Mr. Go – ENG3U – Short Fiction
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Becoming the Storyteller
Short Story Group Presentations and Written Analysis
The Presentation:
Presentations Begin: See turnitin.com calendar
Length: 7 - 10 minutes
Now that we have reviewed some stories in class, you should have a good grasp
of the short story elements and an even better sense of how the writer shapes various
elements (narrative structure, character development, establishment of setting through
descriptive diction, purposeful tone, discussion of themes). Here is your chance to
explore the themes raised in your story and get the class excited about the writer’s
stylistic crafting of your group’s short story selection.
Follow these steps to the successful presentation.
#1.
Get into groups of three to four depending on what number the teacher
has assigned. In your group, select the top five stories from
The Storyteller (anthology) for the draw for first choice. The story must be at least
five full pages in length. You may use stories from other sources, but have these
approved by the teacher.
#2.
Together, begin examining and filling out the Short Story Presentation
Group Progress Form. For the “Research Foci” column, each person should be
responsible for specific elements of the story (you must eventually cover all
seven), and biographical info for the author. For the “Presentation Roles”
column, list roles for the final product (e.g., involved in skit, creation of video,
slide show).
First delegating general tasks and then as a group looking at the application of
the various elements of the short story, moving beyond the mere fundamentals
and delving further into the themes raised, the development of character
relationships, the purposeful use of figurative language and employment of
literary devices to promote a certain meaning.
#3.
Do background research. Explore the author’s biography and the time and place
in which the story was written. What relevance does this have to the story? Are
there other important lenses through which you can examine the tale? What
voices are most/least visible (gender, race, class, etc.); what social lessons (if any)
are to be learned? Incorporate any of these findings both in the presentation and
the analysis.
#4.
Assemble a 10 – 15 minute presentation that incorporates all the elements listed
in the rubric. Make your engaging for the audience and rich in both close
analysis and entertainment value. ** Email Mr. Go (speeritual@gmail.com) a copy of your
handout and any other files you will be using at least one class prior to your presentation.
Mr. Go – ENG3U – Short Fiction
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Tips on Creating an Effective Presentation
If you get nervous in presentations, practise, practise, practise (in front of the mirror,
then for friends and family, then, if you feel it necessary, for the teacher well before you
present to give you time to improve)
Review the “Tips on overcoming stage fright” document.
Content:
- Begin with a strong, attention grabbing opening (don’t forget to open with some
reference to the theme of your story and return to this throughout as you give a
thorough treatment of all your elements of the story)
- Ask the class a thematic question (e.g., In North America, do we live in a
classless society?) that will be the focus of your presentation (to be answered by
the end)
-
Conclude with a strong, memorable closing (recap theme and main points of
your presentation). Connect the story’s message to the contemporary world
(current events). How is this story still relevant to your peers?
Style
AVOID:
- “parroting” the powerpoint slides. Review the document: “Powerpoint Tips”
-
presentations online
Reading straight off the page.
DO
- Make eye contact with the entire audience, not just the teacher.
- Speak with enthusiasm
Mr. Go – ENG3U – Short Fiction
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The Written Analysis – One per Group Member
Due: first day of presentations – see turnitin (whether or not you present on this day)
Length: 300- 400 words (three paragraph essay).
Format: MLA (typed, double-spaced with all written drafts from each member).
After you have worked together to analyze your story, create a 500
word, three-paragraph essay based on the rubric for the Written Analysis. You are to
answer the question:
With reference to three aspects of one key element of
the short story1, what central theme is promoted by your
writer?
The entire group is responsible for establishing and coming to a consensus on the
final theme of your story. Each person is responsible for explaining how that theme is
promoted through ONE of the elements of the short story (plot, setting, character,
stylistic devices etc.).
Be sure to create written brainstorming, outlined, and first draft of the paragraph
prior to a final, typed draft of the piece. Edit all stages.
Sample Outline:
Thesis (ends the introduction): In Lessing’s “Sunrise on the Veldt”, the boy’s realization
of his own mortality serves as the tale’s universal message. Lessing explores one’s
coming to terms with his own mortality through characterization: first, establishing the
protagonist’s naïveté, then building to his own epiphany, and finally an introspective
reflection of the realization.
