Journal
When Red arrives at the field in Buxton, we can hear the sound of a harmonica playing. What does this sound symbolize? What does this scene show that Red is finally ready to believe in?

Assignment
~Underclassman final due!

Journal
According to Red, “Hope is a dangerous thing.” Agree or disagree.

Assignment
~ Continue writing Final Essay
~ Underclassman due tomorrow

Journal

What symbols does King use to evoke hope? Are they what you'd expect those kinds of symbols to be? Why or why not?

 

Assignment

~ Continue writing Final Essay

~ Underclassman due Friday

Journal
How important is the postscript, where Red tells us that he's free? How does including this information as a postscript make the story different than if he'd escaped with Andy?

Assignment
Final Essay
SENIORS DUE TODAY - no exceptions!

Journal

The song that Andy plays on the phonograph is "The Marriage of Figar" by Mozart. It is about a servant who outwitted his master. What is the significance of Andy playing this song for the prisoners and guards?

 

Assignment 

Final Essay - Seniors due tomorrow!

Your task is to write a 5 paragraph literary response to one of the topics below.Your response should include be well organized and include:

~ an introductory paragraph which introduces the reader to the topic you plan to address and identifies the ideas you plan to expand upon in the body of your response(i.e. your thesis statement and statement of 3 arguments)

~ a detailed body paragraph section(3 paragraphs) wherein you explore the topic in detail,utilizing your own ideas, as well as evidence and direct quotations(2 per argument) from the novella, and

~ a concluding paragraph which restates your thesis and 3 arguments and sums up your ideas.

 

Topics from which to choose:

I. One of the major themes in the novella is the burden of isolation and imprisonment. Examine whether the novella is a realistic interpretation of the American penal system.

II.Explain and illustrate the ‘power of hope’in “Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption”.

III.A reoccurring theme in the novella is corruption and crime. Andy is both effected by and takes advantage of this. Examine both sides of the theme corruption and crime in the novella.

IV.Time serves as both a torment as well as a means for Andy’s escape. Explore there occurring theme of time in the novella.

V.Examine the pinup posters (of Rita Hayworth and the other women) as a symbol in the novella.

VI.The rocks represent a symbol in the novella. Examine the purpose and significance of the rocks in the story.

Journal

Why doesn't King frame this story as a prison break from the beginning? Would it be more interesting if we were told what Andy's doing from the start?

 

Assignment
Finish viewing the film Shawshank Redemption
Complete a viewing log to help you organize for the essay

Journal

Why does King choose to tell the story through Red rather than Andy? What does he accomplish, in narrative terms, if we heard it all from Andy?

Assignment
Begin viewing the film Shawshank Redemption
Complete a viewing log to help you organize for the essay

Journal

Do the characters in the film match with the image/idea you had of the characters while reading the novella? Expand.

Assignment
Begin viewing the film Shawshank Redemption
Complete a viewing log to help you organize for the essay

Journal

What do you think it is that makes some people resilient, while others are not?

 

Assignment

Begin viewing the film Shawshank Redemption

Complete a viewing log to help you organize for the essay

Journal

What is your opinion of the novella, Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption?

 

Assignment - Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption
Submit Reading Logs.
Complete the RCC.

Journal

The subtitle for this story is ‘Hope Springs Eternal.’ Why is hope eternal? And why does this story represent spring?

 

Assignment - Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption
Read pages 82 - 107 for Monday and complete reading logs.
Anticipate a RCC

Journal

Examine the paragraph on page 79 starting with “He got up…” and read the paragraph after it. How does this section show the two sides of hope? Are Red’s and Andy’s feelings just natural reactions to life, or have they each subconsciously “chosen” to look at life a certain way?

 

Journal

Where does Andy plan on going when released from prison? Why does he plan on going to this place?

 

Journal

When Sam Norton refused to help Andy, he called him obtuse. Look up the definition of obtuse and discuss why that is an accurate description of Sam Norton.

 

Journal

Who was Tommy Williams? How did he get to know Andy?

 

Assignment - Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption
Read pages 58 - 71 for tomorrow and complete reading logs.

Anticipate a RCC

Journal

How does Andy explain the poster’s value to him? What does he mean?

 

Journal
Reread pages 52-54 and pay particular attention to the conversation between Red and Andy about the corrupt businesses that take place in Shawshank. Despite Andy assisting the guards in breaking the law, why does he have an untroubled conscience? This scene also demonstrates a commonality that is shared between Andy and Red. What do the two characters have in common? What is happening in Shawshank, as described by the two men, is ironic in nature. How so?

Assignment - Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption
Read pages 49 - 58 for Friday and complete reading logs.

Journal

Characterize Andy Dufresne using details from the text for support.

Assignment - Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption
Read pages 26 - 48 for tomorrow and complete reading logs.

