9/5: You should be writing a proof paragraph for designed to prove a single idea about some aspect of "Surrounded by Sleep." Your topic sentence should state your argument (like: Sharma uses Clark Kent as a device to demonstrate Ajay's maturing understanding that God is not a magician, OR As Ajay's faith develops, he rejects his mother's guilt-based prayer method because he comes to understand that God does not act to stop human suffering.") Then. lay out your argument by choosing three strong pieces of evidence from one section of the story that you explain in terms of the topic sentence. Make sure you put the evidence in context, then analyze it in terms of the argument you are making. These are due on Tuesday 9/8. Attach your earlier draftwork AND the mark up of the end of the story (that will count as a practice grade). The proof paragraph counts as a process grade.
9/4: For our next class (practice grade), focus in on your argument as an answer to one of the questions that came up in class discussion. On a piece of paper, write the question at the top, then make a list of the evidence (specific details and quotes put in context from the story) that you could use to make your argument (use the BIG PAPER examples I have on the wall form the Lincoln Memorial as an example of detail). Make sure that you have specific evidence from different sections of the story. Note the context (what’s happening in the story at that moment), and make sure you choose at least one quote (cite it). List any evidence that might apply – we’ll narrow it down later. At the very end, write a statement that answers the question (your opinion, given the evidence you have gathered.
9/2: For our next class (Wednesday for B Block and Thursday for C): Mark up the ending (on the photocopy that I gave you, NOT on the story).
8/29 "Surrounded by Sleep": Revisit the story through the lens of your original assignment (character, conflict, theme). Find three close reading sections (at least a meaty paragraph each) to mark up on the story itself that you think are important to your area of focus. Read slowly, closely and carefully. Underline important ideas, circle words whose choice strike you as important, make notes in the margins about WHY they matter.
First read of "Surrounded by Sleep:" The assignment sheet is attached below.