Quizzes were passed back and discussed.

We finished reading "Frenriere" aloud and connected the story to the 5 elements of American Gothic fiction.

Some ideas for stories were presented (click here for a list) and we covered the "first lines" of 10 gothic short stories to illustrate how a short story must have a "hook" to draw the reader in. Finally, we discussed the grading rubric for the short stories.

Gothic short stories are due MAY 28. All students are expected to create a rough draft this week.
Your final draft gothic story will have the following:
· Include at least three elements of Gothic (from the definitions in your notes) in the story
· have 2-4 characters
· one major conflict
· and an "ironic twist" or surprise ending.

Don’t have an idea? Use your writing from the descriptive writing assignments (especially #3, 4 or 5) as a starting point.


The paper will be typed, double-spaced, 12 pt. font, 3-5 pages, and generally free from spelling errors.