"The Veldt" by Ray Bradbury
George and Lydia Hadley are the parents of Wendy and Peter Hadley. They spare no expense at providing their children with the best that technology can offer. Their house is completely computerized. There are machines to fry eggs, generate food, sweep the house, and bath the children. Perhaps the most outstanding aspect of the Hadley house is the nursery; a room that turns the children's imagination to reality.
At the beginning of the story, Lydia and George step into the nursery and find an African veldt. They observe lions feeding on an unknown prey. Then, the lions charge at the couple. The Hadleys run out of the room and slam the door. Concerned with their children's imagination, they consider shutting down the nursery. The children do not agree with this and take matters into their own hands. What do you think will happen when technology takes over the lives of children?
Teacher Tip: This story pairs well with Ray Bradbury's "Zero Hour" (The Illustrated Man).
ELA Standards (8th Grade)
Reading Skills:
Literary Skills: imagery; mood and tone; inferences; conflict (internal/external); figurative language (simile, metaphor, personification ); allusion; theme; point of view
Essential Question(s):
At the beginning of the story, Lydia and George step into the nursery and find an African veldt. They observe lions feeding on an unknown prey. Then, the lions charge at the couple. The Hadleys run out of the room and slam the door. Concerned with their children's imagination, they consider shutting down the nursery. The children do not agree with this and take matters into their own hands. What do you think will happen when technology takes over the lives of children?
Teacher Tip: This story pairs well with Ray Bradbury's "Zero Hour" (The Illustrated Man).
ELA Standards (8th Grade)
- ELAGSE8RL1-Identifies and cites textual evidence (Priority)
- ELAGSE8RL2-Determine the theme of a literary text (Priority)
- ELAGSE8RL3-Analyze dialogue and incidents in stories (Supporting)
- ELAGSE8RI6-Determine point of view (Supporting)
- ELAGSE8RL6-Analyze a point of view-character vs. reader (Supporting)
- ELAGSE8L5-Demonstrate understanding of figurative language (Supporting)
- ELAGSE8L4c-Use a dictionary or glossary (Supporting)
- ELAGSE8RI7-Evaluates advantages/disadvantages of using different media (Supporting)
- Desktop/laptop/Chromebook device
- Internet
- Journals (Digital/Online)
- Quizlet
- CommonLit Assignments "The Veldt" (600L) by Roald Dahl (online)
- The Veldt Compare and Contrast Graphic Organizer
- Google Class Doc
- BrainPop
- Flocabulary
- Quizizz
- Forms
- Test Reflection and Correction Sheet (2)
- PDF version of "The Veldt"
- Hard copies of "The Veldt" (optional)
- *Highlighters (optional)
- Promethean board or ViewSonic (for optional activities)
- Students will identify internal/external conflicts in "The Veldt"
- Students will identify suspenseful moments in "The Veldt"
- Students will identify ironic moments in "The Veldt"
- Students will identify examples of foreshadowing in "The Veldt"
- Students will identify and explain examples of figurative language (similes, metaphors, allusions, etc.) in "The Veldt"
- Students will cite textual evidence to support their answers/responses
- Students will identify thematic messages in a literary text
- Students will make inferences/use inferential thinking
- Students will analyze dialogue and incidents in a story (often making important inferences) to understand a character's actions and/or motivation
- Students will identify the point of view of a literary text
- Students will determine how the story's point of view affects the character(s) as well as the reader
- Students will effectively use a dictionary or glossary for vocabulary acquisition
- Students will answer applicable short/extended constructed responses
- Teachers as well as learners will analyze how well the students answer and respond to reading comprehension questions
- Students will appropriately answer discussion questions and share their thoughts about the literary texts with a partner/group
- Students will compare/contrasts literary texts to their media/video renditions
- Students will examine how an author’s language choices can affect the mood of the story and create a specific tone.
- Students will identify specific language choices that support the creation of a particular mood and/or tone.
- Students will gain an understanding/appreciation for the word choices that authors use to create a mood/tone.
- Students will reflect on their assessment scores and correct any incorrect answers
Reading Skills:
Literary Skills: imagery; mood and tone; inferences; conflict (internal/external); figurative language (simile, metaphor, personification ); allusion; theme; point of view
Essential Question(s):
Food for Thought
Go to www.menti.com and use the code 4928 8153. Vote for the choice that best answers the question.
Class Discussion: If you had a choice, what type of parents would you like to have?
Class Discussion: If you had a choice, what type of parents would you like to have?
Let's Get Started . . .
1. Answer Quickwrite 22 in your Digital Journal.
Quickwrite 22
If you could upgrade your home to include current and futuristic technological advances, what would you add?
