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August 22 Review and Homework

Today we discussed the Salem Witch Trials, how political strife and adolescence might have contributed to the phenomenon, and how these witch hunts have become a metaphor for our society today. I'd like you to keep making these connections as you finish reading The Crucible. Remember, instead of the academic paragraph this week, you are to work on your job for the literary circles. Most of you will have about a half a page of writing to turn in for that. You also need to start on the essay due September 5th. If you'd like my feedback on a draft, send it to me by email and I'll look it over, but you'll need to do that by next week or I won't have enough time.

Also, you still need to do your research for the history portion. I'll copy that list here:


Political Developments (British, Political Traditions, Great Awakening, Enlightenment Ideas, and the Colonial Experience) Key events: Magna Carta, habeas corpus, English Bill of Rights, Glorious Revolution), John Peter Zenger

You do not need to write an academic paragraph on the history this week, but I'd encourage you to jot down some notes for discussion. I'm waiving the second paragraph in favor of great discussions. If you aren't participating in these, I will add it back. Today's discussion was great. Many of you did some thorough research and helped your peers gather information across multiple topics. Teamwork pays, right? You don't have to research everything if each of you work together. Let's work smarter, not harder.

If you cannot remember the topic list for the essay, or if you are struggling with the syllabus, here are some ideas:

Short essay assignment on one of the following prompts (2-3 paragraphs for beginners) (4-5 paragraphs for advanced writers)-Due September 5.

1.    Why was the separation of church and state considered such a radical idea, even a century and a half after Roger Williams established his colony?

2.    How has the principle of religious toleration contributed to the uniqueness of American society?

3.    How has the freedom of the press influenced American Society?

4.    Are freedoms of press and religion essential to the preservation of liberty?


 Remember, I am giving you some space here. If there was a topic of great interest to you, you can explore that in more detail, but do not just recycle an academic paragraph. This essay should demonstrate that you are able to make a larger connection between that topic and its larger contribution to American History or literature. For example, if you want to discuss the Salem Witch Trials, connect it to either its influence on our government today, our use of evidence in court, or its effect on theocracy in America. Don't just summarize what happened. I am sure you are all fairly well acquainted with what happened. I'm more interested in those bigger questions, like "Why did this happen?" or "How does this affect us today?" 

If you have a topic you are unsure of, email me your idea and I'll respond as quickly as I can. 

Also, remember all those MLA tips you learned today. Those are definitely required for your essay. If you run into trouble or confusion, check out the links under "Things I'm Picky About" or bring me your questions next week in class. 

As usual, I had fun today. It is an absolute pleasure working with such bright students. You make my job both joyful and challenging. I hope you are also finding that history and literature can be fun. :) 

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