Anticipate a RCC

Journal

What is ironic about the sculptures that Red talks about on the bottom of page 16? Why do you think this part is included in the story?

 

Assignment - Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption

Submit Reading Logs.

Complete the RCC.

Read pages 26 - 48 for Wednesday and complete reading logs.
 

Journal

Describe Red. What kind of person is he both physically and characteristically?

 

Assignment

Students will continue to read RHSR pages 1 – 26 for Monday and complete the reading log and anticipate a RCC.

Journal

Do you consider yourself a resilient and resourceful person? Why or why not? Could you survive in prison?

 

Assignment

Introduction to the novella Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption.  Students will read pages 1 – 26 for Monday and complete the reading log and anticipate a RCC.

Journal

How would you describe the atmosphere of Secret Window? How is that atmosphere created?

 

Assignment

Continue viewing Secret Window in class. Complete a viewing log to keep track of the similarities and differences in the novel/film.

Journal

How do you feel about Mort at the beginning? How much sympathy do you have for him?

 

Assignment

Continue viewing Secret Window in class. Complete a viewing log to keep track of the similarities and differences in the novel/film.

Journal

Describe the opening scene of the film. How does this set the mood for the rest of the film?

 

Assignment

Begin viewing Secret Window in class. Complete a viewing log to keep track of the similarities and differences in the novel/film.

Journal

What did you think of the novel? What was the best part of it? What was the worst part of it? Would you change it in anyway? If so, how?

 

Assignment

Final day to complete all reading logs and submit them to me.  We begin viewing the film tomorrow.

Journal

What do you think of the character John Shooter? Was Mort experiencing dissociative identity? Or was Shooter, as Amy believes, a ghost? What do you think?

 

Literature

Submit reading log. Discuss the characterization and plot twist of the novella.  Short writing assignment.

Journal

Do you think that John Kintner is related to John Shooter? And if so, how?

 

Literature

Continue reading Chapters 48 - end for tomorrow and complete reading log.

Journal

What things do you find Mort Rainey recalling? What is happening to him in this section of the story so far?

 

Literature

Submit reading log. Read Chapters 48 - end for Wednesday and complete reading log.

Journal

In this reading, Amy and Mort have a conversation about Mort’s lover. Who was Mort’s lover and how did Amy feel about her? Also, what conversation ensues after Amy brings up this affair with Mort?

 

Literature

Continue reading Chapters 42-47 and complete reading log for Monday.

Journal

At the end of this section, Mort says, “What did you do? What in the world did you do?” What do you think Shooter may have done at this point in the story?

 

Literature

Submit reading log. Read Chapters 42-47 for Monday and complete reading log.

Journal

Shooter says, “I’d leave her (Amy) out of it if I could, but I’m startin’ to think you ain’t going to leave me that option.” Do you think that Shooter is serious about involving Amy? And what would that entail if he would involve her?

 

Literature

Continue reading Chapters 36-41 and complete reading log for tomorrow.

Journal

At the end of this section, why is Mort afraid for Tom Greenleaf, even though Greenleaf claims that he never saw Shooter standing there with Mort?

 

Literature

Submit reading log. Read Chapters 36-41 for Thursday and complete reading log.

Journal

Did the author create different moods? Find passages in the text that reveal two different moods, and share. Point out the words, phrases, and actions that helped create the mood.

 

Literature

Continue reading Chapters 28 - 35 and complete reading log for tomorrow.

Journal

Describe the conversation that occurred between Rainey and Ted Milner at the end of Chapter 21. Give details.

 

Literature

Submit reading log. Read Chapters 28 - 35 for Tuesday and complete reading log.

Journal

Describe Mort’s conversation with Herb at the beginning of Chapter 17. How does Mort seem to be acting?

 

Literature

Continue reading Chapters 22 - 27 for tomorrow and complete reading log

Journal

The story reads, “He was suddenly furious with Shooter. If the man had appeared in the driveway at that second, Mort would have charged him without a second thought – driven him to the ground and choked him if he could. Easy – it really is catching.” To what occurrence is Mort responding? And what is the “it” that is really catching. Do you agree or disagree?

 

Literature

Submit reading log for Chapters 17 - 21; Read Chapters 22 - 27 for Friday and complete reading log

Journal

Name one to two minor characters. Show how each affected Mort Rainey.

 

Literature

Continue reading Chapters 17 - 21 due tomorrow

Journal

Summarize your reading up to this point. What do you think is going to happen next? Predict.

 

Literature

Reading Log due for Chapters 12 - 16 due; Read Chapters 17 - 21 for Wednesday and complete the reading log.

Journal

What “true horror” do you predict Mort Rainey has yet to discover?

