Estimated Time: 45 minutes

Questions to Ponder

1. In chapter 1, we are introduced to 3 of the main characters: Nick, Daisy, and Tom. Compare and contrast these 3 characters. Consider things like how they treat others, attitude about self, even intelligence. Give examples from the text to support your answers. This question could be answered in chart or list form to help you organize your thoughts.
2. Do you think Nick is a good choice for the narrator of this story? Why or why not?
3. In chapter 1, Daisy speaks about her daughter and says she hopes she'll be a beautiful fool. Why do would she say this? What do you think she means? What does this tell us about Daisy's attitude towards her life?
4. In Chapter 2, we are introduced to Tom's mistress, Myrtle Wilson. Compare and contrast Myrtle and Daisy.
5. Myrtle changes her dress when they get to the apartment, and Nick notices that her entire personality seems to change when she does. Why? What does this mean?
6. Why did Fitzgerald include such a thorough description of the parties that Gatsby hosted?
7. What is the significance of the "owl-eyes" library scene? Why would Fitzgerald have included it?
8. Why were there so many rumors about Gatsby? How do you think such rumors began?
9. Compare Nick's description of Gatsby from Chapter 3 with the rumors about him. What is the significance of what Nick describes?
10. Discuss Jordan's dishonesty and Nick's reaction to it.

Freewriting

After pondering and discussing these questions with your teacher, choose one to complete a freewrite. If you are unfamiliar with freewriting, here are a few tips:

• Keep your pencil moving. Don't stop. Just brain dump onto your paper.
• Have a set amount of time. Set a timer and write for the full amount of time.
• Ignore all grammar and spelling. Don't let editing slow down the process. These are not important in this instance.
• Pen and paper aren't the only ways to freewrite. Feel free to type on the computer. Not only does this accomplish the task, but it builds typing skills.
• Share your freewrite with us in the comments below.

Share your freewrite in the comments below.