L.A. Noir Mystery Fiction Assignments
Ansel Adams’ Lost Los Angeles Found (1940)
L.A. Noir Class to Visit Historic Downtown!
Tour Set for Wednesday, April 2.
Semester Two
Week Eighteen
May 26
Memorial Day -- no classes
May 27
In-class: Sunset Boulevard
Homework: Prepare for your final; Photo Story projects and journals are due!
May 28
In-class: Finish viewing Sunset Boulevard.
Homework: Prepare for final
May 29
Semester Finals -- L.A. Noir Period 1 Room 102 Bring your books!
May 30
Semester Finals
Happy Graduation -- and have a great summer! All the best to you!!!
Week Seventeen
May 19
In-class: Library time to work on PhotoStory project -- due next Tuesday, May 27th.
Homework: Test on Little Scarlet on Wednesday.
Note: Notebooks due Tuesday, May 27th. Those students who went on Catalina trip should note last assignment based on course reader story (See below).
May 20
In-class: Finish viewing Devil in a Blue Dress
Homework: Test on the novel on Wednesday.
May 21
In-class: Test -- begin viewing Sunset Boulevard.
Homework: Photostory project and journals due next Tuesday.
May 22
In-class: Sunset Boulevard
Homework: Work on PhotoStory project and complete your notebooks. Both are due next Tuesday in class!
May 23
Ditch Day for Seniors -- Enjoy!
Week Sixteen
May 12
In-class: Pop quiz on novel through Chapter 32. Discussion of reading thus far.
Homework: Part IV Narrative assignment due tomorrow: Introductory Paragraph or a Typed Scene.
Note: We will meet in class Tuesday before proceeding to library to work on PhotoStory project. Come prepared with digital photos.
May 13
In-class: Library presentation on PhotoStory software.
Homework: Finish reading Little Scarlet -- Test on the novel on Wednesday, May 21.
May 14
In-class: Begin viewing Devil in a Blue Dress
Homework: Finish reading Little Scarlet and work on your PhotoStory presentation.
May 15
In-class: Continue viewing film
Homework: Work on your PhotoStory presentation; finish reading the novel.
May 16
In-class: In course reader, "Once More, Lazarus" and Notebook Entry #19: What makes this short story a noir story?
Homework: Be prepared to work on your PhotoStory project Monday; finish reading the novel.
Week Fifteen
May 5
In-class: Discuss our novel to date and read in-class Chapter 16. Notebook Entry #17: From our reading so far, how is Easy Rawlins similar to Philip Marlowe in The Big Sleep? How are the two men different?
Homework: Narrative assignment due tomorrow: The Story of Your Crime's Detection. Refer to your handout for the questions your story should answer.
Novel Reading: Please through Chapter 31 by next Monday. Pace yourself!
May 6
In-class: Narrative assignment due. Continued reading of our novel.
Homework: Continue reading the novel; bring course reader to class.
Note for absent AP students: Ms. Sterling reviewed with class today the sizes needed for digital photos for your storyboard project. They should be 400 (h) pixals x 600 (w) pixels. When doing a search online, request "large" photos, at least 30 KB in size. Begin looking for as many as 10 possible photos for next Tuesday's meeting in the library, where Ms. Sterling will review how to use the PhotoStory software and you will begin working on this final piece of your narrative project.
May 7
In-class: Review exampls of PhotoStory project. View film Who Framed Roger Rabbit? -- and then answer Notebook Entry #18: Our movie may be an animated/live action film for a younger audience, but how does it embrace classic noir elements?
Homework: Continued to read Little Scarlet; work on Part IV of your narrative (introductory paragraphs); and find photos for your PhotoStory activity.
May 8
In-class: Continued viewing of film.
Homework: Read your novel and work on remaining narrative parts.
May 9
In-class: Finish viewing film. Remember to complete notebook entry listed above.
Homework: Work on remaining narrative parts. Find digital photos for Tuesday's library visit. Note: Read Little Scarlet through Chapter 31. Pop quiz on Monday!
Week Fourteen
April 28
In-class: Begin viewing Twilight Los Angeles -- 1992 Rodney King riots in Los Angeles
Homework: Narrative assignment due tomorrow: The Story of the Murder. Refer to your handout for the questions your story should answer.
April 29
In-class: Pop quiz on final chapters of The Jasmine Trade; discussion of novel's ending. Time permitting, continuation of video.
Homework: Locate copy of Little Scarlet and bring to class.
April 30
In-class: Read first chapter together of Little Scarlet and discuss; more Twilight Los Angeles
Homework: Read Chapters 2-3.
