D+Block+Homework

= D Block American Literature Reading Schedule = **Overview:** //Go Ask Alice// is considered an important example of the contemporary (1970-today) American voice. This book is written in the style of a true memoir; indeed, the subtitle is "A Real Diary." Many people criticize the memoir for promoting drug use, and also for just being "not very literary." Decide for yourself whether it should be considered "literature" or not. More importantly, is it a worthwhile book for teenagers? As you read, consider the ideals of individualism, youthful innocence, and American values.

** Essential Questions: ** 1. What is the author's purpose in writing this memoir? 2. What goal do you think the editors are trying to achieve? What ideas and ideals are they trying to promote? Or is the goal simply to entertain? 3. What literary tools are used to achieve the purpose(s)? Is the book ultimately successful? 4. How is this book a mirror for society? 5. In what ways does this text capture a particularly American voice? What might the author think about her voice being used in school? 5. What can we learn about the American identity through this book? (Hint: identity is often related to values and ideals.)

** Reading Journal and/or Annotations: ** As you read, please keep a reading journal in which you have a conversation with the book. Jot down notes (annotations) so you can return to your ideas later for discussion and writing. **Include page numbers!** Aim for **a few comments** on each chapter. There is no need for long analytical paragraphs in your reading journal. I will be checking it, but it is fundamentally for your own use. If you prefer, you may use post-it notes in the book or purchase your own copy and write directly on the pages.

** Reading Schedule ** Pages 1- 30 due Friday 1/28 Pages 30-118 due Friday 2/4 Pages 118- end due Tuesday 2/8

Choose 2 essential questions to answer in short essays. Use your notes to include specific details. Use MLA format. Be sure to include in-text citations for quotes and a work cited citation for the novel. **Essays due Thursday 2/10**