LIU - Pedagogy Class

Please use this forum to probe, discuss, or question the assignments or readings from the class.

THE SCARLET IBIS: Symbolism & Theme

Before we discuss this in class, here are some points to consider:

• If you read carefully, you will note that the story of the "Scarlet Ibis" unfolds against the backdrop of World War I. What commentary do you think Hurst is making in this tale?
• What symbolic connection is there between the scarlet ibis and Doodle?
• How is color imagery used in this story?
• Why is the narrator known only as "Brother"?
• Review the graphic description of Doodle's death at the end of the tale. What has metaphorically happened here?
• How is the thematic concept of pride relevant to the tale? What theme can you derive from this concept?
• How about brotherhood?

In the event you have lost your copy of the story, here is a link to an e-text: http://209.184.141.5/westwood/academ/depts/dpteng/L-Coker/VirtualEnglish/Englsih%20I/English%20Ia/scarlet_ibis.htm

General Questions

Good afternoon, scholars.
I'm simply adding this thread in the event you are working on assignments and have general questions that I obviously cannot address in class. I do hope to be back before the week is out; however, this case may actually go for the next two weeks. In any event, I don't want to feel disconnected from you.
If you have any questions about the grammar, readings, vocabulary, or writing assignments, please use this blog as a way for me to provide some instruction.
I hope to see you very soon!

Atticus: Hero or Hypocrite?

Only a fictional character of the calibur of Atticus Finch could launch such controversial debates within the pages of law journals. Now that you have read both sides, determine whether you agree with Barge or with Freedman and argue the issue with your classmates on this blog. Is Atticus really a role model, or should he be labeled a hypocrite? Use concrete details from the essays and the text to support your position. This is a chance for you to work through your ideas as a preliminary step to next week's essay.

You may attack the critics but remember to exercise courtesy with your peers!

I really hope to see you all very soon!!!!!!

Midterm Exam: Can you Guess the Essays?

One of the best ways to study for an essay exam is to try and get inside the teacher's head. To help each other study, this blog will serve as a forum. Try to think of possible Daily Reflection questions or Critical Lens quotes that I might ask. Then, try to plan out your response. Remember: they will probably ask you to compare works of literature. Focus on common elements among the stories we have read. These include:

• To Kill a Mockingbird
• Oedipus Rex
• "Marigolds"
• The Odyssey
• And Then There Were None
• Edith Hamilton's Mythology will NOT be on this exam.

Pose a question or quote for your classmates to consider and analyze so they may post ideas on what works of literature they would choose and how they would approach the question. I will post a sample question to get you started.

V-Squares earned for participating on this blog site will be distributed after midterms during the 3rd quarter.

Have fun...and good luck on midterms :-)

Is Atticus a Criminal?: Bob Ewell's death

In class, you have begun to debate if Atticus can be called a hypocrite. Let's push this further (thanks, Zoe!). In failing to arrest Boo Radley at the end, Sheriff Tate is breaking the law, as is Atticus, who knows the truth of Ewell's murder. Do you agree with some critics that Atticus's actions are hypocritical, immoral, as well as illegal? Support your position.

Atticus: Father of the Year?

Many readers feel that Atticus Finch represents the epitome of the perfect father. Setting aside the argument that "perfection" is an impossible standard, there may be equally compelling evidence that Atticus has many paternal shortcomings. Weigh in on this argument, citing evidence from the text to support your claims....and Happy New Year!