Before Reading
Identify the Author's Purpose
Discuss the following question with a small group of your classmates: What would you do if you were trying to convince somebody of something you felt was important? Then, read the Prereading page carefully. With your group, determine Jonathan Edwards's purpose. Keep this purpose in mind as you read.
During Reading
Read with Author's Purpose in Mind
1. Read along silently as your teacher reads the first two paragraphs aloud. What main points does Edwards make in this section? What techniques such as analogies, anecdotes, or repetition does Edwards use to make these points clear?
2. Continue to read with your group, taking turns reading aloud. Keep Edwards's purpose in mind, and make a list of main ideas as you go. Also continue to note any techniques Edwards uses to make these points.
Fix-Up Idea: Use Guided Reading Questions
If you are having trouble identifying Edwards's main points, go back and answer the Guided Reading Questions. These questions will help you focus on the points Edwards is making.
After Reading
Share How the Purpose Affected Your Reading
Share your list with your group from the Before-Reading activity. Do all of the points you listed relate to Edwards's purpose? Based on Edwards's purpose, do you think he was successful?