Before we begin our next novel, The Great Gatsby, you will do a bit of independent research on Fitzgerald’s life and times. The Jazz Age was a very interesting period in our nation’s history and Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald were very much a part these roaring times. It is important that you understand both the culture and the author to appreciate the characters and events in Fitzgerald’s great novel.

1. Before you begin your research, you will visit following link and print out a KWL graphic organizer.

2. After you print out the organizer, fill out the first column labeled “What I Know” with information from the class lecture, or other prior knowledge you have about F. Scott Fitgerald and/or the Jazz Age. ***You must include at least 3 facts about Fitzgerald’s life and at least 3 facts about 1920’s culture in the first column to receive full credit. You are always welcome to write more, this is merely a minimum requirement.

3. Next, you will fill out the middle column “What I Want to Learn”. ***You must include at least 3 things you want to learn about Fitzgerald’s life and at least 3 things you want to learn about 1920’s culture. Again, this is only the MINIMUM requirement.

4. Now, for your research! You will visit the University of South Carolina’s website entitled F. Scott Fitzgerald Centenary to search for answers to your questions about the life of F. Scott Fitgerald. Search within the site and use the links provided to find your information. Then, write the new information you have learned in the third column labeled “What I Have Learned”.

5. You will visit the geocities site entitled the Jazz Age to search for answers to your questions about 1920’s culture. Search within the site and use the links provided to find your information. Then, write the new information you have learned in the third column labeled “What I Have Learned”.

6. Bring you completed KWL organizer to class for collection. Be prepared to share your newfound information in our class discussion.