May 1
In-class: Novel discussion; finish viewing Twilight and Notebook Entry #16: Reflect on the title of the video we just watched and explain why you feel this title is appropriate or not. What does the title reveal? Also, write about your reaction to the film -- what did you learn? What detail stood out? In terms of the city's history in 1992, what has changed or remained the same?
Homework: Work on your "Story of the Crime's Detection" -- due next Tuesday. Read through Chapter 15 in your novel by Monday.
May 2
Mary's Day -- no classes
Week Thirteen
April 21
In-class: Pop quiz on The Jasmine Trade; novel discussion and/or continued viewing of L.A. Confidential
Homework: Story idea due -- Submit this formally (typed!)
Read through Chapter 32 by this Thursday.
April 22
In-class: Typed story idea due today.
Homework: Continue reading your novel.
April 23
In-class: L.A. Confidential
Homework: Continue reading your novel
April 24
In-class: Pop Quiz on The Jasmine Trade with discussion; Finish film and then Notebook Entry #15: L.A. Confidential is considered a neo-noir film. What makes it a noir film? Be specific with your examples.
Homework: Finish novel by next Tuesday.
April 25
In-class: "The Story of a Murder" and your narrative assignment.
Homework: Work on your narrative project and finish novel.
Week Twelve
April 14
In-class: Pop quiz on The Jasmine Trade reading, through Chapter 13. Discussion of novel. Review of Mystery Fiction handout.
Homework: Continue reading The Jasmine Trade -- to page 210 by next Monday.
April 15
In-class: Mystery Fiction and story ideas -- review Chapter 2 handout. Also handed out: culminating narrative project. Review the timeline and start developing your story idea. Begin viewing L.A. Confidential
Homework: Read your novel!
April 16
In-class: Silent reading of The Jasmine Trade
Homework: Start developing your story idea and continue to read our novel.
April 17
In-class: LA Confidential
Homework: Remember to read your novel through page 210 by next Monday.
April 18
In-class: L.A. Confidential
Homework: Continue to read Jasmine Trade and develop a story idea (due Tuesday)
Week Eleven
April 7
In-class: Reading of "The Tooth of Crime" by James Ellroy
Homework: Finish reading Ellroy article
April 8
In-class: Reaction to Ellroy piece. Fingerprints: Are you a whorl, an arch or a loop?
Homework: "Closer Look" project due tomorrow. Be sure to upload it to turnitin.com by Wednesday evening.
April 9
In-class: "Closer Look" project. Wrap up of fingerprinting. Finally, The Jasmine Trade!
Homework: Now that we have read Chapter One of our new novel, continue reading through Chapter 13 by next Monday.
Be sure to upload your Closer Look project by tonight on turnitin.com
April 10
In-class: View of PBS video Zoot Suit Riots
Homework: Notebook Entry #14: "Zoot-suiters" were criticized both by their parents, who saw their clothing styles and use of English as signs that their sons were rejecting their parents' culture, and by some non-Mexican Americans, who regarded them as alien and dangerous. Write a first person account from the perspective of a young zoot-suiter in which you describe your feelings about being caught between your parents' fear that you are becoming "too American" and others' fear that you are "not American enough."
April 11
In-class: Finish viewing Zoot Suite Riots
Homework: Read through Chapter 13 in The Jasmine Trade. Possible pop quiz on Monday!
Week Ten
March 31
In-class: Viewing of The Big Sleep; Introduction to a "Closer Look" Project: During Wednesday's tour, you will visit and take notes about historic downtown Los Angeles. Select one of these buildings of interest and research this site further. You will write a paragraph based on your research, and then write a second paragraph explaining why this site might be suitable in a mystery narrative you will be developing. Your typed project is due Wednesday, April 7, and needs to be uploaded to turnitin.com. Be sure to cite your work and include a Works Cited page.
Homework: None tonight
April 1
In-class: Finish film and complete worksheet on film/novel comparison (due Thursday)
Homework: Notebook Entry #13: In your novel, find six examples of descriptive writing and/or quips (witty or sarcastic remarks) by Marlowe. Write these examples in your notebook and explain what you like about them. In preparation for Friday's final test on The Big Sleep, begin thinking about the character of Marlowe -- is he really a knight errant or a tragic hero?
Note: For Friday's test, please bring your novel to class.
Tour: Dress warmly and prepare for rain. Bring an umbrella and wear comfortable walking shoes. Also, plan to buy lunch, so bring money. You will also need a notebook and pen, and I encourage you to take pictures.
April 2
In-class: Field trip today!
Homework: Film/novel comparison worksheet due Thursday.
April 3
In-class: Field trip discussion. Review of Closer Look project. Prepare for timed writing assignment Friday. Write what you like/dislike about the character Marlowe as a knight errant in the novel. Be sure to include concrete details and comments for at least two body paragraphs, as well as an introduction and a conclusion.
