Lesson 5: Lesson Plan
Writing the Mystery with a Purpose

Book:  Rage in Harlem or other mystery/detective fiction by Chester Himes.

Grade Level:  11/12

Essential Question:  What are the elements of a mystery from the writer’s point of view?

Connection to Standards:  Writing:  Short Story Writing (9/10  2.1), Narrative Writing (11/12 2.1)

Technology:  The computer is used as a  word-processing tool for composition and response to prompts.

Lesson Plan Content: 

1) After a review of the mystery reading and “How to Write a Mystery” lessons:

2) In reciprocal teaching groups have the students present the outline of their story after completing the planning worksheet pdf file

3) The group will by its response tell the student where initial changes might be made to make the story more compelling.  Encourage new ideas to come out in the group to help the writers improve their stories according to these elements:

                       

4)  Allow class time on word processors for the writers to complete the rough drafts of their stories after the initial read around of the planning worksheet.

5)  After composition is finished have groups collaborate in a read-around to select one (or two or three) of the best stories in their group of four.             

6)  Collect and read the stories identifying revision opportunities.

Assessment:

1).  Teacher or student assessment of the planning worksheet
2).  Observe read-around groups
3).  Teacher and/or student assess the finished rough draft according to the following rubric.

           

	Weak	Strong	Excellent
Characters	Characters are stock, weak or unbelieveable.	Characters are engaging particularly the detective.	At least two characters are unforgettable, engaging or fun.
Plot	The plot, though present, is unrealistic or hard to follow.  Or it does not “work.”	The plot has twists but remains possible, believable and compelling.	The plot is ingenious, employing ruses and surprises.
Ingenuity	The story is mundane or lacks compelling detail of action, situation or character.	The writer shows ingenuity in crafting the plot, characters and situation.  Surprises are included.	The writer has thought about the problems of creation and clearly shows some mastery.
Situation	The crime is either too brutal, too usual or the situation is unrealistic.	The situation is not only possible but likely though surprising.	The situation is plausible, engaging, well researched and authentic.