DIDLS
Diction-style of speaking or writing as dependent on word choice- basically what words are used by the writer and what this says about the author and his work, what level does the author speak at? consider dialects and level of sophistication
Imagery-writing that creates vivid images in the reader's mind, evoke the reader's senses, not limited to the visual-can be very powerful in making parts of a work stand out and increasing their importance, notice especially where there is imagery and where there isn't
Details-what is included in the writing, who what when where why, what happens can often be tied directly to the theme of the piece
Language-how the author uses language in a piece, important to consider dialect, formality, wordiness, is it being used as a device to create confusion or facilitate understanding?
Syntax-how sentences are put together, specifically the form and aspects of the sentence
DIDLS is used in the AP Lit Essay to answer the one universal question that is present in every question: HOw does the author techniques to create meaning. The techniques are DIDLS, and when using them stating them is not enough. Stating what the author uses has absolutely no benefit, it is a redundancy because anyone reading the author's work will notice this. The point is to uncover the DIDLS that add to the meaning of the work, through contributing to theme, plot development, motifs, etc. For the AP Lit Essay this is a part of every question, whether stated or not. The thesis of the essay must always answer the prompt. The introduction should begin with a brief overarching statement, then a sentence tying a piece of work to the question, then a thesis that answers the question and is in a form that the rest of the essay will precisely follow in a logical argument.
Oh DIDLS. I like how you define each of the techniques authors use and how stating that a novel or play has DIDLS is not enough. You could maybe include some literary examples of each element and some examples of how to effectively use DIDLS to its maximum. If you add those things this would be great study material and review.
ReplyDeleteYou do a great job of expalining DIDLS, and it's use. I could easily use yor summary to study this concept. Another good thing you bring up is the hidden so what question- finding meaning from the techniques/ effects, and That the thesis answers the propmt. Its sounds so simple, but seems so easy to forget.
ReplyDeleteThis also might have been a good place for some multiple choice tips. Overall, these Synthesis assignments are well-done--I'd just like to see more topics covered (critical lenses, Foster, allusions, history of lit., etc.).
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