Monday

Starting today, six students will read one of their two body paragraphs to the class. While reading aloud, the class should examine the body paragraphs for: a) active verb usage; b) vague language and/or inflated phrasing; c) use of argumentative, body ¶ structure (reason sentence(s), quote set-up, use of direct quote, commentary with additional examples; d) overall quality and depth of writing (the meh factor). I will also be introducing our reading of Miller's The Crucible.

HW: Revise your body paragraphs. Read the Gerald Weales introduction to the play, handout.

Tuesday

The second six readers of their body paragraphs. Then reading the playwright's opening description in Act 1. What is his attitude towards his subject? What does he want his actors and actresses to communicate to the audience in their performances?
HW: Read the dialogue up to the entrance of Reverend John Hale of Beverly.

Wednesday

The third six readers of their body paragraphs. Then reading the playwright's description of Mr. Hale.
HW: Reading Act 1.

Thursday

Introduction to Miller's The Crucible, characterization and how the plot is driven. We will also (nearly) finish the body paragraphs.
HW: Finish reading and annotating Act 1.

Friday

Performance day. Today students will be assigned a selection of script to practice. Students will go through three readings of their script: a) a cold reading, b) a standing reading with planned inflection, and c) a blocked reading based on students' interpretation. We will also have 3-4 body paragraph readers.
HW: Read act two over the weekend. Developing a third body paragraph on a source of your own choosing, and finishing the revisions of your body paragraphs, due Monday.