Homework: Bring The Big Sleep to class for timed writing assignment.
April 4
In-class: Timed writing final.
Homework: Due: Film/Novel comparison worksheet. Bring course reader to class Monday. Find your copy of The Jasmine Trade.
Note: Closer Look project due Wednesday, April 9th.
Week Nine
March 17 -- Happy St. Patrick's Day!
In-class: Notebook Entry #11: What moral dilemma does Marlowe face in Chapter 24? What decision does he make? Was it difficult for him? How do you feel about his decision? Handouts on Kolberg's Levels of Moral Reasoning and discussion on moral choices.
Homework: Notebook Entry #12: Respond to handout #4 question: The value of a promise. Also, revise your "descriptive route" papers with details to create stronger visuals. Your revision and first draft need to be submitted on Thursday.
Note: Field trip permission slips need to be turned in this week. Reflection journals due Thursday.
March 18
In-class: Continued reading of our novel.
Homework: Read Chapter 27 -- and be prepared for a pop quiz Wednesday.
Journals and revised routes due Thursday. Field Trip Permission slips due!!!
March 19
In-class: Pop quiz on Chapter 27. Continued reading of novel
Homework: Finish reading Chapter 30
Important reminder: Journals and revised routes due Thursday. Field Trip Permission slips also due!!!
March 20
In-class: Completion of our novel. Whew!
Homework: No homework over break, but be advised: You will be completing a timed essay in class the week of our return after break. Be sure you know The Big Sleep and Marlowe's character.
March 21
No classes -- Enjoy your break!
Week Eight
March 10
In-class: Reading together of Chapters 17 and 18, The Big Sleep
Homework: Read Chapters 19-20 tonight.
March 11
In-class: Continued reading of our novel.
Homework: By next Monday, read through Chapter 24. Field trip permission slips due by next Tuesday. Due Wednesday, March 19, your reflection journal.
March 12
In-class: View classic noir film Out of the Past
Homework: Your novel reading
March 13
In-class: Out of the Past
Homework: Your novel reading
March 14
In-class: Finish Out of the Past
Homework: Your novel reading. Bring your book and journal to class Monday and be prepared to discuss our readings!
Week Seven
March 3
In-class: Reading together of Chapters 2 and 3, The Big Sleep
Homework: Descriptive route due tomorrow, typed in class! Finish reading Chapter 4.
March 4
In-class: Continued reading of our novel; your typed descriptive route is do today.
Homework: Finish reading Chapter 8 in The Big Sleep
March 5
In-class: Read excerpt from "The Simple Art of Murder" in course reader. How does this apply to our detective Marlowe? Discuss characteristics of a "tragic hero" and a "knight errant"
Homework: Read Chapters 11 and 12 in The Big Sleep
March 6
In-class: Review reading; begin watching film The Big Sleep
Homework: Read Chapters 13 and 14 in the novel.
March 7
In-class: Review reading; continue watching The Big Sleep
Homework: Read Chapters 15 and 16 in your novel.
Week Six
February 25
In-class: Finish last minutes of the movie; Read excerpt in "Little Sister" in course reader and discuss. Begin reading "The Golden Gopher" in your course reader.
Homework: Finish short story in reader tonight
February 26
In-class: Notebook Entry #10: Write your reaction to "The Golden Gopher" -- Did you like/dislike it. What makes it noir?
Homework: Creative Project: Try your hand at descriptive writing. Write about a familiar route -- from home to school, or vice versa, or where you might regularly go. Describe what you see and the atmosphere you feel. Create a sensory picture in your mind. Think about the route first, and then jot down your observations in your notebook. Organize your notes into a written passage -- much like Chandler's excerpt from "Little Sister" and Susan Straight's walking narrative in "Gopher." Your description should be at least one page typed, but no more than two pages. It's due next Tuesday, March 4.
February 27
In-class: View feature, Making of a Scene, from The Cat's Meow.
Homework: Develop your route. Bring course reader and The Big Sleep to class Thursday.
February 28
In-class: Poe, Chandler and Mystery Fiction
Homework:
February 29
No classes -- Mother/Daughter Luncheon and Fashion Show
Week Five
February 18
No classes -- school holiday
February 19
In-class: More on Los Angeles as character. Review dates and characters researched for notebook entry.
Homework: Note: Film questionnaires will be collected tomorrow.
February 20
In-class: The Cat's Meow
Homework: None tonight
February 21
In-class: The Cat's Meow
Homework: None tonight, but start considering the noir elements of the film's "true" story
February 22
In-class: The Cat's Meow
Homework:
Week Four
February 11
In-class: Test on Double Indemnity; begin viewing film
Homework: No assignment.
February 12
In-class: Continued viewing of film Double Indemnity -- with questionnaire handout.
