Friday, June 8, 2007

Essay Clarification

I had a few people with questions about the essay, so here's a quick clarification regarding the essay (or directions for the directions!). The essay will explore one topic within both novels, Beloved and Invisible Man. Select a topic from the blue packet at this time. Next, record quotes addressing this topic in your quote log as you read (also in blue packet). You are required to have three quotes from each novel in your quote log and in your essay. The other four quotes on the quote log may be from either novel, but should still address the topic. After reading both novels and completing the quote log, develop your thesis using your topic and at least one literary device. See yellow packet for essay guidelines. The quote log should be quite useful when writing the essay- use these quotes to support your thesis in your essay. Make sure you use MLA format (yellow packet), size 12, double-spaced, 3-5 pages. Please email me or respond to this post if you have any questions. Feel free to start commenting on Beloved when you've started reading it. Someone has to go first- why not you? I will be happy to give fake extra credit to anyone brave enough to get our blog blogging. Reminder: you need to have 5 blog posts (1 paragraph minimum each) by July 8th for your first deadline. Start as soon as possible. The comments don't necessarily have to reinvent Beloved scholarship; just start out by posting your responses, questions, and interpretations as you read. However, brilliant insights are always welcome, of course. Post something soon- make an English teacher's day. Have a wonderful summer!

2 comments:

teacher_girl said...

Sorry to be a blogdropper but some little birds told me that Earl has competition in the blogosphere. Mrs. Heartz is right about Beloved. It’s one of my favorite books. If it’s OK with Mrs. Heartz, I may post a comment now and again. 124 may be loud, but not as loud (or as nosy) as a certain teacher in C-6.

Mrs. Heartz said...

Please do! People who love this book: Ms. Dub, Pulitzer Prize Committee, & Oprah- yes, in that order- what further recommendation could you possibly need? I do hope you are as engrossed in it as I am- there is the mystery scandal/ghost story element that will be interesting to discuss...can't wait to hear from all of you.


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Bedford High School English teacher