The Secondary Literature II class started the school year by reading selected Short Stories and focusing on the various methods of characterization used by the author: such as physical description, actions, inner thoughts and direct speech. The students also took into account the role of the story’s narrative structure in creating conflict, mystery and suspense. In addition to reviewing these conventional literary devices, students analyzed the author’s use of figurative language and its role in engaging the reader. The students then applied these techniques to writing their own entertaining Narratives.
From the Short Story we moved on to our study of the Novel 1984 and examined how
Orwell’s context and background influenced the text. Students also considered the literary devices in the novel, such as figurative language, diction, tone and mood. They then made connections between the social constructs of 1984 those of today’s reality. As one of their final assessments they created a collage depicting the themes of the novel and the results were impressive.
As we approached Winter Break they worked on a Poetry Unit in which they identified traditional and organic poetic forms, as well as the poet’s use of sound devices and the difference between literal and figurative language. We will wrap up this unit on returning from break and then will take on Non-Fiction Essays. The New Year ahead promises to be engaging, inspired and creative
with this small, yet dynamic powerhouse!