Classroom Strategies

Students tend to love this story. It is useful for getting them to think about how their own perceptions influence their experiences with writing styles and characters. On one hand, students like to discuss Peyton, because they seem to struggle with whether to view Peyton as a fallen hero or not; the fact that he is a supporter of the confederacy (and, thereby, slavery) causes much of this struggle amongst students. On the other hand, students like to the discuss the twist ending that has become so popular in the 21st century. This will all provide for a well-rounded discussion about reader response, writing style/strategies, and characterization. I also find that showing the old Twilight Zone episode (which can be found on Youtube) helps add to the discussion of Peyton. [Berneta Haynes]