"The Crucible"--an introductory activity

“The Crucible” by Arthur Miller

This assignment is meant to cover the introductory materials through the opening scene of the play.

Background needed: On the board, list the name of the characters introduced in the first scene:
Reverend Samuel Parris Mr. Thomas Putnam
Betty Parris Ruth Putnam
Tituba Reverend John Hale
Abigail Williams Mercy Lewis
Susanna Walcott Mary Warren
Mrs. Ann Putnam

Lead-in: I want to make sure you understand two things at this point in the play.
First, you should know what action took place in a clearing in the forest outside Salem, MA, the night before the play opens.
Secondly, because of that midnight action, you should know what emotions and effects the characters that we’ve met so far in the play are demonstrating. (You should know what they did in the forest, what they fear now, and what story they plan to concoct.)

Set: Your task will be to demonstrate your understanding of the background information Arthur Miller lays out for his audience.
Your assignment will be to complete an informative paragraph telling what is happening in the play so far. You may begin with one of the following topic sentences. That should be followed with at least five additional sentences highlighting the actions, as well as the inner motivations, of the characters we have met up to this point. Finish your paragraph with a concluding or summarizing statement to bring your ideas to a logical close. Again, you are composing one complete paragraph with seven sentences retelling the action in the play so far.

Suggested topic sentences: (You may also devise one of your own.)

This whole incident is being blown out of proportion.
The girls will have to work hard to get out of this mess.
It’s not all fun and games anymore.
This situation could get unpleasant.
Arthur Miller weaves a web from the beginning.
Salem only appears to be a quiet village.

Assessment: After about 5-8 minutes of writing, pair students to check each others’ paragraphs for legitimate details from the play so far. Award one point for each sentence of supporting detail. Do not count the topic or concluding sentences. (5 pts.)