2. If you have not done so already, log into Flocabulary and complete the Making Inferences Learning Module. (Student Tip: If you are unfamiliar with the concept of making inferences/inferential thinking, please log into Flocabulary and complete the learning module on Making Inferences. If you have already completed the learning module on Making Inferences, watch the video and review the learning materials as a refresher.)
3. Log into Quizlet and learn, review, and study vocabulary set for "The Veldt." (Note: If you joined my ELA class on Quizlet, you should have access to all of your vocabulary sets for the academic school year.)
Quickwrite 22
If you could upgrade your home to include current and futuristic technological advances, what would you add?
2. If you have not done so already, log into Flocabulary and complete the Making Inferences Learning Module. (Student Tip: If you are unfamiliar with the concept of making inferences/inferential thinking, please log into Flocabulary and complete the learning module on Making Inferences. If you have already completed the learning module on Making Inferences, watch the video and review the learning materials as a refresher.)
3. Log into Quizlet and learn, review, and study vocabulary set for "The Veldt." (Note: If you joined my ELA class on Quizlet, you should have access to all of your vocabulary sets for the academic school year.)
Read the Story
4. Read "The Veldt" by Ray Bradbury. Pro Tip: Use one of the read aloud video/audio files to read the story to you. This way, it will not take you more than 30 minutes to ready the story. (See below for read aloud options.)
Katy Daugherty reads "The Veldt" by Ray Bradbury.
If you are unable to view/listen to this video, click here to open it via SafeShare.tv (Link: https://safeshare.tv/x/mAaRbR8PDV8#edit).
You can also click here or use this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mAaRbR8PDV8 to view/listen to the original YouTube post.
If you are unable to view/listen to this video, click here to open it via SafeShare.tv (Link: https://safeshare.tv/x/mAaRbR8PDV8#edit).
You can also click here or use this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mAaRbR8PDV8 to view/listen to the original YouTube post.
Peter Hawkins reads "The Veldt" by Ray Bradbury.
If you are unable to view/listen to this video, click here or use this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6PCv8S_22c
If you are unable to view/listen to this video, click here or use this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6PCv8S_22c
Alternative Read Aloud Version of "The Veldt"
Stephen Colbert's reading of "The Veldt" by Ray Bradbury (Link: https://www.openculture.com/2014/10/stephen-colbert-reads-ray-bradbury-classic-sci-fi-story-the-veldt.html)
BestFriendTutor reads "The Veldt" by Ray Bradbury (Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bKzUs1JFO7k)
Stephen Colbert's reading of "The Veldt" by Ray Bradbury (Link: https://www.openculture.com/2014/10/stephen-colbert-reads-ray-bradbury-classic-sci-fi-story-the-veldt.html)
BestFriendTutor reads "The Veldt" by Ray Bradbury (Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bKzUs1JFO7k)
Reading Comprehension Help (optional activity)
If you are having problems comprehending "The Veldt," or would like a deeper explanation of the text, view the video post by BestFriendTutor (see below).
BestFriendTutor reads "The Veldt" by Ray Bradbury (Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bKzUs1JFO7k)
5. Log into CommonLit and open the assignment for "The Veldt." Answer the reading comprehension questions.
5. Log into CommonLit and open the assignment for "The Veldt." Answer the reading comprehension questions.
After Reading . . .
1. Complete Quickwrite 23
Quickwrite 23
(This set of questions will require you to make inferences/use inferential thinking.)
1) Expand the ending of "The Veldt." What do you think will happen to Mr. David McClean?
2) “Who” or what killed Mr. and Mrs. Hadley? (Please provide me with textual evidence to support your answer.)
2. Complete The Veldt Exploration Questions. (These questions will prepare your for your upcoming test over the story.)
Due date: 4/15/2021
Quickwrite 23
(This set of questions will require you to make inferences/use inferential thinking.)
1) Expand the ending of "The Veldt." What do you think will happen to Mr. David McClean?
2) “Who” or what killed Mr. and Mrs. Hadley? (Please provide me with textual evidence to support your answer.)
2. Complete The Veldt Exploration Questions. (These questions will prepare your for your upcoming test over the story.)
Due date: 4/15/2021
Compare and Contrast Activity
6. Use The Veldt Compare and Contrast Graphic Organizer to identify noticeable similarities and differences between the short story and the two film adaptations listed below (The Illustrated Man ("The Veldt") produced by Howard B. Kreitsek and Ted Mann (1969) and "The Veldt" S4E11 (11/10/1989) from The Ray Bradbury Theater). Due to limited resources and Internet restrictions, your teacher will show you both the 1969 and 1989 film adaptations of "The Veldt." I have also embedded the 1989 film adaptation below for your convenience.
