English 10: Jarrett

El Fin

2009-06-03T12:22:00.000-07:00

We're out of class days--only finals left to complete. If you STILL have not done so, please see Edline for a review of the final exam and some study sheets that you may print and fill out. If you fill out, IN YOUR OWN HANDWRITING, the study sheets, you will be allowed to use them on the final exam.

**A couple of you still have EHS books. You must bring in either the book or the $ to replace it or you will not be allowed to take your final exam!!

Rabbit Proof Fence

2009-06-01T09:20:00.000-07:00

Today we watched the first half of Rabbit Proof Fence, our final text of the year. You will be able to use your viewing guide on the final exam.

You may also be able to use your HANDWRITTEN study sheets if you print them from Edline and complete them on your own.

Homework: The graphic project is due tomorrow, at the beginning of the hour, NO EXCEPTIONS!! DON'T FORGET THAT AN INDIVIDUAL 1-PAGE REFLECTION ON THE PROJECT MUST ACCOMPANY IT--see assignment sheet for information about topics to be addressed in the reflection.

**IF YOU STILL HAVE NOT DONE SO, PLEASE REVIEW THE FINAL EXAM INFORMATION AND STUDY SHEETS ON EDLINE!!

Persepolis, continued

2009-05-28T09:39:00.000-07:00

Today we read Persepolis. Some finished, many are close to the end. Tomorrow you will have additional time to finish reading Persepolis. If you have finished the book, you will be able to use the time to complete the graphic project. Tomorrow will be the only class time you have to work on the project, which is due on Tuesday, June 2nd.

Homework: Finish reading 4th quarter outside reading book; work on graphic project.

If you were absent today, you'll need to push yourself to finish Persepolis in class tomorrow.

**DON'T FORGET: IF YOU HAVEN'T ALREADY DONE SO, PLEASE SEE EDLINE FOR INFORMATION ABOUT THE FINAL EXAM!!

Persepolis

2009-05-27T13:11:00.000-07:00

Today we worked on reading Persepolis. We will finish the book tomorrow (hopefully!)

Homework: Work on finishing outside reading book. Work on graphic project--due 6/2.

If you have not already done so, please see Edline for information about the final exam.

Graphic Novels

2009-05-26T17:48:00.000-07:00

Today I introduced the graphic novel and the final project. Tomorrow we begin Persepolis!

Please see Edline for information about the final exam!

Choice Unit--The End

2009-05-22T11:58:00.000-07:00

Today we got through most of the choice book presentations. If you were absent, you must have emailed your work to me by 3:15pm today. You ALSO must bring me a hard copy of the work when you return from your absence.

On Monday we'll finish presentations and then begin discussing graphic novels.

Choice Unit--Day 13

2009-05-21T14:23:00.000-07:00

Today students took the final exam on their choice books. If you were absent, the exam must be made up by appointment, before or after school.

Homework: Individual quote analysis and final project (summary + 2nd option) due tomorrow. If you have lost the documents describing these assignments--see Edline.

These assignments are due tomorrow with NO EXCEPTIONS!! If you are absent tomorrow, the assignments must be emailed to me by 3:10 pm and a hard copy must also be submitted upon your return.

Choice Unit--Day 12

2009-05-20T12:49:00.001-07:00

Today I did a notebook check while students read outside reading books. Then, we worked on completing choice novel flow maps and studying vocab.

Homework: Choice novel exam tomorrow (including vocab); Individual quote analysis and project due Friday.

If you were absent, please show me your notebook on Friday.

The individual quote analysis requires a Works Cited page. Here are the MLA citation formats for some of the pieces you are including (I have assumed that you will get everything online):

Informative text (online):
Author's last name, first name. "Title of the Web Article." Title of the Web site Date the Article was added to the site. Date you retrieved the article from the Web.

Film:
Title. Dir. (director's name). Perf. (name the lead actors, first name followed by last name, with commas between them). Production company, year of release.

Poem:
Poet's last name, first name. "Title of the poem." Title of the Website. Ed. (name of website's editor). Date the poem was published. Date you retrieved the poem from the site.

Map:
Subject of map (like Dominican Republic). Map. Date created on web. Date retrieved from web. .

Or, you are welcome to visit this site for more MLA information.

Choice Unit--Day 11

2009-05-19T08:27:00.000-07:00

We began today's class by sharing passages from yesterday in choice book groups. Then, students worked on the second set of response questions for the choice books.

Homework: Finish your choice book; bring outside reading book to class tomorrow (regardless of whether or not you have finished it); quote tracking bookmark due tomorrow; notebook check tomorrow (see previous blog post for list of choice unit notebook pages).

If you were absent today, start a notebook page entitled, "Response Questions #2" and respond to the following about your choice book:

Author
1. Why do you think the author wrote this book?
2. What would you ask the author if he/she were here? Why?

Characters
3. Do some of the characters seem more “alive” and believable than others? Which? Why?
4. How do the characters change in the story? What makes or helps them change?

Plot
5. Were you able to predict the ending? How? Why or why not?
6. Is there a main point or theme to the story? What? How do you know?

Setting
7. Which part of the story best describes the setting? Why? How?
8. How does the author create the atmosphere for the setting? That is, how does the author give the reader a feel for what it is like to be in the setting?

Mood
9. What was your favorite part of the book? Why? What did the author do to make that part of the book so enjoyable?
10. What was your least favorite part of the book? Why? What could be changed to make that part of the book more enjoyable?

Style
11. What special words or lovely language does the author use in the book?
12. What else that makes this author’s perspective or style unique? (think about the use of perspective shifting, framed narrative, etc.)

Choice Unit--Day 10

2009-05-18T12:37:00.001-07:00

Today we worked on close analysis of our texts. If you were absent, please complete the following:

Locate 3 passages of the story that your group should reread, discuss, and think about.
Passages should be important things for everyone to notice, remember, or think about.
Choose a variety of passages, not all the same type--here are suggestions:
*surprising/startling
*confusing (something you wonder if other people "got")
*descriptive writing: figurative language, strong verbs, etc. (identify literary devices)
*important (maybe a clue? foreshadowing?)
*controversial event (elicits different opinions from group members)

Create 3 notebook pages (front-back-front) entitled, “Prominent Passage DJs”
Respond to your passages as dialectical journals.
Dialectical Journals:
*Fold page in half vertically (hot dog style)
*Write quote (with page #)on left side
*Respond to quote on right side (response to quote should be top to bottom of right side of page)

UPCOMING DEADLINES:

Wednesday: Notebook Check, Bookmark Check, Outside Reading Book IN CLASS!
Choice Unit Notebook Items to be Checked:
5/4 Effects of War, A to Z
5/5 Character Analysis
5/8 Response Questions
5/11 Plot of _______
5/12 4-Square Vocabulary
5/15 Conflict and Setting Analysis
5/18 Prominent Passages
5/19 Response Questions #2 (not yet completed)

Thursday: Novel Final Exam (including vocabulary)

Friday: Choice Novel Presentations
Individual Summary and Project Due
Individual Quote Analysis (w/Works Cited Page) Due

Choice Unit--Day 9

2009-05-15T12:48:00.000-07:00

Today we analyzed the conflict and setting of the choice books.

Homework: Read assigned pages; work on individual quote analysis and final project.

If you were absent, complete the following in your notebook:

1.Use a multi-flow map to analyze the major conflict in your book.
2.Use a brace map to analyze three parts of your novel’s setting. Each part must have a minimum of 3 details (objects, events, people).

Then, complete the following on a piece of notebook paper and submit on Monday:

Choose one of the maps your group created today. Use the map as prewriting and write a paragraph analyzing either the setting or the main conflict in your book.

TUESDAY, 5/19, IS AMNESTY DAY--COME IN FROM 9AM-10AM TO TURN IN ANY/ALL LATE WORK FOR HALF CREDIT!!

Choice Unit--Day 8

2009-05-14T12:21:00.000-07:00

Today we began with group discussions. Then, students reflected on the discussions by responding to some questions at the bottom/back of their own typed questions.

Homework: Read assigned pages from choice book; work on individual quote analysis assignment; work on final project.

If you were absent, please handwrite responses to the following questions on the bottom/back of your typed questions. Turn your questions (w/reflection) into me tomorrow. Reflection questions:

1. What is the most memorable scene from your book thus far?
2. What is one question you have about the group that you would like your group to discuss?
3. What is one question that you expect to be answered by the end of the book?

Choice Unit--Day 7

2009-05-13T08:07:00.001-07:00

We began today by using 15 minutes to read our outside reading books. Then, choice book groups got together to 1) review vocabulary to be sure that all group members have definitions, etc.; and 2) review the plot of the book, adding boxes to the flow map created on Monday.

If you were absent, add 4 boxes to your flow map from Monday.

