Gothic body-parts - method
The learning intention is to introduce and connect writers to the language, ideas and tradition of Gothic literature - and to support them in writing in the style of other authors, in pastiches and parodies. By selecting brief 'quotations' and 'gifting' them to each other, they can explore their significance and potential in their own writing. They will also return to an original text with fresh understanding. See also Longer Structured exercises number 3.
Provide writers with 2 or 3 of the attached extracts.
Then, either on their own, or working with a partner, ask them to find interesting 3-6 word phrases (not whole sentences), which they find interesting. You might wish to direct their searches towards character or setting, sound or sight, emotion or aspects of language use. Each writer should choose two phrases, then copy down one on one slip of paper, and the other on another slip of paper.
Each slip is then 'gifted' to another writer, to left or right, in exchange for a slip in return.
The writers' next challenge is to weave together a quick piece of writing (4 or 5 minutes) incorporating the 'received' phrases on the two slips.
When sharing afterwards, 'givers' should listen attentively to the creative/unexpected ways in which 'their' phrases were used by their 'recipients'. Responsibility for the outcome is shared!
Discussion that follows can refocus on the original text with added insights from new perspectives. See also Collaborative Writing number 4 Read and retell
Provide writers with 2 or 3 of the attached extracts.
Then, either on their own, or working with a partner, ask them to find interesting 3-6 word phrases (not whole sentences), which they find interesting. You might wish to direct their searches towards character or setting, sound or sight, emotion or aspects of language use. Each writer should choose two phrases, then copy down one on one slip of paper, and the other on another slip of paper.
Each slip is then 'gifted' to another writer, to left or right, in exchange for a slip in return.
The writers' next challenge is to weave together a quick piece of writing (4 or 5 minutes) incorporating the 'received' phrases on the two slips.
When sharing afterwards, 'givers' should listen attentively to the creative/unexpected ways in which 'their' phrases were used by their 'recipients'. Responsibility for the outcome is shared!
Discussion that follows can refocus on the original text with added insights from new perspectives. See also Collaborative Writing number 4 Read and retell