LAST ENGLISH CLASS FOR THE SENIORS!!! We discussed the essay prompts from the AP Exam last week. Then we viewed more of the film version ofBeowulf.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in any books you still have!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: See you at graduation!!
THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016
The seniors reflected on their performance on the AP exam and what lessons/reviews we did in class that helped them the most. Next, we had our Life Lesson on How to Rent an Apartment. :) Finally, we did a little research on safe, kind, and clever senior pranks. :)
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Be sure to turn in all books.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring any books you still have.
TUESDAY, May 3, 2016
Today we reviewed for the AP exam with is TOMORROW!! Students chose from various review activities and also had some fun motivational speeches and, of course, the magic pencils!!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Stop by if you want your magic pencil!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Get some sleep for the exam!
FRIDAY, APRIL 29, 2016
Today was our glimpse of Beowulf and the Old English language. We read passages and looked at the original text in OE. We heard bits of OE read to us, and we viewed the beginning of the film.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about Old English!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: We'll review for the AP Exam on Thursday. Bring your questions!
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 27, 2016
Final exam day!!!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss Bergman to arrange to make up your final.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring your red literature textbook to turn in, if you haven't already.
MONDAY, APRIL 25, 2016
Today the seniors finished their Book Talks over their Lit. Circle books. Then we reviewed a bit for the final exam.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: No one was gone!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Study for your final exam!!
THURSDAY, APRIL 21, 2016
The seniors presented their Lit Circle books today! We had sugar cookies in the shape of hearts and cupcakes with fingers or brains on them! (Seriously!)
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Talk to your group members; you missed your part of the presentation.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None. We'll complete our Book Talks next time.
TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016
Today the seniors took their test over their 2nd Independent Reading Project book.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to arrange your make-up IRP test.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: All Lit Circle assignments are DUE. Be ready for your Book Talk!
THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2016
The seniors continued to work in Literature Circles today.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your groups to see what you should be doing for your Lit Circle assignment.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Continue to work on Lit Circle projects. TAKE 1ST LUNCH ON TUESDAY!!
TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016
The seniors continued to work in Literature Circles today.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your groups to see what you should be doing for your Lit Circle assignment.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Continue to work on Lit Circle projects.
FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016
Today was the seniors' first day to work in their new Literature Circles. Students set their own schedule of tasks and deadlines.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your groups to see what you should be doing for your Lit Circle assignment.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Continue to work on Lit Circle projects.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6, 2016
Today was Senior Skip Day. So the non-skippers had a bit of fun, looking at poetry in Calvin and Hobbes comics and the hot new musical Alexander Hamilton.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: B's turn in your assignment.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring your Lit Circle book.
MONDAY, APRIL 4, 2016
The seniors practiced an AP poetry prompt from the 2015 exam: a poem by Derek Walcott. After reading and annotating the poem and beginning their essay answer, the seniors discussed the poem and what a student could write about on the exam. Next, we looked at sample student essays from last year and discussed what had earned the student their score. Finally, I shared my insight as an AP Reader on this question last summer: what strong essays did and what poorer essays failed to do.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask Miss B. if you'd like to see the 2015 poetry prompt and sample essays. A's, turn in your assignment.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: B's, bring a thesis statement, claims, evidence AND one paragraph of support.
THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2016
Today the seniors talked about forms of poetry. We practiced labeling definitions and example poems. We also played with the website For Better For Verse:http://prosody.lib.virginia.edu/
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: B's, turn in your assignment.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 31. Study the literary terms. A's, bring a thesis statement, claims, evidence, AND one paragraph of support.
TUESDAY, MARCH 29, 2016
The seniors planned their Literature Circles deadlines today and divided up the assigned tasks. Then we returned to poetry, focusing on sound devices. We dissected a poem to see how form follows function (at least in really good poetry it does!).
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: No one was absent!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 30. Study the literary terms. B's, bring a thesis statement AND claims AND evidence. This will be your outline or plan of attack for the essay.
THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2016
Today the seniors reviewed literary terms, took a quiz over the terms in Chapters 22-28, and practiced identifying them in example sentences.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: B's, turn in your thesis statement and claims or evidence.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 29. A's, bring a thesis statement AND claims AND evidence. This will be your outline or plan of attack for the essay.
TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016
The seniors wrote imagery poems today, drawing one of the 5 senses and choosing a picture as inspiration. Then we completed the Lens Activity. Students interpret poems through a very narrow lens to see the limitations of using only one viewpoint in analyzing literature. It's a fascinating activity that often gets really loud. :)
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: A's, turn in your thesis statement and claims or evidence.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 28. Review the literary terms in Chapters 22-28 for a quiz! B's, bring a thesis statement AND claims or evidence.
FRIDAY, MARCH 11, 2016
Today the seniors discussed "bare poems" and debated if our understanding or interpretation of a poem changes if we know the author, the publication date, the title, etc.
Next, we looked at the diction and syntax of well-known poems and re-wrote them with a new syntax or diction.
Finally, we played a little Quizlet Live to review our literary terms.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: B's, turn in your thesis statements.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 27. A's, bring a thesis statement AND claims or evidence.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2016
The seniors took a quiz over literary terms in chapters 22 and 25. Then we discussed Tone Mapping, the process of identifying shifts of tone within a poem. The A's shared their thesis statements, and the B's helped them modify thesis statements as needed.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: A's, turn in your thesis statements.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: B's, bring your thesis statements over a Chapter 34 poem.
MONDAY, MARCH 7, 2016
The seniors wrote two original poems today! First, they followed the pattern of the "I am from" poem to create a poem about their childhood. Next, they used words found in magazines and newspapers to create Found Poems.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a packet on the "I am from" poem. Create your two poems.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 25. A's, bring a thesis over a Chapter 34 poem.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2016
Today the seniors discussed the question, "What makes a poem 'great'?" We looked at pairs of poems in order to figure out what makes one great and one forgotten. We had a great discussion!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: No one was absent! Again! This is an awesome group of APEs!!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapters 24. Maybe get a head start on chapter 25; it's a long one!
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2016
The seniors learned about and voted for their choice of Literature Circle books for April. Then we began our Poetry unit. Students wrote two original poems: 1 concrete poem, and 1 "anything goes" poem.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask your group if you are an A or a B and what exactly that means. :) Talk to Miss B. about the Lit Circle books.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 22 and 23. Bring your two original poems.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2016
Today the seniors viewed the rest of the film version of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. We also looked at several parodies of the novel or movie (fromSesame Street to Psych) and the Academy Awards ceremony of the year that the film swept the top five categories.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the ending of the movie and what they liked or disliked.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring your red literature textbook.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2016
The seniors received information today about the AP exams and how to sign up for those. Next, we had a silent discussion (and then a noisier one) over the novel One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. We watched more of the film version as we had time.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your classmates about the data sheet, due March 9th.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish and turn in your journals.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016
Today the seniors took the MC quizzes that they wrote last class. Then we viewed the film up to the point of the story that we've read. We also tried out Quizlet's new live feature; it was wild, loud, crazy fun and helped us review our literary terms. We loved it!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate how the book and the film differ so far.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish the book for next class!
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2016
The seniors voted on their favorite poems by the juniors today. Then we discussed the reading assignment for today by looking at significant quotes. Next, we began writing practice MC quizzes over the book for our classmates.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: No one was absent!! Yea!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Keep reading and journalling!
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2016
Today, the seniors used Valentine's Day as an AP review! First, we made Literary Conversation Hearts with lines or allusions from the stories we've studied. Next, we did a round of Speed Dating, a quick review activity for Q3 prompts.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about Speed Dating. Check out the classroom door to find the Literary Conversation Hearts.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read (and journal!) through p. 218 of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2016
The seniors had a wonderful discussion today over the first section of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest! Then we looked at the first few scenes of the film production.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about our discussion on the combine, the fog, and Nurse Ratched.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: By next WEDNESDAY, read through page 218. Nothing due on Friday.
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2016
Today the seniors took a full 3-hour practice exam to prepare them for the AP English exam in May. Students who had asked their 7th hour teacher's permission stayed throughout 7th hour to get the full experience.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. if you'd like to schedule a 3-hour practice exam.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read through page 101 in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest and have at least 2 journal entries completed.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2016
Today the seniors worked together on the Question 1 prompt on a Shakespearean passage. We looked at example student essays and saw an example of a 9! Then we started the novel One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest together. Students will keep a reader's journal as they read the bookl
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get a copy of the prompt, if you like. Pick up a copy of Cuckoo's Nest.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Turn in your "field trip" form if you plan to take the entire 3-hour exam.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2016
The seniors completed their film comparison chart today. We also practiced MC questions on other Shakespearean texts.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your film comparison chart. Pick up practice tests if you like.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: iPad users, be ready to turn your iPad back in. Don't forget the charger!
FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2016
Today the seniors practiced a Multiple Choice exam over Hamlet. Then we completed a film comparison while looking at different productions of Hamlet.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the different film productions.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be working on your Hamlet data sheet.
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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 27, 2016
The seniors killed off Hamlet today. Well, not really, but they finished reading the play and discovered which characters survive and which don't. We also talked about the word play or puns used in the gravedigger scene. Then we practiced writing a plan of attack for a Q3 prompt about the play.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Finish reading the play.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None.
MONDAY, JANUARY 25, 2016
The seniors read Act IV today and looked at two different interpretations of crazy Ophelia.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act IV.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None!
THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2016
The seniors read Act III scenes 1-3 together today and spent time reviewing the "To be or not to be" soliloquy.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act III.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Act III scene IV.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 19, 2016
Today the seniors discussed Act II scene II of Hamlet. We also practiced a MC test on passages from Hamlet. Then we viewed the A&E Biography video about William Shakespeare. Finally, we began reading Act III and read the famous "To be or not to be" soliloquy.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read the passages listed above.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None!
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2016
The seniors discussed the rest of Act I of Hamlet today. Then we read Act II scene I. After lunch, we had a wonderful visit with NHS graduate Conner Mitchell, who is currently attending KU. Conner answered our THOUSANDS of good questions about the AP exams, scholarships, choosing a college, academic classes at college, living in a residence hall on campus, finding friends and having fun at college, and anything else we could think of! It was a great discussion with thoughtful questions and answers.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act II scene I.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Act II scene II.
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MONDAY, JANUARY 11, 2016
The seniors discussed the ending of Death of a Salesman and viewed clips of different productions of the play, acting as the casting director, choosing their best version of Willy Loman. Next, we began the play Hamlet, reading Act I scenes 1-3 together.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act I of Hamlet.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Act I scenes 4 and 5.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
Today the seniors played Literary Terms Taboo as a review of the terms we've learned so far this year (and in previous years). Next, we discussed the rest of Act I of Death of a Salesman. Then we listened to Act II with a recorded production of the play. (On an actual record! Old School!)