Homework: Read assigned passages; complete discussion questions.

**Requirements for Discussion Questions:
1. 5 open-ended, ORIGINAL discussion questions. That is, questions about your book that will spark and maintain discussion--questions about characters, plot, symbolism, theme, etc. The questions SHOULD NOT have yes/no answers, and SHOULD NOT have a definite answer from the book. Hopefully, someone in your group will disagree with your answer to a question, thus sparking a discussion.

2. For each of the discussion questions, you must provide a minimum, 100-word answer. So, 5 questions and 5 100-word responses.

YOUR QUESTIONS AND RESPONSES MUST BE TYPED!! YOUR QUESTIONS AND RESPONSES MUST ALSO BE ORIGINAL. THIS IS AN INDIVIDUAL ASSIGNMENT. IF YOU HAVE THE SAME QUESTIONS AND/OR ANSWERS AS SOMEONE ELSE IN YOUR GROUP, SOMEONE IN ANOTHER CLASS, OR A RESOURCE FROM THE INTERNET, YOU HAVE COMMITTED PLAGIARISM AND WILL FACE CONSEQUENCES FOR ACADEMIC DISHONESTY.

Choice Unit--Day 6

2009-05-12T14:38:00.000-07:00

Today we worked on vocabulary for the choice books.

Homework: Read the assigned pages in your notebook. Bring your outside reading book to class tomorrow. Also, start thinking about the discussion questions/responses due Thursday.

If you were absent, please print the vocabulary for your book (below--or find it on Edline). In your notebook, write out each word, its dictionary definition, and 2 synonyms for it. Here are the lists:

Vocabulary: Slaughter-House-Five

1.Dilates (15/20)
2. Lugubrious (105/134)
3. Imperishable (15/20)
4. Avuncular (130/166)
5. Magnanimity (15/20)
6. Sniveling (127/162)
7. Myriad (133/169)
8. Furlough (32/40)
9. Patronizing (138/176)
10. Addled (33/42)
11. Floridly (142/181)
12. Hankering (38\49)
13. Voluptuous (148/189)
14. Ramshackle (52/67)
15. Palpated (151/192)
16. Abominable (151/193)
17. Festooned (64/82)
18. Golliwogs (156/199)
19. Balderdash (67/86)
20. Bucolic (157/200)
21. Luminous (72/91)
22. Diffident (160/204)
23. Gallant (74/93)
24. Extrapolating (75/95)
25. Adulation (170/217)
26. Acrimonious (79/100)
27. Impudent (171/217)
28. Raptly (89/113)
29. Psychosomatic (173/220)
30. Impresario (90/114)

Vocabulary: The Weight of All Things

1. caromed (3)
2. imploration (4)
3. redolence (8)
4. enigmatic (15)
5. indurate (25)
6. fastidious (49)
7. sonorous (68)
8. laconic (69)
9. malodorous (90)
10. conflagration (91)
11. despondent (98)
12. taciturn (105)
13. reconnaissance (117)
14. ruefully (119)
15. encumbrance (120)
16. reconnoitered (123)
17. nonchalant (123)
18. litany (130)
19. talisman (132)
20. millet (142)
21. myriad (151)
22. garrison (151)
23. lintel (152)
24. subversive (152)
25. traversed (157)
26. gossamer (171)
27. unguent (192)
28. allay (209)
29. penchant (222)
30. fusillade (229)

Vocabulary: In the Time of the Butterflies

1. Posthumous (3)
2. Volition (45)
3. Obligatory (3)
4. Beatific (48)
5. Impertinent (4)
6. Titter (71)
7. Veritable (4)
8. Subversive (75)
9. Shies (5)
10. Constituency (136)
11. Prickly (5)
12. Disillusioned (141)
13. Monolithic (7)
14. Admonitions (195)
15. Circumscribed (7)
16. Parceling (199)
17. Transcending (7)
18. Contraband (198)
19. Gullible (9)
20. Invariably (200)
21. Agitating (9)
22. Pious (9)
23. Gabardine (202)
24. Immaculate (17)
25. Catechism (31)
26. Contingent (207)
27. Contrition (31)
28. Bemoan (36)
29. Desecrating (207)
30. Extol (51)

Choice Unit--Day 5

2009-05-11T12:31:00.000-07:00

Today we worked in groups to plot the sequence of events in our choice books. Then, we worked on reading.

Homework: Read your assigned pages; also, think about working on the discussion questions that are due on Thursday.

If you were absent, create a flow map for your novel's plot from the beginning of the novel up to last night's reading. Your flow map should have a minimum of 15 boxes.

Choice Unit--Day 4

2009-05-08T06:54:00.000-07:00

Today we took a quiz on last night's reading. Then, we worked on responding to some questions in notebooks. If you were absent, please complete the following:

Create a notebook page entitled, “Response Questions.” Respond to each of the following questions in a minimum of 2-3 sentences.

Author
1. Explain two important ideas that your author has tried to convey so far.
2. Review the opening of the novel. What does the author do to “hook” the reader?

Characters
3. Who are the main characters? Describe each of them.
4. Are any characters like others you have “met” in other books? How so?

Plot
5. What is the most important event in the book so far? What makes you identify the event as most important?
6. What theme is emerging in the story thus far?

Setting
7. Where and when does the story take place? How do you know?
8. Think of a place like the one in the book. Where is it? Describe it.

Mood
9. What feelings has the reading brought out in you thus far? What about the book makes you feel that way?
10. Has the mood of the story shifted at all? Where and why?

Style
11. How does the author keep you interested in the story?
12. Describe a scene that lingers in your mind. Find that scene in the book. What about the writing causes the scene to be particularly memorable?

5/8 Quiz Make-up
Identify a quote from your most recent reading that helps develop an emerging theme. Type out the quote, including page number. Then, discuss the theme you think is emerging and how you think this quote helps develop that theme.
THIS RESPONSE MUST BE TYPED.

Homework: Read your assigned pages; also, consider working on the individual quote analysis and final project which are due the week of 5/18.

Choice Unit--Day 3

2009-05-07T12:26:00.000-07:00

Today, choice groups discussed books using the discussion questions that each member prepared before class.

Homework: Complete assigned reading

If you were absent today, please handwrite the following reflection at the bottom of your typed questions and turn your questions in tomorrow:

What is one unanswered question you have about the book? Do you think your question will be answered later on in the book? Why or why not?

Choice Unit--Day 2

2009-05-06T13:25:00.000-07:00

Today we began with 15 minutes of reading time (outside reading books). Then, we took a reading quiz. Finally, students worked on reading and creating discussion questions, which are due tomorrow.

Homework: Read the assigned pages in your book, per your bookmark. Also, create 5 open-ended discussion questions. That is, questions about your book that will spark and maintain discussion--questions about characters, plot, symbolism, theme, etc. The questions SHOULD NOT have yes/no answers, and SHOULD NOT have a definite answer from the book. Hopefully, someone in your group will disagree with your answer to a question, thus sparking a discussion. For each of the discussion questions, you must provide a minimum, 100-word answer. So, 5 questions and 5 100-word responses.

YOUR QUESTIONS AND RESPONSES MUST BE TYPED!! YOUR QUESTIONS AND RESPONSES MUST ALSO BE ORIGINAL. THIS IS AN INDIVIDUAL ASSIGNMENT. IF YOU HAVE THE SAME QUESTIONS AND/OR ANSWERS AS SOMEONE ELSE IN YOUR GROUP OR IN ANOTHER CLASS, YOU HAVE COMMITTED PLAGIARISM AND WILL FACE CONSEQUENCES FOR ACADEMIC DISHONESTY.

If you were absent, you missed a quiz, and must complete the following as a make-up:

Find a significant quote from the reading for Wednesday. Type out the quote , then describe the context of the quote in detail (100 words) and discuss the significance of the quote to the book as a whole (100 words). This response MUST BE TYPED.

Vonnegut, Dede, Minerva, and Nicolas

2009-05-05T08:15:00.000-07:00

Bring your outside reading book to class tomorrow!!

Today we analyzed these characters. If you were absent, please complete the following in your notebook, and show me your work upon your return so you may earn your daily points:

1. Create a notebook page entitled, "Character Analysis"

2. Find the most important quote said by or about your main character. Write out the quote with page number and explain your choice.

3. If you are reading Butterflies or The Weight: On the back side of your character quote page, work as a group to create a bubble map describing the character. Your map must have a minimum of 5 adjectives with textual evidence (including page numbers) in the frame.
**a minimum of 2 adjectives must come from direct characterization
**a minimum of 2 adjectives must come from indirect characterization

If you are reading Slaughterhouse: On the back side of your character quote page, work as a group to create a circle map defining Vonnegut’s attitude toward war. Include at least 5 words or phrases that define his attitude. For each word/phrase, include evidence in the frame of the map.