Homework: Begin working on questionnaire
February 13
In-class: Double Indemnity
Homework: Continue working on questionnaire
February 14
In-class: Finish viewing film and discuss ending. Notebook Entry #8: Which ending -- book or film -- did you like better and why?
Homework: Read Michael Connelly's "Mulholland Dive" in your course reader.
February 15
In-class: Discuss "Mulholland Dive" and listen to NPR podcast about Connelly (accessible from sidebar on this website.)
Homework: Notebook Entry#9: Look up information on these key dates in Los Angeles, as well as these names and briefly write entries for each in your journal: 1871, 1943, 1965, 1992, William Mulholland, Fatty Arbuckle (his trial), William Hearst, Marion Davies, Charlie Chaplin, and Thomas Ince.
Week Three
February 4
In-class: Continued reading of Double Indemnity
Homework: Read Chapter 4 for homework and be prepared to discuss Tuesday
February 5
In-class: Continued reading of Double Indemnity -- the plot thickens!
Homework: Finish reading Chapter 8 and be prepared to discuss Wednesday.
February 6
In-class: Quiz on homework reading.
Homework: Read Chapter 10 in novel. Be prepared to discuss Thursday.
February 7
In-class: Discussion and continued reading of Double Indemnity
Homework: Finish reading the novel -- only a few more pages!
February 8
In-class: Notebook Entry #6: Huff's narrative is one of greed, sex and murder -- all key elements in any tale of corruption. What does this narrative say about the American Dream?
Homework: Notebook Entry #7: In preparation for viewing the film Double Indemnity, research the following names and write a brief statement about each in your journal: Billy Wilder, Fred MacMurray, Barbara Stanwyck and Edward G. Robinson. Also, quiz Monday on the novel, Double Indemnity.
Week Two
January 28
In-class: Continued viewing of Black Orpheus
Homework: Work on your research and paragraph. Typed assignment due Wednesday in class. Upload to turnitin.com Wednesday evening. Book Check Tuesday.
January 29
In-class: Finish viewing Black Orpheus. Book Check today.
Homework: Orpheus paragraph due Wednesday.
January 30
In-class: Notebook Entry #2: How was the film similar to the Orpheus myth? How was it different? Orpheus paragraph due in class today.
Homework: Read "Number 19" in your course reader.
January 31
In-class: Notebook Entry #3: What is your reaction to the story "Number 19"? What makes this an "L.A. Noir" story? Class discussion of reading and handout about author.
Homework: Two notebook entries for tonight -- Notebook Entry #4: Look up "Manzanar" online (Wikipedia has a good description) and read how this pertains to Japanese-Americans. Write what you found, in your own words, in your notebook. Notebook Entry #5: Look up the meaning of "Double Indemnity" online and write this meaning in your notebook. Hint: It's an insurance term.
Bring your journal and your copy of Double Indemnity to class Friday.
February 1
In-class: Intro to Double Indemnity
Homework: Bring your novel to class Monday.
Week One
January 21
No classes -- school holiday
January 22
In-class: Welcome to L.A. Noir! Noir Dialogue Activity
Homework: Print out course syllabus and bring to class. Also due: A letter of introduction -- tell me about yourself. What do you know about mystery fiction? About noir?
January 23
In-class: Course readers distributed. Review Syllabus. Letters of Intro due.
Homework: Read the first selection in your course reader, Metamorphoses. Be sure to bring a composition notebook to class Thursday.
January 24
In-class: Notebook Entry #1: Reflect in your journal on this question -- What is your reaction to the story of Orpheus? Read graphic novel version of "The Story of Orpheus" by Neil Gaiman.
Homework: Due in class next Wednesday, January 30th, and uploaded that evening to turnitin.com:
Type a paragraph response, using several examples to support your opinion, to the following question:
If noir means black in French, why do you think the story of Orpheus is considered a noir myth?
For this response, research using Goggle and other sources to learn more about "noir" and "elements of noir." How is your research reflected in the Orpheus myth? Consider the mood and tone in the Orpheus story, the plot, and the characteristics Orpheus reveals as the protagonist. He was willing to go to Hell to get his wife back -- what does that say about him? Is he driven by love -- or something more??? Be sure to include a short Works Cited page.
January 25
In-class: Viewing of award-winning film Black Orpheus
Homework: Book Check on Tuesday, January 29th. Research for your Orpheus paragraph. Remember to cite your research!
Semester One:
Week Nineteen
January 7
In-class: Reflection Journals Due Today. Viewing of Blade Runner
Homework: Review Little Scarlet for test Thursday.
January 8
In-class: Continued viewing of Blade Runner
Homework: Review Little Scarlet for test Thursday.
