For one of my induction cycles, I focused on game-based learning. I created a game to review diction wordswith specific quotes from Ch. 15 of To Kill a Mockingbird. I used this activity with my pre-AP English 9 students, because analyzing an author's diction is a very important part of the rhetorical analysis that they will be doing as sophomores in my AP English Language and Composition class. Playing a game is a great way to introduce or review concepts in a way that is not stressful or high-stakes. I wanted to include this resource on my website not only so that others could find this specific game, but also because I wanted to share a link to Sugarcane, which has the option to create multiple types of learning games that will benefit students, including a variety of matching and memory games.
Romeo and Juliet
It can be hard for students to get into Romeo and Juliet, so I have found ways to make the text more accessible and engaging for students, and more pleasant for everyone! Because I grade my students' analysis of Romeo and Juliet, not their comprehension, I actually encourage them to access No Fear Shakespeare, but only for the line-by-line translation; the analysis they have to do themselves, and have them submit papers to Turnitin.com to dissuade plagiarism. I also have a timeline of the basic events of the play. Because students are often visual and auditory learners, and I am of the opinion that Shakespeare is meant to be heard and seen rather than just silently read, I also have students listen to the audiobook or perform the play, and we watch the movie. Once students have a basic understanding of the play, then we can get into the fun part of analysis. That's when we can get to the mock trial, which is one of the most challenging and exciting things I do with my students all year!
Resources for AP English Language and Composition
Pre-exam review games
During my student teaching at Mission Hills High School, I learned a Jeopardy-style game called "Bluff-o-Rama" from Mr. English. Though it is similar to Jeopardy, it allows all students to participate, rather than just one team captain. I have adapted it for use with my AP English class, and it is a hit with students. I have used it to review rhetorical devices, vocabulary words, and test-taking tips before exams. When students are weary and over-tested with practice exams, Bluff-o-Rama is a fun way to review key concepts. Hereis a Bluff-o-Rama game that I use to review with my students before the AP test. It includes instructions. I have used the template almost once per unit with different questions; feel free to make a copy of it and plug in your own categories, questions, and answers with the "Find & Replace" tool.