Plot and Characterization

LIT 100 Module Two Journal Guidelines and Rubric

Overview: Throughout this course, you will use a journal to reflect on the assigned literary texts and to practice using writing skills that you have learned about.
This journal will be private between you and your instructor so use the journal as an opportunity experiment with the writing techniques and ideas in
preparation for writing your interpretive essay. Only the instructor can view and comment on your assignment. All journals should demonstrate your ability to
read the necessary texts actively and critically.
Prompt: This journal is an opportunity to reflect on the active reading you completed, specifically on the literary elements you learned about in the module.
After completing the readings for the week, respond to the following questions regarding plot and characterization, using the correct terminology. For each
question, discuss the impact these literary elements had on you as a reader and identify examples from the text to illustrate your ideas.
 Discuss the basic plot elements that occur in “A&P” by Updike. For example, did you think the climax/rising action was effective in this story? What
impact do these elements have on you as a reader?
 Discuss characterization in “Wild Berry Blue” by Galchen. You have several characters from which to choose, but focus your discussion on one character
with whom you identify, or one who reminds you of a character from another story you have read or watched. Explain how characterization helped you
understand those being described, using examples from the short story.
 Reflect on the literary elements you learned about in this module. Select at least one literary element (plot or characterization) and discuss the portrayal
of this element in “Likes” by Bynum using terminology from your textbook.
Guidelines for Submission: This journal assignment should be 2–3 paragraphs in length. Use MLA formatting to cite your examples. Refer to the MLA guide
provided in your Module Two resources, if necessary.