Resources
The Veldt Compare and Contrast Graphic Organizer (View-only)
The Veldt Compare and Contrast Graphic Organizer (document for download)
Resources
The Veldt Compare and Contrast Graphic Organizer (View-only)
The Veldt Compare and Contrast Graphic Organizer (document for download)
If you are unable to view the video, click here or use this SafeShare.tv link: https://safeshare.tv/x/ss605d7b184341a
Elements in the Story: Foreshadowing
1. Complete Quickwrite 24
Quickwrite 24
Insight: Authors use foreshadowing to build suspense. They also use foreshadowing to make stories more believable by partially preparing readers for the outcome. Think of a situation in which you might know someone is coming without hearing them first. You might hear them talking, whistling, or walking loudly. That's kind of how foreshadowing works. Those hints-like a person talking, whistling, or walking loudly, provide you with clues that someone is coming without you seeing them first. That's kind of how foreshadowing works. Imagine it's sunny outside. Sometimes when the sun is in the right place, you might see a shadow before you actually see the person. This shadow gives you a hint about the person's presence before they actually arrive. You see a shadow before you see the person. That's kind of what foreshadowing is . . . a hint or clue about something coming in the story's future.
Student Tip: If you have not already, please log into Flocabulary and complete the Foreshadowing Leaning Module. Your grades for the Read & Respond as well as the Quiz will be entered into the grade book. If you have already completed this learning module and feel comfortable with your knowledge about foreshadowing, please move on to the next task. (Suggestion: A refresher on content never hurts. Resources are here to help and the videos in Flocabulary are short. If you feel that you may need to review foreshadowing, log into Flocabulary and watch the video. You can even redo any activities that you believe will help you to master the subject material.)
2. Complete Task
Now let's put your skills to the test. Pretend that you are a detective investigating this situation. Review "The Veldt" and search for clues or hints that foreshadow the ending. Please open a blank document in your preferred word processor (Word Online or Google Docs). Label your blank document The Veldt Foreshadowing Chart. Create a two-column, five row (2 x 5) graphic organizer that lists the examples of foreshadowing and what the events foreshadow. Place your selected examples of foreshadowing under column one of The Veldt Foreshadowing Chart. You should be able to find five examples of foreshadowing. In column two, explain what your five examples foreshadow. Tip: The hints and clues are things that might have saved George and Lydia if they would have noticed them. If you need help with understanding foreshadowing, log into Flocabulary and review their learning module on Foreshadowing.
8. Is "The Veldt" an allusion?
Allusion- a brief and indirect reference to a person, place, thing or idea of historical, cultural, literary, or political significance. It does not describe in detail the person or thing to which it refers.
First, log into Flocabulary and complete the learning module on Allusions.
After completing the Allusions unit in Flocablary, use the Internet to research and familiarize yourself with the story of Peter Pan. Next, create a Venn diagram to compare and contrast the setting, characters, conflicts/complications, plot, and any thematic messages you can identify in the stories (The Veldt vs. Peter Pan). Use the information entered in your Venn diagram to complete the question in Extended Thinking 56.
Resource: To get you started, I have a provided you with a scene from when Peter Pan first meets Wendy (courtesy of YouTube).
Extended Thinking 56: How is Ray Bradbury’s “The Veldt” an allusion to Peter Pan? (Note: This assignment should be completed in your composition notebook.)
Scene from Peter Pan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j9rDI4F8HyY
Quickwrite 24
- What is foreshadowing?
- Why do you think authors use this technique in stories?
Insight: Authors use foreshadowing to build suspense. They also use foreshadowing to make stories more believable by partially preparing readers for the outcome. Think of a situation in which you might know someone is coming without hearing them first. You might hear them talking, whistling, or walking loudly. That's kind of how foreshadowing works. Those hints-like a person talking, whistling, or walking loudly, provide you with clues that someone is coming without you seeing them first. That's kind of how foreshadowing works. Imagine it's sunny outside. Sometimes when the sun is in the right place, you might see a shadow before you actually see the person. This shadow gives you a hint about the person's presence before they actually arrive. You see a shadow before you see the person. That's kind of what foreshadowing is . . . a hint or clue about something coming in the story's future.
Student Tip: If you have not already, please log into Flocabulary and complete the Foreshadowing Leaning Module. Your grades for the Read & Respond as well as the Quiz will be entered into the grade book. If you have already completed this learning module and feel comfortable with your knowledge about foreshadowing, please move on to the next task. (Suggestion: A refresher on content never hurts. Resources are here to help and the videos in Flocabulary are short. If you feel that you may need to review foreshadowing, log into Flocabulary and watch the video. You can even redo any activities that you believe will help you to master the subject material.)
