2. How Does Cosby Imitate Jackie Robinson?

Monday, February 7 Do “Preview”, p.63 in the Reader’s Notebook. Then read “My First Free Summer” by Julia Alvarez. (You will remember her from earlier this year when we read “Names/Nombres”) Be sure to complete the sidebars as you read.

Tuesday, February 8 Reread “My First Free Summer”. Fill in the chart below to compare this story with “From An American Childhood” by Annie Dillard.

“From An American Childhood” “My First Free Summer” Annie Dillard begins the memoir by telling the reader the importance of throwing oneself into an activity with all your energy.

Annie Dillard relates the story of a time when she was chased

Annie Dillard reveals her reason for respecting her pursuer: “The point was that he had chased us passionately without giving up, and so he had caught us.” Wednesday, February 9 Read the handout “Was Tarzan A Three-Bandage Man?” by Bill Cosby. Answer the questions at the end of the story and the writing worksheet on the next page. Another copy of the writing worksheet is on my website.

Thursday, February 10 Read “Reading Warmup B” and answer the questions on the side. Then define all the underlined words, using the definition that fits the way the word is used in the story.

Friday, February 11 Fill in the literary analysis charts about “My First Free Summer” and “Was Tarzan a Three-Bandage Man?”

1. Growing up, whom do Bill Cosby and his friends mainly admire? A. scientists B. musicians C. writers D. athletes

2. How does Cosby imitate Jackie Robinson? A. He takes a dancing lead off first base. B. He tries out for second base. C. He walks pigeon-toed. D. He steals home in a big game.

3. Why do Cosby and his friends wear bandages over their eyes? A. They think it makes them look tough. B. They think it will win them sympathy. C. They want to cover up their acne. D. They want to protect themselves.

4. In “Was Tarzan a Three-Bandage Man?” how does Cosby portray his mother? A. She is gloomy and depressed. B. She is funny and cheerful. C. She is direct and blunt. D. She is detached and neglectful.

5. What is the tone of Cosby’s essay? A. formal B. serious C. humorous D. distant

6. What is Cosby’s main purpose for writing “Tarzan . . .”? A. to inform readers of his childhood heroes B. to entertain readers and teach a lesson C. to persuade readers to appreciate humor D. to reflect on his mother’s attitude toward him