Maze Runner Day 1

Maze Runner Day 1

by Aaron Bodey

​Our Targets

• ​We will be able to analyze how authors use memory moments to create plot.

• We will be able to explain how setting influences characters.

• ​We will be able to understand the characteristics of sci-fi stories and to make predictions using that knowledge.

​But first...

a preview.​

Open Ended

What is one aspect of this trailer that helps you know it is science fiction (sci-fi)?

Linear vs. Non-Linear Plot​

Normal Storyline vs. Flashback/Foreshadowing​

​Linear Plot

• ​Exposition - author establishes the setting, introduces the main characters, and the main conflict.

• ​Rising Action - The story gets more intense as the conflict drives the characters to take action, think, and make decisions.

• ​Climax - The most intense moment or the turning point in the conflict.

• ​Falling Action - The conflict begins to be resolved.

• ​Resolution - The conflict is brought to an end/pause

Poll

Which signposts do authors usually use in the Rising Action to lead to the Climax? (9A, 7A, B, & C)

• Aha Moments (AH)

• Tough Questions (TQ)

• Memory Moments (MM)

• Words of the Wiser (WW)

​Non-linear Plot

• ​Flashback - (Memory Moment) the author uses memories to trigger an action, thought, or to explain the reason behind the way a character acts and believes.

• ​Foreshadowing - The author gives the reader hints about what may happen later in the story. Usually created by a flashback or repetition (Again & Again).

Poll

Why would an author include a partial (piece of a) flashback?

• To create suspense/mystery

• To confuse the reader 

• To show how memories work in the brain

• To hint that the rest of the memories might come back

​Setting

• ​The setting is comprised (WG) of both time and place.​

• ​When does the story/scene take place? (Time of Day or Time Period)

• ​Where does the story/scene take place? (Climate and Location)

• ​Can be general or very specific.

• ​THERE IS ALWAYS A PURPOSE!

​Setting & Characters

• ​Always affects who they are:

  • ​Values/beliefs about life and people

  • ​behaviors and quirks (WG)

• ​Can also affect the reasons why they are who they are:

  • ​prosperity and poverty

  • ​weather

  • ​time of day

  • ​culture

Open Ended

How might the author use the time of day to represent a change in her character?

​Now what?

​Today we will dive into James Dashner's The Maze Runner!

​

​This is an exciting story that involves technology and how it can be used to both improve and control our lives.

​

​We will read the first two chapters on our own or in pairs.

​

​The first two chapters are posted in a PDF on today's Classroom Assignment.

​As we read make notes in your Reading Section -

Maze Runner Chapters 1 & 2:

1. ​Who do we meet?

2. ​Where is the story taking place?

3. ​When is the story taking place?

4. What do we learn about the characters from the setting?

5. ​What signposts do you notice?

6. ​How does the author use them: to create characters, establish the plot, etc.?

7. ​WHY ARE THESE THINGS IMPORTANT?!

SHOW WHAT YOU LEARNED

Multiple Choice

(7D) In the opening paragraphs of chapter one, the darkness and smells affect Thomas by --

• making him feel sick and confused

• making him go crazy

• making him angry

• forcing him to have flashbacks

Multiple Choice

(7C, 9A) The author uses Thomas's brief memories to show --

• Why he is crazy

• Why he is in the elevator

• That he is confused

• That memories are important to who his character is

Multiple Select

(8A, 5C) Choose all answers that apply. The science-fiction aspects of this story can help the reader predict that --

• Supernatural or alien beings will come into the story

• Technology will affect the characters and plot

• Science will be involved in the conflict

• Some of the characters may not survive

• There will be a mission to accomplish