The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn uses a word that many people are uncomfortable using. To understand a little about the "N" word, read the following article and highlight the things that stick out to you. This article is a segment from a Teaching Tolerance article called "Straight Talk About the 'N' Word" by Sean Price.
Straight Talk About the "N" Word: Teaching Tolerance
When you're finished with that article, please read this article written by Allen Francis. Again, highlight the article with the things that stick out to you. Then, on a separate piece of paper, answer the following questions (This is the assignment for the day! Make sure you turn it in):
In general, who can or can't say the word? When, if ever, can it be said?
How do you feel about the use of the word?
Is the use of the word in the classroom different from its use outside the classroom?
Is it different to read a text by an African American who uses it than it is to read it in a text by a non-African American? Why or why not?
Does the use of the word in a "classic" literary work give it validity outside of the classroom? If so, how?