In terms of research and information necessary for the presentation, I ask that you recognize the following:

This includes general information about the author: when/where the writer wrote, influences (people, styles…), education, awards/prizes, public acceptance…etc. In addition to the basics, I ask that you include at least three fascinating yet generally unknown pieces of information about the author. Dig deep! This is the kind of information that is not included in the biographical section of the literature book.

Writing often carries more merit or is more significant when we understand or appreciate the time from which it came. What was going on in our country at this time? Politics? War? Societal influences? Other popular, widely read authors? Writing movements? What can you do to "put us there"? Will you use film clips, commercials, audio clips, costumes…etc. How will you manipulate the setting? This too calls for research!

If you are researching a writer of fiction, I ask that you touch on the material that is included in the literature book. In addition, you will share/discuss/recognize at least two other pieces of writing. Obviously we don’t have enough in-class time to read short stories/novels in their entirety. We can, however be introduced to select pieces and recognize the author’s writing style, influences, or life experiences. You are giving us a taste of that author’s writing.

If you are researching a poet, I ask that you touch on at least one of the poems in the literature book and four poems found elsewhere. Your group will not only be sharing the poems, you will be interpreting the work. Interpretation will not only come from personal perspective, but the knowledge you have about this poet and his/her life and influences.

This project should run between 15-30 minutes and is worth 100 points. We will hear from two groups per period. Make sure your presentation does not fall short of 15 minutes or run past 30! Time will be a part of your evaluation!

*I ask that you turn in a typed reference page with at least three sources (APA style), and a typed responsibility sheet (don’t forget it this time!) where you discuss who was responsible for what. Keep track of responsibilities as you go along.

Your presentation should also include visual aids (at least three-overheads and handouts are considered visual aids).