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THE POWER OF WORDS

Module II: A Chorus of Words
Teacher Facilitation Guide

The following curriculum materials are designed to be used with the Achievement Television program Advocacy and Citizenship. VHS tapes of the program can be ordered through the Gift Shop of the Academy of Achievement web site.

Program Overview
The second module focuses on how words can create an effective chorus within a written or film work. Panelists discuss how they use dialogue to let the characters speak in their own voices to tell the story. They share the hard work involved in finding just the right word to elicit and emotion or paint a picture. Panelist discuss how many words that used to be powerful have become diluted in meaning and emotional impact because of overuse. They discuss how the structure of a play, a joke, or song has something to teach writers about powerfully using words.

Viewing/Facilitation Strategies

• Introduce the Pre-Viewing Activity to the entire class. After students complete the Brainstorming activity, allow time for them to share their ideas.
• Review the profiles of the guest panelists and discuss each person's training and achievements. Discuss terms.
• View Module II and if time allows, immediately break into groups for the group activity.
• During a following class period, have the telecast available for review. Ask students to select a Curriculum Connections Activity to complete independently or with a partner.
• Assign the research project as a class requirement or as an optional independent project.

Student Activities

Pre-Viewing Activity:
After a class discussion about the power of words, students individually complete a brainstorming activity that challenges them to find powerful words to describe sadness and fear.

Group Activity
In small groups, students write and analyze power sentences.

Student Academic Standards

• Understands the effects of author's style and literary devices and techniques on the overall quality of a work
• Uses language and perspectives of literary criticism to evaluate literary works
• Uses precise and descriptive language that clarifies and enhances ideas and supports different purposes.

Curriculum Connections Activities
Music: George Lucas - Words and Music
History: Stephen E. Ambrose - Words Can Change the World

Research Project
Students conduct research about how certain words have lost their power emotional impact due to overuse.

Terms to Discuss

• Dialogue
• Chorus
• Lyrics