Standards

Reading Comprehension (Focus on Informational Materials)
2.4 Make warranted and reasonable assertions about the author's arguments by using elements of the text to defend and clarify interpretations.

2.5 Analyze an author's implicit and explicit philosophical assumptions and beliefs about a subject. 

Literary Response and Analysis
3.2 Analyze the way in which the theme or meaning of a selection represents a view or comment on life, using textual evidence to support the claim.

3.5 Analyze recognized works of American literature representing a variety of genres and traditions:
b. Contrast the major periods, themes, styles, and trends and describe how works by members of different cultures relate to one another in each period.
c. Evaluate the philosophical, political, religious, ethical, and social influences of the historical period that shaped the characters, plots, and settings.

3.8 Analyze the clarity and consistency of political assumptions in a selection of literary works or essays on a topic (e.g., suffrage, women's role in organized labor). (Political approach)

Writing Strategies
1.2 Use point of view, characterization, style (e.g., use of irony), and related elements for specific rhetorical and aesthetic purposes.

1.5 Use language in natural, fresh, and vivid ways to establish a specific tone.

1.6 Develop presentations by using clear research questions and creative and critical research strategies (e.g., field studies, oral histories, interviews, experiments, electronic sources).

2.2 Write responses to literature:
a. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the significant ideas in works or passages.

Listening and Speaking Strategies 
1.4 Use rhetorical questions, parallel structure, concrete images, figurative language, characterization, irony, and dialogue to achieve clarity, force, and aesthetic effect.

1.6 Use logical, ethical, and emotional appeals that enhance a specific tone and purpose.

Speaking Applications (Genres and Their Characteristics)
2.3 Deliver oral responses to literature:
a. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the significant ideas of literary works (e.g., make assertions about the text that are reasonable and supportable).b. Analyze the imagery, language, universal themes, and unique aspects of the text through the use of rhetorical strategies (e.g., narration, description, persuasion, exposition, a combination of those strategies).