Ben and I reviewed pages 1 - 15 in the dystopian novel, 1984, and Ben was queried about the most important items of information he's learned about the society in which the main character, Winston Smith lives, and his physical discomfort. We reviewed the meaning of INGSOC, the acronym for English socialism, the political ideology of the totalitarian government of Oceania. We summarized how it depicts a world divided into three massive countries, Oceania, Eurasia, and Eastasia; Winston Smith lives in Oceania, which is ruled by an oppressive character called Big Brother. Ben related the political ideology to relevant social issues and enjoyed the examples of irony Orwell has introduced in his novel. (Ben is to write about these
in his homework assignment due Tuesday, 12/17). We collaboratively read 5 additional pages in the novel and Ben stated that he found it extremely interesting. We ended at the top of page 20 when there is a knock on the door after Winston Smith realizes that in wiring "Down with Big Brother" in his dairy, he has committed a 'thought crime' that will be severely punished when it's discovered. Ben is to read 5 pages for homework - page 20 to the top of page 25 and to reflect on what he thinks Winston Smith's conclusion is as he goes to answer the knock on his door. Ben was reminded to take home the novel.