January 9
In-class: Finish viewing of Blade Runner, followed by short response.
Homework: Review Little Scarlet for test Thursday.
January 10
In-class: Little Scarlet test
Homework: Prepare for final semester exam on Monday, January 14, at 7:50 a.m. in Room 102
January 11
No classes -- Semester Exams
Week Eighteen
December 17
In-class: Continued viewing of Who Framed Roger Rabbit?
Homework: Be prepared to finish your storyboard project at the library during class tomorrow.
December 18
In-class: Library Project work: Finish your storyboard project and post in the Noir folder on the Public drive by the end of today.
Homework:
December 19
In-class: Finish viewing film/wrap-up of odds and ends for semester remainder.
Homework: Over the break, be sure to review our four major novels. You will have a cumulative objective test on Thursday, January 10. Also, all journal notebooks must be turned in the day that classes resume, Monday, January 7, so be sure all entries are complete.
December 20
In-class: IHHS Christmas program
Homework: Merry Christmas to you and your family!!
December 21
No classes! Happy Holidays!!
Week Seventeen
December 10
No classes
December 11
In-class: Part IV of narrative project due! Pop quiz: Who is Peter Rhone and what do you know about him? Who is Harold? Discussion of our novel and continued viewing of our film
Homework: Read through Chapter 34.
December 12
In-class: Finish viewing film.
Homework: Prepare materials (photos, drawings, dialogue and music) for library presentation and project work Thursday
December 13
In-class: Library project work
Homework: Continue to read Little Scarlet and be prepared to work on final part of project in library tomorrow.
December 14
In-class: Library project work
Homework: Finish reading Little Scarlet. If possible, work on your storyboard at home with PhotoStory. We plan to complete this project after next Tuesday's period in the library again.
Week Sixteen
December 3
In-class: Notebook Entry #14: From the first 5 chapters of Little Scarlet, what kind of person is Easy Rawlins? What have you learned about his world? Provide specific examples from the book. Discussion of first five chapters.
Homework: Read through Chapter 9, page 62.
Note: Part 4 of your mystery narrative is now due Tuesday, December 11.
December 4
In-class: Notebook entry #15: How is Easy Rawlins similar to Philip Marlowe in The Big Sleep? How are they different? Continued discussion of our novel.
Homework: Read through Chapter 14.
December 5
In-class: Review of Story Board Activity; discussion of our novel
Homework: Read through Chapter 17
December 6
In-class: Noir poetry by Kevin Young; discussion of our novel
Homework: Read through Chapter 19
December 7
In-class: Begin film "Devil in a Blue Dress"
Homework: Read until Chapter 30
Week Fifteen
November 26
No classes -- WALK holiday
November 27
In-class: Short history of Los Angeles, politics and African Americans. Introduction to author Walter Mosley. Begin viewing of video "Twilight Los Angeles"
Homework: Dig out your copy of Little Scarlet and bring it to class everyday.
Note: Part 3 of your mystery narrative is now due on Friday, November 30.
November 28
In-class: Chapter 1 of Little Scarlet and continued viewing of "Twilight Los Angeles"
Homework: Continue your reading.
November 29
In-class: Continued viewing of "Twilight Los Angeles"
Homework: Be sure to bring your novel and your reflection journal to class tomorrow.
November 30
In-class: Part 3 of your narrative is due today! Finish viewing "Twilight Los Angeles"
Homework: Notebook Entry #13: Reflect on the title of the video we just watched and explain why you feel this title is or isn't appropriate. What does the title reveal? Also, write about your reaction to the film -- what did you learn? what detail stood out? In terms of the city's history in 1992, what has changed or remained the same?
Reading: Complete through Chapter 5 (page 34) in Little Scarlet. Our introduction to Easy Rawlins continues...
Week Fourteen
November 19
In-class: Special guest, author Denise Hamilton
Homework: Part 2 of narrative activity due Tuesday.
November 20
In-class: Part 2 of narrative activity due. Viewing portion of "Who Framed Roger Rabbit?" Notebook entry #12: Our movie may be an animated/live action film for a younger audience, but how does it embrace classic noir elements?
Homework: Dig out your copy of Little Scarlet
November 21
In-class: Mrs. Potato Head character development activity
Homework: Work on Part 3 of your mystery narrative.
November 22 & 23
Holidays -- no class. Happy Thanksgiving!
Week Thirteen
November 12
No classes -- Veteran's Day
November 13
In-class: Work on story ideas and continue reading our novel.
Homework: Bring to class your typed "story idea" (Remember the formula, character+problem=story idea). Briefly describe your story idea. Finish reading The Jasmine Trade by this Friday.
Bring your course reader to class Wednesday.