2. Complete Task
Now let's put your skills to the test. Pretend that you are a detective investigating this situation. Review "The Veldt" and search for clues or hints that foreshadow the ending. Please open a blank document in your preferred word processor (Word Online or Google Docs). Label your blank document The Veldt Foreshadowing Chart. Create a two-column, five row (2 x 5) graphic organizer that lists the examples of foreshadowing and what the events foreshadow. Place your selected examples of foreshadowing under column one of The Veldt Foreshadowing Chart. You should be able to find five examples of foreshadowing. In column two, explain what your five examples foreshadow. Tip: The hints and clues are things that might have saved George and Lydia if they would have noticed them. If you need help with understanding foreshadowing, log into Flocabulary and review their learning module on Foreshadowing.
8. Is "The Veldt" an allusion?
Allusion- a brief and indirect reference to a person, place, thing or idea of historical, cultural, literary, or political significance. It does not describe in detail the person or thing to which it refers.
First, log into Flocabulary and complete the learning module on Allusions.
After completing the Allusions unit in Flocablary, use the Internet to research and familiarize yourself with the story of Peter Pan. Next, create a Venn diagram to compare and contrast the setting, characters, conflicts/complications, plot, and any thematic messages you can identify in the stories (The Veldt vs. Peter Pan). Use the information entered in your Venn diagram to complete the question in Extended Thinking 56.
Resource: To get you started, I have a provided you with a scene from when Peter Pan first meets Wendy (courtesy of YouTube).
Extended Thinking 56: How is Ray Bradbury’s “The Veldt” an allusion to Peter Pan? (Note: This assignment should be completed in your composition notebook.)
Scene from Peter Pan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j9rDI4F8HyY
Elements in the Story: Characters (Characteristics and Character Traits)
Please log into Flocabulary and complete the Characters Learning Module. Your grades for the Read & Respond as well as the Quiz will be entered into the grade book. If you have already completed this learning module and feel comfortable with your knowledge about the types of characters, please move on to the next paragraph about The Veldt Parental Traits Chart. (Suggestion: A refresher on content never hurts. Resources are here to help an the videos in Flocabulary are short. If you feel that you may need to review the types of characters, log into Flocabulary and watch the video. You can even redo any activities that you believe will help you to master the subject material.)
When you have finished the Characters Learning Module in Flocabulary, please open a blank document in your preferred word processor (Word Online or Google Docs). Label your blank document The Veldt Parental Traits Chart. Create a three-column, two-row (3 x 2) graphic organizer that lists the characteristics of your idea of a “perfect parent,” along with the characteristics of George and Lydia Hadley. This task will require you use the information you learned about the types of characters along with the methods of characterization (MLL pg. 164). You will need to carefully review "The Veldt" to analyze the characters' speech, actions/behavior, dress, body language/facial expressions/gestures, how other characters reacted to them, along with any comments made by the narrator. This is called using the methods of characterization. It's how an author shows you a character's traits and qualities in the text. (You can find out additional information about the Under your chart, you must explain your reasons for giving each character (only George and Lydia) specific character traits. You must have some form of textual evidence to support each characteristic listed in your chart. Click here to see an example of a chart. Please remember to label your work properly, as shown in the example. Upon completion of your chart, please post an editable link to your work on your class' Google Doc. (Resource: "The Veldt")
1st period-Click here to submit your The Veldt Parental Traits Chart
4th period-Click here to submit your The Veldt Parental Traits Chart
6th period-Click here to submit your The Veldt Parental Traits Chart
7th period-Click here to submit your The Veldt Parental Traits Chart
Tech Tips: Use the instructions below to create a table in Word Online or Google Docs.
When you have finished the Characters Learning Module in Flocabulary, please open a blank document in your preferred word processor (Word Online or Google Docs). Label your blank document The Veldt Parental Traits Chart. Create a three-column, two-row (3 x 2) graphic organizer that lists the characteristics of your idea of a “perfect parent,” along with the characteristics of George and Lydia Hadley. This task will require you use the information you learned about the types of characters along with the methods of characterization (MLL pg. 164). You will need to carefully review "The Veldt" to analyze the characters' speech, actions/behavior, dress, body language/facial expressions/gestures, how other characters reacted to them, along with any comments made by the narrator. This is called using the methods of characterization. It's how an author shows you a character's traits and qualities in the text. (You can find out additional information about the Under your chart, you must explain your reasons for giving each character (only George and Lydia) specific character traits. You must have some form of textual evidence to support each characteristic listed in your chart. Click here to see an example of a chart. Please remember to label your work properly, as shown in the example. Upon completion of your chart, please post an editable link to your work on your class' Google Doc. (Resource: "The Veldt")
1st period-Click here to submit your The Veldt Parental Traits Chart
4th period-Click here to submit your The Veldt Parental Traits Chart
6th period-Click here to submit your The Veldt Parental Traits Chart
7th period-Click here to submit your The Veldt Parental Traits Chart
Tech Tips: Use the instructions below to create a table in Word Online or Google Docs.