Intro: (general, attention grabbing opening; leads to the thesis)
Body: (succinct but detailed GERRC paragraph that outlines the three aspects of character and
their connection to the theme)
Conclusion: (sums up the highlights of the argument and leads to a new universal insight or
observation, that arises from the analysis).
**Be sure to review the writing support on Mr. Go’s website.
Elements of the Story number seven in total: narrative structure, setting, character development, conflict,
perspective/voice, thematic message, style/literary device
1
Mr. Go – ENG3U – Short Fiction
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3U Short Fiction Appreciation Presentation (Group)
Group Mark Total* _______ out of 22
Date: _____________________
*(see individual mark on sep sheet)
Group Names (First and Last): _____________________________________________
_________________________________________
Story Title, author, page: _________________________________________________
Evaluation
Criteria
Level 4
Level 3
Level 2
Level 1
Content /16
/6
/5-4
/3-2
/1
Analysis ( /6)
Evidence and
handout (/6)
Originality
( /4)
Theme is clear at outset;
Theme is unclear.
treatment of Short Story
Theme is vague.
Treatment of
Elements (Narrative structure, Treatment of Elements is
Elements is cursory
point of view, language and
accurate & thorough;
but accurate; little
setting) is accurately &
theme connection is
theme connection is
thorough; theme connection is
made. (5-4)
made. (3-2)
made throughout. (6)
Quotations with page references Quota’ns w/ page refs
made throughout strongly
made throughout
Quotations support
support analysis on many
accurately support
analysis on a literal
(literal and figurative) levels. A analysis. A handout
level. Handout
well org’zed handout
generally outlines
sparsely outlines
thoroughly outlines
presentation’s main foci. presentation. (3-2)
presentation’s main foci. (6)
(5-4)
Analysis is somewhat
Analysis is a piece of art in
Analysis formulaic,
creative. Appreciates
itself. Appreciates intertends to merely report
some intercon’dness of
connectedness of story and
facts without making
story and style, begins to
style; even makes cxns to the
connections b/w story
recognize contemp.
contemp. reader’s world. (4)
and style. (2)
connections. (3)
Theme is missing.
Treatment of
Elements is scant
and inaccurate.
(1)
Quotations
support ideas.
Handout sparsely
outlines
presentation. (1)
Factual report of
elements in story.
Little thought put
into scope of
story. (1)
Presentation
Style /6
Audience
Appeal
( /4)
Applies oral communication
techniques (e.g., organization,
examples, vocabulary, style,
repetition, involves audience
through contemporary
connections and activities)
Applies oral
communication
techniques with
considerable
effectiveness
Applies oral
communication
techniques with
moderate
effectiveness
Little attention
paid to oral
communication
techniques.
Media &
Props ( /2)
Uses visual aids and
technology; props and costumes
add very high degree of
effectiveness. (/2)
Uses visual aids and
technology with
considerable
effectiveness (/1.5)
Uses visual aids and
technology with
moderate
effectiveness (/1)
Uses visual aids
and technology
with passable
effectiveness
(/0.5)
Mr. Go – ENG3U – Short Fiction
Page 5 of 9
Name:__________________________
Individ. _________ out of 6 + group mark _____ (out of 22) = ______________
out of 28
Presentation
Skills ( /4)
Applies oral communication
techniques (e.g., eye contact,
voice projection, pace,
gestures, timing, body
language, cue-cards,
organization, examples,
vocabulary, style, repetition,)
(/4)
Preparation
(/2)
Presentation is
Memorization and ability to Delivery is flawed by
unprepared (no
speak candidly result in
occasional errors
Dependency on notes –
notes,
flawless, fluent delivery of (stumbles over words,, mostly read, little use of
unorganized) No
analysis and/or
forgotten cues). Media
media until after all
reference to media
performance. Media utilized is vaguely referred to
points are raised.
until after pres.
throughout(/2)
(/1.5)
(/0.5)
Applies oral
communication
techniques with
considerable
effectiveness (/3)
Applies oral
Little attention
communication
paid to oral
techniques with
communication
moderate effectiveness
techniques. (/1)
(/2)
Name:__________________________
Individ. _________ out of 6 + group mark _____ (out of 22) = ______________
out of 28
Presentation
Skills ( /4)
Applies oral communication
techniques (e.g., eye contact,
voice projection, pace,
gestures, timing, body
language, cue-cards,
organization, examples,
vocabulary, style, repetition,)
(/4)
Preparation
(/2)
Presentation is
Memorization and ability to Delivery is flawed by
unprepared (no
speak candidly result in
occasional errors
Dependency on notes –
notes,
flawless, fluent delivery of (stumbles over words,, mostly read, little use of
unorganized) No
analysis and/or
forgotten cues). Media
media until after all
reference to media
performance. Media utilized is vaguely referred to
points are raised.
