WELCOME STUDENTS!

This is a place for us to discuss openly and honestly the literature we are reading. Here we are all just communicating our thoughts on what we are reading. There are no right and wrong answers. However, you are expected to be polite, mature, and on topic.

Friday, July 30, 2010

The Power of Dialogue

One of the 5 key elements that we will discuss in every novel we read this semester is the use of dialogue. Select a passage from A Lesson Before Dying or The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn that shows the writer's ability to create realistic and effective dialogue. Explain why you enjoyed this moment in the novel. (The deadline to post a response to this question is midnight August 4, 2010).

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

A Woman's Strength

In A Lesson Before Dying, female characters play minor roles; however, they reveal much strength, determination, and motivation. Select a scene in which one of the female characters revealed her strength, purpose, and courage. Discuss how the scene contributes to the novel and explain why you felt this was a powerful scene. (The deadline to post a comment to this question is midnight July 27th.)

Thursday, July 15, 2010

A Notebook

Most of the novel is narrated by Grant Wiggins. However, we get to read Jefferson's notebook at the end of the novel. Which notebook entry did you think most clearly revealed Jefferson's character? Why? How important do you think the notebook entries are in understanding the novel? Why? (This deadline to receive extra credit for this post is midnight July 19, 2010. Please spread the word to other AP students that there is a new post available.)

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Facing Pathos


Pathos is a quality in a work or part of a work that makes the reader feel pity, sorrow or tenderness. Generally, the character is a pathetic, helpless, or innocent victim experiencing suffering through no fault of his/her own. Identify and explain an example of pathos in Chapters 20-30 of HUCK FINN. Why did this event stand out in your mind? (The deadline to post a response to this question is midnight July 12, 2010)

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

Which way is a boy to go?


Chapters 1-10 of HUCK FINN focus on Huck's escapes from two very different lifestyles. How do Pap and the Widow Douglas represent two opposing lifestyles for Huck and what are the advantages and disadvantages of each? If you were a judge and had to place Huck in one of these two homes, which would you select? Why? (Extra credit stops a midnight on June 27.) (When you answer this question, remember conclude with only your first name and last initial.)

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Summer Greetings to my new AP Scholars

I am so excited about getting to know each of you in AP English IV this fall. This summer as you are completing your summer readings, I suggest that you read The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn first, followed by A Lesson Before Dying, and concluding with your independent novel. I will be posting an extra credit question about HUCK FINN next week. There will be a deadline for posting an answer. Simply click comment and post your response. End it with your first name and your last initial. Every person who comments will receive an extra 100 daily grade, so please post and spread the word so that others can respond as well. Have a wonderful summer and while you are relaxing at the pool or beach, read.

Thursday, May 6, 2010