- Word Online: To create a 3 x 2 table in Word Online, select the Insert tab. Under the Insert tab, you should see the heading Table. Click on the arrow pointing down next to the word Table. Drag your mouse over the top three boxes on the first row. You should notice that a 3 x 1 appears. (This indicates that you are about to insert a table with three columns.) While your mouse is on the third box on the first row, drag your mouse down to the second row of square boxes. Now a 3 x 2 notice should appear. Click the third box on the second row. This will insert a 3 x 2 table on your document.
- Google Docs: To create a 3 x 2 table in Google Docs, select the Insert tab, followed by Table. You should see an arrow that points to rows and columns of square boxes. Drag your mouse over the top three boxes on the first row. You should notice that a 3 x 1 appears. (This indicates that you are about to insert a table with three columns.) While your mouse is on the third box on the first row, drag your mouse down to the second row of square boxes. Now a 3 x 2 notice should appear. Click the third box on the second row. This will insert a 3 x 2 table on your document.
Elements in the Story: Figurative Language
1. Log into Clever, open BrainPop, and watch their video on Mood and Tone.
2. Log into Flocabulary. Open the Mood Learning Module. Watch the video, complete the Read and Respond, then take the Quiz.
3. Log into Flocabulary. Open the Allusions Learning Module. Watch the video, complete the Read and Respond, then take the Quiz.
Complete the Art of Language Questions for "The Veldt."
Is "The Veldt" an allusion?
Allusion- a brief and indirect reference to a person, place, thing or idea of historical, cultural, literary, or political significance. It does not describe in detail the person or thing to which it refers.
Extended Thinking 56: How is Ray Bradbury’s “The Veldt” an allusion to Peter Pan? (Note: This assignment should be completed in your composition notebook.)
After completing the Allusions unit in Flocablary, use the Internet to research and familiarize yourself with the story of Peter Pan. Next, create a Venn diagram to compare and contrast the setting, characters, conflicts/complications, plot, and any thematic messages you can identify in the stories (The Veldt vs. Peter Pan). Use the information entered in your Venn diagram to complete the question in Extended Thinking 56.
Resource: To get you started, I have a provided you with a scene from when Peter Pan first meets Wendy (courtesy of YouTube).
Extended Thinking 56: How is Ray Bradbury’s “The Veldt” an allusion to Peter Pan? (Note: This assignment should be completed in your composition notebook.)
Scene from Peter Pan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j9rDI4F8HyY
Resources-Mood and Tone BrainPop video, Mood Learning Module (Flocabulary), Art of Language Questions.
Language – the use of words to express meaning.
Mood – the atmosphere or feeling of a text.
Tone-
Imagery-the author’s use of descriptive or figurative language to create a picture in the reader’s mind.
Objective: A great author’s language choice should be intentional in a story. Their selected words will help their reader think or feel specific things.
2. Log into Flocabulary. Open the Mood Learning Module. Watch the video, complete the Read and Respond, then take the Quiz.
3. Log into Flocabulary. Open the Allusions Learning Module. Watch the video, complete the Read and Respond, then take the Quiz.
Complete the Art of Language Questions for "The Veldt."
Is "The Veldt" an allusion?
Allusion- a brief and indirect reference to a person, place, thing or idea of historical, cultural, literary, or political significance. It does not describe in detail the person or thing to which it refers.
Extended Thinking 56: How is Ray Bradbury’s “The Veldt” an allusion to Peter Pan? (Note: This assignment should be completed in your composition notebook.)
After completing the Allusions unit in Flocablary, use the Internet to research and familiarize yourself with the story of Peter Pan. Next, create a Venn diagram to compare and contrast the setting, characters, conflicts/complications, plot, and any thematic messages you can identify in the stories (The Veldt vs. Peter Pan). Use the information entered in your Venn diagram to complete the question in Extended Thinking 56.
Resource: To get you started, I have a provided you with a scene from when Peter Pan first meets Wendy (courtesy of YouTube).
Extended Thinking 56: How is Ray Bradbury’s “The Veldt” an allusion to Peter Pan? (Note: This assignment should be completed in your composition notebook.)
Scene from Peter Pan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j9rDI4F8HyY
Resources-Mood and Tone BrainPop video, Mood Learning Module (Flocabulary), Art of Language Questions.
Language – the use of words to express meaning.
Mood – the atmosphere or feeling of a text.
Tone-
Imagery-the author’s use of descriptive or figurative language to create a picture in the reader’s mind.
