Students should get in groups of 3-4. Let them choose, but
have them also pick up one copy of each student sample packet (2 packets
total). Ask them to wait to begin until you have given directions.
The first packet has directions on the top. These essays are less
successful student examples from the past. They just need to read them, list
reasons they are unsuccessful and brainstorm ways the students could have fixed
the errors. They do not need to write down their answers for this portion. Give
them 30 minutes to read and discuss (if they all are done early, move on with
the lesson). At the end of the time, ask them which essay was the “worst” and
why—they must have concrete stylistic reasons why it fails. (3-5 min
discussion)
The second packet is more successful essays. Students should
look for techniques they can borrow for their own narratives in these examples.
Give them 15 minutes to get through as many as they can in their group. Again,
no formal journal entry for this portion.
Have them
return all the student examples to the correct piles. Every student needs a
copy of Garbology ch. 1 “Introduction 102 Tons” as they return to their
own seats. They should read the chapter silently and thoroughly. I have posted
an electronic copy on the class blog, so the printed copies need to stay in
class. AS THEY READ, they should note in their journals how the author uses
narrative techniques to engage the reader in the topic of trash. Specific
stylistic choices should be noted (sentence length, word choice, grammar and
punctuation, juxtaposition of ideas, time order, etc.). Finally, they need to
identify the author’s purpose in this chapter. (The shorthand journal version
is “How?”, “Why?”, and “Is it effective?”) Collect the copies of the chapter
before the end of the period. If they don’t finish, they can complete it at
home.
HW: Read “Watching a Man Drown” essay on the class blog and
answer How/Why in your journal for discussion on Friday.
Also due on Friday: FULL 2 page single-spaced draft of their narrative for peer editing.