Language



__**TEACHER ACTIVITIES AND DISCUSSION QUESTIONS **__


 * Let students read this clipping. Discuss its implications. As an activity, have them write their own press releases the Elders might use to calm fears and make this transition a smooth process to the average citizen.
 * Lois Lowry helps create an alternate world by having the Community use words in a very special way. Though that world stresses what it calls "precision of language," in fact it is built upon language that is not precise, but that deliberately clouds meaning. Shepherd class discussions but allow them to achieve this realization on their own.


 * **Consider what Jonas's community really means by words such as:**

Release Comfort Object Animals Nurturer Stirrings Replacement Child Elsewhere Rudeness


 * Examine the ways that Jonas's community uses euphemism to distance itself from the reality of what is called "Release."
 * How does our own society use euphemism to distance the realities of death, bodily functions, aging, and political activities?
 * What benefits and disadvantages are there to such a use of language?
 * What is interesting about the words and feelings the Community chooses to leave in place?

Rituals Recreation Chastisement Dwelling Infraction Relinquish Acquisition Transgression Excruciating Conspicuous Solitude Dejected Stealthily
 * Discuss why the vocabulary used in the story is important to the plot.**