Flashback Drafts

Self-assess your draft using this checklist.  Answer these questions on a separate sheet of paper.  It's okay if you don't have every item; this is something you can adjust on your revision.  If something isn't present in your story, comment on how you might revise the draft.

1.) Does the beginning of my story hook the reader? How?

2.) Do I have a smooth transition into the flashback(s), so my reader understands the time change? (Examine the verb tenses.)

3.) Which literary devices did I use during the flashback(s)? (imagery, metaphor, etc.)

4.) How does the flashback(s) further develop my character?
5.) What can I cut from my story? Make sure that everything you have written contributes to the development of your character and plot.  If it doesn't- CUT IT!

HOMEWORK: A revised (finished) draft of this story is due on Thursday.

Queer Theory

Gay & Lesbian Literature

Read your part of the article and highlight sections where you make a connection to your own life, or a connection with what you see in our society today.

HOMEWORK: Read Part 1 of TPOBAW by Thursday.

Handmaid's Tale Wrap-Up

Here's the trailer to the movie (I forgot to show it last class, sorry!)

We'll take the test first period and then go up to the lab to finish your short stories.  You should have a draft for me by the end of class today.

Welcome to Ms. Jordan's blog! We'll be using this for the next few weeks, while I am here with you.  You can get to it from a link on Mr. Craddock's blog.

Today:

- Discuss The Handmaid's Tale

Margaret Atwood's writing process.

Writing Assignment: Flashbacks

Re-read the first 6 paragraphs in Chapter 41 (p. 343-344).  Who is she speaking to? Why does she need to tell this story even though she doesn't want to?  Offred calls her narrative "limping and mutilated."  Why does Atwood choose to break up her story the way she does?  Is it successful?

Atwood obviously has a passion for feminism, which is why she chose to write about it in her novel.  What are you passionate about?  Take a few minutes to create a list of themes/topics you feel strongly about.

Assignment: Create a short story (3-5 pages) using flashbacks.  Use your list of themes to guide you toward a topic.

Feeling stuck? Here are some prompts:

• How is life different for your character now, compared to how it used to be?  Did any big, life-changing moments happen?
• Is your character in a dire situation (falling from a tall building, being held at gunpoint, hanging from a tree branch above hungry bears, etc.) and is remembering a moment in his life that he regrets? Wants to remember?
• Create a list of two or three new rules in our society that your character must follow (French fries are illegal, students must wear robes to school, etc.).  Have them reflect on how life used to be or what they've had to give up.

HOMEWORK: Bring at least one page of this story to next class.