Early Visions of America The Writing of Christopher Columbus and John Smith

First… “Close Reading” What does it mean to do a “close reading” of a text? What are some of the strategies of a close reader? An effective and simple way to approach all non-fiction texts: “The APT Reader” A.P.T.

The Diary of Christopher Columbus In Your Journal: What is Columbus’s vision of America? By this I mean not just his observations of the “New World” and its people, but also his vision for its future. Consider his Audience(s), Purpose and Tone.

Columbus (cont’d.) Here’s another tip: look for signs of bias. Where might we detect signs of bias in Columbus’s writing? As far as you can tell, does he make any assumptions that might cast doubt or suspicion on his story?

John Smith’s Generall Historie As far as you can tell, what is Smith’s vision for America? What similarities and differences do you see between his vision and that of Columbus?

John Smith Audience(s)? Purpose(s)? Tone? Assumptions? Bias? Agenda? HW: Read the excerpt from “Description of New England,” also by Smith, in your packet. Annotate appropriately (A.P.T., bias, assumptions, vison, etc.)