Choose one of the following links and read the page/s that give you background knowledge of Poe's life. Please note that the "Knowing Poe" interactive pieces do not work on the iPad.
Write a paragraph on the shared google doc that summarizes what you think are the three most influential or significant events of Poe's life and why.
Choose one of the following links and read the page/s that give you background knowledge about Poe's death: iPads will not work for the Interactive site - you must find a computer to do that if you choose to.
Also read the primary sources on this page. These are letters regarding Poe's death written to and from his Aunt Maria Clemm. Primary Sources on Poe's Death
Write a paragraph on the shared Poe ISG google doc that summarizes what theory of Poe's death do you believe and why.
On a computer: If you are on a COMPUTER and NOT on an iPad: On the "Knowing Poe" website, you can use their annotation tool to create notes on the story of the "Tell Tale Heart." Be sure that you print your annotated story or create a pdf of it by using the Word print option and printing to pdf. Then email that to yourself.
Website: http://knowingpoe.thinkport.org/writer/telltaleheart.asp
The email your annotation to yourself piece of the interactive annotation tool does NOT work consistently. Please do not use that or you may have to redo the assignment.
On an iPad: Go to the portal and download the pdf of "The Tell Tale Heart" in the resources folder and the links to online texts. Send the pdf to Notability and annotate it with the following (or print it and do it by hand):
? - Question: Wondering why or are confused or curious from something that happens.
! - Surprise: When something shocks you.
W - Writing Style: When you notice something about wording, tone, or style
G - Golden Line: Note phrases that make you think or are beautiful writing.
L - Link: Reminds you of something you have read or experienced.
T - Thoughts: Add wishes, opinions, or predictions.
Choose from among the links to read another Poe short story:
Primary sources are materials straight from the people in the times in which they lived. This activity includes reading and analyzing letters written by Poe to his aunt, benefactor, and wife. Read the following primary sources that highlight Poe's relationships with people in his life:
In small groups, discuss what surprised you about the tone, content, and style of these letters from Poe. What did you learn about him and his life that changes the way you view him as a writer and a person?
Read the An original manuscript of Poe's poem "A Valentine". What can you infer from this poem about Poe?
Write a short story that creates suspense using sensory details, word choice, and a focus on the rhythm of sentences like Poe did. Take care to create a mood where the reader is on the edge of their seat, wondering what will happen next. Note that Poe was scary, but not necessary gruesome. He relied on the imagination of the reader and the suspense of the story to make it scary.