Bowling for Columbine

ENG3U Writing

“Bowling For Columbine”

Instructions:

·  Read the questions carefully before watching the movie.

·  As you are watching the film, take jot notes that will help you answer the questions later.

·  Once the movie is finished, use your jot notes, as well as notes provided/taken in class to help you answer the following questions on a separate sheet of paper.

Questions:

1.  What is the Michael Moore’s thesis in the documentary?

2.  What is the overall tone? Be specific. Find specific examples of diction he uses which allow you to determine this tone.

3.  Which primary methods of development is used? Use specific examples from the video and explain.

4.  Review the definition of juxtaposition. Identify 3 examples of juxtaposition used in the film. Be specific. What purpose does juxtaposition serve in the film? In other words- why has Moore used juxtaposition in each instance you have identified?

5.  List at least 5 rhetorical devices used. Describe where they are being used. What is the purpose of the use of each of these devices in each of the moments you have identified?

6.  What do you think about the portrayal of Canada in the film? Is it an accurate portrayal? Why do you believe there are fewer murders here?

7.  If you were an alien, what would your perception of the U.S.A. be after watching this video? Explain your answer.

8.  What evidence of bias appears in this movie? Make a list.

PERSONAL RESPONSE:

Do you agree with points of view and arguments presented in Moore’s documentary? Write a personal response to one of the following statements made in the documentary. Explain your thoughts and clarify your position with examples from your own experience.

·  A well-developed response should be about 200 words, and must be over 100 words.

**Refer to the “personal response” instructions attached

to make sure you are completing this assignment properly!!**

Quote 1:

“…and that's what I think it's all based on, the whole idea of 'keep everyone afraid, and they'll consume.' “ (Marilyn Manson)


Quote 2:

“ I wouldn't say a single word to <the Columbine murderers>. I would listen to what they have to say, and that's what no one did. “ (Marilyn Manson)

Quote 3:

“One thing was clear. It still sucked being a teenager. And it really sucked going to school.” (Moore)

Quote 4:

“I definitely can see why they would pick me. Because I think it's easy to throw my face on the TV, because in the end, I'm a poster boy for fear. Because I represent what everyone is afraid of, because I say and do whatever I want. (Manson)

Quote 5

“If more guns make people safer, than America would be one of the safest countries in the world. It isn't. It's the opposite.” (Moore)

Quote 6

“Our children get turned into little monsters, but who's to blame?”

Remember: In order to respond to a Personal Response Question,

you MUST, in paragraph format:

1 State the author's position in the excerpt;

2 Compare it with your own position;

3 Clarify your position with examples from your own experience or observation;

4 Indicate your own reflection or judgment.