Thursday, March 21, 2019

Period 5: Exploring and Analyzing BIG IDEAS in "Down These Mean Streets" by Piri Thomas

In the novel, "Down These Mean Streets" Piri Thomas explores ideas relating to:

a. racial prejudice
d. sexual abuse
e. poverty
f. gangs and crimes
g. prison culture
h. other?

Based on your reading and analysis of the novel, in pairs, decide WHICH Big Idea above (or any OTHER you have suggested) appears to be the MOST important "Big Idea." Consider how this idea is important in the novel as well relevant to society.

Some of the concepts/Big Ideas above have been hyperlinked for you, so you may click on them to gain further definitions or ideas. You may conduct additional research if needed to help.

Here is an article that might provide additional context of the novel:

If you choose "Other" please ensure that your "Big Idea" is relevant to the novel and that you can find evidence of it.

Blog Task:
As you and your buddy write about this Big Idea, consider the following:
-Why have you chosen or settled on this "Big Idea" as number 1?
-What evidence from your reading or your class discussion supports this "Big Idea"?
-How is this idea relevant or important to our society today?
-Do you agree with the way Piri Thomas explores this "Big Idea", that is, is he biased in his presentation of the "Big Idea"? If so, how should the "Big Idea" be presented or explored?

Guidelines:
Remember to write in paragraph format of no less than 8-10 sentences for your original post
You must respond to at least two other pairs of students' posts.
Remember the conventions of written English as you post
Write BOTH FIRST names ONLY in the dialogue box and post anonymously in the drop down box.

Happy Blogging!