Objective: A great author’s language choice should be intentional in a story. Their selected words will help their reader think or feel specific things.
Elements in the Story: Genre of Fiction
Genres of Fiction
If you have not done so already, log into Flocabulary and complete the learning module on Genres of Fiction. After you have finished the Genres of Fiction learning module in Flocabulary, complete Quickwrite in your composition notebook.
Quickwrite :
If you have not done so already, log into Flocabulary and complete the learning module on Genres of Fiction. After you have finished the Genres of Fiction learning module in Flocabulary, complete Quickwrite in your composition notebook.
Quickwrite :
- What elements of science fiction were infused in "The Veldt"?
- What science fiction connections can you identify (or make) between “The Veldt”?
- Is Bradbury thematically giving his readers (young and old) any warnings? If so, please explain and support your response with textual evidence.
Brain Food . . .
Food for Thought: In The Paris Review (Issue 192, Spring 2010), Sam Weller interviews Ray Bradbury ("Ray Bradbury, The Art of Fiction No. 203"). During the interview Ray Bradbury says the following: "Science fiction is the fiction of ideas. Ideas excite me, and as soon as I get excited, the adrenaline gets going and the next thing I know I’m borrowing energy from the ideas themselves. Science fiction is any idea that occurs in the head and doesn’t exist yet, but soon will, and will change everything for everybody, and nothing will ever be the same again. As soon as you have an idea that changes some small part of the world you are writing science fiction. It is always the art of the possible, never the impossible."--Creator of Star Trek/Holodeck
11. At this point, you should have read, thought about , and thoroughly discussed “The Veldt” with your fellow peers and teacher. Hopefully you had an opportunity to discuss the role of technology in society and the impact it may have on family living. Keep in mind, "The Veldt" was published in 1950. This was during the rise in the popularity of television, which had a direct influence on Bradbury’s creation of “The Veldt.” At the time the story was written, many American families were acquiring their first television sets, and no one was sure exactly how this new technology would impact the relationships among family members. Some people were afraid that watching too much television would lead to the total breakdown of the family unit. This fear is directly reflected in “The Veldt.” In the story, Bradbury heightens the odds by creating a machine that not only allows children to detach emotionally from their parents, but one that can also physically destroy the parents as well.
Journal Response (Note: This assignment should be completed in your composition notebook.)
Select a statement to explain:
11. At this point, you should have read, thought about , and thoroughly discussed “The Veldt” with your fellow peers and teacher. Hopefully you had an opportunity to discuss the role of technology in society and the impact it may have on family living. Keep in mind, "The Veldt" was published in 1950. This was during the rise in the popularity of television, which had a direct influence on Bradbury’s creation of “The Veldt.” At the time the story was written, many American families were acquiring their first television sets, and no one was sure exactly how this new technology would impact the relationships among family members. Some people were afraid that watching too much television would lead to the total breakdown of the family unit. This fear is directly reflected in “The Veldt.” In the story, Bradbury heightens the odds by creating a machine that not only allows children to detach emotionally from their parents, but one that can also physically destroy the parents as well.
Journal Response (Note: This assignment should be completed in your composition notebook.)
Select a statement to explain:
- Here’s a short but not so sweet summary of “The Veldt”: Parents use technology to spoil their kids-and then the kids use technology to kill their parents (maybe).
- In a 1998 interview regarding the purpose of his classic novel Fahrenheit 451, Bradbury states the following: "I was trying to prevent a future, not predict one."
Study for Your Test!
Quizizz has been used to create an online review guide for your upcoming test. Please click here to open your review guide. Enter game code:
Assessment
1st period-Click here to take your assessment over "The Veldt."
4th period-Click here to take your assessment over "The Veldt."
6th period-Click here to take your assessment over "The Veldt."
7th period-Click here to take your assessment over "The Veldt."
7th period (Collab)-Click here to take your assessment over "The Veldt."
Upon completion of your assessment, please complete a Test Reflection and Correction Sheet. Your completed and signed Test Correction and Reflection sheet should be turned in within 72 hours after your test has been submitted.
4th period-Click here to take your assessment over "The Veldt."
6th period-Click here to take your assessment over "The Veldt."
7th period-Click here to take your assessment over "The Veldt."
7th period (Collab)-Click here to take your assessment over "The Veldt."
Upon completion of your assessment, please complete a Test Reflection and Correction Sheet. Your completed and signed Test Correction and Reflection sheet should be turned in within 72 hours after your test has been submitted.
Extra Credit Opportunities
The Veldt Illustrations
Circumstance: Individual (This assignment must be completed individually by the student.)
