What was all that jazz?

Introduction

Task Process Resources Evaluation Conclusion

 

Introduction

 

Before reading Tennessee Williams’ A Streetcar Named Desire, we must realize that we do not know the answer to this question: what was all that jazz?  This play is set in a place and during a time period thick with culture; culture about which we have little to no knowledge.  We will build our knowledge so that we can really get to know the characters who we will meet in this play.

 

Task

 

As a group you will research a topic, prepare a PowerPoint presentation, cite the works you have used, and present your topic to the class.

 

Process

 

Step 1:        Research your topic (Enter citation information into "Citation Machine" as you go; be sure to save this information).

 

Step 2:        Compile research information as a group and divide information into five

headings.  Use resources below, the Internet, or Encyclopedia Britannica Online.

 

Step 3:        Create a five-slide power point outlining the information that you found (be sure to cite any facts…numbers & quotes).  

 

Step 4:        Create detailed notes that your group will use during presentation (remember

that the slides will be key points, but your information will go beyond this).

 

Step 5:        Compile your “Works Cited” page in Microsoft Word.

 

Step 6:        Give your presentation, displaying teamwork and implementing speech technique.

 

 

Resources

 

These resources serve as a starting point for the groups.  If you find key words reoccurring, follow the momentum and research those key words beyond this list. 

 

          French Quarter

 

1940’s Jazz Music

 

Tennessee Williams

 

Mental Health (1940’s focus)

 

 

Evaluation

 

You will be graded based upon the following:

 

1.     Group Participation

2.     Conciseness of Slide Show Information

3.     Citations within Slide Show

4.     Works Cited page (format and accuracy)

5.     Completion and Quality of detailed notes

6.     Speech Technique

 

You NEED to view the rubric before beginning! 

 

Conclusion

 

The hope is that this assignment provides us with information to “hang our hats on.”  As we read Tennessee Williams’ A Streetcar Named Desire we will be well-informed readers; ones who know the historical background of the play and can therefore further understand the characters!  And of course, one of our favorites, we will be able to further analyze and DEBATE!