A Perfect Community?

If you are reading closely, you have probably noticed a distinct shift in the mood of the novel. Before the community seemed calm and nice, if a bit odd. Now that strangeness is taking on a definitively eerie feeling. The Receiver of Memory's secretary seems friendly, but a bit too friendly--and those doors that click open seem to be hiding more than the Receiver's office. And that last rule that Jonas was given ... how can he trust anyone anymore?

What is the strangest new detail we have learned about Jonas's community?

Controlling "Stirrings"

a simple solution?

What if it were that easy--you could take a pill and all of the frustrations and anxieties about sexuality would disappear? Do you think everyone age 11 - 18 should be required to take such a pill? What problems could it solve? I anticipate that many of you will not like this idea, but what is a good argument against banning hormones until individuals have matured and learned to control themselves better? Explain your opinion carefully.

You're Being Watched ...

the ubiquitous eye of the NYPD

... does this bother you? Many of you seemed grateful to be watched closely by security cameras. Yet you were alarmed at Jonas's inability to even swipe an apple without being subjected to (anonymous?) punishment in front of his entire community. What is it about the level of security in Jonas's society that is too much? Where do you draw the line between safety and privacy? Be specific using examples from both our world and Jonas's.

Living in Jonas's Community

Things seem pretty nice where Jonas lives, would you want to live there? I've heard all of your arguments in class about life being boring there, but everyone seems so happy. Wouldn't you at least want to try it out to see what makes everyone so happy? Use specific examples from the book to support your point.

A Perfect Community?

Most would agree that the communities discussed in class today do a better job of dealing with racism, crime and poverty than our general society does. Why, then, were so many of you adamant that you would not want to live there? Would you not be willing to give up TV and some of your money in order for everyone in the world to have enough food to eat? How many of you would at least be interested in trying out living in one of these places, say for a week or so?

"Nevermore"

I thoroughly enjoyed the musical we went to see Friday--it was written well, produced fabulously, and acted precisely. I'd love to hear what you thought about it. Be specific about what you liked or didn't like (for an example on how to verbalize your experience at the show, check out the NYTimes review of this play). Also, I'll be impressed if you can cite the allusions to "Tell-tale Heart" we saw.

Open Houses

High school application season is fully upon us. A huge part of applying should be your visits to the schools you are interested in. What schools have you visited? Were there any surprising things you learned when you visited? Are there any schools you visited that you would not recommend to your classmates? Share what you've learned from school visits here.

High School!

Will you be climbing up these steps next September?

Probably not, because I don't think it's a public school in New York City, but it is the generic photo the Department of Education website uses for most of the schools in the city. In any case, the high school selection season is now in full swing, and I would love for you to share your thoughts with each other. What schools look interesting to you? Which ones have you visited? Which ones do you think people should avoid applying to. Be sure to explain why a particular school might interest you, being as specific as possible. Also, check out the Department of Education's online help page.