You read the chapter on humor. There are LOTS of considerations when it comes to humor. Be sure you know and understand the potential benefits and problems with humor that your textbook outlines when it comes to rhetoric. Later this week, you'll be analyzing an argument completely based on humor--satire to be specific. But there are lots of other ways to use humor.
I've chosen a Dave Barry column for you to read. Keep in mind that a columnist is read by many, mostly for enjoyment and funny/interesting commentary on life and society. Therefore, his "argument" has a far different purpose and audience than the pieces you'll write for AP Lang.
Read the article and make note in your journal the various types of humor he uses. See if you can see examples of the types of humor your textbook laid out for you. Note examples/quotes from the text that demonstrate that. Also pay attention to where his humor works--what makes you laugh either out loud or in your head OR makes a point by being funny. Where does his humor not work for you--you don't get it or it has a bigger potential for being offensive to some part of the audience?
You should only spend about 10 minutes on this article and the journaling. Then, return to my classroom, get into groups of 3-4, and discuss the questions I have left for you. Be sure to note in YOUR OWN JOURNAL the answers your group comes up with.
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