Title: R & J Journal for Act IV-V
Course: Romeo and Juliet Sample Unit Simple Topics Forma > Section: Acts IV-V

Romeo and Juliet Journal Topics
Act IV-V

Directions: Write one journal entry responding to one of the following topics. Journals should be a minimum of 500 words.

a) Write a two paragraph journal entry that articulates your ideas of what Juliet's subtext might be in her conversations with Paris (in 4.1) or her father (in 4.2). Be as imaginative and creative as possible, but you must stay within appropriate boundaries of plot and taste. Be sure to justify your ideas with evidence from the text.

b) Fate: a favorite subject of the ancient Greek playwrights Shakespeare so admired. Unlike them, however, Shakespeare leaves the question of fate a little more open-ended. Find several passages discussing "stars" and/or "fate/destiny." In your opinion, how much of the outcome was within the power of Romeo or Juliet to change, and how much did Shakespeare make it seem as if Fate were actually conspiring against them? How much was for dramatic effect--meant to produce dramatic irony and create tension for the story? Use quotes from the text to support your points.

Reminder: You only need to respond to ONE of the topics.

Grading form:

General Journal Rubric

This is a general rubric template for checking journal assignments.

Attention to text or support for analysis

- no supporting allusions or quotes
- a few superficial allusions or quotes
- adequate supports using allusions or quotes
- excellent use of supporting details and/or quotes
Attention to mechanics

- little to no attention paid to mechanics
- some attention paid to mechanics, but one or two glaring errors present
- some attention paid to mechanics; one or two minor errors
- careful editing is evident
Ideas and Content

- Misses point or remains entirely on the surface
- One or two insights present, but could use more thought or reflection
- Some interesting insights; may have one minor logic error, but for most part offers new understanding
- Well-thought out and insightful response