Characterization and Imagery

As we make our way through The Giver, sixth grade students have been exploring concepts of equality and power through their literary analysis.  We have been focusing mostly on characterization and imagery, analyzing how the author employs these devices to enhance her message.  For the former, we are getting into technical discussions about direct vs. indirect characterization and the purpose of each.  As for imagery, we have been exploring not only visual images, but imagery that engages our other senses as well.  Lowry's book, full of vivid description, is the perfect text on which to practice this skill.

In other, perhaps less scintillating news, the NYS ELA test is fast approaching.  The dates are April 17-19.  This means we have only one day after spring break to get back into the swing of things.  All of our work to this point has prepared students for the test, but we will also be doing more targeted test prep in the month of March.  Below you will find the breakdown of the test as well as a link for more information:

For more information visit: http://www.p12.nysed.gov/apda/english/ela-ei.html