Study Guide for Decoding Othello

Study Guide for Decoding Othello
Author: Steven Smith
Publisher: Sherwood Press
Total Pages: 181
Release: 2023-08-03
Genre: Study Aids
ISBN: 1964189241

"Decoding Othello" provides an in-depth exploration of William Shakespeare's tragic play. The guide probes into the narrative, exploring key themes like love, jealousy, betrayal, manipulation, racial otherness, gender dynamics, and power structures. Character analyses focus on the five main characters - Othello, Iago, Desdemona, Cassio, and Emilia - whose intricate relationships drive the plot. Linguistic and rhetorical devices, such as verse and prose, animal imagery, metaphors, irony, and soliloquies, are explored to understand better their contributions to character development, tonal setting, and narrative progression. The study guide also discusses the historical and cultural contexts, with a focus on Elizabethan views on race, religion, and gender, while also touching on the Venice setting, military culture, and social hierarchy. Finally, the study guide highlights the relevance of "Othello" to contemporary societal issues and provides an overview of the tragic structure of the play.

Study Guide for Decoding Persepolis

Study Guide for Decoding Persepolis
Author: Steven Smith
Publisher: Sherwood Press
Total Pages: 134
Release: 2023-11-10
Genre: Study Aids
ISBN: 1964189489

"Decoding Persepolis" takes the reader deep into Marjane Satrapi's "Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood," offering a comprehensive look into the memoir's exploration of character dynamics, themes, symbolism, and the overarching narrative. The guide begins by exploring Marjane's intricate relationships with her family and friends, which form the emotional backbone of the story. Throughout the memoir, Marjane navigates a labyrinth of conflicts, mirroring the tumultuous environment of revolutionary Iran. These conflicts range from internal struggles with faith and identity to confrontations with societal norms, the education system, and the broader political turmoil that envelops her country. This guide examines the author's use of potent symbolism throughout the narrative, using elements like the veil, keys to paradise, and cigarettes to convey repression, manipulation, and rebellion themes. The climax of the story is reached with Marjane's increasing rebellion against societal norms, leading to her parents' decision to send her to Austria. This moment of departure marks a significant transition in her life, symbolizing not just a physical departure but also a departure from childhood."Persepolis" provides a deeply personal glimpse into a critical period of Iranian history, inviting readers to reflect on the intersections of politics, family, and personal development. Through its exploration of Marjane's growth amidst political upheaval, "Decoding Persepolis" aims to enhance students' understanding of the memoir, unpacking Satrapi's complex themes and narrative strategies.

Study Guide for Decoding The Odessey

Study Guide for Decoding The Odessey
Author: Steven Smith
Publisher: Sherwood Press
Total Pages: 198
Release: 2023-06-27
Genre: Study Aids
ISBN: 1964189403

"Decoding The Odessey" explores and uncovers the rich tapestry of Homer's "The Odyssey," offering an in-depth examination of the multifaceted aspects of this epic poem. From understanding its philosophical undertones to analyzing its political implications, the guide covers various dimensions that make "The Odyssey" a timeless classic. The profound relationship between the characters, their personal growth, and the intricate web of divine and human interactions are examined in detail. A thorough analysis of internal and external conflicts, the moral fabric, and notable themes like heroism, loyalty, justice, wisdom, transformation, temptation, gender roles, human resilience, and many others are provided with references from the text. Special attention is given to rhetorical devices, intertextual connections, multicultural perspectives, and the influence of "The Odyssey" on art, music, and educational pedagogy. "Decoding The Odessey" serves as an invaluable resource for students, scholars, and anyone interested in understanding the intricate world of "The Odyssey," illuminating its relevance in contemporary discussions and providing a gateway to understanding one of the most significant works in Western literature.

Study Guide for Decoding The Merchant of Venice

Study Guide for Decoding The Merchant of Venice
Author: Steven Smith
Publisher: Sherwood Press
Total Pages: 139
Release: 2023-07-19
Genre: Study Aids
ISBN: 1964189306

"Decoding The Merchant of Venice," offers insights into its plot, characters, relationships, and moral lessons. It highlights the central conflict between Antonio and Shylock, underpinned by themes of justice, mercy, and prejudice, setting the stage for the pivotal courtroom scene. Key character analyses include Shylock, depicted as both villain and victim, showcasing the play's complex portrayal of religious intolerance and justice. Antonio's deep bond with Bassanio introduces themes of friendship and sacrifice, while Portia’s wit and intelligence challenge gender norms and societal expectations. The study guide also explores significant relationships, such as Portia and Bassanio’s love, and the strained father-daughter dynamic between Shylock and Jessica, reflecting cultural and religious divides. Famous lines like “All that glitters is not gold” and “The quality of mercy is not strained” are examined for thematic significance. Central themes include the dichotomy between justice and mercy, prejudice's destructive nature, and love and friendship's complexities. The climax and resolution, centered around the courtroom scene, conclude the narrative arcs, prompting reflection on justice, mercy, and human nature. This comprehensive examination encourages a deeper understanding of the play’s relevance and commentary on the human condition.

Study Guide for Decoding Macbeth

Study Guide for Decoding Macbeth
Author: Steven Smith
Publisher: Sherwood Press
Total Pages: 123
Release: 2023-04-03
Genre: Study Aids
ISBN: 1964189055

"Decoding Macbeth" offers a comprehensive analysis and exploration of William Shakespeare's Macbeth. This book delves into the play's complex themes, its multifaceted characters, and its literary techniques and devices, with the aim of providing readers with a deep understanding of the play's meaning and significance. The study guide begins by providing a historical and cultural context for Macbeth, exploring the political and social climate in which the play was written and first performed. It then moves on to an in-depth analysis of the play's major themes, including power's corrupting influence, unchecked ambition's consequences, and the tension between appearance and reality. The study book also offers a detailed exploration of the play's major characters. It examines their psychological complexity, motivations, and relationships with one another to provide readers with a nuanced understanding of these characters and their place in the play. The study guide uses textual evidence and close analysis to support arguments, providing readers with a deep understanding of the play's literary techniques and devices, including Shakespeare's use of iambic pentameter, imagery, and symbolism. "Decoding Macbeth" is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of one of Shakespeare's most enduring works.

