Introduction
The Great Gatsby is a book that takes place in the Roaring Twenties and discusses the lifestyle of this time period. However one topic is not discussed to its full extent, which is a mysterious character that is brought up, named Wolfsheim. His connection to the story is that he is a business partner of Gatsby, not much about this character is revealed about this character throughout the book but just enough is left to get a sense of understanding.
Task
The class will be split up into groups of 4 even though each member of the group will be graded individually. Groups will brainstorm about the shady and mysterious business that is taking place between Mr. Wolfsheim and Mr. Gatz. For this project each group must consider the Who, What, When, and Why. The groups will explain what they think this business could be in a story of a 1 page minimum and a 3 page maximum. Each group will receive a poster board that will be split into two sections; one section for the story and one section for the groups reasoning of why their story is the best. Once both sections are completed they will be mounted on the poster board and presented to the class.
Process
1.
Brainstorm possible backstories for the business that is being completed between Wolfsheim and Gatsby. Groups should use an organizer or a mind map to organize thoughts on a piece of paper
2.
Visit following websites that can help create thoughts about this mysterious business. These websites are not mandatory but will give insight into some possible backstories to write about.
http://www.history.com/topics/prohibition
3.
Create a well constructed story that ties into all aspects of the business between Wolfsheim and Gatsby that leaves no loose ends.
4.
Mount materials onto poster board in a neat and good looking design and present poster board to class
Evaluation
Rubric
| 5 | 3 | 1 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Presentation | Well practiced and professional presentation. Interacts with class while presenting and uses body language and eye contact | Uses little eye contact and the presentation seems under practiced. Presenters do not know the material well. | Employs no eye contact and does not know the material at all. Presenters give no effort towards presentation. |
|
Participation (Individual) |
Group member participated in group activity most of the time and offers rational responses to group. | Group member offers some thoughts to group discussion but does not remain active in group discussion | Group member does not participate at all and restricts group discussion. |
| Story | Group creates a well rounded story that makes sense and ties of many loose ends that come with the story. | Group creates a good story that makes sense but may not seem fully possible, story fails to tie up loose ends. | Group story has nothing to do with the topic or makes no sense. |
Conclusion
Many different stories will surface during this activity and all outcomes are interesting. Every single result from this is unique and different. After completing this project you will have your own understanding of what possible business could be going on between the two characters in this book. The full truth about this business will not be revealed but the imagination can fill in the gaps of the story. I hope you enjoy this project!
