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The Minister's Black Veil Reading Check #1

Answer in COMPLETE sentences

1. In the first paragraph, describe the attitude of the townspeople as they go to church.  What does this tell us about their true spiritual priorities?

2. Describe the initial reaction to Mr. Hooper’s veil.

3. What is the significance of the topic of the first sermon Mr. Hooper gives with the veil on?

4. How does the quote by "the old lady” (pg. 274) which reads, “He has changed himself into something awful, only by hiding his face” make sense?  Think about how you might respond to someone of authority wearing a veil like this.

The Crucible Reflection

The Crucible Reflection

Write a 2- paragraph thoughtful reflection on the following questions.

You become the judge. Analyze Arthur Miller’s choices in constructing The Crucible. Did the opening scene of the play (the Salem girls in the woods) provide a strong context for the rest of the story? In your opinion, which characters should have been developed more? Were there any loose ends that you believe should have come together stronger?

 

Offer a new ending to The Crucible by changing what happens to Tituba, Abigail, John Proctor, and Elizabeth Proctor. Why do you believe your conclusion to the play is stronger than Arthur Miller’s?

Act 4 Reading Check

Act 4 Reading Check 

  1. On page 1220, Parris talks to Danforth in fear that people in Salem will find out about the news in Andover, where the townspeople have decided that they do not believe in witchcraft. What is Parris suggesting to Danforth about what might happen in Salem?
  2. On page 1221, why does Parris ask Danforth to postpone the hanging of 7 people who are accused of witchcraft? (2 of the 7 people include Rebecca Nurse and John Proctor.)
  3. On page 1222, Danforth is serious and unwilling to postpone the hanging of the 7 people who are schedule to hang by sunrise if they do not confess. Why does he refuse to pardon/postpone their execution?
  4. On page 1223, Hale talks about the condition of Salem. What strange events does he describe is happening all around town?
  5. On page 1224, Danforth asks Hale why he has returned to Salem after quitting. Hales response is quite unusual. Describe why Hale chooses to respond to Danforth in a sarcastic way. 

The Crucible Final Essay Prompt

In Arthur Miller's play "The Crucible," many of the characters' decisions and consequent actions are motivated by fear. 

Write an organized, multi-paragraph essay in which you analyze and discuss the role fear plays in the plot of "The Crucible." Select the most significant and relevant details, examples and other information from the story and other sources to develop your essay. Use transitions to connect ideas and be sure to include a concluding section.

Writing Checklist: 
Did you . . .

  • read the prompt carefully and address all parts?
  • analyze and discuss fear and the role it plays
  • use relevant facts, concrete details, and examples?
  • use a formal writing style?
  • use transitions to connect ideas?
  • provide a concluding statement or section?
  • check for errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation?

Warm Up: Tone, Part 2

Listen to the following song by Boys II Men called "On Bended Knee." Read the lyrics as you listen.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RkztSZVzcgE

Darlin' I can't explain
Where did we lose our way
Girl it's drivin' me insane
And I know I just need one more chance
To prove my love to you
If you come back to me
I'll guarantee
That I'll never let you go

Can we go back to the days our love was strong
Can you tell me how a perfect love goes wrong
Can somebody tell me how to get things back
The way they used to be
Oh God give me a reason
I'm down on bended knee
I'll never walk again until you come back to me
I'm down on bended knee

So many nights I dreamt
Holding my pillow tight
I know that I don't need to be alone
When I open up my eyes
To face reality
Every moment without you
It seems like eternity
I'm begging you, begging you come back to me


Now, use this paragraph frame to help you communicate what you believe the tone of the song to be.

I believe the tone of Boys II Men’s “On Bended Knee” is _______. The R&B group’s attitude toward _____________ is _______________________________. I say this because ______"Line # (you choose a line)_______ reveals ______________. Secondly, _________Line # (choose another line)__________ creates a _______________________________. Finally, _______Line # (choose another line _________________________ suggests ___________________.

You don't have to use this exact paragraph frame. It is only meant to help you communicate what you might already be able to tell about the song.

Email me if you have any questions.

Warm up: Freedom

“He who has overcome his fears will truly be free.”  -Aristotle

1. Do you agree with Aristotle? Why or why not?

2. What does freedom mean to you? (Think beyond the freedom that has to do with your rights as an American.) How would you describe someone who is free? Can you think of anyone you know?

Remember to respond to warm ups thoroughly and thoughtfully.

Warm up: Previous English Class Experiences

What have your previous English class experiences been like? How can I help you succeed in this class?