You Can't Handle the Truth: Teaching Arthur Miller's The Crucible

student work | lessons | writing assignments | resources | opening page

Students' Notes on The Crucible

Work Sample #4

The Assignment: In class, students assembled into groups. Their challenge: they would write their own notes on The Crucible (instead of a more traditional teacher-given or teacher-led note taking experience). Each group had an area to work on together. Within 2 class periods, the students came up with excellent notes--some are so good that I honestly couldn't have done a better job myself. Students submitted the pages to me for editing, and then they created a group web page with the information from their group work. This way, all members of the class can share their notes with each other.

The Criteria: The topic presented was answered completely. The answer was clear and explained fully. Other students found the web page to be clear and informational. The web design couldn't be too overpowering, as there was important information to be presented to the class.

Links to Student Web Pages:

Setting: What was the culture of Salem 1692 like?

Themes: What messages are left behind for the reader?

Characters: A description of the major characters in the play

Literary Devices: Elements used in the play & how they were used

Plot Summary: An act-by-act description of events

Behind-the-Scenes: Why did Arthur Miller write this play?

student work | lessons | writing assignments | resources | opening page