Layers of meaning

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A writer's diction, or word choice, can convey powerful meaning to us readers, making the reading experience extra delicious (I had to tie the photo to my post somehow!). Students looked at William Golding's diction in chapter 4 today. They were to list any words or phrases that suggest fear. Because while the island seems like a paradise, it is a dark and ominous place and we readers should expect terrible things to happen.

Looking closely at texts is one way students can understand the writer's message--I'm guessing many will find a layer of meaning after today's strategy. Most students worked quietly, although I did see some working on other classes, doodling, or just reading. I also introduced a reading strategy that students will need to include in their Writer's Notebooks two times for each reading assignment. They'll have their first chance to practice that tomorrow.