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act II of the play.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish Act II and the Requiem of the play. Read the intro to Chapter 41 and take notes on the bold-faced terms for future vocab quizzes.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 5, 2016
Welcome back!! Today the seniors discussed the AP exam in May and opportunities to take a practice exam. Then we began reading Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman together.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Talk to a classmate about the possibility of taking a practice exam during the school day.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading Act I of the play.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015
FINAL EXAM DAY!!! Have a Merry Christmas and a relaxing break! See you in 2016!
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2015
The seniors used today to prepare and review for their final exam and to finish their portion of the class data sheets on our three plays.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: No one was absent! Awesome!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Take 1st lunch! Review for your final exam!!
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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2015
Today the seniors took their test over their 1st semester IRP book (Independent Reading Project).
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss Bergman ASAP to make up your IRP test.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring work to do: organizing notes for the final, doing your part of the group data sheets, reviewing literary terms on Quizlet.
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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015
The seniors finished reading Proof and watching more clips of the film version today. Next class is the IRP test!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Finish reading Proof.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be ready for your IRP test!! Take 1st lunch on Friday.
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MONDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2015
Today the seniors reviewed briefly for their final exam before beginning to read Proof aloud together.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act I of Proof.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the intro to chapter 42. Finish your IRP book for the test on Friday!!
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2015
The seniors discussed Act II of A Doll's House before viewing a production of Act III. Then we took a vocabulary quiz over the literary terms from chapters 36-40. We also drew slips for our responsibilities for the group Data Sheets over the three plays we're reading this quarter.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act III of A Doll's House. See Miss B. for your slip for the Data Sheets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the intro to Chapter 41.
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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2015
Today the seniors discussed the play Trifles and the true story behind the play. Next, we began reading A Doll's House together.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get notes from a classmate. Read Act I of A Doll's House.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the intro to Chapter 40, and read through the end of Act II in A Doll's House.
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2015
PERFORMANCE DAY!! Today the seniors performed their short plays from Chapter 37. We also discussed the real-life story behind the play Trifles.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the true story of Trifles.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the intro to chapter 39 and the play Trifles.
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2015
Today the seniors discussed the intro to drama that they read and annotated/outlined for class. We viewed behind-the-scenes videos of two different Broadway stage productions. Then the students drew parts in five 10-minute plays. They used the rest of class to prepare their productions for Friday's class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to find out your role in the Chapter 37 plays.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring whatever costumes or props you need for your play.
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015
The seniors continued their presentations today on Pride and Prejudice. We also ranked each other's practice essays on "The Flowers." Finally, we did a quick 10-minute timed essay on a DIFFERENT group's tracked device.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Be ready to present next class! Last chance!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read and annotate OR outline Chapter 36.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2015
Today the seniors presented their findings as they tracked a literary device throughout Pride and Prejudice.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Be ready to present on Monday!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read and annotate/outline chapter 36. This is due on the 18th.
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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2015
The seniors became AP Readers today and learned about the "norming process" that Readers go through. They scored sample essays and saw examples of student essays that earned all scores, from 0 to 9. Next, they met with their partners to plan and finalize their presentations over tracked devices in Pride and Prejudice.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the norming process and the sample essays we saw.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be ready to present!
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2015
Today the seniors participated in the Netherfield Ball! To wrap up our study of Pride and Prejudice, I taught the seniors a (fake) Regency Era dance. Then we drank tea out of real tea cups and ate snacks with cloth napkins. While enjoying our treats, we gossiped about the characters and the end of the book, just as the characters do.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Kick themselves for missing such an awesome day! :)
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Begin to finalize your presentation on your tracked device.
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2015
The seniors discussed chapters 44 through 51 of P&P today. We looked at Mr. Collins's letter to the Bennets and wrote a "plan of attack" or outline for an essay on this prompt. Next, we looked at the piano scene at Pemberly and an excellent essay written about the film's use of costumes and music to reinforce the themes of the scene. Finally, students worked in groups to create a short multiple-choice exam over an excerpt from the novel.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Talk to a classmate about the essay I read about costumes and music.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading the book! Take 1st lunch on Friday!
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2015
Today the seniors discussed chapters 23 through 43 of Pride and Prejudice. We viewed the two different film interpretations of Darcy's proposal to Elizabeth while analyzing Elizabeth's arguments for refusing him and Darcy's answer to each of those arguments. Next, students met with their partners to compare notes on the tracking devices project.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check in with your partner.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read through chapter 51. Expect another Reading Check Quiz!
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2015
The seniors wrote their essays in response to the three practice essay prompts today.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up the practice exam packet and write the three essays.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapters 23 through 43.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2015
The seniors began taking a full practice AP exam today. We took the Multiple Choice exam and scored it. Then we began looking at the three essay prompts. The students will write all three essays during class on Tuesday.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the practice exam from your tub folder. Take the MC exam and check answers with Miss B. or a classmate. Start reading and thinking about the three prompts so you are ready to write on Tuesday.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be reading chapters 23 through 43 in P&P. Take 1st lunch on Tuesday.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2015
Today the seniors discussed the first 22 chapters of Pride and Prejudice and watched comparison clips from different film interpretations. We also took a practice MC exam over a P&P passage that describes the character of Mr. Collins.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Take 1st lunch for the next two classes! Be reading Chapters 23 through 43, due Nov. 2nd.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2015
The seniors spent part of today reviewing Close Reading skills with a short story called "The Chaser." Then they read the creative writing stories of their classmates. Finally, we discussed more of the world of Pride and Prejudice.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in the Explication Essay and the Error Analysis Log for the Comp-Cont essay. Ask a classmate about the Creative Writing stories.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 14-22 in P&P.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2015
Today the seniors peer reviewed the 2nd draft of each other's Explication Essays. Then we discussed the first 13 chapters of Pride and Prejudice and compared opening scenes of two film versions of the novel.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See a group member if you'd like feedback on your 2nd draft. Meet with your partner to compare notes taken so far on your device.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Final draft of your Explication Essay is due as is your Error Analysis Log for the Comparison-Contrast essay.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2015
The seniors looked at student responses to the Q2 prompt Johnny Got His Gun and ranked them, using the rubric. They also assigned themselves scores. :) Next, we began reading Pride and Prejudice together and tracking Jane Austen's use of devices throughout the book.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapters 1-13. Bring one copy of your 2nd draft of the Explication Essay.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2015
Today the seniors had a Writers' Workshop over the 1st drafts of their Explication Essays. Next, we reviewed tips for the essay portion of the AP Lit exam and took a practice Q2 exam.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the Q2 prompt Johnny Got His Gun and give yourself 40 minutes to read, annotate, and write the essay. Exchange drafts back with your group members (check your tub file for you essay drafts).
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Creative Writing stories are DUE! 3-pages minimum and ready to be displayed/shared with the world. :)
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2015
The seniors wrapped up our study of short stories today with one last AP-level short story. They worked with a partner to complete a 4T chart (textual quote, technique or literary device used, topic, and overall theme) over one of these three stories: p. 709 "A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings" p. 725 "A Hunger Artist" p. 799 "Teenage Wasteland"
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read one of the three stories above and complete a 4T chart with at least 5 example quotes.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read your group members' drafts and give them meaningful feedback. Bring to class next time to complete our Writers' Workshop.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2015
Today the seniors determined the tone of various passages from literature. Then we discussed the reading and writing assignment on Chapter 18 on themes. Students reviewed the 4 T's chart as a tool to determine the theme of a story. We also looked at an article on "Writing Viruses," a humorous view of cliched writing styles that just need to stop! :) Finally, the students worked on their Creative Writing stories.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring 5 copies of the 1st draft of your Explication Essay.
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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
The seniors worked on their EAL today: the Error Analysis Log, a writing bootcamp exercise that helps students identify and correct errors in their writing. We also took a vocab quiz over the literary terms in chapters 15 through 17.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the EAL instructions and example (green). Retrieve your paper either physically or electronically, and ask Miss B. for more help as needed. See Miss B. to make up your vocab quiz.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 18. Write a thesis, claims, evidence AND one of the body/supporting paragraphs.
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2015
Today, the seniors looked at tone, motif, and archetypes in the short stories they read and in Veggie Tales. :) Yep, we viewed a Veggie Tales short and listed the archetypes contained within. Seniors also worked on their creative writing stories.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your thesis, claims and evidence. Pick up a copy of the Tone Classification packet from the red pocket, and complete part 1.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 17 (no thesis writing this time). Data Sheets are DUE over the two summer reading novels.
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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015
The seniors discussed point of view today and looked at a few examples of authors playing with POV in their poems and stories. Next, we reviewed strong Question 2 thesis statements. Then I shared with the seniors one of my favorite short stories, "The Yellow Wallpaper" by Charlotte Perkins Gilman. We looked at a few videos inspired by the story.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read "The Yellow Wallpaper" in your books (p. 421).
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 16 and bring a thesis, claims, and evidence over one of the stories in that chapter.
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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2015
Today the seniors peer reviewed each other's thesis plus claims/evidence over a chapter 13 or 14 story. Next, we review the five methods of characterization and looked at how they were used in these stories to create characters. We then took a vocabulary quiz over the literary terms in Chapters 12-14. Finally, students worked on creating character and defining setting in their creative writing stories.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your thesis statement and claims/evidence. See Miss B. to make-up the vocabulary quiz. Work on your CW story.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 15.
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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2015
The seniors discussed the stories in Chapters 11 and 12 and created plot diagrams. Then we peer reviewed our thesis statements and reviewed the concept of claims and evidence. Finally, we worked on our creative writing stories.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your thesis statement. Ask a classmate about Smokey the Bear and his poem.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapters 13 and 14 and bring a thesis and claims/evidence.
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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2015
Today the seniors finished the consensus activity over the practice MC exam. Then we took a vocab "quiz" as a class over the literary terms from Chapters 9-11. Next, the students reviewed the SAS Curriculum Pathways site, an online service for review and revising written work. Finally, the seniors worked on beginning their own creative writing stories through which they'll practice some of the literary devices we'll be studying.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your final draft of your essay ASAP. Check with a classmate for the correct answers to the practice MC exam. Begin writing a creative story.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 12 and bring a thesis over one of the stories (IF you haven't already turned a thesis in).
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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2015
The seniors peer reviewed each other's 2nd drafts of the Comparison-Contrast essay. We looked at a few proofreading/editing tools and resources. Then we started the Consensus Activity, a group activity that helps students identify the multiple-choice questions that challenge them. We will continue this activity during our next class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate if they will peer review your 2nd draft.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Final draft of the essay is DUE! Read chapter 11 and bring your first thesis statement. Sign up for a Quizlet membership (search for user "MissBergman"; icon is a kitten!). Click on this link: https://quizlet.com/join/RxCJDYVhF
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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2015
Today the APEs took a quiz over the literary terms in Chapter 9. Next, we shared our Twitter Fiction stories. After lunch, we took a practice AP MC (multiple choice) exam. We'll discuss our answers and the types of questions that AP asks in our next class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to make up the lit term quiz. Turn in your Twitter Fiction story. See Miss B. to get a copy of the practice AP exam to take at home (1 hour).
