The Catcher in the Rye

 

Performance Indicators:

 

P.S ELA-2 Reading Analysis: Cite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text, including determining where the text leaves matters uncertain.

A. Evaluate the relevant themes and synthesize how they are present in the novel in oral and written responses.
B. Interpret the implications of setting and circumstance.
C. Analyze the role of characters in the plot in oral and written responses.
D. Analyze important quotations from the text in oral and written responses.
E. Annotate the text.

P.S ELA-3 Reading Craft and Structure: Determine an author’s point of view or purpose in a text in which the rhetoric is particularly effective, analyzing how style and content contribute to the power, persuasiveness or beauty of a text.

A. Understand SOAPSTone: Speaker, Occasion, Audience, Purpose, Subject, Tone
B. Analyze the plot and/or design of the text, following shifts in time and place.

P.S. ELA-7 Speaking and Listening: Engage effectively in a well-reasoned exchange of ideas

A. Attentively listen to the words of a speaker.
B. Summarize what someone has said.
C. Defend, refute, or challenge the ideas of others.
D. Use evidence to support a position.
E. Organize ideas clearly and logically.
F. Use annotations of the text to contribute to class discussion.

You will be assigned into groups in which you will have one of the following themes to discuss according to the appropriated reading.  Consider as many examples from the novel as you can generate in order to explain how Holden struggles with your appointed theme.

Holden’ preoccupation with death
Alienation
Inability to transition
The Loss of innocence

The fifth group is to consider the symbolism developed throughout the novel.  Be prepared to respond with your interpretation of the significance of symbolism to each group’s interpretation of their assigned theme.

Symbols:  Red Hunting Hat, Suitcases, Fish, Ducks, Lavender Room, Nuns…