Mexican Mythology; Book Discussion #1; Portfolio/Workshop

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Period 1:

Let's read the short article about Mexican mythology/Aztec mythology.
Check out these important Aztec gods.
And read/learn about some Mexican myths/legends.
  • Write an ode to one of them--or an elegy (since they are no longer worshiped) or a story involving one of them...this might be humorous (an Aztec god who now works in a Taco Bell) or horror (a maniac who kidnaps someone to call forth one of the Aztec gods through blood sacrifice), or any other genre you might be interested in (mystery, romance, western, adventure, science fiction, etc.)
  • Write a documentary poem like Forche's prose poem "The Colonel"--use the country you studied for your presentation or some other event of your choosing. Want some current Mexican news? Check here. Or current Puerto Rican news? Check here.
  • Continue your Mexican story from last class or work on your portfolio or continue workshopping.
Period 2:

Until about 8:40 please gather in your reading groups:
A. Into the Beautiful North
B. All the Pretty Horses

Together discuss:
  1. How does the book begin? Read the first line together and discuss how this line attempts to intrigue or hook you. Does it? Then read the first paragraph together. Does the hook continue?
  2. What inciting incident is introduced in the first few pages? Find this section and re-read it together. The inciting incident is a conflict that gets the protagonist into the story and gives this character a reason to act. How does this inciting incident change the setting, character, and plot of the book so far? How is this inciting incident repeated or developed in the first 20-50 pages?
  3. Discuss which character or scene is most compelling or well written in the book so far. Find the passage and share this with your group. Together read the text and discuss the writing style and why the passage works for you. Perhaps it is the imagery or the poetry or beauty of the language; perhaps it is the dialogue or use of suspense or a clever turn of phrase. Discuss the writing style of the writer you are reading.
By 8:40, stop your discussion and either:

A. Spend time reading your chosen book on your own.
B. Work on your portfolio or workshop your writing. 

Portfolios are due when we return from Mid-term week. The lab will be open next week. Feel free to stop in and visit us to work on your writing.

HOMEWORK: Please read ALL PRETTY HORSES and  INTO THE BEAUTIFUL NORTH. Please bring your books back with you to our next class. 

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