My World

We're discussing Lord of the Flies in my sophomore classes. I think some of them are beginning to get a clue about how civilization can descend into savagery. It's still a pretty raw book, even by today's standards. Love it.

My AP juniors just finished The Crucible. Their knowledge of the Red Scare is woeful to nil. And their understanding of civil liberties is even less. I feel a unit coming on...and I'm already so behind...but aren't we supposed to take advantage of teachable moments? I guess I'll have to be satisfied with being behind. It's not as if I can't teach them the crucial AP skills through this unit. I have to resign myself to the fact that I will never -- never -- be finished planning.

[ed] I meant to add that I just watched Good Night and Good Luck again, in thought about this unit I'm scheming. Edward R. Murrow had some really amazing things to say. I think I'll have to read more of his written work. Any suggestions?