2/5/2014- Why Author's Change History & Begin Test

Our "I can" statement today was: I can determine why authors change history when they write historical fiction.

Part 1- Cheating at Cards- Author's Purpose

In order to get everyone thinking about why an author would choose to change the "rules" (history) when writing historical fiction, the class divided into groups and played card games. What I didn't tell the class is that one person in each group had been assigned to cheat- or play by their own rules.

After playing we talked about what the cheaters get out of cheating. We decided that cheaters cheat because it helps them get what they want. It helps them win.

Next we thought about why authors would "cheat" and change history. Essentially they do it for the same reason as cheaters in card games- to get what they want, a good story. We talked about specific reasons why authors change history when they write historical fiction and ideas included:

• To improve pacing
• To improve the plot/ story arch
• To create a more dramatic conflict
• To create a hero or villain
• To teach the audience a lesson
• To make the story more entertaining
• To create a certain mood
• To portray a specific theme
• To create more drama
• To simplify the story

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Part 2- Begin Test

We started the test (assessment) today. This unit is testing your ability to compare fictional and nonfictional accounts of a time period or event.

We read and annotated an excerpt from the nonfiction book The True Story of Pocahontas. Get a copy of the excerpt from Mrs. Low.