60 likes | 262 Views
Early Visions of America. The Writing of Christopher Columbus and John Smith. First… “Close Reading”. What does it mean to do a “close reading” of a text? What are some of the strategies of a close reader? An effective and simple way to approach all non-fiction texts: “The APT Reader” A.P.T.
E N D
Early Visions of America The Writing of Christopher Columbus and John Smith
First… “Close Reading” • What does it mean to do a “close reading” of a text? • What are some of the strategies of a close reader? • An effective and simple way to approach all non-fiction texts: “The APT Reader” • A.P.T.
The Diary of Christopher Columbus • In Your Journal: What is Columbus’s vision of America? • By this I mean not just his observations of the “New World” and its people, but also his vision for its future. • Consider his Audience(s), Purpose and Tone.
Columbus (cont’d.) • Here’s another tip: look for signs of bias. • Where might we detect signs of bias in Columbus’s writing? • As far as you can tell, does he make any assumptions that might cast doubt or suspicion on his story?
John Smith’s GenerallHistorie • As far as you can tell, what is Smith’s vision for America? What similarities and differences do you see between his vision and that of Columbus?
John Smith • Audience(s)? • Purpose(s)? • Tone? • Assumptions? • Bias? • Agenda? • HW: Read the excerpt from “Description of New England,” also by Smith, in your packet. Annotate appropriately (A.P.T., bias, assumptions, vison, etc.)