***The Westing Game- Creative Projects***

As a wrap-up to The WESTING GAME, you are required to complete a minimum of Fivecreative projects(two written,one-two artistic, and one-two dramatic).

Written

*Diary entry– You must enter the mind of one of the characters from The Westing Game. Write a diary exploring the secret thoughts, feelings, and motivations of one of the heirs. Your entry (1.5 page min) must be logical (include facts from the novel) and stay true to the personality of the character.

*You be the author- Pretend that you are the author of this novel and that you are unsatisfied with the final copy. You have decided that the only way to improve the book is by adding another character. Write a description of your new character and explain how you will utilize them in your novel (1.5 page min).

Or

Re-write a chapter from the novel. You are free to change the course of events and the fate of any characters (1.5 page min).

*Dialogue- Write a private dialogue between two of the characters in your story (during any point in the novel) 1.5 page min.

*Position paper-Is it ever possible to justify the use of violence to achieve your goals? Explain and justify your opinion in a persuasive essay (1.5 page min).

*Writing a will-Research the writing of a will. Why might you want a lawyer to help with the writing of a will? Find out what might invalidate a will. Create a summary (1.5 page min).

Artistic

*Book jacket- Create an original and creative alternative to the existing book covers (there are several) of The Westing Game. You must include side panels (plot synopsis and “about the author”), as well as a back cover (reader reviews, awards, art, etc.).

*Board game- Design a game (similar to “Clue”), including important characters, locations, and possible weapons available to the heirs of Sunset Towers.

*Map- Create a general creative map identifying key areas of the plot (Sunset Towers, the Westing Mansion, and other important areas mentioned in the game).

OR

Create a specific, detailed map of SunsetTowers or the WestingMansion.

*Poster- Pretend your school or class is conducting a book sale. Design a poster that you think will encourage customers to buy The Westing Game. Your poster must include important phrases, key words, people, and places from the novel.

*Community web- How is everyone related in The Westing Game? Are the heirs really nieces and nephews? Create a web identifying the connections between all the heirs. Your web must have a legend and be colour-coded.

Dramatic

*Act out a scene- Choose any one scene (approx. 5 mins) or situation involving 2-3 characters from The Westing Game. You must have your lines memorized and have supporting costumes and props to enhance the realism of your performance.

*Soliloquy- Create and act out the private thoughts of one of the heirs (2-3 minutes). This could include fears about loosing the game, doubts about their partner, anxieties in life, or general problems they are dealing with.

*Author interview- Assume the role of the author, Ellen Raskin, and then allow one of your classmates to interview you about your work including the present novel, The Westing Game. You must include factual information about the author and realistic responses regarding the novel (2 students).