4. Create a complete, thoughtful statement about your character (or his attitude if you’re reading Slaughterhouse) and write it at the bottom of the map page.

Bring your outside reading book to class tomorrow!!

Homework: Respond to your outside reading book on the blog. Read the assigned pages from your choice book.

Bring your outside reading book to class tomorrow!!

Choice Unit Kick-Off

2009-05-04T07:34:00.000-07:00

Today we completed an A-Z taxonomy on the effects of war. Then I discussed assignments for the choice unit and students got into book groups to plan their reading schedule.

If you were absent, you should complete an A-Z taxonomy on "The Effects of War" in your notebook. Also, see the choice unit documents on Edline. You will need to get a copy of your book and a bookmark from me.

HOMEWORK: Read the assigned pages from your choice reading book.

Framing Friday

2009-05-04T07:33:00.000-07:00

On Friday students came in having read, "All the King's Horses," by Vonnegut. We completed two sheets in class, one on satire and one on the story itself. If you were absent, you can find these sheets on Edline.

Vonnegut

2009-04-30T11:42:00.000-07:00

Today we analyzed the use of tone in Vonnegut's "The Manned Missiles." If you were absent, complete the following:

Create a notebook page entitled, “The Manned Missiles.”

1. Reread the beginning of Ivankov’s letter, from “I, Mikhail Ivankov,” to “She works very hard so she can forget sometimes her grief for Stepan.” As you reread, underline or circle words or phrases that help convey emotion or attitude.

2. In your notebook, try to describe the tone (attitude) of the letter.

3. Now reread the section of Charles Ashland’s letter on page 291, beginning with, “I tell you, Mr. Ivankov,” and ending with “…it would be cute and silly in Russia, too, and you would laugh and like us better.” As you read, circle/underline words/passages conveying emotion/attitude.

4. In your notebook, describe Ashland’s tone.

I also introduced the choices for the choice book unit. Here are the three choices:

The Weight of All Things by Sandra Benitez

The last time Nicolas saw his mother, she was slumped over him, mortally wounded by gunfire that erupted in a crowded plaza during a funeral for a martyred archbishop. Watching while her body is dragged away with other victims, Nicolas believes that his mother is still alive. He vows to find her again, no matter what. Thus begins the young boy's harrowing journey through his war-ravaged country--a journey that brings him face-to-face with the danger, cruelty, and violence inflicted today on so many parts of the world by terrorism and repression. Inspired by real events, this gripping yet poignant novel will solidify Benitez's place in the pantheon of contemporary authors writing brilliantly about the realities of Latin American life.
http://www.barnesandnoble.com

Slaughterhouse-Five, by Kurt Vonnegut

Unstuck in time, Billy Pilgrim, Vonnegut's shattered survivor of the Dresden bombing, relives his life over and over again under the gaze of aliens; he comes at last to some understanding of the human comedy. The basis of George Roy's great 1972 film and perhaps the signature student's novel in the 1960's embracing protest and the absurdity of war.
http://www.barnesandnoble.com

In the Time of the Butterflies by Julia Alvarez

Julia Alvarez's eagerly awaited second novel is a powerful story of courage, innocence, and political martyrdom in the Hispanic Caribbean. Based on actual events--the death of three sisters on November 25, 1960--the novel immerses us in an epoch in the life of the Dominican Republic. The "Butterflies," as they were known, lived daringly and dangerously under a regime that imprisoned, tortured, and killed with impunity.

If you really want to read The Weight of All Things, or Slaughterhouse-Five, you should work on finding your own copy this weekend (check the public library and/or used book stores). If you don't have a copy on Monday and I run out of those selections to give to students, you will read In the Time of the Butterflies as your choice unit book.

Homework: Read "All the King's Horses," by Vonnegut

Bitter Grounds

2009-04-29T12:33:00.000-07:00

Today in 1st and 3rd hour we took a quiz on "Customs," by Julia Alvarez. It consisted of some of the same questions from the previous quiz. Then we read from "Bitter Grounds," by Sandra Benitez. We did some work with the reading.

If you were absent, please create a notebook page entitled, "Bitter Grounds." On the notebook page, respond to the following:

In Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe, Uchendo claims: “Mother is Supreme.”
Explain how this is a true statement in Achebe’s novel.
Is that statement true in your life?
Is your mother supreme?
How are women supreme in U.S. culture?

When you come back to school, pick up a copy of the reading (it is a couple of blue pages). After you read it, create a thesis statement for the piece and write it at the bottom of your "Bitter Grounds" notebook page.

Homework: Read "The Manned Missiles"

Customs

2009-04-28T10:45:00.001-07:00

DON'T FORGET TO BRING YOUR OUTSIDE READING BOOK TO CLASS TOMORROW!!

We began class today with a quiz on the assigned short story, "Customs." Then, we did some round-robin thinking about the story.

DON'T FORGET TO BRING YOUR OUTSIDE READING BOOK TO CLASS TOMORROW!!

If you were absent, complete the following maps on separate sheets of paper and submit them when you return to class:

1. Describe Don Mundo using a bubble map.

2. Use a flow map to show the sequence of events in the story.

3. Use a circle map to define the setting of the story (The Dominican Republic).

4. Compare and contrast Steven and Francisco using a double-bubble map.

5. Identify the causes and effects of Yolanda’s inability to use the tent using a multi-flow map.

DON'T FORGET TO BRING YOUR OUTSIDE READING BOOK TO CLASS TOMORROW!!

Mission Accomplished

2009-04-27T11:25:00.000-07:00

The hour was spent today writing an essay justifying the Mission's Oscar for Best Cinematography. At the end of the hour, students picked up a copy of "Customs," by Julia Alvarez. The story must be read before class tomorrow.

The Mission is Over

2009-04-24T13:20:00.000-07:00

Today we finished The Mission. On Monday, we will have an in-class essay in which you justify The Mission earning the Oscar for Best Cinematography.

Our Mission Continues

2009-04-23T13:49:00.000-07:00

Today we watched The Mission.

If you were absent, check out a classmate's notes.

Our Mission

2009-04-22T12:22:00.000-07:00

Today we read our outside reading books for the first 15 minutes of class. Then we watched the beginning of The Mission. Since our "mission" is to defend the film's Oscar for Best Cinematography, we took notes on at least 4 examples of good cinematography from today's viewing.

Homework: Continue the outside reading...

Reading Film

2009-04-21T13:11:00.000-07:00

DON'T FORGET TO BLOG TONIGHT!!

Today we finished talking about reading film. If you were absent, please get the notes from a classmate.

DON'T FORGET TO BLOG TONIGHT!!

Homework: Bring your outside reading book to class tomorrow!

DON'T FORGET TO BLOG TONIGHT!!

Poetry Finale

2009-04-20T13:14:00.001-07:00

Today we took the final poetry quiz. Then, we took notes on film terms.

If you were absent, you must make up the poetry quiz. You should also get the film term notes from a classmate.

Fabulous Friday with Frost

2009-04-17T12:10:00.001-07:00

Today we discussed the work we did with Frost's "Mending Wall," and I collected the homework. Then, we read "The Wood Pile" and worked on the analysis questions.

If you were absent, please print the poem "The Wood Pile" and the analysis questions from Edline. Then, glue the poem and answer the questions in your notebook.

Homework: Prepare for the poetry quiz on Monday.

Frosty Poetry

2009-04-16T12:37:00.000-07:00

Today we worked with the Robert Frost poem, "Mending Wall," We analyzed both the poem's form and its content.

If you were absent, please find--on Edline--a copy of "Mending Wall" by Robert Frost & TWO sheets that you will need to complete (so you're printing a total of 3 items from Edline).

Also, don't forget to introduce your outside reading book on your blog--title, author, and an explanation of why you want to read it.

MCA Days: The Full Report

2009-04-15T12:19:00.001-07:00

During our long class period on MCA test day, we began by submitting outside reading book reflections. Then we read for 20 minutes. After outside reading we discussed a poem, by William Carlos Williams, which describes a scene. We then went outside to take notes about a scene and wrote our own "Still-Life" poetry.

If you were absent, please submit your reflection and show me--a physical copy of--your outside reading book tomorrow. Also, set aside 2 notebook pages for a "Reading Log"--we will be logging our reading on Wednesdays. Then, create a notebook page entitled, "Still Life Poem." Create a short but descriptive poem, describing an everyday scene (the chair in your bedroom, for example).

HOMEWORK FOR ALL: Create a new blog post and either cut-and-paste your outside reading book reflection, or write a new reflection describing the title and author of your book, and an explanation of why you're reading it. So basically, introduce your book to us on the blog!

MCA Day

2009-04-14T12:21:00.000-07:00

Today was a long day. In 1st and 3rd we began the hour with silent reading and then worked on analyzing and writing simple, descriptive poetry.

