Satire

We reviewed some Acuity questions in the honors class today and then we also discussed satire.  We looked at several examples and laughed out loud at some of them.  The Onion is a great source for satire.

We reviewed our definition of the term and the examples helped to demonstrate the clever way satirists work.  One tricky aspect of satire is comprehending what, exactly, is being satirized. Just because the satire is talking about baby shampoo, doesn't necessarily mean that baby shampoo is the target of the satire. In that example, the way modern society coddles its children is being satirized, from its hands-off approach to discipline to the practice of giving everyone a trophy.  Regardless, good satire will make you laugh while making a strong, relevant point.

Tonight I want you to think about possible satire topics.  What is ripe to be satirized?  What topic or movement or law or idea or fad or news item deserves to have its ridiculousness pointed out satirically?  Think about the sports world, world news, television, music, film, weather, etc.  If you ask me the idea that One Direction just won Artist of the Year has a big target on its back.  The unlimited power of Roger Goodell is begging to be satirized.  Is anything off limits?  Can ISIS be satirized?  Ferguson, Missouri? Public education?

Whatever you choose, you just need to be sure you understand the point you are trying to make and be able to present it effectively.

Topics tonight...more discussion tomorrow.

In that standard class we celebrated our writing accomplishments and then turned around and offered one more day to strengthen the theme papers.  Those that took advantage of the extra 24 hours will definitely benefit based on our class discussion.

We reviewed the expectations for the debate/presentation.  Here's a link to them.  In addition to reading, you should be making preparations for the debates/presentations beginning next week.

We took a look at a bit of Acuity too.  Our next Acuity test is December 10.  Let's be ready for it.

Until next time...