 

Assignment

~ Submit RL to teacher

~ Read Chapters 17 - 21 for Tuesday of next week and complete a RL as well

Journal

Why do you think that Mort hasn’t gone to Dave Newsome, the Tashmore constable, yet? Do you think that it was a wise decision? What would you have done if one of the Crazy Folk came knocking on your door accusing you of something? Would you call the law or settle it yourself?

 

Assignment

~ Read Chapters 12 - 16 for tomorrow and complete Reading Log; update Character Chart

Journal

John Shooter has come to accuse Mort Rainey of stealing Shooter’s story. However, he also states, “The second thing…is the real reason I come.” What do you think the second thing is?

 

Assignment

~ Submit Reading Logs and Character Chart Check

~ Read Chapters 12 -16 of the novel Secret Window, Secret Garden for Wednesday. Be sure to come to class with your completed reading log and any questions/comments that you may have about this chunk of reading.

Journal

Describe the setting of SWSG using specific details from the text to support your description.

 

Assignment

Please read Chapters 9 - 11 of the novel Secret Window, Secret Garden for Wednesday March 22. Be sure to come to class with your completed reading log and any questions/comments that you may have about this chunk of reading.

Journal

Describe Mort Rainey.

 

Assignment

~ Read Chapters 1 – 8 for Tuesday and Complete Reading Log & Character Chart/Plot Guide for Tuesday

Journal

“Monsters are real, and ghosts are real too. They live inside us, and sometimes, they win.” What does Stephen King mean by this quote? Do you agree or disagree with him? Explain.

 

Assignment

~ Distribute novel Secret Window, Secret Garden

~ Read Chapters 1 – 8 for Tuesday and Complete Reading Log & Character Chart/Plot Guide for Tuesday

Journal

King usually begins the story creation process by imagining a "what if" scenario. If you were given the opportunity to write a short story or novel, what would your what if be? Expand. Provide details, please.

 

Assignment

Finish WebQuest on Stephen King; submit to teacher

Journal

Predict what you think will happen in Season 2 of Stranger Things.

Assignment

Submit Stranger Things theme analysis

Introduction to Stephen King - WebQuest

Journal

Which episode was your favorite and why? Give details to support your opinion.

 

Assignment

Peer Review of Theme Analysis; fix any errors

Journal

What questions do you have about the series Stranger Things?

 

Assignment

Final Day to work on Theme analysis

Journal

What is a major theme of Season One of Stranger Things and how is the theme developed? Use details to support your ideas.

 

Assignment

Theme Analysis Essay continued

Journal
Dustin, “Never stop being curious. Always keep the curiosity door open.” Agree or disagree?

Assignment
After viewing the series Stranger Things, students will complete a plot chart to determine the significant themes within the series. Furthermore, they will develop a them analysis of five paragraphs that focuses on organization and content development.

Journal

Lucas admits to being wrong. He, El, and Mike apologize to one another. Tell me about a time when you’ve admitted you were wrong.

 

Assignment
After viewing the series Stranger Things, students will complete a plot chart to determine the significant themes within the series. Furthermore, they will develop a them analysis of five paragraphs that focuses on organization and content development.

Journal

Who is your favorite character up to this point in the series? Why is this character your favorite? Expand and explain with supportive details.

 

Continue watching "The Upside Down" with a focus on theme.

Journal

Who is your favorite character up to this point in the series? Why is this character your favorite? Expand and explain with supportive details.

 

Assignment

Begin watching "The Upside Down" with a focus on mood and setting.

Journal

According to Jonathan, “YOU SHOULDN’T LIKE THINGS BECAUSE PEOPLE TELL YOU YOU’RE SUPPOSED TO.” Do you agree or disagree with this statement and why? How does this apply to life?

 

Assignment

Continue with plot gram for the series Stranger Things

Journal

Do you believe in other dimensions or parallel universes? Explain why or why not?

 

Assignment

Continue viewing and analyzing Episode 7: "The Bathtub" to develop greater skills in visual literacy.  Work on plot gram.

Journal

At the beginning of “The Body,” Joyce tells Hopper, “I need you to believe me,” even though what she is saying sounds completely unbelievable. Tell me about a situation where you needed somebody to just believe in you.

 

Assignment

Continue viewing and analyzing Episode 7: "The Bathtub" to develop greater skills in visual literacy.

Journal

Discuss a particular, concrete, or special object/image in one shot or throughout the film. What is its significance?

 

Film

Stranger Things Chapter 5 continued

Journal

What do you predict will happen to Barb?

 

Film

Stranger Things: "Flea on a Tight Rope

Exam on Dekanawida, Adams, Stanton and Franklin

Journal

If a psychologist were to look at the actions of Joyce Byers (Will’s Mom), what do you think the psychologist would say about that character? Describe specific statements or actions that you think the psychologist would be interested in and the conclusions that you think the psychologist would draw from those statements or actions.

