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Lesson 1

Objective

The first chapter introduces readers to Ishmael Reed and also to his writing style. This lesson discusses Ishmael Reed’s writing and how it reveals his strategies for using language to convey meaning.

Lesson

1. Close Reading: Read the first few paragraphs, and analyze the writing style. How does Ishmael Reed write? What kinds of words does he use? How are his sentences structured?

2. Small Group Discussion: Ask students to work together in small groups to characterize Ishmael Reed’s style. When or how does he vary from that cadence? What does he lay emphasis on when he varies from his typical sentences? Ask each group to report back to the class after some time for discussion.

3. Class Discussion: How would you characterize Ishmael Reed’s values as a writer? What does he talk about? Is he neutral, partisan, prejudiced? Involved, aloof, objective?

Homework: Write a short...

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