November 14
In-class: Typed Story Ideas due today. Class reading of "Once More, Lazarus" by Hector Tobar. Handout distributed on culminating narrative activity.
Homework: Finish reading "Lazarus" and continue reading TJT.
November 15
In-class:
Homework: Finish reading TJT.
November 16
In-class: Discussion about TJT. Preparing questions for our interview with Denise Hamilton on Monday.
Homework: Work on your narrative project. Be bring TJT to class Monday for our guest author.
Week Twelve
November 5
In-class: Pop quiz on The Jasmine Trade. Individual reading.
Homework: Continue reading TJT through Chapter 28. Every day you should be prepared for a possible one-question pop quiz.
November 6
In-class: Narrative writing activity
Homework: Continue reading TJT
November 7
In-class: Work on developing your "story idea" (character + problem = story idea) and then your "story of the murder" -- Refer to your handout.
Homework: Continue reading TJT and work on your story idea and murder story line. Bring these materials to class.
November 8
In-class: Narrative writing -- continue to develop your story
Homework: Finish reading TJT by next Friday. Author Denise Hamilton will be our guest speaker on Monday, November 19!
November 9
Parent-Teacher Conferences -- no classes
Week Eleven
October 29
In-class: Pop quiz on The Jasmine Trade. L.A. Confidential continues.
Homework: Continue reading TJT through Chapter 14. Every day you should be prepared for a possible one-question pop quiz.
October 30
In-class: L.A. Confidential. Possible pop quiz on TJT.
Homework: Continue reading TJT through Chapter 16.
October 31
In-class: L.A. Film locations in L.A. Confidential.
Homework: Enjoy your evening! (Prepare for timed writing assignment tomorrow. Topic is listed below.)
November 1
In-class: Timed writing: L.A. Confidential is considered a neo-noir film. What noir elements does this film feature? Provide specific examples and explain what they show.
Homework: Read The Jasmine Trade through Chapter 25.
November 2
10K Walk -- no classes
Week Ten
October 22
In-class: Introduction to The Jasmine Trade. Crime Scene Investigation with Finger-Printing: Do you have arches, loops or whorls?
Homework: Bring TJT novel to class -- and your fingerprints.
October 23
In-class: Dusting for latent prints. Reading of first chapter of The Jasmine Trade.
Homework: Finish reading Chapter One. Bring your journal notebooks and novel to class tomorrow.
October 24
In-class: Meet Eve Diamond! Start film L.A. Confidential.
Homework: Continue reading TJT. Read through Chapter 13 by next Monday.
In your journal notebook, respond to this prompt as Notebook Entry #10: "Zoot-suiters" were criticized both by their parents, who saw their clothing styles and use of English as signs that their sons were rejecting their parents' culture, and by some non-Mexican Americans, who regarded them as alien and dangerous. Write a first person account from the perspective of a young zoot-suiter in which you describe your feelings about being caught between your parents' fear that you are becoming "too American" and others' fear that you are "not American enough."
October 25
In-class: Characters: Good Cop-Bad Cop. Continue viewing of L.A. Confidential
Homework: Continue reading TJT. Read through Chapter 13 by next Monday.
October 26
In-class: More L.A. Confidential
Homework: Read The Jasmine Trade through Chapter 13 by next Monday. Possible pop quiz....
Week Nine
October 15
In-class: Closer Look projects due. Discussion of The Big Sleep. Finish viewing the film!
Homework: Notebook Entry #9: Find six examples of descriptive writing or quips by Marlowe that you like from Chapter 24 on in our novel. Explain why these examples appeal to you.
Note: Notebooks will be collected this Thursday. Bring course readers to class Tuesday.
October 16
In-class: In class reading of "The Tooth of Crime" in course reader.
Homework: Notebooks will be collected Thursday.
October 17
Seniors meet for assembly; no classes.
Notebooks will be collected Thursday.
October 18
In-class: Notebooks due today. L.A. History: Zoot Suit Riots. Begin PBS film.
Homework: Enjoy your evening.
October 19
In-class: Finish PBS film. Discussion on the riots.
Homework: Locate The Jasmine Trade at home. We will begin reading this next week! Enjoy your weekend.
Week Eight
October 8
School holiday!
October 9
In-class: Review of our novel thus far. Introducing moral dilemmas and Kohlberg's three levels and six stages of moral reasoning.
Homework: Continue reading The Big Sleep -- you should be up to Chapter 24, so continue on!
Assignment: Closer Look project due Monday, October 15.
October 10
In-class: Continue discussion on moral dilemmas. Notebook Entry #7: Respond to handout #4 question -- The Value of a Promise.
Homework: Continue reading The Big Sleep. Plan to finish reading the novel by next Monday.
Bring your course reader to Thursday's class!