 

Film Study
Stranger Things Chapter 4 and Viewing Guide continued

Journal

At one point in the story, Mike promises EL that he will come back for her. When he does come back for her, she repeats the word promise, showing that she understands the meaning of the word and emphasizing the trust she has of Mike. What does a promise mean to you? Do you feel as though you are good at keeping promises? Do you have anyone that you trust when they make promises to you?

 

Viewing

Continue viewing Stranger Things with a focus on theme development.

Journal

In some Eastern religions a person lives an endlessly repeating series of lives until, one day, enlightenment is attained and the soul escapes from the endless repetition of life. How does Phil's experience in Groundhog Day follow a similar pattern? How does it differ?

 

Assignment

Character Analysis

Journal

What may be the reasons that Groundhog Day, as opposed to any of a number of minor cultural events, was chosen for the time loop in this film?

 

Assignment

Character Analysis Essay

Journal

Which stage of Maslow’s hierarchy do you think is the most important? Why?

 

Literature

Students will focus on the literary terms of characterization, dramatic irony, situational irony and conflict as they relate to the film Groundhog Day.

 

Journal

Why do you think that Phil continuously tries to woo Rita? Do you think that what he is doing is ethical? Why or why not? Would you do something similar if given the opportunity? And, if so, with whom?

 

Literature

Introduction to Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs; Students will use this platform to analyze the characterization of Phil Connors in the film Groundhog Day.

Journal

If you found out that there is no accountability for your actions, what type of things would you do? Would you use this new found revelation for good or not-so-good?

 

Literature

Complete packets for Groundhog Day focusing on the exposition, rising action, and conflict

Journal

If you had to live the same day over and over again, what types of things would you do differently?

 

Assignment

Students will continue viewing Groundhog Day.  They will analyze plot structure determining what specific type of conflict the protagonist experiences at various points of the film.

Journal

Do you want the Groundhog to see his shadow or nah? Explain why.

 

Assignment

Students will continue viewing the film Groundhog Day. They will analyze a specific scene between Phil and Rita as a moment of transition for the character of Phil.

Journal

Would you want to live the same day of your life over and over again? Why or why not?

 

Assignment

Students will be introduced to the film Groundhog Day.  The focus of this film viewing will be on Maslov's Hierarchy of needs and the transitioning of the character throughout the film.  Day one will include information on various literary terms:

Climax
Conflict
Dramatic Irony
Dynamic Character
Foil
Indirect Characterization
Resolution
Rising Action
Setting
Situational Irony
Suspense
Symbolism
Theme
Verbal Irony

 

 

Journal

How does Stranger than Fiction demonstrate the inter-connectivity of lives? (Hint discuss the boy on the bike and the woman job searching to show your understanding of this concept.)

 

Assignment

Complete film reviews. Due by the end of the period.

Journal

“Death and Taxes” begins with: “This is a story about a man named Harold Crick and his wristwatch.” What role does the wristwatch play?

 

Assignment

Continue Film Review Analysis

Journal

When it becomes clear that Harold can’t ignore the narrator’s influence on his life and that his death is likely, Hilbert advises that he go and live his life, that he pursues his dreams and adventures. Is this appropriate advice? Why or why not?

 

Assignment

How many rectangular and other right-angled geometrical motifs did you notice? Explain their significance.How many circular motifs can you identify? Explain the significance of them.For each of the specific motifs in your list, identify at least three scenes/incidents in which they occur and comment on any significance. ('Specific' means things like the watch, rather than round shapes generally.) How many metaphors and/or symbols can you identify from the film? 

Journal

What did you notice about the music in this film? What role does the guitar play in Harold’s life?

 

Assignment

Finish viewing the film; Focus on the issue of conflict and how it affects plot

Journal

What do you think of the film Stranger than Fiction so far?

 

Assignment

View the film; focus on narrative structure and plot of the film

Journal

If you knew that your “imminent death” was looming, what would you do? Explain and expand.

 

Assignment

Continue viewing Stranger than Fiction with focus on character development

Journals

Do you believe in fate or free will? Or a combination of both? Explain and Expand.

 

Assignment

Students will begin viewing the film Stranger than Fiction.  The focus will be on squares and circles used as symbols to convey a particular theme of the film.

Journal:
What do you think is the most important thing a film should do for its audience? Entertain or educate? Expand with significant details.

Writing Assignment:
In no less than 250 words, write an essay that discusses your favorite film. Be sure to have a strong introduction, three body paragraphs with supporting details and a strong conclusion. Essay is due by the end of the period today.

Journal:
Discuss a book that you have read and the film that correlates with it.

Writing Assignment:
In no less than 250 words, write an essay that discusses your favorite film. Be sure to have a strong introduction, three body paragraphs with supporting details and a strong conclusion. Essay is due on Friday.

Journal

Discuss your favorite movie in no less than 5 sentences.