until after pres.
throughout(/2)
(/1.5)
(/0.5)
Applies oral
communication
techniques with
considerable
effectiveness (/3)
Applies oral
Little attention
communication
paid to oral
techniques with
communication
moderate effectiveness
techniques. (/1)
(/2)
Name:__________________________
Individ. _________ out of 6 + group mark _____ (out of 22) = ______________
out of 28
Presentation
Skills ( /4)
Applies oral communication
techniques (e.g., eye contact,
voice projection, pace,
gestures, timing, body
language, cue-cards,
organization, examples,
vocabulary, style, repetition,)
(/4)
Preparation
(/2)
Presentation is
Memorization and ability to Delivery is flawed by
unprepared (no
speak candidly result in
occasional errors
Dependency on notes –
notes,
flawless, fluent delivery of (stumbles over words,, mostly read, little use of
unorganized) No
analysis and/or
forgotten cues). Media
media until after all
reference to media
performance. Media utilized is vaguely referred to
points are raised.
until after pres.
throughout(/2)
(/1.5)
(/0.5)
Applies oral
communication
techniques with
considerable
effectiveness (/3)
Name:__________________________
Applies oral
Little attention
communication
paid to oral
techniques with
communication
moderate effectiveness
techniques. (/1)
(/2)
Mr. Go – ENG3U – Short Fiction
Page 6 of 9
Individ. _________ out of 6 + group mark _____ (out of 22) = ______________
out of 28
Presentation
Skills ( /4)
Applies oral communication
techniques (e.g., eye contact,
voice projection, pace,
gestures, timing, body
language, cue-cards,
organization, examples,
vocabulary, style, repetition,)
(/4)
Preparation
(/2)
Presentation is
Memorization and ability to Delivery is flawed by
unprepared (no
speak candidly result in
occasional errors
Dependency on notes –
notes,
flawless, fluent delivery of (stumbles over words,, mostly read, little use of
unorganized) No
analysis and/or
forgotten cues). Media
media until after all
reference to media
performance. Media utilized is vaguely referred to
points are raised.
until after pres.
throughout(/2)
(/1.5)
(/0.5)
Applies oral
communication
techniques with
considerable
effectiveness (/3)
Applies oral
Little attention
communication
paid to oral
techniques with
communication
moderate effectiveness
techniques. (/1)
(/2)
Name:__________________________
Individ. _________ out of 6 + group mark _____ (out of 22) = ______________
out of 28
Presentation
Skills ( /4)
Applies oral communication
techniques (e.g., eye contact,
voice projection, pace,
gestures, timing, body
language, cue-cards,
organization, examples,
vocabulary, style, repetition,)
(/4)
Preparation
(/2)
Presentation is
Memorization and ability to Delivery is flawed by
unprepared (no
speak candidly result in
occasional errors
Dependency on notes –
notes,
flawless, fluent delivery of (stumbles over words,, mostly read, little use of
unorganized) No
analysis and/or
forgotten cues). Media
media until after all
reference to media
performance. Media utilized is vaguely referred to
points are raised.
until after pres.
throughout(/2)
(/1.5)
(/0.5)
Applies oral
communication
techniques with
considerable
effectiveness (/3)
Applies oral
Little attention
communication
paid to oral
techniques with
communication
moderate effectiveness
techniques. (/1)
(/2)
Name:__________________________
Individ. _________ out of 6 + group mark _____ (out of 22) = ______________
out of 28
Presentation
Skills ( /4)
Applies oral communication
techniques (e.g., eye contact,
voice projection, pace,
gestures, timing, body
language, cue-cards,
organization, examples,
vocabulary, style, repetition,)
(/4)
Preparation
(/2)
Presentation is
Memorization and ability to Delivery is flawed by
unprepared (no
speak candidly result in
occasional errors
Dependency on notes –
notes,
flawless, fluent delivery of (stumbles over words,, mostly read, little use of
unorganized) No
analysis and/or
forgotten cues). Media
media until after all
reference to media
performance. Media utilized is vaguely referred to
points are raised.