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring the 2nd draft of your essay. (One copy only)
The APEs conducted their first Writers' Workshop today, gaining valuable feedback from their group members on the first draft of their essays. Next, we discussed revision ideas and looked at a sample essay with good use of textual evidence. We also discussed the stories we read in Chapter 10 and identified a theme of each story.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Exchanged commented-upon drafts with your group members (check your tub file for your drafts).
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 9 and create a Twitter fiction story (140 characters or fewer).
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2015
The seniors exchanged rough drafts of their Comparison-Contrast essays with group members. We discussed things to watch for as students read and comment on each other's papers, and we talked about the procedure and guidelines of a Writers' Workshop, in which students will participate in our next class. Next, we talked about our study of Short Stories and how we'll work on writing strong thesis statements and building toward a plan of attack for an essay exam.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: No one was absent! :)
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 10. Read and comment upon your classmates' drafts.
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MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2015
Today the seniors looked at essays written for the AP exam on The Street prompt. Using the rubric, students decided on a score for each essay. We discussed our reasons for the scores we gave. Then we looked at the actual scores the essays received and the AP Readers' explanation for those scores. NHS students then recorded two notes to themselves about how to improve their next timed essay. Next, we looked at THEME and a method for determining theme called The Four T's: text, technique, topic, theme. Students practiced on poems by Frost and Millay.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Have a classmate explain the Four T's to you; we'll be completing more in the future. Turn in your practice essay on The Street.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring five printed copies of your rough draft: one for Miss B. and for each of your group members (and you). Rough Drafts should be at least 1 1/2 pages long.
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THURSDAY, AUGUST 27, 2015
The seniors practiced the skill of Close Reading today by examining two different Question 2 prompts from past AP Lit exams. First, we read a selection from Viramontes' novel Under the Feet of Jesus. We looked at the connection Estrella makes between tools and the alphabet. Next, we discussed the Comparison-Contrast essay assignment and our 1st Quarter "Writing Bootcamp." Then we walked through the process of reading, annotating, planning, and writing an essay over a prompt from the novel The Street by Ann Petry. Next class, we'll look at actual student essays written for this exam question and the scores they received.__
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: No one was absent today! Yay!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 7 and 8. Begin thinking about topics and thesis statements for your essay.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 25, 2015
Today the seniors wrapped up their presentations on their summer reading projects. Next, we began our review of the concept of Close Reading. We practiced on two poems: "Spring and Fall" and "The Whipping Boy." Next, we examined the short-short story, "All About Suicide." We'll practice more during our next class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up the lilac and salmon handouts on close reading from the red pockets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 4 and 5 and review "Everyday Use."
FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015
The seniors learned about their Independent Reading Project (or IRP) today. Each semester they will choose an additional AP-worthy novel to read on their own. This will give them two more choices for the AP Exam. Next, we discussed the concept of a literary canon and looked at a few examples of canons. Then they just exploded with questions for me about the AP Exam! :) So we went with it! I gave the students an overview of the AP English exam and answered their questions as they thought of them. Finally, we returned to our presentations over the summer reading books.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up an IRP assignment sheet (green) in the red pockets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 3 and the selections mentioned in the same essays.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2015
Today the seniors presented their projects over the summer reading assignment. We also went over the expectations for collaborative discussion, looked at the college-style syllabus for 1st quarter, and saw another example of an allusion presentation.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up two handouts from the red pockets: Collaborative Discussion and the college syllabus.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read p. 36-42 and the three short stories mentioned in the student essays.
MONDAY, AUGUST 17, 2015
The seniors signed up for Bell Ringer presentations of Allusions and saw example presentations. We went over the high school syllabus for the class and reviewed a few Training Topics. Next, we handed out textbooks and discussed outlining, the assignment for next class. We also reviewed Literary Data Sheets and set deadlines for the Jane Eyre and The Kite Runner data sheets. Finally, the seniors took their Summer Reading test.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. ASAP to arrange to take the make-up summer reading test and to check out a textbook. Pick up copies of the syllabus and Data Sheet assignment sheet from the red folder in the red pockets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be ready to present your summer reading project. Read Chapters 1 and 2 (to p. 36), and outline them. See the following sample outline to get you started:
Today the seniors learned more about our schedule for the first full week of class. Then we played "The Animal Game" and discussed how those skills are also relevant to AP English class (in a manner of speaking). Next, we discussed the first few assignments: Student Info Sheet and the Literary Data Sheets over the summer novels.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. for information on the first assignments and the schedule for next week.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be ready for your summer reading test!
AP Daily Summaries from Semester 2 (2014-2015)
MONDAY, MAY 11, 2015
The seniors' last day of AP English!!! We finished sharing our Beowulf boasts and our wanted posters. Then we watched more of the film version of the epic poem Beowulf.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your Beowulf project AND all textbooks and novels ASAP!!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Behave yourself until Graduation!! :) See you there!
THURSDAY, MAY 7, 2015
The APEs discussed the process of the AP Exam from yesterday. (We're not allowed to discuss the content of the test.) Then they presented their Beowulf projects: their boasts and wanted posters. As time allowed, we watch some of the film version of the epic poem.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in their Beowulf projects ASAP!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring all textbooks and iPads (with cases and chargers) to turn in.
TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015
Today the seniors studied the Old English language and listened to "The Lord's Prayer" and passages of Beowulf in this language. Next, we finished reading the passages from the epic poem. Finally, students worked on their LAST ASSIGNMENT IN HIGH SCHOOL ENGLISH!!! (They are a little excited about this.) This project is the Beowulf boast and wanted poster that students will present in class on Thursday.
BEST OF LUCK TO ALL THE APES WHO ARE TAKING THE AP ENGLISH LIT EXAM ON WEDNESDAY!!! MAY THE ODDS (AND THE #APMAGICPENCILS) BE EVER YOUR FAVOR!!!!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up copies of the Beowulf assignment sheets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Study for the exam! Get some sleep! Finish your two Beowulf projects and be ready to present.
FRIDAY, MAY 1, 2015
We reviewed for the AP English Lit exam today, going over the format of the exam and options for studying. I shared with the students a few handouts that they received early this year that would be good for review. We played literary terms Taboo to review all the terms we've learned this year. Finally, in a secret ceremony I can't discuss here, I handed out the Magic AP Pencils for the students to use on their exam.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. for any exam review.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Review for the AP Exam!
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29, 2015
Today the seniors began their study of Beowulf by discussing the Anglo-Saxon culture and literary features and reading the first few sections of the epic poem. We also looked at the introduction to the film version of the poem.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read p. 18 to 38 in the green literature textbooks (see Miss B. to check one out). Pick up copies of the Beowulf assignments: wanted poster and boast. They can be found in the red pockets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Get ready to hand in your red textbook.
MONDAY, APRIL 27, 2015
The seniors presented their Book Talks today over their Literature Circle novels. Very entertaining and, in one case, delicious!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with their group members about the Lit Circle project and your part of it.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Prepare to hand in your red textbooks. Clean it out, take a selfie with it, say goodbye.
THURSDAY, APRIL 23, 2015
Today the seniors took the test over their 2nd semester Independent Reading Project novel. As time allowed, they worked on finalizing their Literature Circles project, as Book Talks are due on Monday.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. ASAP to schedule your make-up IRP test. Check with your groups about Lit Circle tasks.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Book Talks are DUE along with all other Lit Circle tasks.
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TUESDAY, APRIL 21, 2015
The seniors worked on their Literature Circles project today.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your Lit Circle group members to see what you missed and what you can be doing to assist with the project.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Work on your Literature Circles project. Be ready for your IRP test!! Take 1st lunch on Thursday.
THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2015
The seniors worked on their Literature Circles project today.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your Lit Circle group members to see what you missed and what you can be doing to assist with the project.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Work on your Literature Circles project.
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TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 2015
The seniors worked on their Literature Circles project today.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your Lit Circle group members to see what you missed and what you can be doing to assist with the project.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Work on your Literature Circles project.
FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 2015
Today was the seniors' first day to work in their Literature Circles as they study a "modern-day classic."
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your Lit Circle group members to see what you missed and what you can be doing to assist with the project.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Work on your Literature Circles project.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015
SENIOR SKIP DAY!!! Either that, or a whole lotta seniors got sick suddenly today. :) Those who stayed worked on projects for English and other classes and enjoyed the 2013 film version of The Great Gatsby.
ABSENT STUDENTS: B's, be sure to turn in your last thesis, claims, evidence and supporting paragraph.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: We start Literature Circles on Friday. Bring your Lit. Circle book and have read whatever pages your group decided upon.
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MONDAY, APRIL 7, 2015
Today the seniors used the poetry of Calvin and Hobbes to review key poetic terms. (Bill Watterson is quite the poet!) We also discussed the use of TP-CASTT tool to help students remember the different aspects of a poem they might analyze. We practiced this tool by working in teams to categorize our Chapter 34 poems by topic, select two poems on the same topic, complete a TP-CASTT over each, and write a thesis statement that compares/contrasts the two poems.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up the TP-CASTT handouts (2), and select a Chapter 34 poem to analyze with this tool.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 32. B's bring your thesis, claims, evidence, AND one supporting paragraph.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015
The seniors studied different forms of poetry and reviewed poetry terms. We also played with the website For Better or Verse to practice scanning (identifying rhythm) poems and figuring rhyme scheme.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the Identifying Poetic Forms worksheet, and get the answers from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 31. A's, bring your thesis, claims, evidence, AND one supporting paragraph.
MONDAY, MARCH 30, 2015
Today the seniors sketched out their Literature Circles unit schedule for the month of April. This is a student-led unit over "modern day classics" and an opportunity to practice again all the literary analysis skills they've developed this year. Next, we looked at sound devices in poetry and "dissected" a poem.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check your file folder in the tub for a copy of the assignment sheet with deadlines and projects. Ask a classmate about our dissection project.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 30. B's, bring your thesis, claims, and evidence (line #s and quotes).
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THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015
The seniors taught each other about the different schools of literary criticism today. Then we reviewed and practiced identifying different Figures of Speech in poetry.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Appendix A in the textbook. Pick up a copy of the Identifying Figures of Speech worksheet, and check with a classmate for answers.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 29. A's, bring your thesis, claims, and evidence (line #s and quotes).
