BTL (Between the Lines) is a mentor text literary analysis discussion format designed, led (and named) by Acton Eagles. Below are the guidelines the MS Eagles came up:
Purpose of BTL:Through reading and discussion, analyze mentor texts (chosen by Eagles in the genre of their current writing project) to lift the curtain on the secrets of masterful writing.
Format: Small group discussions led by Eagles who pitched a text and persuaded a minimum of 3 others to sign on.
Points: 5 pts if you pitch, 20 pts if you lead a discussion (and are ranked an average of 4 or higher by your group), 10 pts if you participate. OPTED OUT on your SMART goals sheet if you opt out.
Pitching: Sign up by Friday to pitch on Monday. A qualifying excerpt or text must:
– stay within the genre you are writing in (this session, biography/ autobiography)
– be no longer than one chapter, but as short as one paragraph
– stand alone and convey at least one complete idea
– be an example of masterful writing (person who chose the text must be prepared to defend their decision)
Participating in a BTL: To sign up as a discussion participant, you must agree to:
– read text at least 2x
– read and think about the discussion Q’s provided
– Come up with one new question of your own about the author’s writing style or the craft of writing
Leading a BTL: BTL discussion leaders will ask questions designed to:
– deepen understanding of the text
– help the reader understand the writer’s technique and intentions
– reflect back onto the Eagles’ own writing with an eye towards improving their skills
In this week’s pitching session, three Eagles showed their powers of 30-second persuasion, sharing a sampling of their discussion questions and each using their own unique hook. One touted the length of his mentor text excerpt: “Only one paragraph! Much shorter than the others!”. Another handed out “free” samples as teasers. The third offered a warning: “This excerpt is rated PG due to adult language!”. (Caveat to parents: the subject is Clara Barton, so it’s probably not too risqué).
While those hooks may have helped, don’t be fooled- it was the power of the questions that lured participants to sign up. The Eagles love a meaty discussion and will not tolerate a lack of substance in their BTLs!