“The Scholarship Jacket” By Martin Salinas

Tuesday Reread parts of the story starting on page 226, in which the narrator describes her physical appearance. –Write ate least 5 of the narrator’s character traits as revealed in the story. Draw your mental image of the narrator in the situation from the story that they think shows her most important qualities. Then below the picture write an explanation of their images and why they chose that particular moment to illustrate. You will present your drawings and explanations to your groups. Discuss similarities and differences amongst the portraits.

Wednesday Analyzing Conflict in “The Scholarship Jacket” Discuss the position in which the principal finds himself and the conflict that he must resolve. Then answer the question below. –How did he come to his decision to support the board? In your small groups, you will create a pro-con- list identifying the reasons for and against supporting the board from the perspective of the principal. –What were you able to find more of, pros or cons?

Thursday Think about the significance of the jacket to Martha. –What is the jacket’s symbolic value? You will design an award that you believe would be meaningful to students in their class and region. –Example: Martha’s scholarship jacket, for example, is decorated in her school colors, has a gold “S” on front, and has her name written on the pocket.

Thursday continued You may focus on an award for academic achievement, or they may design their own “type” of award, whether to recognize artwork, drama, dance, music, athletics, comedy, community service, debate or school spirit. You may design a letterman jacket for their own school, or they may wish to create something different: a hat, a watch, a pen, a backpack, a vest, a shirt, or even a belt. You can draw their award on a poster and to highlight key elements with text/captions

Friday Editorial Think about the emphasis our society places on academics, and how academic achievement is awarded in terms of scholarships, media attention, and even product endorsements. Now consider how much attention and money is spent on athletics. –How would society be different if academic stars were supported with the same intensity and funding as sport stars? Write an outline that supports your opinion –In your outline, suggest ways to bring about change if you feel it is necessary

Friday Editorial Remember to keep your audience in mind as you write and chose appropriate vocabulary. In addition, make sure that your reasons are specific and are supported with facts and details.