"The Metamorphosis" Oral Response to Literature

the overview:

One of the best ways to explore literature is to discuss it openly with others. Because "The Metamorphosis" is rife with hidden meanings and multiple interpretations, one may find comfort in knowing it need not be examined in any one way where a concrete "right" and "wrong" explanation exists.

the assignment:

Through an oral response to literature, students will explore a theme of "The Metamorphosis." The speech does not need to be written out ahead of time in essay form; however, students should have a basic outline to turn in after the speech. The outline should be complete; however, it does not need to be typed. Students who complete their outlines while other students give their speeches will receive no credit.

The speech should contain an identifiable introduction, body, and conclusion. Students should speak for approximately 3-5 minutes. Students should be conscious of eye contact, volume, and appropriate posture and gesturing. Wording should be clear and uncomplicated. Students should stay on topic and avoid criticizing the novella; such is not the topic of the speech. Off-topic discussions will adversely effect the total points earned. The content should follow one of the prompts listed below. Information should be accurate and relevant to the chosen topic; remember, as with an essay, the best way to prove a point is by using evidence from the text.

Students should have a prop for the speech: a poster; a PowerPoint presentation; a video or audio clip; an artifact. Again, posters arriving in class unfinished and being worked on during speeches will not be considered for points. Be respectful to your peers and give them your undivided attention during presentations. Please notify me by Monday, April 7 if you'll need any special equipment (LCD projector, overhead projector, etc.) for your presentation.

Advice: Practice. Three to five minutes of relevant material may be difficult for the unprepared presenter.

the content:

• The dictionary defines "metamorphosis" in terms of change -- physical, emotional, or spiritual. Beyond the evident change in Gregor at the beginning, where else does a metamorphic change occur?
• Critics maintain that Gregor finds freedom only in death because there was no other way out. Agree or disagree.
• Why, do you think, has Grete's attitude toward Gregor changed?
• The narrator strongly implies that Gregor starves himself to death. What other forces might have led to Gregor's death?

extra help:

As always, if you feel like you need help beyond what is available in the classroom, I will be available in my classroom before school 7:00-7:25am. I also check both of my email addresses daily and may provide assistance this way as well. I cannot provide assistance if you do not ask; claiming to "not understand" an assignment and not asking for help is inexcusable. If you do not ask for help I will assume you understand the requirements and plan to deliver your speech on the day for which you signed up. The absolute last day to deliver your speech will be Thursday, April 10. This will be your last "graded" assignment from me for this grading period.

the values:

• Posture, Eye Contact, and Volume, 20 points
• Preparedness / Outline, 20 points
• Stays on Topic / Content, 20 points
• Time Limit, 20 points
• Prop, 20 points
• Total value: 100 points

important dates:

• Wednesday, April 2 -- receive speech handout
• Thursday, April 3 -- sign-up sheet posted before school; choose topic and presentation date
• Thursday, April 3 -- in-class planning / brainstorming session with interns, teacher, and peers
• Tuesday, April 8 & Wednesday, April 9 -- presentations
• Thursday, April 10 -- last day to present (i.e., absences)

objectives:

• Students will organize their thoughts into a logical sequence that leads the audience to a clearly defined goal.
• Students will build a speech outline that includes an introduction, body, and conclusion.
• Students will use body movements, gestures, facial expressions, and eye contact that illustrate and enhance the verbal meaning.
• Students will use volume, pitch, rate, and quality to enhance the speech.
• Students will use words that effectively communicate the message to the audience.
• Students will use short, clear, and descriptive words and avoid lengthy words, sentences, and jargon.
• Students will present a speech that uses one or more props to add impact to the message.

Indiana State Academic Standards met by this project:
10.3.3, 10.3.4, 10.3.8, 10.7.2, 10.7.4, 10.7.6, *10.7.17

*Indiana State Academic Standard 10.7.17:
Deliver oral responses to literature that:

• advance a judgment demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the significant ideas of works or passages.
• support important ideas and viewpoints through accurate and detailed references to the text and to other works.
• demonstrate awareness of the author’s writing style and an appreciation of the effects created.
• identify and assess the impact of ambiguities, nuances, and complexities within the text.