Task: Create an original project worthy movie poster for "The Veldt." Your work must be based upon textual evidence. (You will need to use the details infused throughout the story to produce an accurate work.) In order to receive credit, your movie poster must be high in quality, a final draft (little to no visible errors), a true representation of the story as represented in the novel. Your work must be produced on copy paper, a poster board, a canvas, or a ceiling tile. (Alternative: You may also create a cover illustration for the story, an illustration of a scene in the story, or place your movie poster on a ceiling tile for the classroom. Please see your teacher if you need assistance.)
Note: This assignment may not be for you. I try to provide my learners with a variety of extra credit opportunities that will allow them to showcase their unique skills, talents, and gifts. If you do not have artistic abilities, please take advantage of another extra credit task in the future. If you have any questions about the requirements for this assignment, please do not hesitate to speak with me before/after class or send me an email. This extra credit opportunity is due on February 21, 2020. I will not accept any late work.
Helpful Hint: View the slideshow gallery below for examples of excellent illustrations of scenes from "The Veldt."
Task: Create an original project worthy movie poster for "The Veldt." Your work must be based upon textual evidence. (You will need to use the details infused throughout the story to produce an accurate work.) In order to receive credit, your movie poster must be high in quality, a final draft (little to no visible errors), a true representation of the story as represented in the novel. Your work must be produced on copy paper, a poster board, a canvas, or a ceiling tile. (Alternative: You may also create a cover illustration for the story, an illustration of a scene in the story, or place your movie poster on a ceiling tile for the classroom. Please see your teacher if you need assistance.)
Note: This assignment may not be for you. I try to provide my learners with a variety of extra credit opportunities that will allow them to showcase their unique skills, talents, and gifts. If you do not have artistic abilities, please take advantage of another extra credit task in the future. If you have any questions about the requirements for this assignment, please do not hesitate to speak with me before/after class or send me an email. This extra credit opportunity is due on February 21, 2020. I will not accept any late work.
Helpful Hint: View the slideshow gallery below for examples of excellent illustrations of scenes from "The Veldt."
Movie Trailer: "The Veldt"
Circumstance: Individual, with a partner, or in a group. (This assignment can be completed individually, with a partner, or in a group.)
Task: Create an original movie trailer for "The Veldt." Your film adaptation should be based upon the actual characters and events in the story. You must provide me with a copy of your project via USB, DVD, or as a file attachment.
Note: This assignment may not be for you. I try to provide my learners with a variety of extra credit opportunities that will allow them to showcase their unique skills, talents, and gifts. This assignment has been designed for my students who have strong visual arts and production skills. I will only accept project worthy work. If you do not think you can complete this assignment with excellence, please take advantage of another extra credit task in the future. If you have any questions about the requirements for this task, please do not hesitate to speak with me before/after class or send me an email. This extra credit opportunity is due on February 28, 2020. I will not accept any late work.
Task: Create an original movie trailer for "The Veldt." Your film adaptation should be based upon the actual characters and events in the story. You must provide me with a copy of your project via USB, DVD, or as a file attachment.
Note: This assignment may not be for you. I try to provide my learners with a variety of extra credit opportunities that will allow them to showcase their unique skills, talents, and gifts. This assignment has been designed for my students who have strong visual arts and production skills. I will only accept project worthy work. If you do not think you can complete this assignment with excellence, please take advantage of another extra credit task in the future. If you have any questions about the requirements for this task, please do not hesitate to speak with me before/after class or send me an email. This extra credit opportunity is due on February 28, 2020. I will not accept any late work.
Newspaper Article: The Veldt
Circumstance: Individual (This assignment must be completed individually by the student.)
Task: Create what you imagine would be one of the newspaper articles printed after the resolution of "The Veldt." Your article must typed, in the format of a newsletter/newspaper article, and based upon the textual evidence listed in the story. In order to successfully complete this task, you will need to expertly reread this story, search for information, details, in addition to background information, and then construct a story based upon your investigative reading. Your article must be high in quality, a final draft ( with little to no visible errors), an an accurate representation of something that may have been reported after the story. You will need to have all of the components of a newspaper/newsletter contained in your work. I will not accept any handwritten work.
Note: This assignment may not be for you. I try to provide my learners with a variety of extra credit opportunities that will allow them to showcase their unique skills, talents, and gifts. This assignment has been designed for my students who have strong reading comprehension skills and excellent writing abilities. I will only accept project worthy work. If you do not think you can complete this assignment with excellence, please take advantage of another extra credit task in the future. If you have any questions about the requirements for this task, please do not hesitate to speak with me before/after class or send me an email. This extra credit opportunity is due on September 23, 2019. I will not accept any late work.