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TUESDAY, MARCH 24, 2015
Today the seniors wrote Imagery poems, focusing on one of 5 senses. Then we did an activity to reveal our "lenses" when it comes to poetry. We read about schools of literary criticism, or officially accepted "lenses."
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the Lens Activity. A's, turn in your thesis statement and claims/evidence.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 28. B's, bring your thesis and claims/evidence.
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THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2015
The seniors signed up for their Literature Circles books today. They can be working on buying/borrowing the books for April. Next, we looked at bare poems, poems stripped of information like author, title and publication date. Then we layered that information back onto the poem and discussed how or if that information changed our interpretation of the poem. Then we looked at diction and syntax and rewrote a poem in a distinctly different diction and/or syntax. Finally, the B's shared their thesis statements, and the A's helped them locate claims and evidence.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: B's, turn in your thesis statements. Sign up for your Literature Circle book.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 27. A's, bring your thesis and claims/evidence.
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TUESDAY, MARCH 10, 2015
Today the seniors looked at tone words and how the tone can shift throughout a poem. We defined unknown tone words and used them to recreate famous movie quotes. Then we looked at two poems--"Jenny Kissed Me" and "The World is Too Much With Us"--and watched for shifts in tones. Next, the A's shared their thesis statements, and the B's helped them locate claims or evidence.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: A's, turn in your thesis statements.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 26. B's, bring your first thesis on a Chapter 34 poem.
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FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2015
The seniors explored the question "What makes poetry great?" today. We first looked at two poems named "Ozymandias" and tried to determine which was the famous poem. We brainstormed a list of what makes a poem/poet "great." Then we read an article entitled "The Great(ness) Game" that explores this very issue. Finally, we looked at a series of poem pairs--one famous and considered "great," one not so much--and made our guesses, checked our answers, and discussed why one poem might be considered better than another.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the poem pairs. What was the difference between the two poems by Keats? Choose one of your four original poems to have displayed in the hallway.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 25. A's, bring your first thesis on a Chapter 34 poem.
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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4, 2015
The seniors shared their original poetry with their groups today and also wrote two additional poems: the "I am from" childhood poem and the Found Poem with words located in magazines.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Make sure you've written at least two original poems. See Miss B. for more help.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 24.
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MONDAY, MARCH 2, 2015
Today the seniors learned about their choices of books for our Literature Circles in April. I gave a brief description of each book, and students votes for their top three choices. We also began our Poetry unit today, and students will be writing two original poems for our next class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a Lit Circle ballot from Miss B, do any research you need to select your top three titles, and turn in your ballot ASAP. Pick up the Poetry unit assignment sheet AND the schedule for the unit (two separate handouts this time).
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 22 and 23, and bring two original poems to share---one regular poem and one concrete poem.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2015
Today the seniors completed the film version of the novel One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, and we looked at the Academy Award acceptance speeches of the protagonist and antagonist of the story. We also looked at allusions to the novel in recent pop culture. As time allowed, students worked on the Data Sheet over the novel.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Do your part of the Data Sheet.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring your red literature textbooks. ----------
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2015
The seniors discussed the end of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest today, looking at themes, motifs, conflicts, and resolution. We conducted a silent discussion: students recorded their ideas on the BIG questions of the novel and passed them on, without seeing their classmates' comments. After everyone had a chance to record his/her own ideas, we gathered to look at all the responses and look for trends. We also discussed using the novel for the AP exams and Q3 topics that would be good fits.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Work on the Data Sheet.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Journals are DUE
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2015
Today the seniors finished writing their MC exams and exchanged them with another group. We discussed strong MC questions and what we learned by trying to write MC questions. We also viewed clips of the film version of the novel.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Keep reading!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish the book for next class.
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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015
The seniors voted on their favorite magnetic poetry by the juniors, awarding 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places. Then we discussed key quotes from the middle section of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. Next, we began writing AP-style multiple choice exams over close reading passages from the novel. We'll continue this work next class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with their group members on the progress made on the MC exam. What can you do to help?
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Keep reading and journaling!
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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2015
Today the seniors created literary Conversation Hearts and did Speed Dating, an AP review activity.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about our activities for today.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Keep reading and journaling!
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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2015
The seniors led their classmates in a close reading of five different passages from One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. We looked at Chief Bromden's use of the metaphors of "The Combine" and "the fog" to explain how the mental hospital is "curing" patients. We also viewed the beginning of the film interpretation of the text and noticed the significant differences between the novel and the film.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Talk to a classmate about the film version of the book. How do the discrepancies change their feelings toward the characters?
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Keep reading and journaling! Your Hamlet data sheet is due next class.
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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2015
Today the seniors took a full 3-hour practice AP exam: multiple choice and three essays. If students were able, they stayed through 7th hour to write the essays. If they needed to attend their 7th hour class, they took the essay prompts with them to complete on their own, if they like.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. if you'd like a copy of the practice exam.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read and journal over One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2015
The seniors began One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest today. We discussed the journaling assignment as well as the schedule for February. Then we began reading, noting the unreliable narrator of Chief Bromden. Students continued reading and began their journals.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to check out a book. Pick up a copy of the assignment sheet from the red pockets. Turn in your field trip form for Monday's 3-hour practice exam.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Keep reading and journaling for your first deadline next week.
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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2015
Today the seniors finished up the film comparison sheet, looking at the final duel scene in the Zeffirelli production. Then they took two practice AP exams over other Shakespearean texts, as long as we have his language fresh in our heads.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up copies of the practice exams, if you like. Write "absent" on your film comparison sheet, and turn it in.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Work on your Data Sheet for Hamlet. **Bring your field trip form with your 7th hour teacher's signature.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, 2015
The seniors wrapped up their study of Hamlet today, completing practice MC exams and comparing thesis statements and plans of attack for practice Q3 essay prompts. We also completed a film comparison, looking at the Zeffirelli and the Branaugh Hamlets.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your Q3 prompt with thesis and plan of attack.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None! You can be working on your Data Sheet.
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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28, 2015
Today the seniors discussed four major characters and how they contribute to the plot and theme of the play. Then we read Act V, the final act of the play.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act V.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Choose one of the two Q3 prompts, and sketch out a plan of attack or outline for the essay, using Hamlet as your selected play.
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MONDAY, JANUARY 26, 2015
The seniors discussed the rest of Act III before reading Act IV and discussing Crazy Ophelia. We looked at different actresses' interpretations of Ophelia's insanity.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with a classmate for notes on notable quotes for your data sheet. Read Act IV.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None! We finished Act IV together in class.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 22, 2015
Today, the seniors graded our practice MC exam and generally agreed the book's answers were wrong. Or dumb. Or both. :) Then we read Act III scenes 1 and 2 of Hamlet and looked at various interpretations of the famous "To be or not to be..." soliloquy.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with a classmate about the answers for the MC practice exam. Read Act III scenes 1 and 2.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading Act III.
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TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015
With the sub today, the seniors took a practice AP-style multiple choice exam over a passage from Hamlet. Then they took at practice AP-style essay exam over a passage fromHamlet. As time allowed, they watched part of the A&E Biography video on William Shakespeare.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. if you'd like the practice AP exams we took today.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Make sure you've finished reading Act II.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2015
Today the seniors discussed their sub day lesson for next Tuesday (I'll be at the 4th of 4 required days of Adaptive Schools training at the district office.). Then we talked took a practice AP-style multiple choice exam over a passage from Act I of Hamlet and practiced annotation another passage. We then continued reading Act II together, with the BBC radio production.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act II. See Miss B. if you'd like the practice AP exams we took today.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading Act II.
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MONDAY, JANUARY 12, 2015
The seniors discussed the ending of Death of a Salesman today and watched three different actors portraying Willy Loman. Next, we began Hamlet, reading the first two scenes of the play together.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to check out a Hamlet paperback, if you wish. Read Act I scenes 1 and 2.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the rest of Act I.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 8, 2015
Today the seniors discussed Act I of Death of a Salesman and then read DOAS Act II with a genuine vinyl record version of the play. (Very old school!)
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read the rest of the play.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish the play, as necessary.
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TUESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2015
The seniors discussed their Christmas Break plays in groups and shared summaries with the rest of the class. We also viewed trailers of film/play productions of the plays. Next, we began reading Death of a Salesman.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your notes on motifs and themes of your break play. See Miss B. to sign up for Allusion presentations during Bell Ringers. Read Act I of Death of a Salesman.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading Act I of Death of a Salesman.
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CHRISTMAS BREAK ASSIGNMENT:
Read one of the following plays and take notes on two themes and two motifs (see your assignment sheet for a list of possible themes and motifs). The Glass Menagerie A Raisin in the Sun The Importance of Being Earnest
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
FINAL EXAM!!
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2014
Today the seniors worked on their EAL (Error Analysis Log), their DS on P&P (Data Sheet on Pride and Prejudice), and prepped their notes for their final exam.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: No one was absent! It's a Christmas miracle!!! :) :) :) :) :)
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Study and prep for your final exam! The P&P Data Sheet is also due.
AP Daily Summaries from Semester 1 (2014-2015)
CHRISTMAS BREAK ASSIGNMENT:
Read one of the following plays and take notes on two themes and two motifs (see your assignment sheet for a list of possible themes and motifs). The Glass Menagerie A Raisin in the Sun The Importance of Being Earnest
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
FINAL EXAM!!
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2014
Today the seniors worked on their EAL (Error Analysis Log), their DS on P&P (Data Sheet on Pride and Prejudice), and prepped their notes for their final exam.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: No one was absent! It's a Christmas miracle!!! :) :) :) :) :)
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Study and prep for your final exam! The P&P Data Sheet is also due.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2014
The seniors took their test today over their Independent Reading Project (IRP) novel. They also selected their plays to read over Christmas Break and got started on the assignment.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. immediately to arrange to make up the IRP test during Seminar on Monday.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Prep for your final exam.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2014
The seniors finished reading the wonderful play Proof by David Auburn today. We also viewed some of the film interpretation of the play.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act II of Proof.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2014
Today the seniors went over what will be on the final exam next week. We also drew slips for our group data sheets over the three plays we're read this semester. Next, we took parts and began reading Proof together.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to find out your assigned play for the group data sheet. Read Proof through the end of Act I.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the intro to Chapter 42.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2014
The seniors reviewed literary terms from our drama study so far. We also reviewed a little for the final exam (more on that next Monday). Then we watched Act III of A Doll's House and compared it to the text.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act III of A Doll's House.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the intro to Chapter 41 (and 40, if need be).
