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Lesson 1 (from Chapter 1)

Objective

Chapter 1--Set-up

Authors have a variety of ways for setting-up a story. In the mystery genre, the author wants to catch the reader's interest quickly and build suspense. Characters, objects, locations and actions are introduced in way that serves the purpose of creating mystery.

Objective: Students will identify how certain elements contribute to building plot intrigue and reader interest.

Lesson

In-Class Activities:

1. Divide the class into small groups. Have each group select one of the following elements introduced in Chapter 1: abandoned car, search-and-rescue dog; missing teens; Kay Scarpetta; Pete Marino, Pat Harvey, wallet and money, purse, location of vehicle, Benton Wesley. In the small group, students should discuss how the element they selected contributes to the suspense. Have each group prepare a two-minute presentation for the class describing the "fear factor" associated with their selection.

2. Suspense is also developed through what is NOT known early in...

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