January, 4th/5th

1. Lit HIIT- Fences Stage Directions

Playwrights include STAGE DIRECTIONS in order to provide notes on elements such as: setting, action, character, tone. Since plays are performed, stage directions can replace information a reader might get from a narrator or through reading characters’ thoughts and feelings.

2. Introduction to August Wilson

              

Wilson's Century Cycle

1900: Gem of the Ocean (2002)

1910: Joe Turner’s Come and Gone (1986)

1920: Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (1984)

1930: The Piano Lesson (1989)

1940: Seven Guitars (1995)

1950: Fences (1985)

1960: Two Trains Running (1990)

1970: Jitney (1982)

1980: King Hedley II (2001)

1990: Radio Golf (2005)

3. Fences reading schedule and IB LP expectations. 

4. Small group work: Fences trailer. Fences Trailer

• The first two characters we see are Troy and Rose. Using the short clips we see and the interactions that appear, how would you describe their relationship? Use their body language, gestures, and tone to support your prediction.
• Washington includes some of Troy’s wisdom here. What are three of the ideas or beliefs Troy seems to feel are important? What does this reveal about his characterization? 
• At 1 min. 22 seconds, Rose offers her perspective. What does she say? What does it indicate about Rose's character? 
• Cory (their son) asks Troy about liking him and then mentions Troy holding him back. What do you predict is their problem? How do you think Cory will work to indirectly characterize Troy? 
• At the end of the trailer, Troy’s friend (Bono) speaks in a voiceover (just images, no person). He contrasts two reasons a person might build a fence. What are those reasons?

4. Language Discussion

Vernacular-  The language or dialect spoken by the ordinary people of a country or region, I.e; your native language. As an adjective- vernacular is informal form of language. 

Dialect- A particular form of a language which is peculiar to a specific region or social group I.e; the way in which the language is spoken.

Epithet- abusive, defamatory, or derogatory phrase. 

Classroom note: This language will not be repeated in the classroom as we reference the text in discussion or in writing.  Language has incredible power to empower and to subjugate. Learned communicators recognize and respect linguistic boundaries.

HOMEWORK for Friday, January 8th: 

1. Read Act 1. Scenes 1 and 2. 

2. Read through and take notes on Dramatic and Theatrical Terms (Schoology) QUIZ in FUTURE.

3.  Read and annotate background information for Fences. Found in Schoology folder. Submit to Schoology. 

4. Read through Grammar/Mechanics Challenge of the week.