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2014
Today the seniors discussed the play Trifles and the playwright's use of symbols and ambiguity. Then we began reading A Doll's House, taking parts and enjoying macaroons, a key motif of the play.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Acts I and II of A Doll's House.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish Acts I and II of A Doll's House. Read the intro to Chapter 40. Data Sheet over Pride and Prejudice is due.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2014
The seniors performed their Chapter 37 plays today---very entertaining!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read the Chapter 37 plays.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read intro to Chapter 39 and the play Trifles, based on a real-life murder in Iowa.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2014
Today the seniors wrapped up their Pride and Prejudice presentations. Then we read and ranked each other's essays on the Q1 prompt on Alice Walker's "The Flowers." Students will receive back their classmates' scores and comments on their essays. Next, we began our discussion of drama with a look at Chapter 36's background information on the development of drama and theaters through history. Finally, the seniors drew slips for their roles and responsibilities for the Chapter 37 plays that we will perform next class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with Miss B. ASAP to find out your role in the Chapter 37 plays.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read through and prep your Chapter 37 play.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2014
The seniors continued their presentations on literary devices in Austen's novel.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Be ready to present on Wednesday: your last chance.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2014
Today the seniors presented their findings as they tracked Jane Austen's use of literary devices through the novel Pride and Prejudice.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Make sure you are ready to present!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be reading and annotating/outlining Chapter 36. P&P data sheet is due December 4th.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2014
The seniors met with their partners today to plan their presentation over tracked devices in Pride and Prejudice. Presentations will be Thursday and Monday. Next, we took on the role of the AP Readers and ranked sample essays. This will help us prepare to rank each other's essays next week.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your partner.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be reading and annotating/outlining Chapter 36. P&P data sheet is due December 4th.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014
Today was the Netherfield Ball!! To wrap up our study of Pride and Prejudice, seniors took on the identities of characters from the novel and played cheesy party games. We also DANCED!! We took an Irish gig ("The Waves of Tory") and turned it into a (sort of) stately Regency Era dance. Then we ate refreshments and gossiped about the end of the book, as the characters would. Finally, we compared film versions of the end of the book.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate to teach you "The Waves of Tory"! :)
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2014
Today the APEs finished writing their MC practice quizzes over passages from Pride and Prejudice. We exchanged quizzes with other groups and took them, noting both our understanding of the novel AND our ability to write AP-style MC questions. Next, we read an essay about the use of costuming and musical score to enhance the conflicts and themes in the 1995 film version of the novel. Finally, we took a practice Q2 essay exam over Mr. Collins's "comforting" letter to the Bennets.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check in with your partner on your tracking devices project.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish the novel! Come to class ready to dance! :)
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2014
The seniors discussed the next chunk of Pride and Prejudice, looking specifically at Darcy's failed proposal to Elizabeth and her rejection. By looking at Darcy's response and Elizabeth's reflection on it, we examined the external and internal conflicts of our protagonists. Finally, seniors started writing their own multiple-choice quizzes over passages from the novel.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check in with your partner on your tracking devices project.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read P&P chapters 44-51.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2014
Today the seniors finished taking the practice AP exam with three essay prompts. We voted on which of the three we want evaluated and scored by our classmates during a future class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Write the three essays and bring them to Miss B. pronto if you want feedback from your classmates.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read P&P chapters 23-43.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2014
The seniors began a full practice AP exam today. We took the Multiple-Choice section and then graded it. Then we began the three essays, which we will continue next class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Stop by Miss Bergman's room, pick up a copy of the MC practice exam, and take it at home or during Seminar. It takes one hour.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Keep reading P&P. We'll discuss the next chunk in class next week. Remember: 1st lunch on Thursday.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014
Today the seniors finished our discussion of the short story "The Chaser." We then spent time discussing the next section of Pride and Prejudice, which includes the introduction of Wickham and Mr. Collins. We did a quick practice MC quiz over a passage involving Mr. Collins. Then we viewed one film's interpretation of the all-important Netherfield Ball scene.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your Error Analysis Log. Check with your partner regarding tracking devices in P&P.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Keep reading! Remember: 1st lunch all next week
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2014
Mrs. Henning presented information to us today on two different ways of checking out ebooks. We then discussed the importance of dancing in the Regency era and to the characters of Pride and Prejudice. We also took notes on major themes of P&P to consider as we track devices. Next, we had a reading half-hour to experience each other's creative writing stories and give some kind feedback. Finally, we did a close reading of a short story called "The Chaser."
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your Explication Essay and your Error Analysis Log. Check with your partner or a classmate for notes on the themes of the novel.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 14-22.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014
Today the seniors peer reviewed the 2nd draft of their Explication Essays. Then we turned our attention to Pride and Prejudice, discussing the first 13 chapters of the book and looking at Austen's use of literary devices. We also discussed the Regency era and some of the class issues that affect the characters and conflicts.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Send Miss B. the 2nd draft of your essay. Get a peer to review it for you, if you like. Check in with your partner on tracking devices.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Final draft of Explication Essay AND the Error Analysis Log are DUE.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2014
The seniors looked at student essays written on the Johnny... prompt back in 2007. We ranked the essays using the 9-point rubric and then checked our scores against the actual scores received by those essays. Next, we began our Pride and Prejudice unit which involves tracking Austen's use of literary devices throughout the novel. Students will present their findings at the end of the unit.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss Bergman to check out a P&P book (or iPad..??). Pick up a copy of the assignment sheet from the red pockets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapters 1-13 of P&P and take notes on Austen's use of your device.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2014
Today the seniors had a Writers' Workshop over the first draft of their Explication Essays. We then took a practice Q2 exam on a passage from Johnny Got His Gun, after discussing the overall set-up of the AP Exam and reviewing Miss Bergman's and our own tips to ourselves (after our last practice exam) on how to do well on an essay exam.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get your group members' essays back to them with your brilliant comments ASAP. Pick up the copies of your own draft from your tub file. Pick up a copy of the handout Things To Tell My Students from the red pockets, along with a copy of the Q2 exam prompt. Give yourself 40 minutes to write the essay. Bring it to class next time.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish your Creative Writing story and bring it to class.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2014
About half of the seniors were gone to various activities, field trips, and sports today! But the few remaining worked hard on their group members' 1st drafts of the Explication Essay. They also read a short story from Chapter 21 and completed a 4T's chart (text, technique, topic, theme).
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get copies of your 1st draft to Miss Bergman AND to your group members. Pick up your group members' papers from your tub folder. Read one of these short stories and complete a 4T's chart on it.
Three stories to choose from: p. 709 "A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings" p. 725 "A Hunger Artist" p. 799 "Teenage Wasteland"
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read and comment upon your group members' drafts.
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2014
Today the seniors workshopped their thesis statements, claims and evidence, and first paragraph. We also practiced identifying the tone of selected passages. Finally, we worked on writing our Creative Writing stories (due on Oct 13th) and the 1st draft of their Explication Essays.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check your Tone Classification answers with a classmate. Turn in your final thesis, claims, evidence, and paragraph to the red tray.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Write the first draft of your Explication Essay, and bring copies for your group members and Miss Bergman. Be sure to write your Top Three issues across the top of the front page.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2014
The seniors practiced and then took a test over their literary terms from Chapters 15-17 on Quizlet. Next, we looked at their Comparison-Contrast essays and learned how to complete an Error Analysis Log. This tool will help students improve their writing over the course of the next few weeks. Students used the remaining class time to work on their EALs, their Creative Writing stories, or their reading assignment (and thesis writing) for next class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Retrieve your graded Comparison-Contrast essay either from the file tub in the back of the classroom OR from the shared class folder in Google Drive. Pick up a copy of the Error Analysis Log (green) from the red pockets. Ask Miss Bergman for help deciphering her comments and notes. :)
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 18 and write a thesis, claims, evidence, AND the first paragraph of the essay over a short story in Chapter 18. Be sure to use the NEW theme-focused thesis formula on the Short Story Unit assignment sheet.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2014
Today the seniors discussed the stories in Chapter 16 and looked at tone. We viewed a clip of Veggie Tales and identified archetypes. Finally, we worked on our own creative writing stories.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the Tone Classification packet from the red pockets. Turn in your thesis, claims and evidence.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 17.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2014
The seniors looked at point of view today, looking at examples of when an author has changed the point of view of a poem, short story, or novel. We then read "The Yellow Wallpaper" by Charlotte Perkins Gilman and viewed two short video clips based on the story: one a PBS film production, and the other a stop-motion retelling with paper art. Finally, we looked at how POV was working in our own creative writing stories.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read "The Yellow Wallpaper" in your literature textbooks.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 16 and bring a thesis, claims and evidence on a story.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2014
Today the seniors shared their thesis and claims/evidence over their Ch. 13 and 14 story. They also identified the methods of characterization used for one of their characters AND the setting of the story. We quizzed ourselves on the literary terms mentioned in these two chapters. Finally, we worked on our creative writing stories, fleshing out the characters and establishing setting.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your thesis and claims/evidence ASAP. Work on your Creative Writing story.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 15.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2014
The seniors began the process of writing their 2nd formal out-of-class essay today, the Explication Essay. We looked at our thesis statements over Chapter 12 stories and reviewed the difference between Claims and Evidence. We also talked at length about sentence variety in writing and used an online tool (SAS Curriculum Pathways) to evaluate our own writing. Finally, the students worked on the plot of their creative writing stories.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your thesis statement ASAP. Pick up an assignment sheet for the Explication Essay and a handout on Sentence Variety. Ask a classmate about the difference between Claims and Evidence. Work on the plot of your creative writing story.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 13 and bring a thesis and claims or evidence on a story.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014
Today the seniors looked at specific questions from the practice MC exam we took last week. We quizzed ourselves over the literary terms in chapters 9, 10, and 11. We also took time to put these fiction skills into practice in our own creative short stories.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in the final draft of your Comparison-Contrast essay. Turn in your Ch. 11 thesis statement. Start a creative short story by jotting down your ideas.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 12 and bring a thesis on a story.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2014
The seniors peer reviewed the 2nd draft of their Comparison-Contrast essays today, getting valuable feedback for the drafting of their final drafts. We also discussed the short story "Hills Like White Elephants" from Chapter 9. We also looked at the practice MC exam the students took on Wednesday and attempted to come to consensus on our answers before hearing the real answers.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate for the answers for the MC practice exam. Get a group member to review your paper, if you wish.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Final draft of the Comparison-Contrast essay is DUE. Read chapter 11, and bring a thesis statement over a Chapter 11 story.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2014
Today the seniors had a substitute (I had training at the district office all afternoon) and took a quiz over the literary terms in Chapter 9. After lunch, they took a full AP Multiple Choice practice exam. We'll grade these together in a future class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to make up the lit term quiz. Pick up a copy of the MC practice exam and give yourself an hour to take it.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring a copy of your 2nd draft to peer review in class.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2014
The seniors held their first Writers' Workshop today, discussing each others' first drafts and giving feedback for the writing of the 2nd draft. We looked over the 9-point rubric used on the AP exam and Miss Bergman's unofficially 9-point rubric. We also discussed ideas for revision, with a demonstration with Lego pieces and a sample student paper with the appropriate amount of textual evidence. We also discussed the Chapter 10 short-short stories and reviewed the 4 T tool. As time allowed, be began writing our Twitter Fiction stories and reading Chapter 9 for next time.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up your drafts from the tub file. Give your group members their drafts with your comments. Pick up copies of the official and unofficial rubrics from the red pockets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 9, taking notes on the bold-faced terms as you go, and write a Twitter Fiction story to share with the class.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2014
Today the APEs discussed the expectations of a Writers' Workshop and exchanged 1st drafts of their Comparison-Contrast Essay with their group members. We also reflected on our own writing process in writing this draft. Next, we continued our discussion of the Millay poems on death and noticed how the topic may be the same but the theme of each poem is quite different. We then talked about our short story study and how we'll practice writing strong thesis statements and plans of attack for potential essays over these stories, two more tools for our toolbox.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get copies of your 1st draft to your group members and to Miss Bergman, but recognize that you may not get any feedback since your paper was received late. Pick up your group members' drafts from your tub folder. Pick up a copy of the Writers' Workshop guidelines and the Short Story unit calendar from the red pockets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 10, and read and comment upon your group members' drafts.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2014
The seniors looked today at sample student essays from the Q2 passage on The Street. We learned, very quickly, that handwriting is important! The Reader can't reward you for what he/she can't read! We also discussed other strengths and weaknesses of these essays and then looked at our own essays and scored them. Next, we learned a technique for identifying the theme of a passage and the techniques used by the author to make that theme apparent to the readers. We practiced as a class and in small groups on poems by Robert Frost and Edna St. Vincent Millay.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate to explain the 4 T's to you. Turn in your practice essay on The Street.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring five copies of your first draft of the Comparison-Contrast essay, one for each of your group members and one for Miss B.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 28, 2014
Today the seniors began their Writing Bootcamp. This is a writing-intensive unit that focuses on improving our skills through both in-class and out-of-class writing assignments and projects. The first out-of-class writing assignment is the Comparison-Contrast essay over one or both of the summer reading novels. In-class, we worked today on reading and understanding a Q2 prompt and fiction passage. We read and annotated a selection from Ann Petry's novel The Street. After discussing our annotations, we wrote the essay in class. Next class, we'll look at some sample student essays from the year this essay was on the exam.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up copies of the Comparison-Contrast essay assignment sheet AND the Q2: The Street passage from the red pockets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapters 7 and 8.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 26, 2014
The seniors drew topics and signed up for presentation slots for their Foster Poster assignment. Then we focused on the skill of close reading. We examined a poem "The Whipping" and a Q2 passage from the novel Under the Feet of Jesus, which led to a discussion of the theme of tools to unlock doors. Finally, students completed an Evaluation of one of the five selections (counting the three they read as homework).
