Wed. Nov. 2, 2016: Chapter 12 Discussion

Today, the students wrote a 10 minute sequel on the novel as a whole.
I then gave out a handout about the main message in Lord of the Flies. This handout then explains genocide and the steps involved in it. It also contains a number of examples of genocide in the 20th century. We read most of it as a class. What is left is to be read at home. If you were not here, this handout is in your portfolio.

Tues. Nov. 1, 2016: Chapter 11 Discussion

Today, students wrote a journal outlining the events of Chapter 11. If you were not here, see me for the alternative questions.
I then reviewed the symbols that have lost power (conch, glasses and Piggy), as well as those that have (glasses, masks, Jack).
I then allowed the rest of the class time to read chapter 12.

Mon. Oct. 31, 2016: Chapter Discussion: 8,9 & 10

Today, we discussed chapters 8, 9, 10 ten. I showed you the journal from chapter eight, which discussed the problems Ralph, Jack and Simon dealt with and the outcomes.

I then discussed the religious allegory (Chapter 9), And the allegory of the boys and politics (chapter 10.
Finally, I explained cognitive dissonance and the connection between this theory and the novel.
If you were not here, see me for the notes.

Thurs. Oct. 27 and Fri. Oct. 28, 2016: Reading

Today, we did a journal activity on Chapter Seven. If you were not here, see me about an alternative. I then assigned you to read chapters 8, 9, 10 ten for Monday. This means Friday will be a reading class. I am pasting the notes from today's class below:

October 27, 2016

How does this chapter demonstrate that the boys are becoming more savage, challenging and dangerous to one another? 

Five minute Journal : 250 words

In Chapter Seven, “Shadows and Tall Trees,” of the novel, Lord of the Flies, by William Golding, it is obvious that the boys are becoming more savage, challenging and dangerous to one another. Jack constantly challenges Ralph, going to far as to climb to the “beast” without him and Roger to show his bravado. The fact that they are all competing to show they are the bravest; thus, taking chances like walking around in not so ideal lighting conditions, show that they are putting themselves in more dangerous situations. All of these, however, are not as disturbing as the reality that the boys are becoming more savage, both in appearance and in actions. Ralph comments on their change of appearance: they are not dirty, but still seem unkempt; this is their new normal (long hair, bitten nails, stiff or non-existent clothing). Further, the boys engage in a mock hunt using Robert as the pig. Even Ralph participates in this brutal assault. The scary part is that Robert has to hit panic for it to end and then complains that his “bum hurts” indicated some violence consistent with a sexual assault. Further, all of them discuss playing this game more, maybe even to the detriment of life and laughingly suggest that a littlun could play the role of the pig if no pig was available. Keep in mind that even Ralph is fall for this (he injured a pig and felt the need to brag).

Additional Notes (student generated)

Simon: Tells Ralph that he will get home (prophetic)

Ralph throws a spear at the pig (engages in the violence) and BRAGS

Ralph looks like he is going to use the spear on Jack when they are arguing.

Ralph flat out asks Jack why he hates him.

Littluns not seen as people of equal value.

Ralph is chewing his nails until they bleed (his nerves are “showing”)

Wed. Oct. 26, 2016: Chapter Six and Seven

Today, you wrote a journal on chapter 6 of Lord of the the Flies.
If you were not here, you can speak to me about alternatives/exemptions. We also examined the faulty logic present in the boys' belief that what Sam n' Eric saw was a beast. I also explained that eyewitness accounts are often flawed. We also examined the irony that, while the boys wanted a sign from the world (man), what they got (a dead parachutist) is a pretty negative one.
I also put the faulty logic notes from my Powerpoint yesterday in your portfolios.
For tomorrow's class, please read Chapter 7.

Tues. Oct. 25, 2016: Chapter Five/Faulty Logic Discussion

Today, you write another journal/summary response. I then discussed faulty logic with you.
If you were not here, see me when you return to discuss alternatives. The notes will be in your portfolio.

Mon. Oct. 24, 2016: Lord of the Flies Chapter Discussion

Today, students wrote a summary questions for chapters three and four (combined). These are timed activities. See me for alternative questions and I'll see what I can find.

We then discussed a number of symbols
the fire
the glasses
the pighunt
Ralph's hair
Clothing
the sea allegory.
Imagery of wounds
Painted faces

For tomorrow, you are to read chapter five of the novel. Build reading time in (it's less than twenty pages).

If you want to find out about these symbols (and you do), do a google search.