The Wave Post 6

FINAL WAVE POST!!!!!!!!!

(1) What does this quote mean? “For the rest of your lives….never, ever, allow a group’s will to usurp your individual rights.” --p. 135. What does this quote mean? Explain your interpretation. Then, explain how you might apply this quote in your own life, providing specific examples.
I interpreted this quote as meaning that you should always be who you are, and not just "go with he flow." By saying "not just go with the flow" I mean sticking up for who you are, expressing yourself and not letting other people tell you how to be you! You should always be proud of who you are. An example of this in my own life was when a group of kids taunted and teased me. Then in order for them to stop I tried to act and become more like them in an effort to fit in. This is a common example of "going with the flow" and is something that should be avoided.

(2) Analyzing Robert: Analyze Robert as a character, considering his personality traits at the start of the novel and his transformation as he becomes a member of the Wave. How does he change during the book? Why do you think the Wave changed him in that way? Re-read the last page of the book, and then explain what you think his future holds. Will he go back to who he was at the start of the novel? Or do you think the Wave had some positive effects on Robert? What will become of him now that the Wave is over?
I think Robert has changed considerably throughout this book. He has changed in his attitude and in his response to his life. He began to pay more attention in class and became more involved in school activities. I think the Wave has changed him in this way because it made him feel more like one huge person instead of a lot of small ones. I still wonder myself what the future holds for Robert but I think as long as he keeps up his good work he will continue to be treated fairly and respectfully. I don't think the end of the Wave will have a negative effect on him. I think he will be treated the way he should be.

(3) Read the definition of fascism below: Fascism: a governmental system led by a dictator having complete power, forcibly suppressing opposition and criticism, regimenting all industry, commerce, etc., and emphasizing an aggressive nationalism and often racism.

a. What elements of fascism do you see in the Wave?
b. What other historical movements can you think of that have elements of fascism? Find at least one historical example, and explain how it is fascist.
Some elements of fascism I see in the Wave are discrimination and persecution. Sadly, if you look into the past you see many examples of fascism. One example would be the Nazi movement in Germany before and during WWII. The Nazis demonstrated fascism by persecuting the Jews and other races and cultures. The Nazis persecuted and killed anyone whose culture and ideas they disapproved of.

(4) Mob Mentality: Write a paragraph titled: “Avoiding Mob Mentality: A Practical Guide by A Middle School Student, for Other Middle School Students.” You are starting to see the power of mob mentality through many different examples in your classes and studies of history this year. This book provides yet another shocking example of how easy it is to get caught up in a crowd. What are some ways to make sure you YOURSELF don’t become a victim of this horrendous phenomenon? What advice can you give to others that would help them avoid this in every day life?

Avoiding Mob Mentality:
A Practical Guide by A Middle School Student, for Other Middle School Students

Mob Mentality is a big issue in modern society. You see it in schools and in work places. Mob Mentality is simply when a group of people or a "mob" is out of control in their actions. There are many ways to get caught up in this horrible group behavior, but there are also many ways to avoid it. One way to avoid this is to think about the situation before it gets out of control. Another way is to educate yourself so that when a situation like the one in the Wave occurs, you are able to speak and think more independently. And always remember not to get caught up in the hysteria of the mob and to think for yourself.

By Giuliano Verdicchio