The American Dream

Essential Question:

How do American authors use language and rhetorical choices to convey their message? How can we, as writers, use language and rhetorical choices to convey our message?

Portrait of a Graduate:

Critical Thinking

Communication

Inquiry Question:

What is the American Dream and to what extent is it achievable for all Americans?

2. Inquiry Question:

In what ways does the American Dream mean different things for different Americans?

3. Inquiry Question:

How has the American Dream changed over time?

Student Outcomes:

Students will be able to read and analyze nonfiction texts to determine and evaluate each author’s argument about the American Dream and about success and justice in America.

2. Student Outcomes:

Students will be able to compare and contrast the effectiveness of authors’ arguments.

3. Student Outcomes:

Students will conduct a mock trial of the American Dream, creating effective arguments as to its achievability.

Skills Demonstrated:

Rhetorical analysis
Writing effective arguments that make stylistic choices, are organized, and follow a line of reasoning.
Public speaking/debating
Vocabulary

Standards:

Additional Skills:

Resources:

Nickel & Dimed by Barbara Ehrenreich/ Scratch Beginnings by Adam Shepard / Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell / Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson/ “Why Johnny Can’t Read - Redux”/ 60 Minutes Episode: “RedShirting in Kindergarten”/ “A Modest Proposal” by Jonathan Swift (if time) OR “Babycakes” graphic comic by Neil Gaiman

[Our Hidden Google Drive Resource link]

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