Favorite Christmas Memory

What is your favorite Christmas memory?  Write a detailed paragraph explaining why.

Miracle's Boys - Characterization

In Ch. 3, find parts in the book that show character traits of Lafayette, Tyree and Charlie.  Include the actual quote from the book and page number.

QUOTE: "Some days he'd just sit on that bed with his hands hanging down between his knees. Just staring out the window and looking evil," (Woodson 5). EXPLANATION OF QUOTE: This shows that Charlie is very angry at everything in life and he is having some serious internal conflict because of the anger he has since he went to Rahway.

Thematic Essay (Contender & Finding Forrester)

The Contender and Finding Forrester have many themes in common.  Choose ONE theme that you think fits the best for both of them.  Write a thematic essay that compares that theme in both the movie and the book. You should have 2 examples for each.

For example, if you choose friendship as a theme, you should have 2 examples from The Contender and 2 examples from Finding Forrester.

Comparison Transition Words: 

• in the same way
• by the same token
• similarly
• in like manner
• likewise
• in similar fashion

Eminem and The Contender

Emenim's 60 Minutes interview contained many themes that are similar to The Contender.  Below are just a few:

Overcoming Obstacles (dads left them, poverty, etc.)
Going Above and Beyond
Hope
Caring
Persistence
Understanding
Determination
Learning/Knowledge (Dropouts that went back to school)
Drugs
Hopelessness
Bullying
Pursuing Dreams or Motivation
Proving People Wrong

After viewing the interview, begin your essay with this Topic Sentence:

TS. There are similar themes in Eminem's 60 Minutes interview and The Contender.
SD The first theme that is displayed in both is __________.
Elab  Determination is displayed in The Contender when Alfred____________________________.  This is similar to Eminem when he____________________________________.
SD
Elab
SD
Elab

Contender Writing Test

In your own life, what would it mean to be a "contender"?  Use quotes from Alfred's first conversation with Mr. Donatelli (Ch. 3) to support your essay.

Alfred and James's Friendship

Discuss the friendship between Alfred and James.  Consider it's history and future possibilities.  Use examples from the book to support your answer.