The project for The Crucible is a two-part undertaking. It involves both written and verbal skills. You will be asked to show a proficiency in both and will be graded on both. The overall project will count as both a major project and a minor one (three big grades in all). Now that the nasty "stuff:" is out of the way, here is the project:
Part One:
A. You must choose one character from the following list to defend:
1. Abigail Williams 6.. Rev. S. Parris 11. Mrs. Putnam
2. John Proctor 7. Rev. John Hale 12. Martha Corey
3. Elizabeth Proctor 8. Judge Danforth 13. Betty Parris
4. Giles Corey 9. Tituba 14. Ezekiel Cheever
5. Thomas Putnam 10. Mary Warren 15. Judge Hawthorne
B. Now reread the play and collect all the important lines that your character utters. Write them down, you will probably use them in your defense.
C. Create a defense for this character. In this written defense you must use that character's actual words, along with your own, to defend his or her actions throughout this play. THIS IS THE KEY TO THIS PROJECT. YOU MUST DEFEND YOUR CHARACTER. YOU MUST ALSO SUPPLY A REASON FOR THEIR ACTIONS.
D. Remember, your reasons must be credible. You are making a persuasive argument. YOUR CHARACTER'S LIFE IN ON THE LINE!!!
E. FINALLY, you must reliquish the blame from yourself and put it where you feel it belongs. Accuse the person who is truly responsible for the witchcraft trials in Salem.
F. This written defense will be a very structured argument that states a supportable thesis and then uses the facts of the play to come to a final conclusion about your character.
The written defense will be 5-7 pages long and it is due:: Monday, October 20th.
Part Two:
A. You will orally present your argument to the class which will act as the jury. They will decide, upon the completion of your defense, whether to free you or hang you. They will be allowed to question you after the defense.
B. You will not be allowed to read your defense, instead it's important ideas should be put on note cards that you will be able to use.
C. You may dress up as your character, which I can assure will help with your defense.
D. Finally, this will be videotaped (You can choose to see yourself by borrowing the tape) and your presentation will be graded following the English Department's guidelines for speeches.
The oral presentations will begin on:: Wednesday, October 21st.