Ryan’s Journal

Ryan Sarah

Identify some language features the author uses to create an atmosphere of mystery and suspense. Language features could include: Short, simple sentences Repetition Metaphor Simile Imagery

Identify some visual and verbal techniques used in Sarah’s video blog to create an atmosphere of mystery and suspense. Techniques could include: Foley effects Atmosphere sounds Lighting Costume Dialogue

Ryan and Sarah are uncovering a mystery. As you read and view the clips, you can uncover some of the clues.

Keep a page free in your book to write down clues and questions.

View the clips again and see if you notice anything that Ryan and Sarah have missed.

Clues Everyone seems keen to

keep Sarah and Ryan from exploring the dredge – something must be up.

Number 42 is mine. Stay away.

Question Why did Skeleton Creek

change it’s name?

The setting is described in detail in the opening passage.

1. Why do you think the setting is described in such detail?

2. How does the description of setting serve to reinforce the ominous atmosphere of the story? Give examples of sentences or phrases to support your answer.

3. If Skeleton Creek were a person, what kind of person would it be? Describe.

Your task is to build an evocative and atmospheric setting. Look at your list of “typical” horror story settings. Select

one.

Brainstorm the sensations of “creepy” stories. What sights, sounds, smells and sensations would you feel?

Write 100-150 words as an introduction to a larger story. Make sure you are creating an evocative, interesting place that draws people in.

You will read and review another students work, and pay close attention to the techniques and overall effectiveness of the writing. Read it through once and note your first impressions of

the setting they have created. Is it spooky? Exciting? Dull?

Read it through a second time and underline the techniques used to create this setting.

Give feedback: What has the writer done well (be specific)?

Give feedforward: What must the writer do more of to improve this piece?

There are two central characters in this story: Ryan and Sarah.

1. How does Ryan describe Sarah?

2. Based on what you have read, how do you think Sarah would describe Ryan?

Ryan also describes minor characters, such as his parents or the librarian. Read his description of the librarian again (located on page 11).

1. Identify 2 language techniques used to help you picture the librarian in your mind.

Use this picture as a prompt to create your own character.

You can place this character in the setting your created last time, or in a new time and place.

Pay attention to using strong verbs, adjectives and figurative language in your description.

Research this chapter’s password: House of Usher. What does it refer to? Why do you think this was chosen for the password?