Task: Create what you imagine would be one of the newspaper articles printed after the resolution of "The Veldt." Your article must typed, in the format of a newsletter/newspaper article, and based upon the textual evidence listed in the story. In order to successfully complete this task, you will need to expertly reread this story, search for information, details, in addition to background information, and then construct a story based upon your investigative reading. Your article must be high in quality, a final draft ( with little to no visible errors), an an accurate representation of something that may have been reported after the story. You will need to have all of the components of a newspaper/newsletter contained in your work. I will not accept any handwritten work.
Note: This assignment may not be for you. I try to provide my learners with a variety of extra credit opportunities that will allow them to showcase their unique skills, talents, and gifts. This assignment has been designed for my students who have strong reading comprehension skills and excellent writing abilities. I will only accept project worthy work. If you do not think you can complete this assignment with excellence, please take advantage of another extra credit task in the future. If you have any questions about the requirements for this task, please do not hesitate to speak with me before/after class or send me an email. This extra credit opportunity is due on September 23, 2019. I will not accept any late work.
Musical Inspiration
Listen to "The Veldt" by deadmau5 ft. Chris James. In no more than three paragraphs, explain how this song is connected and/or inspired by Ray Bradbury's "The Veldt." Label this assignment: The Veldt Inspires Music. Remember to also include your name, date, and class period on this assignment.
Deadmau5 (pronounced “dead mouse”), a famous electronic producer/performer, is looking for fellow artists to remix his song “The Veldt.” Listen to the Ray Bradbury inspired version of “The Veldt,” by Deadmau5 featuring Chris James (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YSANu-oAHHQ#t=159). Create a verse (song lyrics or rap) that fits into one of the following time frames of the song: 0:00-1:00, 3:30-5:30, or 7:00-8:25. Your verse does not have to last for the entirety of your selected time frame. However, the lyrics/rap must connect to the story and flow of the song. Regardless of the time frame you choose, your transitions should be seamless. You can choose to complete this assignment independently, with a partner, or a group. (Yes, you can also have background dancers and wear appropriate costumes.)
Options-You can prerecord your performance outside of school to create a music video. (Please make sure that your recording is placed on a flash drive or a dvd.) If you prefer, you can also do a live performance in class. This assignment is due on 10/24/2016.
Note: If you plan on doing a live performance in class, please inform Mr. Reed by 10/20/2016 for scheduling purposes.
Deadmau5 (pronounced “dead mouse”), a famous electronic producer/performer, is looking for fellow artists to remix his song “The Veldt.” Listen to the Ray Bradbury inspired version of “The Veldt,” by Deadmau5 featuring Chris James (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YSANu-oAHHQ#t=159). Create a verse (song lyrics or rap) that fits into one of the following time frames of the song: 0:00-1:00, 3:30-5:30, or 7:00-8:25. Your verse does not have to last for the entirety of your selected time frame. However, the lyrics/rap must connect to the story and flow of the song. Regardless of the time frame you choose, your transitions should be seamless. You can choose to complete this assignment independently, with a partner, or a group. (Yes, you can also have background dancers and wear appropriate costumes.)
Options-You can prerecord your performance outside of school to create a music video. (Please make sure that your recording is placed on a flash drive or a dvd.) If you prefer, you can also do a live performance in class. This assignment is due on 10/24/2016.
Note: If you plan on doing a live performance in class, please inform Mr. Reed by 10/20/2016 for scheduling purposes.
Socratic Seminar
After reading “The Veldt,” this task will require you to generate different levels of questions (Right There Questions, Process Questions, and Analytical Questions). For each question that you create, you will need to provide an answer and indicate where the textual evidence can be found in the story (page number, quote, etc.). Your questions may be used in a future activity. Try your best to create questions that are thought provoking and worthy of a great debate or excellent conversation. Please read the instructions on the Socratic Seminar Response to Literature template carefully and follow the directions closely. Your work must satisfy the requirements of the task in totality. Incomplete work will not be accepted. Please click here to view/download the Socratic Seminar Response to Literature Template. Complete your work on the template and use the assignment form below to submit your final product.
Extending the Lesson . . .
Did you enjoy reading “The Veldt”? Here are three additional stories that contain some of the same characters/characteristics of the story:
- Victor Appleton’s Tom Swift and His Electric Rifle (a youth-oriented adventure novel about Africa, published in 1911) l.210-11. The reference replaces rifle with Lion, making the lion the futuristic weapon instead of the laser-like electric rifle.
- W. H. Hudson’s Green Mansions: a Romance of the Tropical Jungle (depicting Rima as the female Tarzan-figure and heroine in the 1904 novel set in South American jungle) l. 228-33. The appearance of Rima and her jungle in the story temporarily breaks the tension of the dangerous African veldt.
- Click here to read the sequel to “The Veldt” written by Jeremy Biddle.