Week 2: Analyzing Themes and Formal Writing

Day 2: Theme Identification in "The Most Dangerous Game"

Practice identifying themes in the text
- Discuss how the theme of "the hunter vs. the hunted" is developed
- Explore the theme of "civilization vs. savagery". (Key)
Group discussion on how themes are developed through characters and events
- Analyze General Zaroff's character and his role in developing themes
- Examine Rainsford's character arc and its thematic significance
In-class activity: Write a paragraph identifying a theme and supporting it with evidence from the text
DIMP: Idea Carousel
Hiset Skill: Narrators

Day 3: Introduction to Formal Writing

Introduction to formal writing styles (W.8.1e)
- Define characteristics of formal writing
- Explain the importance of formal writing in academic and professional contexts
Discuss the differences between formal and informal writing
- Compare examples from "The Most Dangerous Game" with informal retellings
- Identify formal elements in the author's writing style
Activity: Rewrite informal sentences into formal academic language
- Focus on eliminating colloquialisms and slang
- Practice using precise vocabulary and complex sentence structures
Worksheets (Key)

Day 4: Formal Writing Practice

Continue practice with formal writing
- Review formal writing techniques and common pitfalls
- Discuss how to maintain an objective tone in analytical writing
Write a short formal paragraph on a given topic related to "The Most Dangerous Game"
- Possible topics: analysis of symbolism, character motivations, or thematic development
Peer review session: Exchange paragraphs and provide feedback
- Use a structured feedback form focusing on formal writing elements and thematic analysis
Worksheets

Day 5: Conventions of Standard English and Review

Focus on conventions of standard English (L.8.2)
- Review punctuation rules: semicolons, colons, and dashes
- Practice using these punctuation marks in sentences about "The Most Dangerous Game"
Grammar and punctuation exercises
- Identify and correct errors in a passage from the story
- Create sentences using proper punctuation to discuss themes from the story
Review the week's key concepts and activities (Passage Questions 1) (Passage Questions 2) (Key)
- Thematic analysis recap
- Formal writing techniques summary
- Brief quiz on "The Most Dangerous Game" and writing concepts
Original Movie

Key Assessments

Theme identification paragraph (Day 2)
Formal writing exercise on "The Most Dangerous Game" (Day 4)
End-of-week review quiz (Day 5)

Additional Resources

Supplementary materials include: "The Most Dangerous Game" by Richard Connell, formal writing style guide, peer review feedback forms, and grammar worksheets focusing on semicolons, colons, and dashes. Online resources for theme identification practice will also be provided.