Groups
Justice C. & Taylor C.: "To Build a Fire"
Olivia L., Jacob W.: "The Destructors"
Purpose: To teach a class together as a two- or three-person team. You will focus on a story assigned for that day and help us understand the story as well as think more about its effects and meanings. Since your presentation is 20mins, we will use the rest of the period to pursue your ideas along with ideas I wish to share with the class. Therefore, you should offer specific ideas and conclusions but also raise questions for us to consider, including questions you have as readers.Presentation Length: 20mins.
Points: 20
Selection Process: Begin by selecting two or three stories you might like to use. Each group will teach a different story, so first come, first serve. Once you decide on a story, let me know, and I will post your choice by your group name above so other groups and the class will know. So you may need to go with your second or third choice. Presentations must be completed by April 27: The last story you can use is "The Destructors." Since you most likely have not read all of the stories this semester, spend some time previewing them. Read the introduction and conclusion, look at the author bio, and read the study questions at the end of the story. Note: Do not select The Invisible Man for this assignment. (You can choose this for your essay if you wish.)
Finally, each group (both members) will meet with me before they present to go over the presentation and ask questions.
Since this is a collaborative assignment, you should work together, beginning with your story selection. Although you can communicate electronically and meet virtually, you should plan on one or two in-person meetings--safely.
Considerations
**Since you only have 20mins, you should have a narrow focus. What do you want to cover? You can focus on the features of literature we discussed the first weeks of class and/or your own angle on the story. You might also discuss relevant background, e.g., historical, social, on the author. However, your main focus should be the story itself. You do not need to summarize the story's plot--we will have read the story. You should point us to key passages and key quotations.
**You can use PowerPt slides if you wish or a handout, but this is not required. You do have to have notes that you use during your talk. I will collect these. They can be handwritten or typed.
**During the presentation, both group members should talk.
**You can lecture and/or ask the class to interact.
**You can leave us with questions for discussion that we can address for the remainder of class.
**Don't forget to think about your delivery style--volume, where you will stand, how you might move, and your dress.
If questions arise, feel free to ask me, e.g., after class or office hours. When we meet to discuss your class, we can address any questions or concerns you have.
Assessment Criteria
**Your presentation to the class has a clear focus and structure. You help us understand the story and think more about its meanings and implications--even beyond the story itself.
**Your presentation should be 20mins, not 15mins. You will lose some points if the presentation is short. It's ok if you take a few extra minutes.
**The style of the presentation (e.g., volume, tone) is effective and engaging.
**All group members will receive the same score.