To: Parents/Guardians of AP Cohort Students21 November 2013

From: Justin Conn, AP English Language teacher

Re: Consent to view Bowling for Columbine

The San Dieguito Union High School District requires parent/guardian permission before students may watch any District-approved movie that is rated "R." Bowling for Columbine, Michael Moore's Academy Award-winning documentary, is an outstanding example of academic argument--a visual text, if you will. Moore begins by posing an important question, which many of us have asked ourselves: How do we make sense of the tragedy at Columbine High in Littleton, Colorado? Moore develops a thesis imaginatively and effectively, examining our Second Amendment right "to keep and bear arms."

He looks at history, national and international politics, media, our "gun culture" and the N.R. A., of which he is a member.

To develop his argument, Moore employs satire, expert interviewing, and the three pillars of reasoning: ethos, logos, and pathos. The documentary offers us an invaluable opportunity to observe and better understand the presentation of persuasive argument and students will develop their own ability to critique argument and identify fallacies in reasoning. Ultimately, the film will be used as a tool for rhetorical analysis, as well as a Socratic Seminar on the topics brought up in the film.

The film is rated "R" for language (used by Chris Rock in an opening comedy routine and by some of those interviewed) and violent images (including the footage from the Columbine tragedy, for example).

This unit promises to be very engaging and there is a sense of relief among students that comes from being able to discuss the topic of school violence in a safe environment. Many will take with them a greater sense of responsibility as citizens who care deeply about our education and country. The film has received 5 awards for "best documentary," 10 international awards, and 5 awards from various film critics associations.

Please sign below to indicate your approval for your child to view Bowling for Columbine. I encourage you to discuss the movie and the important ideas it raises with your child

throughout the unit. There will be an alternate assignment for those who choose not to return the permission slip.

If you have any questions, please call me at (760) 753-1121 ext. 5062, or email me . Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

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I hereby grant permission for ______to view Bowling for Columbine.

name of son or daughter

______

signature of parent or guardian date