As our study of the novel includes writing a series of essays (which have already been distributed),our class discussions reference the essay questions and include placing brief outlines of our discussion into the virtual notebook for future reference. For example, today , we focused on Essay #4 which addresses the character development of the narrator. Bobby first analyzed the narrator's shortcomings as a teacher who uses corporeal punishment and rage to discipline his students. We discussed how the narrator's frustration with his life engenders this counterproductive behavior and examined why the narrator's girlfriend urges the narrator to "teach" the condemned Jefferson "how to die with dignity". Bobby offered good insights into the novel's plot ingredients by noting how the narrator might be able to achieve some sense of value and self- worth by instilling a similar value into Jefferson, who is condemned to death for a crime he did not commit. We last addressed some vocabulary words and questions from the study guide . For homework, read the next two chapters and complete the study guide questions.