October 11
In-class: Notebook Entry #8: What moral dilemma does Marlowe face in Chapter 24? What decision does he make? Was it difficult for him? How do you feel about his decision? Continued viewing of the movie.
Homework: Keep reading the novel.
October 12
In-class: Who is Canino? How is Marlowe as a detective?
Homework: Finish The Big Sleep for Monday's class.
Note: Closer Look Project due Monday!
Week Seven
October 1
In-class: Wrap up of Out of the Past. Descriptive route assignment returned and revision assigned. Mini-lecture on mystery fiction.
Homework: Revision assignment -- refer to your first draft and try to incorporate additional visuals and details for your readers. "Show" -- don't "tell"
Note: Your revision plus your first draft are due in class on Friday, October 5.
Continue reading The Big Sleep. Read at least to Chapter 16 by Thursday.
Bring your Course Reader to Tuesday's class.
October 2
In-class: Finish review of mystery fiction elements with handout. Review Chandler's "12 Notes on the Mystery Story" and excerpt from "The Simple Art of Murder."
Homework: Prepare for in-class timed writing assignment. Bring The Big Sleep to class and be prepared to write about what you like and dislike about the character Marlowe in the novel. You will need to support your feelings with specific examples in the book.
October 3
In-class: Timed writing.
Homework: Read to Chapter 16 in The Big Sleep.
October 4
In-class: Review of our novel thus far. Film clip of The Big Sleep.
Homework: Route revision due tomorrow; turn in revision with first draft. For Tuesday: Read up to Chapter 24 in The Big Sleep
October 5
In-class: Route revision due, typed, and with your first draft. Detective as Knight Errant, as Tragic Hero. Discussion of timed writing assignment
Homework: For Tuesday: Read up to Chapter 24 in The Big Sleep
Week Six
September 24
In-class: Ongoing reading of "Murders in the Rue Morgue" -- the plot thickens...
Homework: Finish reading "Murders" for tomorrow's discussion
September 25
In-class: Finish reading Poe's "Murders in the Rue Morgue." Introduction to Chandler and The Big Sleep.
Homework: Bring your copy of The Big Sleep to class.
September 26
In-class: In-class reading of The Big Sleep
Homework: Read on in The Big Sleep -- try to read through Chapter 6.
September 27
In-class: Viewing of "Out of the Past"
Homework: Continue your reading of The Big Sleep
September 28
In-class: Finish viewing "Out of the Past"
Homework: Continue your reading of The Big Sleep
Week Five
September 17
In-class: Review of Tour activity. Sharing of researched dates and historical figures. Discussion of "The Golden Gopher."
Homework: Work on your creative "route" description -- due this Friday.
Remember your field trip reservation forms!
September 18
In-class: Viewing of "The Cat's Meow" -- see if this film lives up to your research on Hearst.
Homework for Kairos attendees: Start reading The Big Sleep. We will be reading this novel in-class while you are at the retreat.
Homework for all: Work on your creative "route" description, due Friday. At least one page typed, but no more than two pages. Be sure to introduce your route with an explanation of its location.
Still time to add any tour reservations!
September 19
In-class: Viewing of "The Cat's Meow"
Homework: Route descriptions.
September 20
In-class: Complete viewing of "The Cat's Meow."
Homework: Route descriptions due tomorrow! Bring course reader to class.
September 21
In-class: Intro to Poe's "Murders in the Rue Morgue"
Homework: Read to the end of page 25 in "Murders in the Rue Morgue"
Week Four
September 10
In-class: Finish viewing of film Double Indemnity.
Homework: Complete questionnaire and bring to Tuesday's class. Also bring your course reader and composition notebook.
September 11
In-class: Discussion on film and book.
Homework: In course reader, read "Muholland Dive" by Michael Connelly (last page to be provided in class)
September 12
In-class: Complete reading of "Mulholland Dive." Listen to NPR podcast of "Crime in the City." Review Double Indemnity Quiz.
Homework: In your course reader, read the excerpt from Raymond Chandler's The Little Sister, beginning on page 57. As mentioned in class, author Michael Connelly says he reads this passage each time he sits down to write one of his Los Angeles-based novels.
Creative Project: Try your hand at this descriptive writing. Write about a familiar route -- from home to school, or vice versa, or where you might go this coming weekend -- and describe what you see and the atmosphere that you feel. Create a sensory picture in your mind. Think about the route first, and then jot your observations down in your notebook. Organize your notes into a written passage -- much like Chandler's. Your project is due Friday, September 21. It should be at least one page typed -- but no more than two pages.
September 13
In-class: Historic crime/scandel events -- with handout. We'll be looking up key historic figures and dates in the library tomorrow. Meet in class first.
Homework: Begin thinking of a "route" for your creative assignment.