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss Bergman to draw a Foster Poster topic and sign up for a presentation slot. Pick up the following from the red pockets: a copy of the Foster Poster assignment sheet, the passage from Under the Feet of Jesus, and the Evaluation Form. Complete the Evaluation Form over one of the selections.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapters 4 and 5, and review/read "Everyday Use" on p. 469.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 22, 2014
Today the seniors learned about their Independent Reading Project (or IRP), a semester-long project in which students read one AP-worthy novel outside of class. We also discussed the reading for today (3 short stories plus two sample student papers) and the summer reading novel Jane Eyre.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the IRP assignment sheet from the red pockets. Ask a classmate about our discussion of the short stories and Jane Eyre.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 3 and, as necessary, read/review the three selections mentioned (p. 216, 1180, 1176).
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 20, 2014
The seniors reviewed the expectations of a Collaborative Discussion before discussing the reading for today. We looked at different canons of literature and discussed how these canons come to be. We also spent time discussing one of our summer reading novels, The Kite Runner, while looking at clips of the film interpretation.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a Collaborative Discussion handout. Ask a classmate about our discussion of the canon and The Kite Runner.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the rest of Chapter 2, starting on page 36. Read the three stories mentioned on page 36 as well.
MONDAY, AUGUST 18, 2014
Today the seniors learned how we will handle Bell Ringers this year and signed up for their Allusion presentations. Next, we discussed outlining techniques and handed out textbooks. Then we took our first practice Q3 exam, over the summer reading novels. Finally, we visited the library for a refresher on resources available there.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask Miss B. for info on Bell Ringers, and sign up for your Allusion presentations. Check out a textbook and see this info on outlining.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 1 and 2 in the textbook and bring your outline to turn in.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 15, 2014
Welcome back!
Today the seniors played a game called The Animal Game and discussed how skills from the game transfer to English class. Next, we looked at the class syllabus and discussed the first few assignments of the year.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about The Animal Game. Pick up a copy of the class syllabus, the Student Info Sheet, and the film clips letter from the AP folder (red) in the red pockets. Also, pick up an assignment sheet for the Data Sheets over the summer novels (find a group to work with, if you like). Complete the AUP form on Infinite Campus.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Work on the Student Information Sheet, due August 26th.
AP Daily Summaries from Quarter 4 (2013-2014)
FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014 / MONDAY, MAY 12, 2014 / TUESDAY, MAY 13, 2014
Last days for the seniors!!! Before you can leave you must,
---complete the Exam Reflection and the End-of-Year Survey and turn them in to the red tray
---have Miss Bergman check your Bell Ringers and Allusions AND the list of missing materials
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See above!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Behave yourself and show up for the two required meetings/practices: Wed and Sat at 10:00. See you at Graduation!!
THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2014
EXAM DAY!!! GOOD LUCK, APES!
MONDAY, MAY 5, 2014 / TUESDAY, MAY 6, 2014/ WEDNESDAY, MAY 7, 2014
Today was review day! We reviewed the format of the AP English exam, what Readers want from our essays, the Ten Commandments of AP English, and Things Miss Bergman Learned at the AP Reading. Then students chose various review activities (MC drills, literary terms taboo, Title Twitter, Speed Dating, silly exam) to practice. And we ended with this inspirational video: 40 Inspirational Speeches in Two Minutes
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. if you want to do any of these review activities.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Review for the exam!! Get some sleep! Eat a good breakfast! Be to McKinley by 7:45 a.m. on Thursday! Good luck! May the force be with you! May the odds be ever in your favor!! Live long and prosper!!
THURSDAY, MAY 1, 2014 / FRIDAY, MAY 2, 2014
Today, the seniors presented their Beowulf Boasts. They were full of kennings, patronymics, and alliterative awesomeness. Then we viewed clips of the animated version of Beowulf.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in their Boasts. Ask a classmate about the film's changes to the story.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None. We will review for the AP exam! Bring your brains!!
TUESDAY, APRIL 29, 2014 / WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30, 2014
The focus today was on Old English, the language of Beowulf and the Anglo-Saxons. We looked at The Lord's Prayer in Old English and listened to recitations of the prayer and of passages of Beowulf in Old English. Students attempted to write their names in OE, and we identified movie quotes that had been "translated" into OE. We also deciphered modern day kennings, and read of Beowulf's final battle, with the dragon. Students will now write a Beowulf-style boast, putting all this into action.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate for a brief explanation of Old English. Read p. 42-48 in the green textbook. Pick up a copy of the Boast assignment sheet.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Work on your boast----you will have time in class to work as well. Boasts are due mid-way through class next time.
FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014 / MONDAY, APRIL 28, 2014
Today we started reading Beowulf. Dragons, swords, bloodshed---all in Old English! :) (Actually, we're reading a translation.) We discussed the features of Anglo-Saxon writing (kennings, patronymics, gnomic sentences, etc.) and read the battle with Grendel and Grendel's mother.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to check out a green lit book, and read p. 18-38.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23, 2014 / THURSDAY, APRIL 24, 2014
The seniors presented their Book Talks today, attempting to convince their classmates to read their Literature Circle books. We've seen reenactments of key scenes, heard readings of scenes, viewed clips from film versions, and enjoyed such delicacies as vegan Snickerdoodles, honey with bread and apples and parsley, Batman cupcakes, "soap," and arm cake. :)
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Rue the day they ever thought of missing AP English class! :) This was a bad day to miss!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None. We'll start Beowulf next class.
MONDAY, APRIL 21, 2014 / TUESDAY, APRIL 22, 2014
Today was the LAST DAY for the seniors to work on their Literature Circles project. Everything---including the Book Talk---is due next class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your Lit Circle to see what you need to do to catch up.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Get everything done!
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16, 2014 / THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014
The seniors worked in their Literature Circles today.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your Lit Circle to see what you need to do to catch up.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Whatever your group has assigned.
MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014 / TUESDAY, APRIL 15, 2014
The seniors worked in their Literature Circles today.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your Lit Circl to see what you need to do to catch up.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Whatever your group has assigned.
TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014 / WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9, 2014
Today was the first day of Literature Circles! The students worked in their collaborative learning groups who are all reading "modern classics," books written in the last 10-12 years and are already garnering discussion of "literary merit." These books will give students another option for the AP Exam open-ended question. Each group has created their own assignment schedule in order to complete the eight required elements in addition to the final Book Talk presentation.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your Lit. Circle to see what you need to do to catch up.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Whatever your group assigned yourselves! :)
FRIDAY, APRIL 4, 2014 / MONDAY, APRIL 7, 2014
Today the seniors wrapped up their study of poetry with a Calvin and Hobbes review activity. We also looked at analytical tools (DIDLS, TP-CASTT, etc.) and tried them out on two poems on the same topic. 4th hour also took their Allusions quiz.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See the folder in the red pockets for the handouts on analytical tools. Complete a TP-CASTT worksheet on two poems.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: We start Literature Circles next class, so make sure you have your group-created assignment done and ready to go.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 / THURSDAY, APRIL 3, 2014
5th hour seniors took a quiz over their Allusions (4th hour has their quiz next Monday). Next, we focused on two practice MC exams over poetry. Lastly, groups helped the A's write the rest of their essays on a chapter 34 poem.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up copies of the MC quizzes and have a classmate share the answers. A's turn in your thesis, etc.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: 4th hour: Allusion glossaries are DUE. B's bring thesis, claims, evidence, and paragraph. Everyone reads the chapter.
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MONDAY, MARCH 31, 2014 / TUESDAY, APRIL 1, 2014
Today the seniors worked on types of poems (sonnet, sestina, villanelle, etc.), matching definitions and labeling example poems. We also played on the fantastic (and punny) website For Better or For Verse, checking our skills at labeling poetic rhythms. Finally, the B's shared their thesis notes and used the A's to help them write one paragraph of the essay.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the Identify Poetic Forms worksheet, and check answers with a classmate. B's turn in your thesis, claims and evidence.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: A's, bring thesis, claims, evidence, and paragraph. Everyone reads the chapter. Allusions glossaries are DUE.
