Tone. Tone is a writer’s or speaker’s attitude toward the subject or the reader. For example, a writer may have a tone of awe or wonder, of disgust, anger, pride, or joy. As you read “Gatored Community,” decide what you think is the tone of the selection.
Aim. A writer’s aim is his or her purpose, or goal. People may write with the following aims: to inform (informative/expository writing); to tell a story, either true or invented, about an event or sequence of events (narrative writing); to reflect (personal/ expressive writing); to share a perspective by using an artistic medium, such as fiction or poetry, to entertain, enrich, or enlighten (imaginative writing); or to persuade readers to respond in some way, such as to agree with a position, change a view on an issue, reach an agreement, or perform an action (persuasive/argumentative writing). Many literary works fall under more than one of these categories. For example, an article about heart disease can be both informative and persuasive. A letter could be both narrative and personal/expressive. As you read “Gatored Community,” think about what the authors’ aim or aims might be. Create a graphic organizer like the one below to help you organize your ideas about the aim of the selection. In each section of the chart, list examples or quotes from the selection that support a specific aim. You may not find examples for every one of the five aims.
|
- Science Connection. Alligators are members of an ancient family of saurians: they are relatives of the dinosaurs. However, when dinosaurs became extinct, the alligators survived—proving their great ability to adapt to changes in environment. Alligators are not an endangered species, but they are legally protected. There are two types of alligators: American and Chinese. The average adult size for a female is 8.2 feet, while males can reach up to 11.2 feet and weigh in at more than half a ton!
- Culture Connection. Urban legends are a type of folklore. Because they don't necessarily take place in urban areas, they are sometimes referred to as contemporary legends. An urban legend:
- appears mysteriously and spreads spontaneously in varying forms
- contains elements of humor or horror (the horror often “punishes” someone who flouts society’s conventions)
- makes good storytelling
- does NOT have to be false, although most are. Urban legends often have a basis in fact, but over repeated tellings they become more and more outlandish!
|
