Break HW

Hello. I realize that it has been some time from my last blog, but it is important that you all read this one. For the break, I would like you to read Stoppard's play Rosencrantz and Guidenstern are Dead. This is - for obvious reasons - a great supplemental reading to Hamlet. You may be able to find a link to the text online, but I do not know this for sure. My search turned up a few things, but it may be better to purchase the text. The play focuses on the two minor Characters in Shakespeare's play. I will not ask you to do any writing, but I do ask that you actually read the play.

The test is on May 5th, which means we are out of time. You should spend some of your time preparing for the AP lit exam. As we have discussed, this is the hardest AP test you are are likely to take. Please dedicate some time to reviewing terms, m/c questions and stems, allusions, reference materials, etc. Remember, preparing for any test is really a matter of organizing materials and compartmentalizing concepts. Look over old m/c tests to see what kind of questions give you the most trouble. Form study groups, quiz each other and exchange materials. Whatever it is that helps you become better prepared, is what you should do.

Finally to the writing. You need to practice your writing. Look through your study guides and work the prompts. There really is no excuse for not getting the grade you want (3 or better). It is a matter of understanding your weaknesses and addressing them. It is also a matter of outsmarting the test makers. Ask yourselves, what it is they are really looking for? How can you write the kind of response they want? It's about avoiding plot summary, subtle quote integration, sophisticated analysis, and essays that are well-strucured. You need to make sure that you develop your paragraphs fully and explore each idea thoroughly. Look over the sample essays and evaluate their strengths and weaknesses.

I would like you each to do at least one 40 minute timed write and bring it in the day we get back from break for credit. You can find these in the study guides you purchased. If you do not have one, figure something else out.

Finally, please read the poetry handouts and complete the poetry terms section. If you have any questions or concerns, please email me. Check the blog occasionally, as I will try to attach some criticism and other readings for you. Have a good break.

I have posted the link to Eliot's criticism of Hamlet in the literature links section. Please read it.

HW 4/5

Hello. For this evening, please read 3.3 and 3.4. If you are part of group 3.4, be prepared to present tomorrow. If you need props, feel free to email me, or visit me in 2047 before class.

I am also assigning the first essay for Hamlet (The Position Paper) to be due in a week. To be clear, the due date is 4/12. No exceptions. If you don't have it then (typed) it loses half credit. If you have misplaced it, please see me. Make sure that it is no more than two pages. Have a good night.