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THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 2014 / FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 2014
The seniors "dissected" a poem today. (Not nearly as messy as other dissections.) We looked at the rhyme and rhythm of the poem and how they reinforce the poem's meaning. The A's also shared their thesis notes and used the B's to help them write a paragraph of the essay.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about our dissection. A's turn in your thesis, claims and evidence.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: B's bring thesis, claims, AND evidence. Everyone reads the chapter.
TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 2014 / WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 2014
Today the seniors looked at Figures of Speech in poetry. We completed a "quiz" to see how well we can identify examples of the various types of figurative language. We also worked on our thesis statements and claims/evidence, beginning to add in the final piece.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: B's turn in your thesis statement and claims/evidence.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: A's, bring thesis, claims, AND evidence. Everyone reads the chapter.
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THURSDAY, MARCH 13, 2014 / FRIDAY, MARCH 14, 2014
The seniors completed the Lens Activity today, looking at poetry through restrictive lenses and noting how much more you can get out of poetry analysis if you are open to different interpretations. Next, we wrote poems with strong imagery (the focus of our reading for today).
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: A's, turn in your thesis statements and claims/evidence.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: B's, thesis and claims OR evidence (your choice). Everyone reads the chapter.
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TUESDAY, MARCH 11, 2014 / WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 2014
Today the seniors looked a poems stripped of all external information: title, author, publication date, etc. We discussed whether our analysis/interpretation of the poem was affected by this external information and the question, "Should it be affected?" The B's shared their thesis statements over Chapter 34 poems.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: B's, turn in your thesis statements.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: A's, thesis and claims OR evidence (your choice). Everyone reads the chapter.
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AP Daily Summaries from Quarter 3 (2013-2014)
THURSDAY, MARCH 13, 2014 / FRIDAY, MARCH 14, 2014
The seniors completed the Lens Activity today, looking at poetry through restrictive lenses and noting how much more you can get out of poetry analysis if you are open to different interpretations. Next, we wrote poems with strong imagery (the focus of our reading for today).
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: A's, turn in your thesis statements and claims/evidence.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: B's, thesis and claims OR evidence (your choice). Everyone reads the chapter.
TUESDAY, MARCH 11, 2014 / WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 2014
Today the seniors looked a poems stripped of all external information: title, author, publication date, etc. We discussed whether our analysis/interpretation of the poem was affected by this external information and the question, "Should it be affected?" The B's shared their thesis statements over Chapter 34 poems.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: B's, turn in your thesis statements.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: A's, thesis and claims OR evidence (your choice). Everyone reads the chapter.
FRIDAY, MARCH 7, 2014 / MONDAY, MARCH 10, 2014
The seniors did a tone mapping exercise today, looking at shifts in tone throughout a poem. The A's also shared their thesis over a Chapter 34 poem.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your thesis, all A's.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: B's, your thesis will be due. Everyone reads the chapter.
OUR SCHEDULES ARE GETTING A LITTLE CRAZY FOR THE NEXT COUPLE OF WEEKS, SO THE TWO CLASSES ARE LISTED SEPARATELY FOR A WHILE:
THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 2014
Today the seniors completed a poetry project, discussing their original poems and the poems in the book, and then creating a new "I am from" poem.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a packet and complete it and turn it in.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Check the poetry assignment sheet for your reading and writing assignment.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5, 2014
The 5th hour seniors did a little snow-day-induced catching up. We went over the choices of books for the Literature Circles in April. Then we discussed the question, "What makes a poem 'great'?" We looked at pairs of poems on the same subject or theme and tried to determine why some poems are considered "great" and others aren't.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a ballot for the Lit Circle books, do whatever research you need to make your choices, complete the ballot, and turn it in to the tray. Ask a classmate about the "greatness" discussion. What was our criteria for "greatness" in poems?
TUESDAY, MARCH 4, 2014
Today the seniors discussed the question, "What makes a poem 'great'?" We looked at pairs of poems on the same subject or theme and tried to determine why some poems are considered "great" and others aren't.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the "greatness" discussion. What was our criteria for "greatness" in poems?
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Check your poetry reading schedule. B's, bring your thesis to turn in.
MONDAY, MARCH 3, 2014
SNOW DAY!!
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2014
The 4th hour APEs finished up their presentations on Pride and Prejudice and then used the remaining time to work on their poetry assignment or their SEP essay (procrastinators!).
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Make sure you're caught up on poetry assignments.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Check the poetry assignment sheet for your reading and writing assignment.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2014
Today the seniors completed a poetry project, discussing their original poems and the poems in the book, and then creating a new "I am from" poem.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a packet and complete it and turn it in.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Check the poetry assignment sheet for your reading and writing assignment.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2014 / WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2014
The seniors presented their Pride and Prejudice projects today, showing us their findings after tracking Austen's use of their literary device. In 5th hour, we also discussed the poetry unit we're about to begin and designated A's and B's in each group. We also selected a deadline for the P&P data sheet.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: 5th hour: get a copy of the poetry assignment sheet, and ask your group members if you are an A or a B.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring your red literature textbook!
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2014 / MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2014
The seniors met today with their partners to plan their presentation on Austen's use of their literary device. We also compared film interpretations of key scenes and characters from the novel.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Talk to your partner ASAP about your presentation!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Presentations!!
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2014 / THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2014
Today the seniors were cordially invited to the Netherfield Ball! To wrap up our discussion of Pride and Prejudice, the seniors took on the identities of the characters, filled out their dance cards, and danced the night/class away!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask their classmates to take a turn about the room with them to gossip about the Ball!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring your notes to begin planning your presentation.
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2014 / TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2014
The APEs discussed Chapters 44-51 of Pride and Prejudice today, looking at a wonderful essay about the use of music and costume in one film adaptation. I pointed out to students how music and costume are the "literary devices" used by the film makers. We also completed a practice Q2 exam over Mr. Collins's letter.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Talk to your partner re: your tracking devices project AND ask when you will be presenting.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading the book and be ready to discuss. We have a special end-of-book event happening in class next time! :)
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2014 / FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014
Today we completed an activity called Speed Dating to review for the essay portion of the AP Exam. We also discussed Pride and Prejudice through chapter 43, looking at Darcy's letter to Elizabeth and her contemplation of his assertions.
5th hour also got a bit caught up by discussing two key scenes: the Netherfield Ball and Mr. Darcy's proposal to Elizabeth. Students compared the two proposals Elizabeth as received so far and her reactions to both. We talked about dancing in the Regency era and viewed a clip of the 1995 film version of the novel. Students also met with their partners to compare tracking notes.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your partner on notes. Ask about the film clips we viewed today.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Continue with the reading schedule,and bring your notes on your device.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2014 / THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2014
The seniors discussed the sections of Pride and Prejudice that they've read so far and paid special attention to two key scenes: the Netherfield Ball and Mr. Darcy's proposal to Elizabeth. Students compared the two proposals Elizabeth as received so far and her reactions to both. We talked about dancing in the Regency era and viewed a clip of the 1995 film version of the novel. Students also met with their partners to compare tracking notes.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your partner on notes. Ask about the film clips we viewed today.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Continue with the reading schedule,and bring your notes on your device.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2014 / TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2014
And....we're back!
Today's seniors discussed the first two reading chunks of Pride and Prejudice. Partners met to compare tracking devices notes, and I offered suggestions from my own reading. We also completed a practice MC exam over a passage from Shakespeare.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your partner on notes. Ask about the Regency era customs we discussed in class.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Get caught up on reading---check your assignment sheet schedule.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2014
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2014
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2014
SNOWS DAY!! Check your reading schedule and keep reading Pride and Prejudice and tracking your literary device.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014 / MONDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2014
The seniors wrapped up discussion of Hamlet today, completed a practice Q1 essay exam over a passage from another Shakespearean play, and then began Pride and Prejudice. Students selected partners for the tracking devices project they will complete as we read the novel.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your Lit. Crit essay. Check out a Pride and Prejudice book from Miss B. Find out who your partner is and what device you are supposed to be tracking.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 1-13 of Pride and Prejudice AND bring your notes for Miss B. to check.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 29, 2014 / THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2014
Today the seniors peer reviewed the next draft of their Literary Criticism essays. We discussed Q3 topics for Hamlet and assigned tasks for the Data Sheet. Then we did a film comparison of different interpretations of scenes from Hamlet.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask your classmates about your responsibilities for the data sheet.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Final draft of the Lit Crit essay is DUE. 5th hour: You MUST bring your iPads by Friday as well.
MONDAY, JANUARY 27, 2014/ TUESDAY, JANUARY 28, 2014
The seniors analyzed four of the major characters from Hamlet today and made predictions for the ultimate fate of these and other characters. Then we finished reading the play. We also did a practice MC-test over Act V.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act V. Pick up a copy of the MC test if you like.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring one copy of your 2nd draft of the essay for Peer Reviewing in class.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014 / FRIDAY, JANUARY 24, 2014
Today the seniors played Literary Terms Taboo to review. Then we read Act III scenes 3 and 4 and Act IV scenes 1-4 of Hamlet. We also compared actresses' portrayals of crazy Ophelia.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get caught up on reading (see above).
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish Act IV.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2014 / WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22, 2014
The seniors workshopped the latest draft of their Lit Crit essays today before returning to Hamlet. We shared our translations of the "To be or not to be..." soliloquy and then read Act III scenes 4 and 5.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read the scenes listed above. Get your commented-upon drafts back to the authors.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None! It's a miracle!! Use the extra time to finalize things for your SEP and any scholarship essays.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 16, 2014 / MONDAY, JANUARY 20, 2014
Today the clouds parted, the angels sang, and the seniors' lives were forever changed when they read the infamous "To be or not to be..." soliloquy from Hamlet. Well, maybe not, but they did read Act 3 scene 1, including Hamlet's fussing yet again over life or death, and spent some time analyzing the speech. We saw four different actors' interpretations of the soliloquy, and even used a Calvin and Hobbes comic to practice arranging the phrases in order.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your rough draft ASAP to Miss B, AND get copies to your group members. Pick up copies of their drafts from your tub file, read, and comment on them. Read Act 3 scene 1 of Hamlet.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring your commented-on drafts for our writer's workshop.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2014 / WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 15, 2014
Today the seniors discussed Act I of Hamlet and practiced annotating a passage from Act I scene 5. Next, we read and discussed Act II scenes 1 and 2.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get caught up on reading and check with a classmate on notes.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish Act II. Bring copies of your rough draft for Miss B. and your group members.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 10, 2014/ MONDAY, JANUARY 13, 2014
The seniors briefly shared their Discovery Drafts or journals and brainstormed ideas for their Lit. Crit. essays. Next, we began Hamlet, reading Act I scenes 1 and 2 together.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. ASAP to check out a book or iPad. Read Act I scenes 1 and 2. Ask a classmate or Miss Bergman if you need help understanding what the heck is going on. :)
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the rest of Act I.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8, 2014 / THURSDAY, JANUARY 9, 2014
Today the seniors spent the hour completing tasks for the office: the Kansas Communities that Care survey and testing the new assessment program on the laptops.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Mr. Dietz about completing the survey.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring one copy of your Discovery draft or journal, exploring options for your Lit. Crit. essay.