 

Assignment

~ Introduction to the class and course syllabus; RETURN parent signature form no later than Monday, January 23 for credit; without this form, you may not participate in class film viewing

~ In no less than 250 words, write an essay that discusses your favorite film. Be sure to have a strong introduction, three body paragraphs with supporting details and a strong conclusion. Essay is due on 1/20/2017 Friday at the end of the class period.

Journal

When Red arrives at the field in Buxton, we can hear the sound of a harmonica playing.  What does this sound symbolize?  What does this scene show that Red is finally ready to believe in?

 

Film

Finish the film Shawshank Redemption

Journal

According to Red, “Hope is a dangerous thing.” Agree or disagree.

 

Film

Continue watching Shawshank Redemption focusing on the scene where Andy discusses his plans with Red

Journal

The song that Andy plays on the phonograph is "The Marriage of Figar" by Mozart.  It is about a servant who outwitted his master.  What is the significance of Andy playing this song for the prisoners and guards?

 

Film

Continue watching Shawshank Redemption 

Journal
Do you prefer the horror stories of Stephen King or the human interest type pieces? Expand on your opinion.

Film
Continue viewing Shawshank Redemption discuss music

Journal

What lessons from this film can viewers apply to their own lives?

 

Film

Continue viewing Shawshank Redemption discuss camera angles

Journal

Do the characters in the film match with the image/idea you had of the characters while reading the novella? Expand.

 

Assignment

Continue watching the film Shawshank Redemption

Journal

What symbols does King use to evoke hope? Are they what you'd expect those kinds of symbols to be? Why or why not?

 

Literature

Submit rough draft of essay

Begin watching film Shawshank Redemption and complete a viewing guide

Journal

How important is the postscript, where Red tells us that he's free? How does including this information as a postscript make the story different than if he'd escaped with Andy?

 

Assignment

Continue essay, which is due tomorrow by the beginning of period.

Journal

Why doesn't King frame this story as a prison break from the beginning? Would it be more interesting if we were told what Andy's doing from the start?

 

Literature

Continue writing rough draft for RHSR due Thursday at the beginning of the period

Journal

Why does King choose to tell the story through Red rather than Andy? What does he accomplish, in narrative terms, if we heard it all from Andy?

 

Film

Continue watching The Shawshank Redemption

Journal

Do the characters in the film match with the image/idea you had of the characters while reading the novella? Expand.

 

Film

Continue watching the film The Shawshank Redemption and complete the viewing log.

Journal

Which story of Stephen King’s did you prefer: Secret Window, Secret Garden or Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption?

 

Film

Continue watching the film The Shawshank Redemption and complete the viewing log.

Journal

The subtitle for this story is ‘Hope Springs Eternal.’ Why is hope eternal? And why does this story represent spring?

 

Literature

Submit reading log for pages 82 - 107 of RHSR

Begin viewing the film Shawshank Redemption

Journal

Examine the title of the novella. Why do you think it is called Rita Hayworth and
Shawshank Redemption?

 

Literature

Read pages 82 - 107 for Thursday and complete a reading log.

Journal

Examine the paragraph on page 79 starting with “He got up…” and read the paragraph after it. How does this section show the two sides of hope? Are Red’s and Andy’s feelings just natural reactions to life, or have they each subconsciously “chosen” to look at life a certain way?

 

Literature

Submit reading log for pages 71 - 82 of RHSR

Read pages 82 - 107 and complete a reading log for Thursday

Journal

Where does Andy plan on going when released from prison? Why does he plan on going to this place?

 

Literature

Read pages 71 - 82 of Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption for Tuesday and complete a reading log. 

Journal

When Sam Norton refused to help Andy, he called him obtuse. Look up the definition of obtuse and discuss why that is an accurate description of Sam Norton.

 

Literature

Reading logs due; read pages 71 - 82 for Tuesday and complete reading log for RHSR

Journal

Who was Tommy Williams? How did he get to know Andy?

 

Literature

Read pages 58 - 71 of RHSR for Friday and complete the reading log.

Journal

How does Andy explain the poster’s value to him? What does he mean?

 

Literature

Reading logs due; read pages 58 - 71 for Friday and complete reading log for RHSR

Journal

Reread pages 52-54 and pay particular attention to the conversation between Red and Andy about the corrupt businesses that take place in Shawshank. Despite Andy assisting the guards in breaking the law, why does he have an untroubled conscience? This scene also demonstrates a commonality that is shared between Andy and Red. What do the two characters have in common? What is happening in Shawshank, as described by the two men, is ironic in nature. How so?

 

Literature

Read pages 49 - 58 for tomorrow in the novella Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption. Complete a reading log and submit to me at the beginning of class. Be prepared to discuss this portion of the novella.

