Names of group members: ______________________________________________________
Evolution of Language Over Time - Creative Writing Assignment
Language changes over time. This assignment will give you the opportunity to
experience that. Using expressions from the 1920s, you are to write an original skit
using only dialogue (no stage directions). Work in pairs or groups of three to create
your story and to insert the phrases, as you go through the list of ‘20s expressions.
You must use 8 different expressions per character. You may only count an
expression the first time it is used. You will have 20-25 minutes to prepare your
dialogue, and then you will present the skit to the class. This is to run 2 ½ - 3
minutes in length. If typing this up in Google Docs, please share it with the instructor
and each group member. (This packet of expressions may be found at
http://local.aaca.org/bntc/slang/slang.htm.)
1. Daisy and Myrtle find themselves sharing a table at a bridal shower for a
mutual friend. (2 girls)
2. Nick wanders into the bar of a posh New York hotel. He sees Meyer
Wolfsheim sitting alone at a table and Nick goes over to join him. (2 guys)
3. While in a long line waiting to purchase a ticket to a movie, Nick turns around
to find Myrtle and George standing directly behind him. (2 guys, 1 girl)
4. Nick is home one evening when he receives a phone call from his
“entanglement” back home. (1 girl, 1 guy)
5. Tom and Myrtle are in separate compartments riding the train to the city.
They can see one another through the glass. George gets on the train at the
next stop and—unaware of Myrtle’s presence—sits down next to Tom. (2
guys and 1 girl)
6. Daisy and Jordan are looking for an apartment for Jordan in New York City.
As they come out of an apartment, they run into Tom who is exiting the
apartment he had with Myrtle. (2 girls and 1 guy)
7. Jordan and Myrtle are at the dress boutique trying on clothes and find
themselves in the dressing rooms next to one another. (2 girls)
You must submit your dialogue to me in order to receive credit. You will be
assessed on creativity and use of the vocabulary. It must be school appropriate.
If it is not, you will not receive any credit for this activity.