character's you are portraying in this week's dramatic reading. Briefly state why you think this symbol accurately represents the character.

To receive extra credit you must:

• Post a photo on your blog.
• The photo must be symbolic (not a picture of a person who reminds you of the character for whatever reason.)
• Spell the character's name correctly.
• Briefly explain your choice of symbol.

This post is due Saturday, November 14.

Life Lessons

In To Kill a Mockingbird Scout learns many lessons from her father, Atticus. Atticus' insightful observations about life help Scout to understand the world around her and the actions of adults. This week we will be discussing indirect characterization of Atticus - specifically, things he says that impact his children.

Think of something insightful that one of your parents or another influential adult may have told you. This should be something meant to help you understand the world around you or the actions of others that resonated - something that you have thought about or considered since.

Write two paragraphs: the first paragraph should explain the context and what was said, the second paragraph should discuss when and how you have thought of this since and the life lesson you learned as a result.

Post and comment by Friday, November 6.