The task of identifying the different elements of a story
can be challenging in one's own language; it can be even more daunting
in a foreign language. Sometimes you are afraid to just "dive in." Therefore,
we have devised a schema of 4 steps to lead you through your reading. We
chose the theme of SCUBA diving because the strategies one follows in safe
diving correlate to the strategies one follows in reading.
The first helpful step is to read a bit of information
about the author and the setting of the story. Whenever you see this
heading, you will know that you are "assessing your surroundings."
The next step in understanding a story--or a novel--,
is to identify the characters, where the action takes place (the
setting) and what happened (the plot). Whenever you
see this heading, you will know that you are still "skimming the surface."
Now we will review essential vocabulary by providing
you with some activities. The goal of these activities is to assertain
that you have the necessary equipment (vocabulary) to continue.
Whenever you see this heading, you will know that you are still "checking
your equipment."
At this stage the goal is to
have a deeper understanding of the characters and their
motives. From this understanding will emerge the theme of the
story. Whenever you see this heading, you will know that you
are still "diving deeper." Now, go to class and share your discoveries.
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