6TH HOUR: DON'T FORGET REFLECTION AND OUTSIDE READING BOOK TOMORROW!!

Check back tomorrow for more specific discussion of the April 14/15 poetry activity as well as a more specific description of homework for this week.

Monday the 13th

2009-04-13T07:06:00.000-07:00

PERIODS 1 &3: BE SURE TO BRING OUTSIDE READING BOOK AND WRITTEN REFLECTION TO CLASS TOMORROW!!

Today we took a final practice test for the MCA's which start TOMORROW!! Then, we returned to "White Man's Burden" and used it to review some poetic terms.

PERIODS 1 &3: BE SURE TO BRING OUTSIDE READING BOOK AND WRITTEN REFLECTION TO CLASS TOMORROW!!

Homework: Get your outside reading book and write the written reflection for tomorrow (if you're in perios 1 & 3) or Wednesday (period 6).

PERIODS 1 &3: BE SURE TO BRING OUTSIDE READING BOOK AND WRITTEN REFLECTION TO CLASS TOMORROW!!

Get plenty of rest tonight so you can do your best on the test!!

PERIODS 1 &3: BE SURE TO BRING OUTSIDE READING BOOK AND WRITTEN REFLECTION TO CLASS TOMORROW!!

Friday

2009-04-13T07:04:00.000-07:00

On Friday we did key word notes with the poem, "White Man's Burden," by Kipling. I have copies on the side table (they're blue).

The only homework is to work on finding an outside reading book and write the written reflection on it (see assignment on Edline) for Tuesday, 4/15 (per. 1 & 3) or Wednesday, 4/15 (per. 6).

Poetry Prep

2009-04-09T11:37:00.001-07:00

Poetry term 4-squares were due at the beginning of the period today. After I checked them, we went through each term, one-by-one, discussing it and sharing examples of it. You are responsible for all 29 poetry terms:

1.Alliteration
2.Assonance
3.Consonance
4.onomatopoeia
5.End rhyme
6.couplet
7.Meter
8.accent
9.Rhythm
10.Scansion
11.Rhyme scheme
12.Stanza
13.Caesura
14.cacophony

15.simile
16.metaphor
17.oxymoron
18.personification
19.tone
20.mood
21.figurative language
22.Irony
23.Imagery
24.symbol
25.Connotation
26.Denotation
27.Hyperbole
28.Speaker
29.theme

After the poetry terms we briefly analyzed a poem.

Homework: work on choosing and acquiring an outside reading book (due next Wednesday!)

More MCA?

2009-04-08T10:45:00.001-07:00

Yep. Today we reviewed the answers to the practice test. Major lesson for the day: take your time, going back and forth between questions and text to be sure that you understand the question and are choosing the MOST APPOPRIATE answer.

Tomorrow we'll do more with poetry. Homework: Create a four-square in your notebook with the following information:

Upper left square: Image

Upper right square: Find the definition of the term in the context of poetry and cite your source

POETIC TERM IN CENTER

Lower left square: Synonyms or a paraphrased
definition (use your own words)

Lower right square: Write an original line of poetry to illustrate the poetic term or find an
example of the poetic term in the poems already studied in class.

I assigned poetic terms. If you were absent, complete your four-square for the following term: alliteration

The MCA, continued

2009-04-07T13:51:00.000-07:00

I began the hour by reviewing the test vocabulary (see previous post). Then, we spent most of the hour taking portions of a sample MCA test. Tomorrow we'll go through the test, question-by-question, to see how you did and try to understand the questions and justifications for the correct answers.

After the sample test, students began working on reading Elie Wiesel's Nobel Prize Acceptance Speech and writing test questions from it. This work is due tomorrow.

**If you were absent, you need to pick up the homework--2 yellow sheets--from the side table in the classroom upon your return to school.

THE MCA

2009-04-06T07:40:00.000-07:00

Today we began our preparation for the MCA exam. We discussed test-taking tips, and covered the following vocabulary:

Fact = known to exist; a truth
Opinion = a personal view
Main idea = main point of the text
Supporting Ideas = the information that adds details to the main idea
Definition in Context = words that precede or follow a specific word, usually influencing its meaning
Point of View = the way things are viewed or believed
Infer = to hint; imply; suggest
Tone = a particular style or manner of expression
Mood = the atmosphere or prevailing feeling
Figurative language = words that create vivid pictures in your mind
Connotation = associations that the word calls to mind
Irony = surprising contradictions
Imagery = descriptions that re-create sensory experiences (e.g. sights, sounds, smells, tastes)

If you were absent, you must choose two words from the list above and create two four-squares on a piece of loose notebook paper (front and back). Your squares follow this format:

Upper left square: Draw an image Upper right square:
with which you associate the word Definition in your own words

Center: Word and definition
(from above)

Lower left square: synonyms Lower right square: create a test
question about Night that uses the
word

Absent (4/6) students: Submit your 4-square vocabulary tomorrow.

All students: you are responsible for the above vocabulary!!

Have a Great Break!!

2009-03-27T09:46:00.000-07:00

Today we had our final discussion of Night. It was wonderful to see how much you all engaged with the text!

If you were absent, we did the following--in notebooks on a page entitled, "Night Final Discussion":

1. Find the passage that you think is most important to the text. Explain your choice.

2. Find the passage that made you cry (or made you want to cry). Why is this passage so poignant?

3. Find the most beautifully crafted sentence in the book. What makes it so?

Also, I have not yet checked 3rd quarter blogs. Late blog posts are MUCH BETTER than missing blog posts. If you are still missing posts, get them done--quickly!!

Have a relaxing, fun, amazing break!!

Night Falls on Quarter 3

2009-03-26T11:22:00.001-07:00

After I collected research papers today, we took the Night exam.

Homework: Night Study Guide

Tomorrow we'll spend the hour discussing the book.

FINAL RESEARCH PAPER DUE TOMORROW!!

2009-03-25T09:49:00.001-07:00

Today we did peer-evaluation of the research paper rough drafts. Then--if there was time left--individuals worked on reading and completing the study guide.

The final research paper is due tomorrow. The paper must include a correctly formatted works cited page. Finish reading Night--the exam is tomorrow. There WILL BE vocabulary on the exam! I suggest you get as much of the study guide done for tomorrow as you can since you will be allowed to use it for a portion of the exam time. The study guide is not officially due until Friday.

To Guide Your Studies

2009-03-24T12:51:00.000-07:00

Today I reviewed the requirements for tomorrow. They are:

Complete rough draft including works cited page. The works cited page should contain three sources; thus three sources should be cited in the paper. Please use the Online Writing Lab link in the previous post to see sample works cited pages, sample papers, and explanations of MLA rules.

After discussing the rough draft, we worked on reading Night and completing the study guide. The Night exam will be given on Thursday. The study guide is due on Friday (or you are welcome to turn it in on Thursday). If you are leaving early for your spring break destination, the Night exam should be taken before you leave--see me to arrange an early administration of the exam.

Wiesel's Style

2009-03-23T13:10:00.000-07:00

Today we analyzed a passage from Night in our notebooks. See a classmate to copy the work that we did. I also collected the research paper outlines. During the passage analysis I reviewed outlines. The outlines were returned at the end of class.

The homework for tonight is to read pp. 66-85. Also, the rough draft of the research paper--INCLUDING WORKS CITED PAGE WITH 3 CITED SOURCES--is due on Wednesday, final draft due Thursday.

For reference as you are writing your research paper, visit the Online Writing Lab at Purdue University.

**DON'T FORGET AMNESTY DAY TOMORROW. COME IN BETWEEN 9 AND 10:15 TO SUBMIT ANY/ALL LATE WORK!!

It's Dark

2009-03-20T20:58:00.001-07:00

Today we worked on reading Night and completing the study guide (see Edline, or get a copy in the classroom). For the second half of the hour, we worked on research.

Homework: Read through page 65. Also, the RESEARCH PAPER OUTLINE is DUE MONDAY (see Edline for a sample format).

**Don't forget to include a Works Cited page with the outline!!

NIGHT Reading Schedule

2009-03-19T13:10:00.000-07:00

Date Reading Assigned as Homework
3/18 Chapter One, pp. 3-22
3/19 Pages 23-46
3/20 Pages 47-65
3/23 Pages 66-85
3/24 Pages 85-97
3/25 Pages 98-115

Night Sets In

2009-03-19T11:17:00.000-07:00

Today in class we responded to questions about chapter 1 (see Edline). We also spent some time working on research.

Homework: Read pp. 23-45 in Night. Continue to pull info. from sources--research paper outline due Monday.

Exam Today!

2009-03-18T12:27:00.000-07:00

Today we took the Things Fall Apart Exam. Overall, scores were excellent! Congrats to the following people for perfect exam scores:

Sasha W., Tanner L., Elizabeth H., Izzy K., Spencer C., Olivia L., Olivia K., and Will R.

