Congratulations Joseph

Congratulations Joseph, on your election as the class's best speaker. Your Heroism talk was truly inspirational.

A decent video drawing the simple parallels between Animal Farm and the Russian Revolution

'The Internationale'

As discussed in class, here are many of the international versions of 'The Internationale'. Of particular interest are probably the original Russian version and the English version, sung by Billy Bragg. Compare that with the 1933 recording.

I have to say, I do like the Chinese rock version, by the Tang Dynasty band.

Perhaps you can draw some similarities with 'Beasts of England'.

http://www.hymn.ru/internationale/index-en.html

Also check out the Wikipedia page:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Internationale

The speeches are going very well indeed. Well done to everyone who has spoken so far. I feel that the 'antiques raodshow' moment of the grade revelation at the end has detracted somewhat from the appreciation of the effort and thought that people have put in. Perhaps we should re-think this.

I haven't set any extra homework this week, as the speeches are ongoing, but please take some time to click through the links on the blog and read up a little on the Russian Revolution and on George Orwell. You will enjoy finding out some facts, and it will enhance your enjoyment of Animal Farm considerably.

Enjoy your break.

Persuasive speech

Remember that we're beginning the speeches on Monday 8th. Your aim is to persuade the class that your 'ism', if adopted and successful, would change the world.

You want their vote, and you need to use whatever techniques will persuade them to vote for you. Be manipulative, be smart, tug on their heartstrings, show them what the new world would be like, show them how vital it is that things change.

While listening to speeches, think about how skilfully the techniques are being used and how you will respond. Take notes and score the speeches.

Any questions or concerns, please ask.