A Study Guide for Ann-Marie MacDonald's "Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet)"

A Study Guide for Ann-Marie MacDonald's
Author: Gale, Cengage Learning
Publisher: Gale, Cengage Learning
Total Pages: 31
Release: 2016
Genre: Literary Criticism
ISBN: 1410347125

A Study Guide for Ann-Marie MacDonald's "Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet)," excerpted from Gale's acclaimed Drama For Students. This concise study guide includes plot summary; character analysis; author biography; study questions; historical context; suggestions for further reading; and much more. For any literature project, trust Drama For Students for all of your research needs.

Reading Reconsidered

Reading Reconsidered
Author: Doug Lemov
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
Total Pages: 453
Release: 2016-02-29
Genre: Education
ISBN: 1119104246

TEACH YOUR STUDENTS TO READ WITH PRECISION AND INSIGHT The world we are preparing our students to succeed in is one bound together by words and phrases. Our students learn their literature, history, math, science, or art via a firm foundation of strong reading skills. When we teach students to read with precision, rigor, and insight, we are truly handing over the key to the kingdom. Of all the subjects we teach reading is first among equals. Grounded in advice from effective classrooms nationwide, enhanced with more than 40 video clips, Reading Reconsidered takes you into the trenches with actionable guidance from real-life educators and instructional champions. The authors address the anxiety-inducing world of Common Core State Standards, distilling from those standards four key ideas that help hone teaching practices both generally and in preparation for assessments. This 'Core of the Core' comprises the first half of the book and instructs educators on how to teach students to: read harder texts, 'closely read' texts rigorously and intentionally, read nonfiction more effectively, and write more effectively in direct response to texts. The second half of Reading Reconsidered reinforces these principles, coupling them with the 'fundamentals' of reading instruction—a host of techniques and subject specific tools to reconsider how teachers approach such essential topics as vocabulary, interactive reading, and student autonomy. Reading Reconsidered breaks an overly broad issue into clear, easy-to-implement approaches. Filled with practical tools, including: 44 video clips of exemplar teachers demonstrating the techniques and principles in their classrooms (note: for online access of this content, please visit my.teachlikeachampion.com) Recommended book lists Downloadable tips and templates on key topics like reading nonfiction, vocabulary instruction, and literary terms and definitions. Reading Reconsidered provides the framework necessary for teachers to ensure that students forge futures as lifelong readers.

Studying English

Studying English
Author: Robert Eaglestone
Publisher: Routledge
Total Pages: 150
Release: 2015-11-06
Genre: Literary Criticism
ISBN: 1135043167

Clearly focussed on the needs of students, Robert Eaglestone and Jonathan Beecher Field have revised the best-selling Doing English specifically for English literature courses in America. Studying English presents the ideas and debates that shape literary studies in America today. This overview of the discipline explains not only what students need to know, but how and why English came to be the way it is. This uniquely comprehensive guide to the subject gives students the background they need to understand and enjoy their studies more fully. The book covers arguments about criticism and theory, value, the canon, Shakespeare, authorial intention, figural language, narrative, writing, identity, politics and the skills that are learned from studying English for the world of work. In a clear and engaging way, Robert Eaglestone and Jonathan Beecher Field: Orient you, by exploring what it is to study English in America now. Equip you, by explaining the key ideas and trends in English in context. Enable you to begin higher level study.

Transforming Reading Skills in the Secondary School

Transforming Reading Skills in the Secondary School
Author: Pat Guy
Publisher: Routledge
Total Pages: 111
Release: 2015-05-14
Genre: Education
ISBN: 1317442911

Transforming Reading Skills in the Secondary School is a commonsense text designed to help practitioners working in a mainstream context. The book suggests ways to develop the underlying skills necessary for good reading through multiple pathways such as mainstream subject lessons, individual and small group support sessions, whole school initiatives, the use of reading mentors and home-school liaison opportunities. Brimming with ideas and activities, Pat Guy explores a variety of different aspects of reading, including: how reading is taught and why it is such an important skill for the individual how to motivate the reluctant reader the role played by the mainstream & specialist teacher underlying problems pupils may face how to increase parental involvement reasons why a pupil’s comprehension might be limited the role of the School Librarian the relevance to reading of vocabulary and general knowledge. Anyone wanting to develop the reading skills of secondary pupils who struggle will find this a resource they return to time and time again.

Fostering Independent Learning

Fostering Independent Learning
Author: Virginia Smith Harvey
Publisher: Guilford Press
Total Pages: 273
Release: 2007-03-02
Genre: Education
ISBN: 159385451X

Accessible, practical, and empowering, this book gives school professionals the tools to put students in charge of their own learning. Going beyond traditional "study skills" guides that focus on the mechanics of homework completion and test taking, the authors address the underlying psychological factors that influence academic success and lifelong learning. They provide step-by-step guidance and data-based interventions for helping each student develop a repertoire of problem-solving strategies in the areas of motivation, emotional responses to learning, behavior, time management, organization, memory, reading, writing, math, and more. In a large-size format with lay-flat binding to facilitate photocopying, the volume includes dozens of reproducible handouts and forms. This book is in The Guilford Practical Intervention in the Schools Series.