Work through the list without notes. If you cannot do a statement, follow its link, then come back. Guide = study guide; Practice = practice questions.
Understanding
- I can define protagonist, antagonist and contrasting characters in my own words. (Guide: “Why writers contrast characters”; Practice question 2)
- I can explain why a contrast of values matters more than a contrast of appearance or habit. (Guide: “Why writers contrast characters”; Practice question 1)
- I can explain why an antagonist may be a society, nature or an inner conflict and need not be a villain. (Guide: “Why writers contrast characters” and Worked example 2; Practice questions 2 and 7)
- I can say the difference between describing a contrast and explaining its function. (Guide: “A method”; Practice question 5)
Skills
- I can work through detail, difference, value and effect for a pair of characters. (Guide: Worked example 1; Practice question 6)
- I can name the value each character stands for from specific textual details. (Guide: Worked example 1; Practice questions 1 and 6)
- I can find the antagonist in a short summary or passage and say what kind it is. (Practice questions 2 and 7)
- I can choose short, accurate quotations that show a value, not just a trait. (Guide: Worked example 2; Practice question 8)
Reasoning
- I can state a defensible claim about what a contrast does for the conflict or theme. (Guide: Worked example 1; Practice questions 3 and 8)
- I can show how a contrast can change or soften as a story goes on. (Guide: “Common misconceptions”; Practice question 3)
- I can show how two readings of the same moment (such as grief and joy) expose a contrast between characters. (Guide: Worked example 2; Practice question 4)
- I can write a paragraph that places evidence from both characters and connects it with commentary. (Practice question 8)
All ticked? Move on to the Topic 4.2 study guide, Nuance and Complexity in Character Relationships, or revisit the revision notes.