WAY TO GO!!

Then, I went over the research paper outline requirements. We also talked about our next text, Night, and I distributed books. There was time in class for reading and/or research work.

Homework: Read the first chapter in Night.

Exam Tomorrow!!

2009-03-17T12:36:00.000-07:00

Today we talked about Okonkwo as tragic hero. If you were absent, print and complete the assignment from Edline.

Tomorrow: Exam on Things Fall Apart.
On the exam: Multiple choice questions on the book, and matching vocab.

I revised the due dates for the research paper--see the prompt on Edline. Tomorrow we will return to the research, after the exam, and begin our next book.

BRING YOUR THINGS FALL APART BOOKS TO CLASS TOMORROW--I WILL BE COLLECTING THEM!!

The Final Straw

2009-03-16T11:53:00.001-07:00

Today we presented images of Things Fall Apart. Then, we worked in groups to create multi-flow maps showing causes and effects of persecution/colonialism events. Groups also worked to write Works Cited citations for each of the sources that people brought in. I also completed an in-class notebook check (30 points).

If you were absent, please show me your 2 sources and your notebook tomorrow.

Homework: Finish the novel.

Citation Information for Angelica:

Web Page
Author’s last name, first name. “Title of Web Article.” Title of Web Site. Date of publication or
last update to site. Date you accessed it.

Database
Author’s last name, first name. “Title of the Article.” Title of Publication. Date of publication:
page numbers. Title of Database. Edina High School, Edina, MN. Date you accessed the
article.

FYI-
Things Fall Apart Theme Statements Presented during Image Activity:

A culture will change when a new one interferes.

Following superstitions can result in either success or tragedy.

Leaders do not need to rule with an iron fist in order to be successful.

A strong male leader is necessary for a culture’s survival.

Being hospitable will gain you many allies and bring you prosperity.

Colonization has many undesirable effects on both the colonizing and colonized countries.

Cultural traditions can silence personal aspirations.

Even involuntary actions come with serious consequences.

Hard work almost always equals power and prestige.

In some societies men are the leaders and the strongest members.

Tradition is highly respected and followed within a community or culture.

There is an absolute punishment for everything in society.

Culture influences the way people think.

Elders and men dominate Igbo culture.

To become greatly respected, hard work is in order.

Hard work and dedication make a person rise above everyone else.

Sources for Monday!

2009-03-13T12:52:00.000-07:00

Today in class we completed an activity about characters and themes in the novel. If you were absent today, you may make up the in-class activity by completing the following: on a blank piece of paper, choose two characters and complete a bubble map describing each character. Each bubble map should have 5-6 adjective bubbles, and should include examples for each adjective in the map's frame. Submit this assignment on Monday.

For Monday, read pp. 168-191. Also, bring your two printed articles to class on Monday (see previous post).

Printouts From 2 Credible Sources

2009-03-12T07:37:00.000-07:00

You need them in class on Monday, March 16!

After a quiz today on chapters 15-17, we got into research groups and discussed preliminary information and ideas about where to get credible research about the persecution event. The research assignment for Monday is to find--and print or photocopy--two CREDIBLE sources that discuss the causes and/or effects of your event. Here is the information from the power point slides that I showed today in class:

For Monday, March 16th:
1. Find two CREDIBLE sources of information about the causes and effects of your event.
2. Print out the sources including author, title, date of publication, etc. information.
3. Bring your sources to class on Monday.

**REMINDER: CREDIBLE sources...
Come from university sites, respected organizations, etc.
Name an author
Offer a bibliography

YOUR SOURCES FOR MONDAY MUST BE CREDIBLE!!

A great place to look is the EHS databases (SIRS and EBSCO in particular):
EHS DATABASE LIST
**You need the EHS passwords for these databases--hopefully you wrote them down in class.

As Kelly P. pointed out first hour, you can also try looking at news sites like the NY Times. When I googled "New York Times Darfur," I got a long list of interesting (and credible) articles about the situation there.

Also--read pp. 154-167 for tomorrow. If you didn't read pp. 136-153, please try to get that done for tomorrow as well since things are truly falling apart for Okonkwo.

GO HORNETS!!!!

Things are About to Fall Apart

2009-03-11T13:15:00.000-07:00

In tonight's reading, you will see the foreigners come into the Igbo villages.

In class, we worked on analyzing three passages from last night's reading.

Homework?
1. Complete the preliminary background research assignment (see previous blog post and research paper prompt on Edline)

2. Read pp. 136-153

Researching Persecution

2009-03-10T06:00:00.000-07:00

Today after a reading quiz we discussed the research paper. Your job for Thursday, March 12, is to do some preliminary research on an example of persecution or colonialism in the world. Some possible options are:

· Darfur
· Khmer Rouge in Cambodia
· Tibet
· Rwanda
· Black War in Australia
· Iraqi Kurds
· Bosnia and Herzegovina
· Other specific examples of colonialism

You may click on a a link above to go to the Wikipedia page about the example. Read through the information on Wikipedia, and respond to the following in your notebook:

1. Dates of this persecution/colonialism event.
2. Describe the persecutors.
3. Describe those being persecuted.
4. What is the general nature of the conflict?

Jaguar Destroyers

2009-03-06T12:00:00.000-08:00

Today I collected the counselor assignment. Then we worked on proverbs. We completed the following activity in the notebook:

Pick three proverbs from Things Fall Apart to study more closely

For each proverb:
1. Write the meaning of the proverb (explain it using your own words)
2. Write the relevance to the novel (how it is used, why it is used
3. Consider its relevance or irrelevance to today’s world. Can you think of a time when the wisdom of the proverb was applied to a modern situation? Can you think of a time when the wisdom of the proverb should have been applied and wasn’t?

Some proverb possibilities:

“The sun will shine on those who stand before it shines on those who kneel under them.” p. 8
“If a child washed his hands he could eat with kings.” p. 8
“Let the kite perch and let the eagle perch too. If one says no to the other, let his wing break.” p. 19
“A man who pays respect to the great paves the way for his own greatness.” p. 19
“A toad does not run in the daytime for nothing.” p. 20
“An old woman is always uneasy when dry bones are mentioned in a proverb.” p. 21
“The lizard that jumped from the high iroko tree to the ground said he would praise himself if no one else did.” p. 21
“Eneke the bird says that since men have learned to shoot without missing, he has learned to fly without perching.” p. 22
“Looking at a king’s mouth, one would think he never sucked at his mother’s breast.” p. 26
“Those whose palm-kernels were cracked for them by a benevolent spirit should not forget to be humble.” p. 26
“When a man says yes his chi says yes also.” p. 27

Pages 52-109 must be read by Tuesday. Since Monday night we are supposed to unplug, you will have a good portion of the hour on Monday to read in class.

Reading, Reading

2009-03-05T13:04:00.000-08:00

Today in class we worked on reading Things Fall Apart.

Homework:

1. Cheer on the boys against Jefferson.
2. Complete the counselor assignment--due tomorrow.
3. Read pp. 52-86 (for Monday)

Breaking it Down

2009-03-04T12:50:00.000-08:00

Today in class we answered analysis questions about chapters 1-3 in Things Fall Apart. The homework for tonight is to read pages 26-51. (1st and 3rd hour students can leave the reading for tomorrow in class since I'll be in a meeting and you'll be with Ms. V). I also suggest that you take some time tonight to be sure that you are caught up on the outside reading assignment. At this point you should have 10 blog posts about the reading that you are doing outside of class.

Drinking from human skulls?

2009-03-03T12:33:00.000-08:00

Yep, that happens in the reading for tonight. Your assignment is to read through page 25.

In class we took a quiz, talked about Okonkwo, and finished discussing Igbo culture.

**Don't forget to complete the counselor assignment (previous post) for Friday!!

Things Will Not Fall Apart...

2009-03-02T13:37:00.000-08:00

...if you read pages 3-8 for tomorrow.

Also, work on the assignment you received today from the counselor. To do so, follow these instructions:

1. Log onto Family Connections in Naviance. If you have forgotten your password, type in your email address, hit forgot password, and then check your email to retrieve your password.

2. Complete the personal inventory, "Do What You Are," which can be found under the About Me heading on the left tool bar.

3. Analyze your results by answering the questions on the yellow sheets you received today.

4. Submit your responses to ME by Friday (this assignment is worth points in English).

This weekend...

2009-02-27T12:37:00.000-08:00

...hopefully the girls will win state!! Besides that, you should be working on your paragraph comparing Ruku and Lalita, Kenny and William Darcy, or the setting of Nectar and the Setting of B&P.
Your paragraph must be typed and must contain:
1. an MLA heading
2. 2 PIEs--in this case, the I(illustration) may be an example rather than textual evidence.

