Requirements may happen in any order:

• Identify highlight, theme, problem, issue from reading assignment to discuss.
   

• Relate discussion to a course objective.
   

• Direct class (using web screen or print-outs) to 1-2 selections

  • read passages

  • connect passage to theme or objective.
     

• Ask a question to begin discussion.

  • The question should follow from your reading, but it may also appeal more broadly to the challenges that the text may present to the class.

  • Question may also refer to other class readings.

  • More than 1 question is advisable.
     

• Lead discussion

Timing:

• 8-12 minutes for the presentation itself
   

• After about 10 minutes, you're talking to yourself
   

• Discussion may run longer
   

• If the presentation part goes too long, you'll be asked to wrap up and ask your question to start discussion
   

• Warning: students are ready to discuss soon after the reading, so don't lose the moment.

Don't:

Go on and on about the author's life

Reduce the poem's meaning to parallels with the author's life

Do:

Try some "intertextuality"--connect your text to other texts we're reading that day or any day

optional:

Web posting or summary is optional. If you want to post your notes for use onscreen, email them to instructor before class or bring on flash-drive.

• Presenting student may stand at front (using the computer / projector or not)

Or

• Remain seated and lead "seminar style" (instructor can help with onscreen text?)