The American Dream

August 5, 2015

E.Q: Define the term American Dream.

Obj: I can determine the meaning of "American Dream" and apply it to real world situations.

Starter:

 

In your starter folder, create a definition for the idea of the American Dream.

This definition should be about 1-2 sentences.

Vocabulary:

Literary Term: American Dream
Part of Speech: Noun
Dictionary Definition: the ideal that every US citizen should have an equal opportunity to achieve success and prosperity through hard work, determination, and initiative
Your Definition:
Activity: Give an example of the American Dream.


Literary Term: Declaration of Independence
Part of Speech: Noun
Dictionary Definition: the proclamation made by the second American Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, which asserted the freedom and independence of the 13 Colonies from Great Britain
Your Definition:
Activity: Read the document. 

Literary Term: Persuasive Writing 
Part of Speech: Noun
Dictionary Definition: presenting reasons and examples to influence action or thought
Your Definition:
Activity: Brainstorm when you might need to utilize this style of writing.

Activity: 

1.  American Oxygen

Lyrics:

Breathe out, breathe in
American oxygen
Every breath I breathe
Chasin' this American Dream
We sweat for a nickel and a dime
Turn it into an empire
Breathe in, this feeling
American, American oxygen

American oxygen
Breathe in, this feeling
American, American Oxygen

Oh say, you see, this is the American Dream
Young girl, hustlin'
On the other side of the ocean
You can be anything at all
In America, America
I say, can't see
Just close your eyes and breathe

Breathe out, breathe in
American oxygen
Every breath I breathe
Chasin' this American Dream
We sweat for a nickel and a dime
Turn it into an empire
Breathe in, this feeling
American, American oxygen

American oxygen
Breathe in, this feeling
American, American Oxygen
American oxygen
Breathe in, this feeling
American, American Oxygen

Oh say, you see, this is the American Dream
Young boy, hustlin'
Tryna get the wheels in motion
But he can be anything at all
In America, America
I say, can't see
Just close your eyes and breathe

Breathe out, breathe in
American oxygen
Every breath I breathe
Chasin' this American Dream
We sweat for a nickel and a dime
Turn it into an empire
Breathe in, this feeling
American, American oxygen

This is the new America
We are the new America
This is the new America
We are the new America

This is the new America
We are the new America
This is the new America
We are the new America

Breathe out, breathe in
American oxygen
Every breath I breathe
Chasin' this American Dream
We sweat for a nickel and a dime
Turn it into an empire
Breathe in, this feeling
American, American oxygen

American oxygen
Breathe in, this feeling
American, American Oxygen
American oxygen
Breathe in, this feeling
American, American Oxygen

Interpret the lyrics in each verse.
What is the overall attitude of the singer?
Evaluate the lyrics to determine the purpose and audience of the song.


2.  Your Dream

This is your first real piece of writing that will demonstrate your skills as a writer.
In your assignment folder, create a document labeled your dream.
In a one page essay, explain what your dream is.
Consider what your goals and dreams are, and explain what you believe is your American Dream.





3.  Persuasive Techniques
Before we begin reading the Declaration of Independence, it is important to identify persuasive techniques.
Review pages 7-13 of the PDF and take Cornell Notes on the information.

Techniques

4.  Declaration of Independence

Please listen to the video and follow along with the reading.

Electronic Copy

As you read, identify key phrases that demonstrate the persuasive techniques you read about previously.

Closure:

What are at least three persuasive techniques you discovered in the Declaration of Independence?