Journal

What does Red mean when he says, “It was a kind of inner light he carried around with him?” In other words, how did Andy differ from the other prisoners or people in general? Do you know anybody who is similar to Andy in this degree?

 

Literature

Submit reading log for pages 26 - 48 of Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption and read pages 49 - 58 for Wednesday.  Complete a reading log.

Journal

What is ironic about the sculptures that Red talks about on the bottom of page 16? Why do you think this part is included in the story?

 

Literature and Film

Reading logs due; read pages 26 - 48 for Monday and complete reading log for RHSR

 

Journal

Describe Red. What kind of person is he both physically and characteristically?

 

Literature

Read pages 15 - 26 for tomorrow in the novella "Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption". Complete a reading log and submit to me at the beginning of class. Be prepared to discuss this portion of the novella.

Journal

Do you consider yourself a resilient and resourceful person? Why or why not? Could you survive in prison?

 

Literature

Introduction to "Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption"

Read up to and including page 26

Complete the reading log by Thursday

Journals
Describe in detail the monster that you fear the most. What does this monster look like? What is this monster capable of doing?

Film Analysis
In a five paragraph essay, students will finish a theme analysis of the series Stranger Things.  The focus will be on how characters, setting and plot influence a writer's theme in film.

Journals
Predict what you think will happen in Season 2 of Stranger Things.


Film Analysis
In a five paragraph essay, students will finish a theme analysis of the series Stranger Things. The focus will be on how characters, setting and plot influence a writer's theme in film.

Journals
Which episode was your favorite and why? Give details to support your opinion.

Film Analysis
In a five paragraph essay, students will finish a theme analysis of the series Stranger Things. The focus will be on how characters, setting and plot influence a writer's theme in film.

Journal

 What questions do you have about the series?

 

Film

Finish watching "The Upside Down" and discuss alternative endings

Journal

 What is a major theme of Season One of Stranger Things and how is the theme developed? Use details to support your ideas.

 

Film

continue watching "The Upside Down" with a focus on mood and setting

Journal

Dustin, “Never stop being curious. Always keep the curiosity door open.” Agree or disagree?

 

Film

Finish "The Bathtub" and begin "The Upside Down"

Journal

Lucas admits to being wrong. He, El, and Mike apologize to one another. Tell me about a time when you’ve admitted you were wrong.

 

Film

Continue watching "The Bathtub" while completing viewing logs.

Journal

Who is your favorite character up to this point in the series? Why is this character your favorite? Expand and explain with supportive details.

 

Film

Begin watching "The Bathtub"

Journal

Mike says, “If anyone asks, I left the country!” Tell me about a time when you have wanted other people to think that you have left the country.

 

Film

Continue plot graph for Stranger Things

Journal

Do you believe in the possibility of different dimensions or parallel universes?  Why or why not?  Expand with details.

 

Film

Continue watching episode six "The Monster" and complete viewing guide

Journal

At the beginning of “The Body,” Joyce tells Hopper, “I need you to believe me,” even though what she is saying sounds completely unbelievable. Tell me about a situation where you needed somebody to just believe in you.

 

Film

Continue watching "The Flea and the Acrobat"

Journal
What do you predict will happen to Barb?

Film Study
Stranger Things Chapter 4 and Viewing Guide continued

Journal

If a psychologist were to look at the actions of Will’s Mom, what do you think the psychologist would say about that character? Describe specific statements or actions that you think the psychologist would be interested in and the conclusions that you think the psychologist would draw from those statements or actions.

 

Film Study

Stranger Things Chapter 3 and Viewing Guide continued

Journal

At one point in the story, Mike promises EL that he will come back for her. When he does come back for her, she repeats the word promise, showing that she understands the meaning of the word and emphasizing the trust she has of Mike. What does a promise mean to you? Do you feel as though you are good at keeping promises? Do you have anyone that you trust when they make promises to you?

 

Film Study

Stranger Things: Chapter 3 and Viewing Guide

Journal

What details in the setting of the film are similar to the setting in which you live or in various places you have been? What are those similarities and what are the differences?

 

Film Study

Stranger Things Chapter 2

Mort is someone who doesn't want to face the future, but instead wants to wallow in the past. To what extent can you identify with that? Why are people sometimes unable to look to the future when things have gone wrong in the past?

 

Continue writing your comparison/contrast essay on  Secret Window, Secret Garden and The Secret Window.  Essays due tomorrow at the end of the class. FCA include run on sentences and supporting details.  

 

Journal

How do you feel about Mort's transformed character at the very end of Secret Window? Why is he so satisfied with his revenge? How far do you think that revenge can satisfy? What are the alternatives to revenge?

 

Assignment

Begin writing the film review for Secret Window.  Focus should be on the differences between the novel and the film.

Journal

How would you describe the atmosphere of Secret Window? How is that atmosphere created?

