Parallel Diaries

Description

Write the diaries of two or more people in specific times and places while keeping to a common structure that shows their similarities and differences.

Instructional Purpose

To compare and contrast two individuals or two places and/or periods in history; to develop point of view.

Examples

• Witchcraft or Witchhunt?

Templates

• Student 1-Page
• Teacher 1-Page

Applicability

Can be applied to situations where there are well established parallels, such as the Salem Witch Trials and the McCarthy Era, or Pearl Harbor and 9-11. Can also be applied to drive home the discrepancies between two contemporaneous settings, such as urban America and rural India today.

Limitations

Don't use this in cases where there are no interesting parallels or differences that aren't already obvious.

Variations

This Design Pattern was authored by Bernie Dodge