Persuasive Writing Unit #2
by Kristen Corbi
Dolan Middle School, Stamford, CT

Edgar Allen Poe Unit


Day 1
· Journal Questions:  If someone did something mean to you what would you do in return?   or What is the worst thing someone could do to you?
· Read "The Cask of Amontillado" aloud, then finish silently
· Hand out Poe vocabulary

Day 2
· Review "Cask" and give accompanying handout
· Summarize with Ques. #1 and discuss
· Finish questions and discuss
· 2nd part of questions (on back): Review and discuss Montresor's coat of arms and show sample.  Each student draws one for his/herself and creates a motto.

Day 3
· Journal Question: Name and explain one thing you're very afraid of.
· Begin reading "The Black Cat"

Day 4
· Finish reading if necessary
· Group questions-share and hand in

Day 5
· Journal Question: List the similarities and differences between "TBC" and "TCOA"
· Give in-class writing assignment for next class-Compare and contrast the two stories
· Whole class discussion: Create a list of the similarities and differences from the warm-up
· Review Compare and Contrast concepts
· Students copy list and make a Venn Diagram
· Students are allowed to use any notes on the writing assignment

Day 6
· In class writing assignment

Day 7-9
· Watch the video of "The Pit and the Pendulum" if available
· The movie is like a Scooby Doo mystery.
· At the 1/2way point, predict what will happen
· When completed (if time 2nd day), look at sample movie reviews
· Review story elements
· Writing Assignment: In class writing assignment, a movie review of the movie.  Include each of the elements.  What do you think of each one?

When finished w/ movie
· Superstitions Project-create your own superstition, alone or w/ a partner
· Journal questions: What does it mean to be superstitious?  What are your superstitions?  
· Look at lists of superstitions.  Discuss their meanings and derivations.
· 3-4 class sessions to work on projects, then begin presentations



Email me at kristenjean77@yahoo.com if you would like copies of any accompanying handout!