In class I checked for homework, and then we finished B & P.

**Don't forget to blog this weekend! Click here for an interesting article in which a reporter examines his connection to Bollywood.

BP vs. Nectar

2009-02-26T12:51:00.000-08:00

Today we compared/contrased Rukmani and Lalita using a double-bubble map. Then, we viewed about 25 minutes of the film. The homework for tonight is to complete another comparison (using double-bubble). You may choose to compare Kenny and Darcy OR the setting of Nectar and the setting of B & P. If you choose to compare the settings, you may have to use more than adjectives to describe--"arranged marriages" may be one of your descriptors, for example.

FINAL ESSAY

2009-02-24T08:58:00.000-08:00

Today we did some peer-evaluation of the rough drafts.

The final Nectar essay is due Thursday. On Thursday, you must have:

1. A blank, cream-colored rubric (on Edline if you've lost your copy). This rubric is on the backside of the one used during peer-evaluation.

2. A complete, typed final draft (don't forget a creative title, page #s in a header, and the Works Cited "page")

3. All drafts/paragraphs--I MUST see draft work with peer/other comments on it!

**If you have an excused absence on Thursday, you MUST email me an electronic copy of your final paper by 3:10pm. Then, you must turn in a hard copy of the paper and drafts immediately upon your return to school.

If you are absent on Thursday because of the Girls Hockey (Go Hornets!) game (6th HOUR ONLY), you must turn your paper in on Thursday morning, prior to your departure for the game.

Putting it All Together

2009-02-23T12:32:00.000-08:00

Today we did some peer reading of intro, conclusion, and body paragraphs. Individual suggestions for revision are the following:

Try one of the following in your introduction and/or conclusion:
1. Add a sentence using a comparison (simile or metaphor)
2. Use a rhetorical fragment.
3. Combine two sentences
4. Change a word in your attention-getter or closing statement to a more descriptive/sophisticated word.

For tomorrow, the complete, typed, rough draft is due. Your draft must include:

MLA heading
Creative Title
Intro, 3 body paragraphs (2 PIEs each), conclusion
MLA headers with last name and page numbers
Works Cited citation near bottom of final essay page

The Body: Part II

2009-02-20T13:13:00.000-08:00

Today we completed more peer evaluation of the Nectar paper paragraphs. Here is the individual editing that students completed in class:

Draw boxes around the first 3 words of each sentence in the paragraph.
• What do you notice?
• Do you begin each sentence the same way? If so—mix it up.

Count the number of words in each sentence.
• What is your pattern?
• What potential problems do you see with the numbers?

Replace two words with more descriptive/sophisticated words.

Replace repetitive signal phrase verbs with more specific verbs.

And here is the assignment for Monday:

Write your introduction and conclusion.
Introduction:
General discussion of topic (beginning with attention-getter)
Introduction of title and author
Specific thesis statement
Conclusion:
Restatement of thesis
Summary of analysis
Return to general discussion of topic

So, you need…
A typed document with:
MLA heading
Introduction
2 body paragraphs
Conclusion
FYI: You will write the 3rd body paragraph, add a Works Cited citation for the book, and number the pages to have a complete rough draft DUE TUESDAY, 2/24.

The Body

2009-02-19T13:10:00.000-08:00

Today we worked on revising the thesis statement and first body paragraph. Before you begin writing the 2nd body paragraph, you should revise your thesis and paragraph based on feedback you received today from your peers. Also, you are to make the following specific revisions to your 1st body paragraph:

1.Combine 2 of the paragraph’s sentences.
2.Rework any sentence beginning with there.
3.Replace one word with a more sophisticated, descriptive word.

Then, write your 2nd body paragraph.

So, here's the homework for tomorrow:

REVISE your thesis and first body paragraph.
Add a second body paragraph.
Include a transition between the first and second body paragraphs.
Print it all. Include: an MLA heading, thesis statement, and both body paragraphs.

Nectar: The Paper

2009-02-18T12:17:00.000-08:00

After the exam today, we began talking about how to use the multi-flow map (homework for today) to create a thesis statement for the paper. I worked through my own example of examining fear in the text. For tomorrow, your job is to create a thesis statement and write your first body paragraph. This MUST BE TYPED.

Your TYPED paper should have:

an MLA heading
your thesis statement
a complete body paragraph including 2 PIEs.

If your printer is not working, please post your thesis and paragraph to your blog; then, get to school early so you can paste your work onto a word document and print in the media center.

Nectar: The Exam

2009-02-17T13:33:00.001-08:00

Today we were able to finish our flow maps of Nectar's plot. We discussed the Nectar essay and required prewriting.

Tomorrow is the Nectar exam. Part of the exam tests comprehension of the book; part of the exam tests the vocabulary that we've been reviewing. Please study the vocabulary from the list in your notebook.

Homework for tomorrow is to complete the multi-flow map that is required to begin writing the essay. We will working on writing the essay over the next few days.

**The essay prompt can be found on Edline.

The End

2009-02-12T13:29:00.000-08:00

This weekend you will read the rest of Nectar in a Sieve. You also must answer the 6 questions on the blue sheet about the Coleridge poem.

We took a quiz in class. Then, we worked on "I Have, Who Has?" We need some serious work on that--Roehl's and Tholen's classes are really making us look bad (I think they're cheating). We also showcased the blogs of a couple students.

Enjoy the end of the book!

OH, and don't forget to read/blog. The theme for this post is religion/spirituality/belief/non-belief. Here's an article that works for the assigned theme--and it's about Hinduism, India, and the U.S.

Back to the Village...

2009-02-11T13:33:00.000-08:00

Today we discussed the book (after we took a quiz). When we left them at the end of last night's reading, Ruku and Nathan were headed back to their village. Read pp. 165-176 tonight to find out what happens to them...

Also, 3rd hour students should be looking for 4 examples of your theme concept to put in your blue charts. I expect to see completed charts tomorrow.

Analyzing Nectar

2009-02-10T19:24:00.000-08:00

Today we reviewed last night's reading and worked on some analysis questions.

Homework: Read pp. 150-164...and don't forget to blog.

Tonight's blog is supposed to discuss gender roles/gender issues. Certainly any text you are currently reading has some aspect of gender to discuss. But, if you want an article to read, check out this article about the treatment of women in immigration detention centers.

First Raja, then Kuti, now Old Granny...

2009-02-09T19:31:00.000-08:00

Today in class we took a quiz, added two boxes to our flow maps (and in the process, discussed the reading), and then spent some time examining the vocabulary words. The homework for tomorrow is to read pp. 124-149.

Doing some last minute reading and posting?

2009-02-08T10:04:00.000-08:00

This weekend's topic is: a culture different from your own. Here's an article about rice farming in Western Africa.

TGIF

2009-02-07T09:36:00.000-08:00

Friday in class, we: added two boxes to the Nectar flow maps, and then finished the group analysis activity.

Homework: Read pp. 103-123

Also, don't forget to blog this weekend!!

Themes in Nectar

2009-02-05T12:30:00.001-08:00

Today we worked on group theme analysis after we took a quiz and added four boxes to the flow map in the notebook.

Homework: Read pp. 92-102

More Nectar

2009-02-03T12:38:00.000-08:00

Today we read chap. 11-13 and worked on some questions/paragraph response in the notebook. The questions can be found pasted below (a word copy is on Edline). You should be through page 77, and have complete responses in your notebook by tomorrow (even if you were absent for choir).

Part I
Answer the following questions in your notebook on a page entitled, “Nectar, Chap. 1-13.” Answer the questions thoroughly, providing detail from the text.

1. What were your thoughts at the end of this section? Would you have made the same decision that Rukmani and Nathan made? Why or why not?

2. What does Rukmani see decorating the entrance to her new home when she first arrives with Nathan? In what condition are the decorations? What might the condition represent or symbolize?

3. How does Rukmani feel when she is told that her baby is female? Why does she feel this way? What does her reaction suggest about the status of Indian women at the time?

4. Who is Kennington? Why does Rukmani keep her visits to him secret?

5. Contrast Rukmani’s response to the coming of the tannery with that of the other women in the village. Who do you think is right? Why?

6. Why do Arjun and Thambi go to work in Ceylon? What does their decision say about them? How do Rukmani’s feelings contrast with those of her sons?

7. The story is told from Rukmani’s point of view. How does this viewpoint affect your feelings toward Rukmani and her family? How might your feelings change if the story were told from Kunthi’s point of view? Kennington’s?

8. How might Rukmani answer this question:
What do you value the most in life? Friends? Family? Personal possessions? Something else?

