For assignment #2, we will write two different versions of the same scene.

Let's take a familiar dialogue--one we've seen repeated in countless movies and plays, and in our own lives--and adapt it a few different ways.

Select one of the following two prompt ideas:

1. a child-parent conversation, where a child needs something from the parent
2. or, a meeting between two people, where one is interested in asking the other out on a date

To explore these scenarios, let's consider what a cliche and unoriginal version of this scene might look like. (We'll complete this in class.)

You must complete two versions of this dialogue--at least 2 pages of Celtx formatted script.

1. A realistic/naturalistic version -- like our overheard conversations, go for as accurate a portrayal as possible; include all the potential difficulty and awkwardness of this conversation. 
2. An idealized version -- How could you make your realistic version more dramatic or comedic? Write a version where one of the characters becomes their best self. In other words, your character on his/her best day, when he/she is able to say exactly what needs to be said. Consider giving one of your characters more control, more lines, etc. 

Both versions should be at least 2 pages. Title each one.

A good play or screenplay can usually offer a balance of these two approaches. In working towards writing a short one-act of your own, consider how to give your audience (and your characters) this balance. 

We'll finish our poetry unit up by exploring some other poetic forms. Each student will pick one of the forms described HERE  to compose a poem.  (More info on forms can be found HERE .) Read through some of the descriptions and samples and find a form you'd like to try.

PART ONE: 
Do the following:

• pick a poetic form; learn its construction; read samples
• compose a poem in the form
• create a document that includes the following: the name and explanation of the form + your own original poem in that form
• be prepared to explain the poetic form to your class

[Note: you can pick any form EXCEPT for "Acrostic."]

PART TWO: 
Come up with your own form!

• devise the rules, restrictions, and grammar for your own form of poetry
• come up with a name for it
• write one of your own

PARTS 1 + 2 are both due on WEDNESDAY, 2/10. Typed, neatly presented. (Make sure to include explanations.)

This week we are working on two different poetic forms: the haiku and the limerick. You are responsible for completing 5 haiku and 3 limericks. Use your class handout for information about the form--its construction and its "purpose."

They should all be typed and titled.

Haiku should be:

• 3 lines, 5-7-5 syllables 
• more concrete than abstract
• simple--maybe show "cause and effect"; how one things affects another

Limericks should be:

• 5 lines, 8-8-5-5-8; with a AABBA rhyming scheme
• try to match the meter of stressed and unstressed beats described on the handout
• comical, surprising, etc.

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