September 14
In-class: Library research on provided dates and historical figures. Compile information on the following dates and historical figures as Notebook Entry #5: Look up Los Angeles for the years 1871, 1943, 1965 and 1992. Find info on the following people: William Mulholland, the trial of Fatty Arbuckle, William Randolph Hearst, Marion Davies, Charlie Chaplin and Thomas Ince. (Note: what you don't finish in the library becomes homework...)
Homework: In course reader, read "The Golden Gopher" by Susan Straight. Notice how she writes her own "walking tour" and then, as Notebook Entry #6, write your reaction to this story and discuss what makes this noir.
Bring your tour reservation form to class Monday!
Week Three
Monday, September 3
Labor Day -- no classes!
Homework: Finish reading Double Indemnity. Quiz Tuesday! Bring book and composition book to class.
September 4
In-class: Double Indemnity quiz, followed by discussion.
September 5
In-class: Viewing of film: Double Indemnity
Homework: Due Monday, 9/10, Film Questionnaire.
September 6
In class: Continue viewing film Double Indemnity
Homework: For Monday, 9/10. Finish the film questionnaire, but wait to complete the very last page with questions regarding themes and your impression. I want the class to finish viewing the film before completing these two responses. We should finish the movie in Monday's class, so bring the questionnaires and if there is time, you will complete them in class.
Note: I suggested you start reading The Big Sleep, and if you have started, that's okay. However, I have decided the class will be reading other material first before this book, so please wait (unless Detective Marlowe has you already hooked!)
Back-to-school night
September 7
Welcome Day -- no classes
Week Two
August 27
In-class: Viewing of award-winning Black Orpheus film, based on the Orpheus myth.
Homework: Orpheus paragraph due Wednesday. Be sure to upload to turnitin.com.
Book check Tuesday -- Bring your clean copies of all course books and receive 10 points. Failure to do so within the week will result in detention.
Also bring your course reader and composition journal to Tuesday's class.
August 28
In class: Book check and reading of "Number 19" in course reader. Notebook Entry #2: What is your reaction to this story? What makes this an "L.A. Noir" story?
Homework: Orpheus paragraph due Wednesday. Also, complete Notebook Entry #3: Look up "Manzanar" online (Wikipedia has a good description) and read how this pertains to Japanese-Americans. Write what you found out, in your own works, in your notebook.
Be sure to bring your course reader and composition book to class daily.
August 29
In-class: Orpheus paragraph due -- typed and in MLA format. Upload to turnitin.com by tonight.
Elements of noir discussion.
Homework: None tonight.
August 30
In-class: Results of Summer Reading Test reviewed. Continued discussion of film noir.
Homework: Find definition for "Double Indemnity" and write it in your notebook as Notebook Entry #4. Include your predictions for the book based on this definition.
Bring Double Indemnity to Friday's class.
August 31
In-class: Reading of Double Indemnity
Homework: Reading of Double Indemnity to be completed by Tuesday's class. Be prepared for a quiz on the book!
Week One
August 20
In-class: Welcome to L.A. Noir! Study for summer reading test Thursday, August 23rd.
August 21
In class: Noir dialogue activity
August 22
In-class: Review of syllabus. Letters of introduction due.
Homework: Review for summer reading test on A Prayer for Owen Meany. Bring pencil to class for test. Also bring your course reader. If you have time following test, read the first selection in the course reader about Orpheus from Ovid's Metamorphoses.
August 23
In-class: Summer reading test.
Homework: Complete reading from Metamorphoses. Bring to Friday's class your written reaction to the story of Orpheus in your composition book. This response is Notebook Entry #1. Also read handout from the Los Angeles Times titled "L.A.: Life that art can't imitate." Be sure to check whether you have an IH Student Writing Handbook.
August 24
In-class: Reading of graphic novel version of "The Story of Orpheus" by Neil Gaiman.
Homework: Type a response, with examples to support your opinion, to the following question:
If noir means black in French, why do you think the story of Orpheus is considered a noir myth?
For this response, consider using goggle to learn more about "noir" and "elements of noir." Also, consider the mood and tone in the Orpheus story, the plot, and the characteristics Orpheus reveals as the protagonist. He was willing to go to Hell to get his wife back -- what does that say about him? Is he driven by love -- or something more???
Your typed response is due in class on Wednesday, August 29th. Please upload to turnitin.com by Wednesday evening.
Check out the constellation Lyra in honor of Orpheus in the summer skies overhead. Lyra's main star, Vega, is clearly visible directly above you. See if you can find the rest of the Summer Triangle...
Reminder: Book Check next Tuesday, August 28th. Bring all course books to class for 10 points.
Final note: I've enjoyed reading everyone's letters of introduction!
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