Part II
In a paragraph, respond to the following:

The conflicts that a character experiences are often determined by the time and place in which he or she lives. Select a character from Nectar in a Sieve—Rukmani, Nathan, Ira, or another character—and in a paragraph explain the connection between the setting of the novel and the character’s conflict. Would he or she be likely to suffer the same conflicts if the story were set in a different time and place? Why or why not?

Part III
Now, create—in your notebook—a 2-column chart like the one below. Fill in each row with the type of conflict and description/examples of how the conflict has appeared in the text.

Type of Conflict Description, Examples

1. Against society Rukmani is unable to marry a rich man because she does
not have a large dowry.
2.

3.

4.

**Also, don't forget to blog tonight--see a previous post for a link to a NY Times article as well as information on providing an MLA citation.

Today in class, we...

2009-02-02T07:32:00.000-08:00

took a quiz, added 2 boxes to our flow maps (and discussed the reading, of course), and analyzed a passage from the reading. The homework is to compose a paragraph about a cultural event (American, Edinian, ethnic, etc.) imitating the style of Markandaya. Remember that we decided the essential elements of Markandaya's style are:
1. Vivid language (imagery)
2. Use of fragments to list elements of setting
3. Cultural language & made-up words
4. Figurative language (simile, personification)
5. Appeal to all 5 senses

Your paragraph must be typed, printed, and turned in during class tomorrow.

Hopefully, you blogged for today. You have another blog due Wednesday. This time, the theme concept is overcoming struggle of facing a difficulty. Here's another link to an appropriate article.

You are supposed to include--in your post--an MLA citation for your reading material. See the OWL at Purdue for rules about MLA citations.

The appropriate citation for the article linked to this blog is:

Barry, Dan. "Remote and Struggling but Still a Bit of America." New York Times. 5 October
2008. 2 February 2009.
<http://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/06/us/06land.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1>

Don't Forget...

2009-01-30T18:34:00.000-08:00

...to blog before bedtime on Sunday. The post below has a link to a New York Times article if you're looking for something to read.
...and don't worry if you've switched hours and your blog is listed under the wrong one--I'll fix it.

Today in class we took another quiz, added two boxes to our flow maps, and worked individually on vocabulary.

Homework: Read through page 57 in Nectar in a Sieve.

Today & Tonight

2009-01-29T08:22:00.000-08:00

Today: We took a quiz on chap. 3-4. Then, we started to map the plot of Nectar (flow map) with the four most important events thus far. Finally we explored what it is like for people to be slowly stripped of their culture.

Tonight: Read pp. 31-45

Also, begin reading a book or article for outside reading. The concept you will discuss on your blog by Sunday night is natural disasters. For an interesting article about the recent major earthquake in China, click here.

Nectar in a Sieve

2009-01-28T13:25:00.000-08:00

We have been thrust into the culture of early 20th century rural India. Almost all you read the first two chapters for today, and many of you indicated that you are enjoying the book so far. Today in class we took notes on the author of our novel as well as on aspects of Indian culture. We also took a quiz on chapters 1-2. The homework for tomorrow is to read chapters 3-4, pp. 18-30. The entire reading schedule is below:

The date indicates the night you should read the assigned pages as homework:

Jan. 27: pp. 3-17
Jan. 28: pp. 18-30
Jan. 29: pp. 31-45
Jan. 30: pp. 46-57
Feb. 2: pp. 49-57
Feb. 3: pp. 58-77
Feb. 4: pp. 78-91
Feb. 5: pp. 92-102
Feb. 6: pp 103-123
Feb. 9: pp. 124-149
Feb. 10: pp. 150-164
Feb. 11: pp. 165-176
Feb. 12: pp. 177-186

**Keep in mind that you should be looking for an outside reading book or article to read this week and discuss on the blog by Sunday evening.

Want More Midsummer?

2009-01-20T09:59:00.001-08:00

Hopefully, you have a fairly complete theme map for A Midsummer Night's Dream. Ideally, you will have several examples of each theme concept, with context and a direct quote (with citation) for each example. To view an online version of our text, try this link to google books.

A Long Weekend

2009-01-16T09:39:00.000-08:00

You've got some extra time this weekend. Hopefully you'll use at least some of it to prepare for the final exam. Here are the recommendations that I presented in class:

1.Take steps to fully understand the characters, plot, and themes of A Midsummer Night’s
Dream
To do this, you can...
Take notes during discussion/ film viewing
Complete theme map in notebook (there are several websites that have the full text of the
play--just google "A Midsummer Night's Dream full text."

2. Revisit the past texts/films
Review past notes, assignments, etc
Write down basic elements of the texts/films—characters, plot summaries, themes, etc.
Review notes on MLA & Monomyth

Notebook Check

2009-01-14T07:04:00.000-08:00

I'm checking notebooks tomorrow. Here's what I'm looking for (30 points):

Approximately 20 Reading Minute Thesis Statements (11/17-the present)

Complete, Up-to-Date Table of Contents, including the following pages:
11/4 Theme Statements in English
11/10 Hero Definition
11/19 Monomyth Map
11/20 Ethics/Morals
11/23 Reflection Response
12/3 Act 1 Discussion (All My Sons)
12/8 Act 2 Activity (All My Sons)
12/18 AMS Quote Study
12/18 AMS Group Quote Study
1/5 Shpakespeare
1/8 Themes in Midsummer

The Semester is Nearing a Close...

2009-01-09T11:51:00.000-08:00

If you don't have 14 blog posts by Monday, you are behind. Please try to catch up since those posts are worth 75 posts. Also, be careful that you are responding to your reading, and not copying--or cutting and pasting--your reading onto your blog. Posting the reading material, itself, as if it is your summary, is PLAGIARISM.

On Monday we'll find out what happens when Lysander wakes to find that he is in love with Helena. How is Hermia going to react?!

Tomorrow...

2009-01-08T09:39:00.000-08:00

...we see what happens when beings try to mess with love...

A Tale of Two Suitors

2009-01-06T10:05:00.001-08:00

...so both Lysander and Demetrius want to marry Hermia. She loves Lysander and her friend, Helena, loves Demetrius. So, problem solved, right?...except that Hermia's father wants her to face Athenian law and be killed if she does not obey his decision that she marry Demetrius.

As Luke L. pointed out 3rd hour, this book sounds a lot like The Hills. If only Heidi's father had prevented her from marrying Spencer...

...the drama continues tomorrow.

Break Out!

2008-12-19T08:59:00.000-08:00

Almost everyone submitted the research work. So, that is done (for now). Next semester we will work on a longer research assignment where you will write a full research paper. When you return we will begin our study of Shakespeare. We're reading A Midsummer Night's Dream which is a fun, magical story.

Have a wonderful break!

RESEARCH ASSIGNMENT DUE TOMORROW!!!

2008-12-18T06:48:00.000-08:00

The entire research assignment is due tomorrow. The following requirements must be met in order to receive some or all of the assignment's 42 points:

1. All pieces of the assignment must be included--even if I have seen a piece before. The required pieces are:

Cream-colored checklist (copy on Edline)

3 printed articles, with completed credibility sheets and highlighting/underlining of important info.

Annotated Works Cited Page (CLEAN COPY--NO WRITING FROM ME) completed correctly. That is, if I made comments on the one you submitted on Monday, corrections must be made and a new copy should be submitted.

Research paper outline

2. The assignment is due tomorrow with NO EXCEPTIONS. If you are absent, the Annotated Works Cited and research paper outline MUST be emailed to me and a hard copy must be submitted after break. If I have not seen final copies of your work before break, I will not accept them after break.

**There is a great deal of information regarding this assignment on both Edline and the blog. If you have questions, please access these two resources.

This Week...

2008-12-15T13:14:00.000-08:00

Today I checked Annotated Works Cited pages. Make any corrections indicated, and print out a new copy to turn in on Friday. The power point that I used to discuss the outline today is on Edline. The outline, along with all source information and Annotated Works Cited, is due on Friday.

TOMORROW IS AMNESTY DAY!! Come in between 9-10:15 to drop off any outstanding late work.

Your bib

2008-12-12T10:47:00.000-08:00

The annotated bibliography is due on Monday. Review the previous blog post, as well as the handout you received in class (copy on Edline) for directions on completing the annotated bib. Also, you can review a sample document on Edline.

Type it up, print it out, and bring your bib to class on Monday!

So you finished the research...

2008-12-10T08:24:00.001-08:00

Now it's time to create the Annotated Works Cited page. You received a handout (copy on Edline) about this assignment in class today, and I explained the process. A sample annotated works cited page can be found on Edline. Use your sources to create a page that looks just like the sample on Edline. Since many of you found your source information on SIRS, and since Maddie and Jordan asked me to, I am including below the format for an MLA citation of a SIRS source. When you site a source from SIRS, you must include your specific author, title, publication, date, and page numbers, but the SIRS stuff (at the end) is the same for all SIRS sources. Here's the information:

Author’s last name, first name. “Title of the article in quotation marks.” Title of the publication,
underlined date the article was published: page numbers of the article. SIRS Researcher.
SIRS Knowledge Source. Edina High School. 10 Dec. 2008 http://www.sirs.com.

