Jacquelyn C. Olson

Dropin #2

June 22, 2009

Lois Lowry and The Giver

(Language Arts Activity for 6^th grade students.)

Thus far, we have covered the following information in class:

1) Discussed the term utopia and talked about the ways in which a utopian society can be created.

2) Discussed and analyzed the implications of such a society and how it could exist separately but still be a part of the world around it.

3) Read chapters 1 – 18 in The Giver.

Today, we will look at Lois Lowry’s biography and discover her description of The Giver. We will visit her website at http://www.loislowry.com/bio.html and http://www.readingrockets.org/books/interviews/lowry/transcript#thegiver to view both interview transcripts.

Following the reading from the links above, each student will:

1) In small groups of 3 to 4 students, discuss the ways in which Jonas’ views on his society have changed since he met The Giver.

2) Individually, create a list of five pros and five cons for creating and maintaining a utopian society.

3) Write a short essay (700 words, double spaced) discussing their views on utopian society. In order for the student to fully complete this task, the following questions must be addressed in the essay:

a) Would you or would you not like to live in a utopian society? Why or why not? Use examples from the book to support your position.

b) What modifications could you make to the rules of the utopian society in The Giver to improve its humanity and utility?

c) In your opinion, does the author share your views? If so, in what ways? If not, how do your views differ? You can use examples from the transcripts to support your views.

To access the entire Lois Lowry interview on the READINGrockets website, click on the following link: A Video Interview with Lois Lowry.