Tuesday, March 10 Spoon River character sketches

Learning Targets: I can cite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text, including determining where the text leaves matters uncertain.

I can determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in the text, including figurative and connotative meanings; analyze the impact of specific word choices on meaning and tone.

I can demonstrate knowledge of eighteenth-, nineteenth- and early-twentieth-century foundational works of American literature, including how two or more texts from the same period treat similar themes or topics. 

I can write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, well-chosen details, and well-structured event sequences.

In class: Vocabulary quiz on Friday. Power Point review on Thursday. Copy of words below / class handout from Monday.

 Individually, browse through the collection of poems in Spoon River Anthology by Edgar Lee Masters, and complete 5 character analyses.  (Class handout / copy below.)

  Read carefully, as you will be reading two of these aloud to the class later in the week. Check with me, if you are unsure of pronunciation, rhythm or stress. This is due by the end of class tomorrow. Be aware that you need to make time to practice your reading.  

I will post your performance rubric tomorrow.

Your work will not look like your neighbor's!

Assignment One:  Choose five of the selections that appeal to you and complete the CHARACTER ANALYSIS worksheet found in this packet for each of the characters. You will begin in class, but will need to complete for homework.  It is important to remember that there is no right or wrong answers as long as you can back up your theories.

Name___________________

Character Analysis for Spoon River Anthology

You will need to complete five character analysis forms.  Keep in mind that these people lived close to one hundred and fifty years ago. Remember to justify all your answers.
Character’s name______________________________________ (page #)

1. 1. How old is your character?   (Remember he/she is the age he/she was when he/she died.) This might have to be inferred from the text.
2. Is your character married or single, and does he/she have children? If so, what are their names and ages?
3. Describe your character's home. Weave in text in a complete sentence.
4. Give a physical description of your character, weaving in text- and your imagination.
5. What one prop would this character have and why?
6. How does your character feel about the other people in Spoon River?
7. . How does he/she feel about life? (Remember, a great deal of this has to do with their environment.)
8. Write a simile or metaphor about your character for each of the abstract qualities in listed. Give a specific reason for your choice. ie. Matilda is like a tomato, sweet when the sun is ripe, but fading quickly if consumed too late.	a.       color b.      food c.       an inanimate object d.      animal
9..   What is your character’s secret?  Write in a complete sentence.

Quiz Friday, March 13  from  Bret Harte’s “The Outcasts of Poker  Flat”  Vocabulary

1. conjecture (noun)- a guess

2. anathema (noun) - a curse

3. prescience (noun)- forethought

4. bellicose (adjective)- loud

5. remonstrances- (noun)- protest

6 .maudlin (adjective)-  weepingly sentimental

7. guileless (adjective)- innocent

8. malevolent (adjective)- evil

9. propriety (noun)- decorum

10. vituperative (adjective)- abusive