Page 291 - SpringBoard_ELA_Grade8_Flipbook

aCTIVITy 4.4
Humorous anecdotes
learNING sTraTeGIes:
Graphic Organizer, Discussion Groups, Rereading, Close Reading, Marking the Text, Brainstorming, TWIST,
Oral Reading
Word CoNNeCTIoNs
Etymology
The word anecdote comes
from the Greek word anekdota, meaning “things unpublished.” Think about the connotation this brings to the modern word.
my Notes
Learning Targets
• Analyze how authors convey humor in speech and writing.
• Write and present an oral reading of an original anecdote.
• Analyze the effect of verbals in a humorous text.
Humorous Anecdotes
1. Read the following information to see how the use of anecdotes applies to a study of humor.
An anecdote is a brief, entertaining account of an incident or event. Often, anecdotes are shared because of their humorous nature, but anecdotes can also help illustrate larger ideas and concepts. Families sometimes share anecdotes about the humorous things family members have done. Frequently, the stories become more and more absurd as the details are exaggerated with each retelling.
2. Do you or your family have a humorous anecdote that is shared over and over? What is it? Why is it retold? Who tells it? How does it change over time?
Viewing a Humorous Monologue
The following monologue provides humorous accounts of somewhat ordinary events. Finding and describing the humor in the people, places, and events you encounter can enrich your conversations as well as your writing.
3. As you watch the clip for the first time, listen for different topics in the monologue and take notes.
264 SpringBoard® English Language Arts Grade 8
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