Unit 1: Shifting perspectives Senior English

Activity 1.1 – Previewing the unit Entry Task Discuss with an elbow partner … Think about a situation in which you and others witnessed or participated in the same event, but came away with vastly different memories of or perspectives on what happened. Was it disorienting to realize that their perspectives could differ so much from others’ perspectives?

Activity 1.1 – Previewing the unit Look at the photo and respond to the question (page 1): How does point of view change your perception of this scene?

Activity 1.1 – Previewing the unit Unit Overview (page 1) Read aloud the Unit Overview… mark the text by highlighting words and phrases that help you predict what the unit will be about. Unit 1 introduces the idea that our perception of reality is filtered through various perspectives, values, prejudices, and attitudes. You will explore multiple literary theories as filters, or lenses, through which to interpret literature. You will examine the idea that the world is full of ideologies, theories, and biases through which we construct our understanding of our own and others’ experiences. Studying theory is a way to make us aware of competing visions of truth. Unit 1 begins by showing how point of view presents the reader with a filter or perspective from which to view the world. This unit introduces the literary theories of Reader Response Criticism and Cultural Criticism as the first two lenses through which we interpret literature and the world.

Activity 1.1 – Previewing the unit Unit Goals To examine the relationship between perspective and critical theory To analyze and apply critical theories to various texts studied and created To control and manipulate textual elements in writing to clearly and effectively convey a controlling idea or thesis To use punctuation and syntax to create meaning and effect in writing

Activity 1.1 – Previewing the unit Today’s Learning Targets Preview the big ideas and the vocabulary for the unit. Identify and analyze the skills and knowledge required to complete Embedded Assessment 1 successfully.

Activity 1.1 – Previewing the unit Making Connections In this unit, you will read a variety of texts to examine the concept of perspective and how one’s perception determines his or her interpretation of the world. In this level, you will learn and apply multiple literary theories as filters in order to have deeper and richer ways to think about, interpret, and critique literature and life. You will be introduced to Reader Response Criticism in the first half of the unit and Cultural Criticism in the second half of the unit. Studying literary theory is a means to make you aware that the world is full of ideologies, theories, and biases through which we construct an understanding of our own as well as others’ experiences.

Activity 1.1 – Previewing the unit Essential Questions How do artists and writers organize or construct art or text to convey meaning? What does it mean to be a stranger in the village?

Activity 1.1 – Previewing the unit Unpacking Embedded Assessment 1 “Your assignment is to create and present a photo essay expressing your perspective (position) on an issue or topic of importance to you. You can use the argument you wrote in Activity 1.14 to develop a final product, using at least 10 images to develop a visual argument. Include your intended thesis and a written rationale explaining how your images convey this thesis.” Paraphrase the assignment in your own words. What do you need to know to be able to complete this assessment successfully? What skills must you have to complete the task successfully?

Activity 1.1 – Previewing the unit Embedded Assessment 1: Creating an Argumentative Photo Essay Know and apply the conventions of photo essay format and design. Create a thesis statement that identifies a perspective or position on an issue Analyze both print and non-print texts from a theoretical perspective. Design a layout that presents a clear sequence of ideas that visually advance a perspective. Understand the function, use, and effects of cinematic and stylistic techniques Apply the elements of argumentation to analyze argument and create arguments.

Activity 1.1 – Previewing the unit “Perspectacles”, by Houston Kraft Think about multiple perspectives as you watch and analyze this video. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-vHSXo23TE Is PERCEPTION reality? How does PERCEPTION or PESPECTIVE change?