Goodner AP LANG & COMP
The Grapes of Wrath : Novel Study Assignment
The Grapes of Wrath : Novel Study--200 pts.
Due Date: ______________
PART I: Figurative Language—30pts.
A. Allusion: Explain the significance of the novel’s title and the allusion to which it refers in a
well-developed & documented paragraph (only 1 CD is required).
B. Personification: Locate two examples and explain their meanings in a well-developed &
documented paragraph.
C. Metaphor: Locate two examples and explain their meanings in a well-developed &
documented paragraph.
Be sure to include direct quotations from the novel to validate each figure of speech. Paragraphs should
consist of TS, at least 2 CD with sufficient commentary, & CS. Document CD’s with parentheticals
following MLA. Remember to embed quotations rather than plopping them on the page, and follow MLA
rules regarding short and long quotations.
PART II: Theme—30pts.
Discuss and trace the development of the following themes present in The Grapes of Wrath:
1. Humanity cannot be defeated if the spirit remains intact.
2. All men are a part of the family of man.
3. A bond exists between the land and the people who work it.
Be sure to include direct quotations from the novel to validate each theme. Paragraphs should consist of
TS, at least 2 CD with sufficient commentary, & CS. Document CD’s with parentheticals following MLA.
Remember to embed quotations rather than plopping them on the page, and follow MLA rules regarding
short and long quotations.
PART III: Character in Conflict—40 pts.
There are seven types of conflict; you are to analyze four of those seven:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Man vs. self
Man vs. man
Man vs. nature
Man vs. society
Define each conflict, identify a quotation from the novel that exemplifies each conflict, and
explain how the quotation represents the conflict.
Follow exactly the format given below:
1. Conflict #1
a. definition:_______________________________
b. quotation:_______________________________
c. explanation:_____________________________
PART IV: Character—50pts.
Using the method of characterization listed below, write a character sketch of:
Tom Joad, Jim Casy, Ma Joad, Uncle John, Al Joad, & Rose of Sharon.
Continued on back…
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Goodner AP LANG & COMP
The Grapes of Wrath : Novel Study Assignment
EXAMPLE:
I. Tom Joad
1. Description: physical attributes_________________________________
2. Analysis of name: nickname, Biblical, etc.________________________
3. Attitude or Appearance: mental, emotional, dress, gestures___________
4. Dialogue: conversations______________________________________
5. Thoughts: character’s focus on subject or topic____________________
6. Attitudes of others: other characters’ opinions of this character_______
7. Action: incident(s) surrounding this character_____________________
8. Setting: physical or emotional atmosphere surrounding this character__
PART V: Connection—50pts.
Research the topic of the Dust Bowl using the following link:
The American Experience: Surviving the Dust Bowl
Using the information gathered, as well as your reading from the novel, create a chart that:
o
o
o
o
explain the reasons that led to the displacement of the Dust Bowl refugees. (Focus
on the experiences of two families or individuals.)
describe what the refugees experience in their flight.
describe the experiences of these families or individuals once they arrived in
California.
include quotations from the novel that show a similarity of the Joad family to the
“real” families.
Use the chart below as a model for creating your own. Be sure to include direct quotations from your
research and the novel with parentheticals.
Reasons
Displaced
.
.
.
.
.
Conditions During
Flight
.
.
.
.
.
Experiences in
California
.
.
.
.
.
Quotations from
Novel
.
.
.
.
.
Works Cited page: Be sure to include as the last page of your project using the proper MLA format.
While it adds no points, there will be a subtraction of 20 points without it. In addition, up to 20 points will
be deducted for errors on your WC page.
Project must be typed with the proper MLA formatting; 11-12 pt font; TNR or Arial. Do not submit in a
report cover; simply staple the pages neatly and submit before or on the due date.
IF ANY PORTION OF YOUR PROJECT IS PLAGIARIZED, THE ENTIRE
ASSIGNMENT WILL RECEIVE A ZERO!
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