**Don't forget to check Edline for the Sample Annotated Works Cited page!!

Act II, All My Sons

2008-12-09T09:44:00.000-08:00

Today we finished the activity we started yesterday. I gave points to students who were on task and completed the work effectively. Here's what we did (in notebookson a page entitled: AMS Act II Activity):

1. Create a Multi-Flow map for the central conflict in Act II (like we did for Act I). Look back at your map for Act I—did some of the effects from Act I’s conflict cause the conflict in Act II?

2. Create a double-bubble map comparing and contrasting Chris and George. Supply textual support in the map’s frame for 4 of the descriptors.

RESEARCH IS DUE TOMORROW!! Staple your items (credibility sheet, highlighted/underlined source material, credibility sheet, highlighted/underlined source material, credibility sheet, highlighted/underlined source material) as you come into class tomorrow.

RESEARCH, RESEARCH

2008-12-08T13:30:00.001-08:00

Due Wednesday, your research is (as Yoda would say). You should have 3 complete credibility checks as well as printouts of 3 sources with highlighting/underlining of important information.

On Wednesday we will discuss how to use your sources to create an annotated bibliography.

Act I, All My Sons

2008-12-04T07:45:00.000-08:00

Today we finished the Act I Activity. Although it went in the notebook, I also gave participation points to students who finished it. So, if you were absent today, be sure to show me your notebook when you complete the activity.

All My Sons, Act I Assignment
Discuss the following questions and make the required thinking maps in your notebook. Make a notebook page for “Act I Discussion.” Feel free to use the back of this page and/or to move onto a second page, if necessary. You will have a total of four thinking maps – three multi-flow and one bubble.

1.What does you see as the primary conflict of the play? On a notebook page, make a multi-flow map analyzing the causes and effects of this conflict.
2. Which characters are involved in the primary conflict? How are they involved? What’s at stake for each character?
3. In addition to the primary conflict, each character faces other dilemmas. What are the dilemmas they face? Choose two of the following characters and analyze their individual conflicts multi-flow maps: Joe, Kate, Ann, Chris, neighbors.
4. Now think about what purpose each character serves in Miller’s play. Which characters drive the primary and secondary conflicts? Which characters serve to determine the setting? Which characters provide comic relief? With which characters does Miller want us to identify (feel sympathy for or understand) and why?
5. Which character is the central character to the play? How do you know? Make a bubble map describing the central character.

RESEARCH ASSIGNMENT

2008-12-03T07:19:00.000-08:00

Today we discussed the research assignment that you will be working on for the next 3 weeks. I showed you how to access SIRS today, so you should have the username and password. You can link to SIRS here. Don't forget that the SIRS front page has a "Leading Issues" section on the right side. If you click on the link to "More Issues," you will see the long, long list of issues that I showed you in class. Then, if you click on the Pro/Con tab, you will be able to see two sides of the issue with links to source information.

Sample Ethical Issue Research Questions (feel free to use):

Should the U.S. intervene in the affairs of Darfur?
Should schools regulate the facebook activity of students?
Should humans breed and kill animals for food?
Do businesses have a responsibility to reduce their carbon footprint?
Should parents monitor the internet use of their children?

The full research assignment is pasted below:

An important element of the 10th grade English experience at EHS is the study of research. Besides learning how to write a research paper, you will also learn how to conduct research. This introductory research assignment will introduce you to the basics of conducting and organizing research.

Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
1. Determine and verify the credibility of sources.
2. Prepare a research paper outline.
3. Create an annotated works cited page.
4. Follow MLA format for outlines and works cited citations.

The following schedule will guide you through this introductory research assignment:

Wednesday, December 3
Introduction of ethical issues, research techniques, SIRS, verification of credibility
Assignment due 12/10:
□ Identify research topic (from choices)
□ Find and print three sources
□ Complete credibility sheet for each source
□ Annotate sources, highlighting/underlining information important in answering your research question.

Wednesday, December 10
3 annotated sources with credibility sheets due
Discuss annotated works cited.
Assignment due 12/15:
□ Annotated works cited—MUST BE TYPED!!

Monday, December 15
Typed Annotated Works Cited due
Discussion/model of research paper outline
Assignment due 12/19:
□ 3 annotated sources, each with credibility verification sheet
□ Appropriately formatted research paper outline—MUST BE TYPED!!
□ Appropriately formatted annotated works cited page—MUST BE TYPED!!

Have a Great Break!

2008-11-25T07:53:00.000-08:00

We have been talking and reading about ethical dilemmas. When we return from break we will begin reading All My Sons, by Arthur Miller. The events in All My Sons all relate to a specific ethical decision made by one of the play's characters. So, we'll use the information and ideas we've gathered this week to help us understand and evaluate what we read.

Enjoy your days off. See you next Monday!

Ethical Dilemmas

2008-11-24T19:08:00.001-08:00

Tomorrow we'll discuss a specific ethical dilemma. Also, we'll read a short story by Ursula LeGuin which explores the concepts we have been discussing in class.

One more day until Thanksgiving break!

Reflection Response

2008-11-21T07:21:00.000-08:00

DUE MONDAY: On a page in your notebook, write ½ page to a page on the following. Be sure to use examples to illustrate your responses.

Does a person have a greater obligation to one’s family or to strangers? To one’s family or the nation?

The Reading Minute: Student Take-Over

2008-11-20T06:43:00.001-08:00

When it is your turn to do the reading minute, you must:
Read to us for at least one minute from something about which you blogged.
Show us your blog(well, I'll do that)--talk about it if you wish.

Here is the reading minute schedule:

1st Hour

Friday, November 21: Charles L.
Monday, November 24: Ryan
Tuesday, November 25: Ben
Monday, December 1: Andrew
Tuesday, December 2: Austin
Wednesday, December 3: Grady
Thursday, December 4: Kjersten
Friday, December 5: Alex W.
Monday, December 8: Elizabeth H.
Tuesday, December 9: Taylor
Wednesday, December 10: Molly
Thursday, December 11: Claire
Friday, December 12: Jordan
Monday, December 15: Cori
Tuesday, December 16: Mindy
Wednesday, December 17: Haley
Thursday, December 18: Matt M
Friday, December 19: Christina
Monday, January 5: Lorraine
Tuesday, January 6: Koal
Wednesday, January 7: Allie T.
Thursday, January 8: Abdisa
Friday, January 9: Joan
Monday, January 12: Kelly P.
Tuesday, January 13: Cloe
Wednesday, January 14: Charlie

3rd Hour
Friday, November 21: Sam B
Monday, November 24: Cole
Tuesday, November 25: Tanner
Monday, December 1: Sarah J
Tuesday, December 2: Madie
Wednesday, December 3: Lauren
Thursday, December 4: Spencer
Friday, December 5: Abby
Monday, December 8: Mitch
Tuesday, December 9: Olivia K.
Wednesday, December 10: Olivia L.
Thursday, December 11: Kiley
Friday, December 12: Isabelle
Monday, December 15: Robin
Tuesday, December 16: Gabi
Wednesday, December 17: Tenzin
Thursday, December 18: Swen
Friday, December 19: Angelica
Monday, January 5: Luke
Tuesday, January 6: Jyotsna
Wednesday, January 7: Shelby
Thursday, January 8: Blake
Friday, January 9: Jenny
Monday, January 12: Hope

6th Hour
Friday, November 21: Zack
Monday, November 24: Andy
Tuesday, November 25: JuYeong
Monday, December 1: Elise
Tuesday, December 2: Gretchen
Wednesday, December 3: Sasha
Thursday, December 4: Suzie
Friday, December 5: Chevon
Monday, December 8: Ariana
Tuesday, December 9: Rachel
Wednesday, December 10: Grace
Thursday, December 11: Claire
Friday, December 12: Natalie
Monday, December 15: Emily
Tuesday, December 16: Tenzin
Wednesday, December 17: Will
Thursday, December 18: Emma
Friday, December 19: Rob
Monday, January 5: Max
Tuesday, January 6: Sara
Wednesday, January 7: Alison
Thursday, January 8: Katie
Friday, January 9: Stefon
Monday, January 12: Emmett
Tuesday, January 13: Rico
Wednesday, January 14: Mikayla
Thursday, January 15: Holly

The Man of Many Sorrows

2008-11-19T12:45:00.000-08:00

We finished O Brother. Tomorrow we'll talk about it before we jump into a discussion of morals and ethics. This discussion of morals and ethics will lead us into our reading of All My Sons, a play by Arthur Miller.

Only 4 more days until Thanksgiving break!!