Free Write: 3 minutes MOVING

Naming of Names by Ray Bradbury How can I distinguish key characteristics of a genre to better understand the author’s choice of theme and plot? Is this science fiction?

The Exposition Identify the Setting, Introduce the Characters, Gather Background information

Setting Future – people are settling on Mars Martian Meadow appears cold, windy Conveys the mood of fear – Bitterings don’t want to be there Meadow also seems hollow – empty Bitterings feel lonely – out of place This reminds me of how people feel when they move to a new place.

Characters Bittering Family Mr. Bittering (Harry) – protagonist – clearly – his thoughts dominate the story The fear and anxiety described is largely his he seems inflexible – rigid – stubborn Doesn’t like change Mrs. Bittering (Cora) tries to ease her husband’s concerns – seems more flexible Bittering children: Dan, Laura, David David – sets up the idea that maybe there are Martians even though they can’t see them His ideas help convey the suspicious atmosphere

Background Information People are settling on Mars because of the chaos and wars on earth This should be an escape from misery

Inciting Incident – an event that introduces the conflict Laura announces that she heard the news on the radio - Atom Bombs hit New York No more rockets to Mars Stranded in this new planet Fear ensues

Theme question emerges: How should people deal with change? The base topic or focus that acts as a foundation for the entire literary piece. The theme links all aspects of the literary work with one another and is basically the main subject. 

A comparison of two unlike things Metaphor A comparison of two unlike things

Mr. Bittering’s Response “As long as the rockets had spun a silver web across space, he had been able to accept Mars.” What is the significance of the web? “work and forget” What does this mean?

Mental Distraction Bittering thinks about the original names of Martian mountains, cities, seas, etc… Why do you think the Earthmen gave new names? What does it mean when the author tells us, “man lives by symbol and label.” How does Bittering feel about the new names?

The environment begins to change Peach blossoms – extra leaf Onions, carrots, radishes – not quite the same Roses – turning green Cow – growing a third horn Grass – turning purple

Reactions of the Bittering Family How does Mr. Bittering react to the changes? How does the rest of the family react? How do the other Earthmen/women react to the change? How does Mr. Bittering respond to their reactions?

In conclusion…. What did you think about the story? Choose any three prompts to respond to using the sample response format. What did you think about the story? What did you think about the author’s message? How did you feel when you realized the Bitterings were trapped on Mars? Did you agree or disagree with any of the actions taken by one or more of the characters? Did something surprise you? What textual connections can you make? Sample Response: I think ________. I felt __________. I was surprise when _______. This reminded me of _______.