Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
Bloom’s Taxonomy Journal Entries and Due Dates
Directions: You will need to keep track of when each of these journal entries is due. The dates are listed below and
they are also listed on the reading calendar. Each journal entry should be one page long, whether typed or
handwritten. Be sure to answer each question posed in the prompts.
Due Monday, 11/19/12:
Journal Entry #1
Remembering
Reflect on Melinda’s First Marking Period at Merryweather High School. Think about specific
events, emotions, people, and problems. Now, recall your first quarter at Westville High School.
Compare the two and discuss your feelings about high school thus far.
Due Wednesday, 11/21/12:
Journal Entry #2
Understanding
Melinda’s family dynamics aren’t exactly picture perfect. Describe her family life, and explain what
parts of the novel help you understand her family life. Next, compare Melinda’s life to your own.
What are your feelings about your own family life?
Due Tuesday, 11/27/12:
Journal Entry #3
Applying
Reread Rent Round 3. Interpret the words that are unspoken between Melinda and her mother.
What do you think they wish they could say to each other? What parts of this section make you
think that? What would you want to say to Melinda if you were her parent? What would you want to
say to your mother if you were Melinda?
Due Thursday, 11/29/12:
Journal Entry #4
Analyzing
Heather is the only friend Melinda has at Merryweather High, but there are certainly moments
where we doubt Heather’s sincerity. Examine Melinda and Heathers’ friendship. Do you think it is a
good one? Why or why not? Give examples from the book to support your answer. What do you
think makes a good friend?
Due Thursday, 11/29/12:
Journal Entry #5
Evaluating
Melinda exercises her right not to speak during history class with Mr. Neck. David Petrakis helps her
with this, but he also gives her a little advice about speaking up. Defend either Melinda for
choosing to be silent, or David for thinking she needs to speak up. What would you do in this
situation?
Due Monday, 12/3/12:
Journal Entry #6
Creating
Read the short article entitled “Here’s the Thing...” on page 199. Then, develop an idea for the
sequel to Speak. Write about the plot of the sequel and also why you chose that avenue. Think
about what you want to know about Melinda’s life post-Freshman year.
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