1. AP Language: Satire Socratic

2. Agenda Reading one interpretation of Idiocracy’s argument
Whole-class socratic seminar over the movie and satire as a genre

3. An Interpretation of Idiocracy
Before WE unpack Idiocracy’s arguments and how they develop, let’s read someone else’s interpretation.

4. An Interpretation of Idiocracy
How well does this author support his/her argument? Explain.
Do you agree or disagree with this interpretation of Idiocracy? (Do you think the writer/director intended this to be the main message?) Why?

5. Whole Class Socratic Write 3 questions to prepare: Factual
Interpretation/Analysis
Global connection

6. Whole Class Socratic SCORE Category 1: Contribution to Discussion
Use of Textual Evidence
Category 3:
Values Opinion of Others 4
10 points
Student meets the requirements of contribution: at least 2 comments and 1 question.
Student made effective use of textual evidence when contributing to the conversation every time.
Student demonstrated respect for the opinion of others by using an appropriate voice level, not interrupting others, and keeping commentary appropriate. 3
7.5 points
Student partially meets the requirements of contribution: 1 comment and 1 question OR 2 comments and 0 questions.
Student made effective use of textual evidence most of the time when contributing to the conversation.
Student used an inappropriate voice level or interrupted others once. 2
5 points
Student attempted discussion but only made 1 comment or only asked a question.
Student made an attempt to use evidence in discussion.
Student used an inappropriate voice level or interrupted others more than once. 1
0 points
Student failed to participate in discussion.
Student never attempted to use evidence in discussion.
Student did not demonstrate respect for the opinion of others. Student’s voice level was inappropriate, they interrupted others or the student made inappropriate* comments.

7. Whole Class Socratic Unpacking satire as a whole genre:
Can satire go too far as a genre? Why or why not? If so, explain how you know satire has crossed a line.
Is satire an effective way to make arguments? Why or why not?
Unpacking Idiocracy:
What are the main arguments?
What strategies does the movie use to develop these arguments?
Think about individual parts of the movie and how they work together to make the argument.