Learning Targets• Visualize different interpretations of a dramatic scene.

• Engage in a collaborative discussion, responding thoughtfully to diverse perspectives.

Before Reading1. Imagine that you are the director of a stage version of The Crucible. How will

you portray the relationship between Proctor and Elizabeth? Share your initial reaction to their tense conversation; be sure to consider the subtext of the spoken words.

During Reading2. Below are four possible scenarios or subtexts that could inform the relationship

and interaction between Proctor and Elizabeth. After you have read the scene where they are alone for the first time, describe the gestures, movements, facial expressions, and vocal delivery actors might use at specific places in this scene to communicate the different interpretations. Be sure to identify the specific line where the stage directions might take place.

Proctor Is Cold and Distant

Line GesturesBlocking

(Movements)Facial

Expressions Vocal Delivery

3. How do the stage directions you have added support this interpretation and focus your understanding of this scene’s staging and blocking choices?

LEARNING STRATEGIES:Graphic Organizer, Marking the Text, Jigsaw, Discussion Groups

ACTIVITY

2.11Pivotal Scene 2: Proctor and Elizabeth

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Unit 2 • The Power of Persuasion 119

Elizabeth Is Cold and Distant

Line GesturesBlocking

(Movements)Facial

Expressions Vocal Delivery

4. How do the stage directions you have added support this interpretation and focus your understanding of this scene’s staging and blocking choices?

Proctor and Elizabeth Are in Love

Line GesturesBlocking

(Movements)Facial

Expressions Vocal Delivery

5. How do the stage directions you have added support this interpretation and focus your understanding of this scene’s staging and blocking choices?

Pivotal Scene 2: Proctor and Elizabeth ACTIVITY 2.11continued

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120 SpringBoard® English Language Arts Grade 11

Select an Interpretation for Yourself:

Line Gestures MovementsFacial

Expressions Vocal Delivery

6. How do the stage directions you have added support this interpretation and focus your understanding of this scene’s staging and blocking choices?

After Reading 7. After watching the film version of this scene, use the following questions to

guide your group discussion:

• Which interpretation of the relationship did the director seem to have in mind? How do you know?

• How does it compare and contrast to your own interpretation?

• How does the director’s interpretive choice about this relationship affect the direction of the conflict?

ACTIVITY 2.11continued

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Unit 2 • The Power of Persuasion 121