Reading and All That Jazz: Tuning Up Your Reading, Thinking, and Study Skills, 2/e

Peter Mather, Glendale Community College
Rita McCarthy, Glendale Community College

Tone

Journal

Tone

Reading Selection:

The Fixed, by Annie Dillard

In Your Own Words


1		What is the fable saying about Death?



2		What is ironic about Ali Haj's departure? Why does he ask the servant to keep Death well-entertained in Baghdad? What does Death mean when he says he expected this type of welcome from Ali Haj?



3		Is Ali Haj going to succeed in avoiding Death? Explain your answer.



4		What does Death mean when he tells the old servant that he is sure to see his master, Ali Haj, soon?

Reading Selection:

A Letter to God, by Gregorio Lopez y Fuentes

Written Assignment


5		Have you ever tried to help someone, and it turned out that the person resented your efforts? If so, how did you feel about that person? Describe your experiences.

Reading Selection:

The Animal School, by Dr. George H. Reavis

In Your Own Words


6		Does this fable have a moral? If so, what is it?



7		What makes this story satirical?



8		In regard to the school system, what changes would Dr. Reavis like to see implemented?



9		What criticism is the author making about the way schools are run?



10		Why was the eel chosen as the valedictorian?



11		What is the significance of this choice?



12		Is the prairie dogs' course of action similar to any contemporary trends in education?

Reading Selection:

Rent-A-Gun, by Art Buchwald


13		What is your reaction to this column? Do you think it is an effective way to make a point about gun control?

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