Dialectal Journal- Frankenstein
Because Frankenstein can be a difficult text to navigate through, it is imperative to adopt a close reading of Mary Shelley’s gothic novel. The dialectical journal is a type of double-entry note-taking, which you will create and maintain while reading Frankenstein. You will need to keep a running reading log in your Honors English IV notebook much like the one below. In the two columns, you will write notes that dialogue with one another, thereby developing critical reading and reflective questioning. You will be required to respond to at least 3 quotations for each chapter in the novel. You may comment on the characters, the conflicts, the themes, the structure, and/or general feelings about the story that your particular quotations identify. You may choose a particular quotation because you don’t understand its meaning; however, you think the quotation is necessary in some way regarding one’s understanding of the text. There are no “perfect” answers. This dialectical journal’s purpose is for your understanding and may become part of an important class discussion.
· You will need to submit your Frankenstein dialectical journals at the beginning of class on the day of the final ID test. No late journals will be accepted!
· You do not have to type your dialectical journal. You certainly may if you wish.
· You will be assessed on your total quotations identified as well as the level of analysis presented. Make sure you identify quotations and excerpts that truly interest you.
You may want to structure your DJ entries like the image below. However, feel free to adopt your own style. Remember, you must organize your DJ entries by chapter and include the following: the quotation (if it is long, you may abbreviate), the page number, and your analysis of the text.