 

Assignment

Continue watching the film Secret Window and complete a viewing log. Be sure to note the differences between the novel and the film.

Journal

How do you feel about Mort at the beginning? How much sympathy do you have for him?

 

Assignment
Continue watching the film Secret Window and complete a viewing log. Be sure to note the differences between the novel and the film.

Journal

Describe the opening scene of the film. How does this set the mood for the rest of the film?

 

Assignment

Continue watching the film Secret Window and complete a viewing log.  Be sure to note the differences between the novel and the film.

Journal:

What do you think of the character John Shooter? Was Mort experiencing Dissociative Identity? Or was Shooter, as Amy believes, a ghost? What do you think?

 

Literature:

Begin watching the film Secret Window and complete a viewing log.

~ Journal: Do you think that John Kintner is related to John Shooter? And if so, how?
~ Turn in Reading Log 8
~ Discussion 42 - end

~ Journal:What things do you find Mort Rainey recalling? What is happening to him in this section of the story so far? 
~ Read Chapters 42 – end
~ Complete Reading Log for tomorrow

~ Journal: In this reading, Amy and Mort have a conversation about Mort’s lover. Who was Mort’s lover and how did Amy feel about her? Also, what conversation ensues after Amy brings up this affair with Mort?
~ Turn in Reading Log 7
~ Discussion 36 – 41
~ Read Chapters 42 – end for Friday & Complete Reading Log

~ Journal: At the end of this section, Mort says, “What did you do? What in the world did you do?” What do you think Shooter may have done at this point in the story?
~ Read Chapters 36 – 41

~ Complete Reading Log for tomorrow

~ Journal: Shooter says, “I’d leave her (Amy) out of it if I could, but I’m startin’ to think you ain’t going to leave me that option.” Do you think that Shooter is serious about involving Amy? And what would that entail if he would involve her?
~ Turn in Reading Log 6
~ Discussion 28 – 35
~ Read Chapters 36 – 41 for Wednesday & Complete Reading Log

~ Journal: At the end of this section, why is Mort afraid for Tom Greenleaf, even though Greenleaf claims that he never saw Shooter standing there with Mort?
~ Turn in Reading Log 5
~ Discussion 22 – 27 SWSG
~ Read Chapters 28 – 35 for Monday & Complete Reading Log

~ Journal: Did the author create different moods? Find passages in the text that reveal two different moods, and share. Point out the words, phrases, and actions that helped create the mood.
~ Read Chapters 22 - 27
~ Complete Reading Log for tomorrow

~ Journal:Describe the conversation that occurred between Rainey and Ted Milner at the end of Chapter 21. Give details.
~ Turn in Reading Log 4
~ Discussion 17 – 21
~ Read Chapters 22 – 27 for Wednesday & Complete reading log

Journal Prompt:

 

Literature:

~ Read Chapters 17 - 21 SWSG
~ Complete Reading Log

Journal Prompt:

 

Literature:

~ Turn in Reading Log 3
~ Discussion 12 – 16
~ Read Chapters 17 – 21 for Monday & Complete Reading Log

Journal Prompt:

Summarize your reading up to this point. What do you think is going to happen next? Predict.

 

Literature:

~ Read Chapters 12 – 16 SWSG
~ Complete Reading Log

Journal:

What “true horror” do you predict Mort Rainey has yet to discover?

 

Literature:

~ Turn in Reading Log 2
~ Discuss Chapters 9 – 11 SWSG
~ Read Chapters 12 – 16 for Thursday & Complete Reading Log

Journal Prompt:

Why do you think that Mort hasn’t gone to Dave Newsome, the Tashmore constable, yet? Do you think that it was a wise decision? What would you have done if one of the Crazy Folk came knocking on your door accusing you of something? Would you call the law or settle it yourself?

 

Literature:

~ Read Chapters 9 – 11 SWSG
~ Complete Reading Log & Character Chart/Plot Guide for Tuesday

John Shooter has come to accuse Mort Rainey of stealing Shooter’s story. However, he also states, “The second thing…is the real reason I come.” What do you think the second thing is?

 

~ Turn in Reading Log 1
~ Discuss Chapters 1 – 8
~ Read Chapters 9 – 11 for Tuesday

“Monsters are real, and ghosts are real too. They live inside us, and sometimes, they win.” What does Stephen King mean by this quote? Do you agree or disagree with him? Explain.

 

~ continue with reading of Chapters 1 - 8 due tomorrow

King usually begins the story creation process by imagining a "what if" scenario. If you were given the opportunity to write a short story or novel, what would your what if be? Expand. Provide details, please.

 

~ collect the Web Quest on Stephen King

~ distribute new calendar, character charts, plot grams, and reading logs

~ distribute the Secret Window, Secret Garden and instruct students to read Chapters 1 – 8 by Thursday and to complete character charts, plot grams and reading log #1

Journal Prompt:

Have you ever been accused of doing something that you never did? How did it make you feel? How did you respond? If you have never had this happen to you, how do you think that you would feel if you did experience it?