until after pres.
throughout(/2)
(/1.5)
(/0.5)
Applies oral
communication
techniques with
considerable
effectiveness (/3)
Applies oral
Little attention
communication
paid to oral
techniques with
communication
moderate effectiveness
techniques. (/1)
(/2)
3U Short Fiction Written Analysis (Individual)
Mr. Go – ENG3U – Short Fiction
Page 7 of 9
Date: _____________________
Name (First and Last): _______________________________
Title: _________________________________
Evaluation
Criteria
Level 4
Level 3
Total _______ out of 30
Level 2
Level 1
Content /16
Argument
( /8)
Evidence (/4)
Structure
( /4)
Style /10
Language (/4)
Mechanics
and Fluidity
( /2)
Format and
Process ( /4)
Theme is clear at outset;
treatment of Short Story
Theme is vague.
Elements (Narrative
Treatment of Elements
structure, point of view,
is accurate & thorough;
language and setting) is
theme connection is
accurately & thorough;
made. (6-5)
theme connection is
made throughout. (8-7)
Quotations with page
references made
Quota’ns w/ page refs
throughout strongly
made throughout
support analysis on
accurately support
many (literal and
analysis. (3)
figurative) levels. (4)
Analysis is somewhat
creative. Appreciates
GERRC ¶ structure is
some intercon’dness of
followed. GE: topic is
story and style, begins
stated, (4)
to recognize contemp.
connections. (3)
/4
/3
Theme is unclear.
Theme is missing.
Treatment of Elements
Treatment of Elements
is cursory but accurate;
is scant and inaccurate.
little theme connection
(2-1)
is made. (4-3)
Quotations support
analysis on a literal
level. (2)
Quotations support
ideas. (1)
Analysis formulaic,
Factual report of
tends to merely report
elements in story. Little
facts without making
thought put into scope
connections b/w story
of story. (1)
and style. (2)
/2
Some colloquialism and
Diction and phrasing
Diction and phrasing
contractions shift level
are richly appropriate are mostly appropriate
of language from
for academic audience. for academic audience.
academic.
Piece is littered with
Flawless spelling,
Occasional mechanical
spelling and grammar
grammar, punctuation. errors do not interfere
errors – begins to
Quotations are
with meaning.
interfere with meaning.
integrated seamlessly. Quotations are generally
Quotations “dropped”
(/2)
integrated. (/1.5)
(/1)
/1
Diction and phrasing
are inappropriate for
academic audience.
Colloquialisms abound
Incorrect spelling and
grammar interferes
with understanding.
Quotations “dropped”.
(/0.5)
Written 1st, typed 2nd,
and final drafts edited
Two drafts (written and One written draft and
thoroughly. Title page
No written drafts. No
typed, some edition),
typed final, few
and formatting (font,
attention paid to
title page is formatted editions. Little attention
page numbering etc..)
formatting (/1)
properly. (/3)
paid to formatting (/2)
match format provided.
(/4)
Mr. Go – ENG3U – Short Fiction
Page 8 of 9
3U Group Progress Report – Short Story Appreciation
In the box below, enter the group members names and roles in the presentation.
Name
Research Foci
Presentation Role(s)
#1. Condensed Plot outline of story: ___________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
#2. Central concepts in the story (e.g., troubled family relationships, societal inequalities):
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
#3. Potential themes (statements about life arising from central ideas). Asterisk (*) the one on which
your group will focus for the presentation. __________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
#4. Main ideas or issues to highlight in presentation (e.g., social inequity, familial conflicts):
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
Mr. Go – ENG3U – Short Fiction
Page 9 of 9
#5. Organization and Originality of Presentation. In what order will you present your findings? What
attention grabber will you begin with? How will you summarize your ideas in a memorable way at the
end? Have you connected your ideas to the contemporary world? Select some unconventional methods
from the presentation ideas sheet (Venn diagrams)
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
#6. Sample of Handout’s Layout:
Presentation Title (includes author and title of story):
Group members:
Theme:
Plot1:
Quotations to support (pg #)
Setting1 (address all three layers)
Quotations to support (pg #)
Character1 (focus on personality, actions, words)
Quotations to support (pg #)
Language1 (stylistic devices)
Quotations to support (pg #)
1
Be sure to connect all findings to the theme you are attempting to promote in the story.