Chapter 18

Vocabulary to preview - solemn, portentous

Problematic Situation (20 min.)
Purpose of the Strategy
The problematic situation allows students to effectively construct an argument for or against a debatable situation found in the The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle. This strategy utilizes problem solving and decision making skills, allows students to approach the text from varying perspectives, creates interest in the story situation, and connects the text to student priorities and values.
Rationale
Before reading chapter 18, arrange a discussion/debate, whereby students will be able to organize their thoughts and predictions concerning Charlotte’s trial. The students will also make reasonable conclusions on what the actual truth is concerning the crew, Captain Jaggery, and Charlotte by asking questions about what they know so far. Students will ultimately be able to provide a rationale for their individual and group choices which will be beneficial for them in future situations when they may be forced to take a side of an issue and defend their stance.
Steps
1) The class will be divided into pairs to either defend or prosecute Charlotte. The students will determine themselves what side they want to take.
2) With their partner they must write down three questions that when answered will help incriminate or free Charlotte from the accusation of murder.
3) After they have decided on three questions (students will want to produce questions which are original, complete, organized, etc.), all pairs “for” and all pairs “against” will meet with the others on their side to determine which questions they will actually use “in court.”
4) Once the final questions have been determined, the teacher will announce: “Court is in session, the Honorable, Mrs. LaFaye presiding.”
5) Questions will be directed to Charlotte (played by the teacher) who will answer them honestly.
Assessment
This strategy is designed to help students construct well-developed arguments that will help them in life as well as in school. This activity requires using higher order thinking skills. Arguments may be judged (by the Honorable Mrs. LaFaye) on originality, completeness, organization, and other factors.
Marcov, BYU

Predictions and SOS

Follow-up Discussion Questions:
1. Was the trial fair? Why or why not?
2. A jury of her peers. Why is this so relevant? Why should her experience be so combative? Is confrontation necessary? What about anger?
3. What evidence would you offer in Charlotte's defense?

Check vocabulary and comprehension after reviewing the underlined passages whole-group. This page has questions about chapters 16 through 18.

To practice skills in symbolism, allegory, allusion, similes, personification, metaphors and plot, check out this skills sheet.

Enhance your students' enjpyment of Charlotte's suspenseful adventure with dramatic readings.  Ask volunteers to present Charlotte's trial in chapter 18, assuming the roles of Charlotte, Captain Jaggery, and the other characters.  (Costumes and props aren't necessary, but would add a more realistic touch.)  Since the book is a first-person account, have students include Charlotte's inner thoughts and dexcriptions of the trial in the dramatization.  While Charlotte reads the narration, have the other actors turn their backs to the audience.  This will help the audience distinguish between narration and actual dialogue.  Videotape the presentation, if possible.  (Chapters 19, 21, and the end of chapter 22 are additional sections suitable for dramatization.)