 

Assignment:

~ collect their film review of Stranger than Fiction

~ coomplete the Web Quest assignment about Stephen King

Journal Prompt:

What human quality do we need more of and why?

 

Assignment:

Continue working on your film review of Stranger than Fiction.

Journal Prompt:

What does the film say about therapy? What does it say about art or love as healing forces?

 

Assignment:

Students will complete a film review after learning the specific format of a review.


Heading
Your Name
Name of Film
Director
Genre (use your judgment)

Introduction
Introduce the film you saw. Be sure to include any background information about the film that may be interesting to the read. Also, introduce the director and stars. At the end of the introduction have a thesis stating your opinion of the film; was the film worth screening? Be creative in your wording of the thesis.

Plot Synopsis
Provide a BRIEF plot summary of the film. Is the plot original or cliché? Is the plot predictable? Please do not give away endings, but you still must show competent knowledge of the film.

Themes
What was the main theme of the movie? Does the movie teach the viewer anything about life, love etc.? Include what these themes are as well as how they are conveyed to the reader

Visual Elements
How was the film’s visual appearance? Is there anything interesting about the camera work (angles, shots, etc.) or the set designs (costumes, locations) or the lighting (light/dark).

Conclusion
Conclude the review with your opinion of the film. Be creative and try to persuade the reader to either see or not see the film based on your review. Also, rate the film. You can do this with thumbs up/down, a scale of 1-10 or any other of a million possibilities.

Journal Prompt:

What are the chief images, significant symbols, driving metaphors or dominant themes of the film?

 

Assignment:

Students will differentiate between motifs, metaphors and symbols.  They will devise lists of motifs in the film Stranger than Fiction.  For each of the specific motifs in the list, identify at least three scenes/incidents in which they occur and comment on any significance.  

Journal Prompt:

What does Stranger than Fiction say about the ordinary, mundane events of everyday life? What are your thoughts about these events in your life?

 

Assignment:

Today's lesson will focus on theme in the film.  Students will evaluate the film for various themes and analyze how the director relays them in his film.

Journal Prompt:

Some have called Stranger than Fiction a fable, a parable, a “moral tale.” What is the message(s) of the film? What big questions does this film address?

 

Assignment:

We will be discussing Character Arcs, Parallels and Contrasts, and Minor Characters.  Students will then complete a character map for  4 characters from the film.

Journal Prompt:

How does Stranger than Fiction demonstrate the inner-connectivity of lives? (Hint discuss the boy on the bike and the woman job searching to show your understanding of this concept.)

 

Assignment:

The allusions that dominate this film are to great mathematicians of the past.
2. Why is this appropriate?

3. To whom or what are the following names of mathematicians attached? Can you suggest reasons for the choices?
• Francis Crick: Harold Crick
• Blaise Pascal: Ana Pascal
• Gustave Eiffel: Karen Eiffel
• Dr David Hilbert: Professor Jules Hilbert
• M.C. Escher: Penny Escher
• Arthur Cayley: Dr Cayly, Human Resources • Magnus Gustaf Mittag-Leffler: the psychiatrist Harold consults
• Leopold Kronecker: the bus line
• Benjamin Banneker: the Banneker Press, Karen's publisher
• Gerardus Mercator: Dr Mercator is the doctor at the hospital
• Euclid: a street name

 

4. Research these mathematicians' lives and briefly explain what contribution each made to the growth of mathematics.

Journal:
If you knew that your “eminent death” was looming, what would you do? Explain and expand.

Students will begin watching the film Stranger than Fiction and analyzing its use of character development.

 

* After receiving class syllabus, students will return the student/parent signature sheet by Friday, September 2.  This assignment will be worth 5 points and serve as a student document of understanding of classroom procedures.

Journal:
Do you believe in fate or free will?  Or a combination of both?  Explain and expand.

 

Students will begin watching the film Stranger than Fiction and analyzing its use of character development.

Journal:
What do you think is the most important thing a film should do for its audience?  Entertain or educate?  Expand with significant details.

Writing Assignment:
In no less than 250 words, write an essay that discusses your favorite film. Be sure to have a strong introduction, three body paragraphs with supporting details and a strong conclusion. Essay is due on 9/1/2016 Thursday at the beginning of the class period.

Discuss a book that you have read and the film that correlates with it.

 

In no less than 250 words, write an essay that discusses your favorite film. Be sure to have a strong introduction, three body paragraphs with supporting details and a strong conclusion.  Essay is due on 9/1/2016 Thursday at the beginning of the class period.

 

 

Journal Entry:

Discuss your favorite movie in no less than 5 sentences