ENG 3U1 Short Story Seminar
Task: In a group of no more than 3 people, your job is to explore and present how the theme of a short story is
supported by plot, setting, character, tone/atmosphere, point of view and literary techniques, by taking the
class through an in depth analysis of the story.
Each person will be responsible for producing 1 aspect listed below:
1. Plot structure and setting analysis
2. Study of characterization (protagonist and antagonist) and tone/atmosphere
3. Literary and Rhetorical Devices, and Narrative Techniques, and their effect on theme; and point of
view
As a group you will need to decide on a theme, which you will refer to in each part of the presentation.
Timeline: four days in class to prepare, and 10-12 minutes to present
Before presenting, complete the following:

Jot notes for the story, paying special attention to imagery and symbols

Write a theme statement for the story that you all agree upon
Presentation Requirements (all elements here are graded on the oral presentation rubric):

Introduce yourselves. Give names. Tell the purpose of your presentation by outlining an agenda. Post
the agenda somewhere.

Move from section to section of your presentation by providing transitions. EX. Now that Alyssa is
finished with the setting, Alex is going to discuss…

Provide an overview of the story in terms of main event and characters in 4-5 sentences

Theme statement: Review the theme statement based on the conflicts and theme topics in the story.

Teach how the theme is supported by the different aspects of the story.

Each member must present one of the three aspects listed at the start of the handout. Provide
quotations and pages for every example that supports your ideas .

Start your conclusion by summarizing the theme and devices.

Provide final comments, explaining: What can this story teach us? How can we relate the story to our
own lives? Suggest ways.

Provide a summary note of your presentation for the teacher; this note must include your key elements
of the presentation, supported by details, quotations and page numbers. Use the bullets in this section
to provide headings for your summary note.
If you are away on the day of the presentation your group will still present,
and you will have to do your part on your own.