MONDAY, JANUARY 6, 2014 / TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2014
Welcome back! Today the seniors reviewed school and classroom policies before discussing the AP Exam in May. We also looked at the Literary Criticism Essay, which seniors will be writing over one of the plays we've studied. We then discussed the play read over break, The Importance of Being Earnest.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the Literary Criticism assignment sheet from the red pockets. Turn in your Earnest assignment worksheet ASAP.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Write a Discovery Draft or journal, exploring options for your Lit. Crit. essay. Bring it to class to brainstorm with group members.
AP Daily Summaries from Quarter 2 (2013-2014)
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2013 / FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2013
FINAL EXAM!!!!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Rue the day they were born, and beg Miss Bergman for an opportunity to make up the final exam.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Have a wonderful break and a Merry Christmas!! Be sure your Importance of Being Earnest assignment is done by Jan 6th. Bring your red textbook with you when you return to school.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2013 / WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013
Today was a much-needed catch-up day as the seniors have two Data Sheets due this week AND a 100-question final exam. Students worked in their groups to finish their data sheets over the plays as well as revise their glossaries for the final. They also worked on their The Importance of Being Earnest assignment.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your group members about your play data sheet.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be ready for the final exam.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013 / MONDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2013
Today the seniors discussed their assignment on The Importance of Being Earnest, which is due in January. Next, we discussed the first half of the play The Glass Menagerie and viewed a production with Katherine Hepburn as Amanda before reading the rest of the play.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read the rest of The Glass Menagerie. Pick up a copy of the Earnest assignment sheet, and check out a book if you like.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring what you need to work on your two glossaries and your data sheets.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2013 / THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013
The seniors took a quiz over their mythological and literary allusions before handing in their glossaries. Next, we selected plays over which to complete Data Sheets. Then we discussed Fences and compared it to Death of a Salesman. After a brief discussion of Oedipus Rex, we began our final play for this semester: The Glass Menagerie.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Hand in their glossaries ASAP if you want credit for it. See Miss B. for your play title for the group Data Sheets. Read Oedipus Rex (!). Read The Glass Menagerie through scene 5.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2013 / TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2013
The seniors discussed the rest of Death of a Salesman today. We compared four different productions' versions of a scene from the play, and students played Casting Director as they selected their Willy Loman. Next, we looked at a Broadway production of Fences before reading the play.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the various Willy Lomans and why he/she picked the one he/she did!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Fences and the intro to Chapter 42. Allusions Glossary (Myth and Lit) is DUE.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2013 / FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2013
Today the seniors discussed Act I of Death of a Salesman and the concepts of an anti-hero and the American Dream before reading Act II with a recorded production starring Lee J. Cobb.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act II.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish the play (Act II and Requiem). Read the intro to Chapter 41.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013 / WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2013
The seniors reviewed for their final exam today. Next, we discussed the play Proof, which the students read for today. Finally, we began reading Death of a Salesman as we look at father-son relationships through the next two plays (Death of a Salesman and Fences).
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the final exam and about our discussion of Proof.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading Act I
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2013 / MONDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2013
Today the seniors discussed Acts I and II of A Doll's House and then viewed a performance of Act III. Next, we took parts and began reading Proof.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act III of A Doll's House and Proof.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading Proof.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2013 / THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21/ 2013
The seniors discussed Trifles today and then began reading A Doll's House, while we sampled macaroons (a key plot point in the play).
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act I of A Doll's House.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 40 intro and Acts I and II of A Doll's House.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2013 / TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2013
Today the seniors performed their Chapter 37 plays. As time allowed, we began looking at the play Trifles, a fascinating based-on-a-true-story play by journalist Susan Glaspell.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the plays and about the background information for Trifles.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 39 intro and the play Trifles.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2013 / FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2013
The seniors began our drama study today, sharing information on three eras of theater. Next, we viewed a behind-the-scenes tour of a Broadway production of a musical. Finally, students drew parts for the Chapter 37 plays and began preparing their performance (which will take place next class).
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Talk to Miss B. to find out what part you'll be playing. Turn in your Ch. 36 annotation/outline.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read your play from Chapter 37.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2013 / WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2013
Today the seniors looked at clips of the 1974 film version of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest and considered the impact of the filmmakers' changes (i.e., no narration by Chief Bromden, McMurphy's motivations for smashing the glass window, etc.).
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your journals ASAP.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 36, and either annotate or outline it. Bring your red literature textbook to class.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2013 / MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2013
The seniors wrapped up discussion of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest today with a look at themes, motifs, symbols, and critical response. We then worked on finishing our journals and getting the data sheet created.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Finish up your journals for Tuesday/Wednesday. Join a data sheet group, if you like.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Journals due Tues/Wed. Read and annotate/outline Chapter 36 by Thurs/Fri.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2013 / THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2013
Today the seniors exchanged MC quizzes over One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest with another group. Then we ranked each other's practice essays on "The Flowers" or "The Naked and the Nude." Finally, we looked at comparative film clips from the film version of Cuckoo's Nest.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the film clips.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading the novel.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2013 / TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2013
The seniors today finished playing the part of AP Readers and ranking/evaluating the sample student essays. We discussed the differences between essays that score a 7 versus and 8 or a 4 versus a 5. Next, we discussed quotes from the next chunk of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest that we read for today. Finally, groups began writing practice MC questions over passages from the novel.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with their group members about the MC exam questions.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish any work on the MC questions so that we're ready to exchange quizzes at the beginning of class.
4TH HOUR: FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2013
Today the seniors took a quiz over their literary terms glossary. Next we became AP Readers and evaluated sample student essays. Finally, we viewed scenes from the film version of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest to see how the filmmakers interpreted Kesey's story.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the film version.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest through the end of Part 3.
5TH HOUR: THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2013
The seniors took a quiz over their literary terms glossary and then finished writing the three practice essays. We voted on which essay will be graded/ranked by their classmates and Miss Bergman. Next, we became AP Readers and evaluated sample student essays.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Finish your three essays and turn them in to Miss B. ASAP!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest through the end of Part 3.
4TH HOUR: WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2013
Today the seniors finished the three practice essays and voted on which essay will be graded/ranked by their classmates and Miss Bergman. Then we discussed the reading in Cuckoo's Nest.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Finish your three essays and turn them in to Miss B. ASAP!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Your Literary Terms glossary is DUE! Bring a printed copy to class with you.
5TH HOUR: TUESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2013
Today the seniors took a full practice essay exam with all three prompts. They will have additional time to write on Thursday.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Give yourself 90 minutes to write at least two of the three essays (see your MC packet).
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Your Literary Terms glossary is DUE! Bring a printed copy to class with you.
4TH HOUR: MONDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2013
Today the seniors took a full practice essay exam with all three prompts. They will have additional time to write on Wednesday.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Give yourself 90 minutes to write at least two of the three essays (see your MC packet).
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be to page 101 (36%) in Cuckoo's Nest.
5TH HOUR: FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013
Today the seniors discussed the reading in Cuckoo's Nest and watched the corresponding scenes in the Academy Award-winning film version starring Jack Nicholson.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the film version so far. How does it compare to the book?
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Keep reading and journaling!
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2013 / THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2013
The seniors learned about the Senior Exit Portfolio essay today (see SEP Info to the left) and then worked in groups to decide on answers to the practice MC exam we took last time. After going over the answers (and hotly debating some of them!), we did a close reading of a short story called "The Chaser."
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in the final draft of their Explication Essays ASAP. Get the right MC answers from a classmate or from Miss Bergman.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be done with the first chunk of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013 / TUESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2013
Today the seniors peer reviewed the 2nd draft of their Explication Essays. Then we took a compete MC practice exam.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the MC exam from Miss B, give yourself an hour, and take it.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Final draft of the Explication Essay is DUE! Also, your literary terms glossary is DUE soon!
AP Daily Summaries from Quarter 1 (2013-2014)
MONDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2013 / TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013
The seniors worked on a practice Q2 exam essay over a passage from Johnny Got HIs Gun. They took the exam test, writing the essay over the prompt in 40 minutes. Next, we looked at actual student essays from the year this prompt was used. Students ranked or graded the essays as if they were AP Readers, and we discussed their scores. After discussing the actual scores these essays received, we ranked/scored our own essays. Finally, we began our study of the novel One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, checking out books, discussing the journaling assignment for the unit, and reading part of Chapter 1 together.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to check out a copy of Cuckoo's Nest. Pick up a copy of the journaling and reading assignment sheet from the red pockets. Also, pick up a copy of the Johnny prompt from Miss B, give yourself 40 minutes, and write the essay. Turn in to Miss B.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring one copy of the 2nd draft of your Explication Essay.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2013 / FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2014
Today the seniors workshopped the first draft of their Explication Essays. We also shared our Wall Stories. We then took a deeper look at the structure of the AP English Lit exam and some words of wisdom (I hope!) from Miss Bergman as a two-time AP Reader (grader). As time allowed, we began a practice Q2 essay on Johnny Got His Gun.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get your copies of their papers back to your group members. Pick up your drafts from your tub file. Ask a classmate about the structure of the AP Lit exam. Pick up the Unofficial Rubric and the Things to tell My Students handouts from the red pockets. Get a Q2: Johnny prompt from Miss B.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 20.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2013 / WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2013
The seniors exchanged first drafts of their Explication Essays today, to be read and commented on by next class. Then we wrapped up our study of the genre of short stories by taking an in-depth look at two stories: "A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings" as a class, and the students' choice of "The Red Convertible" or "Teenage Wasteland" in partners.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read the stories listed above. Complete the Reading Fiction questions (available under Handouts and Worksheets) over one of the stories. Get copies of your essay to your group members. PIck up their papers from your tub file folder.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read your classmates' drafts and comment on them. Finish the Reading Fiction questions.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2013 / MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013
Today the seniors discussed theme and identified the themes of the stories they read in Chapter 18. We also worked on our Wall Stories, finishing them and posting on the wall for others to see.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your thesis, claims, evidence, and paragraph.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring the 1st draft of your Explication Essay.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2013 / THURSDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2013
The seniors worked on tone and archetypes today, looking at example excerpts from various writing and identifying tone and then viewing an episode of Veggie Tales to identify and label archetypes.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Have Miss B. check your Bell Ringers and Allusions ASAP. Turn in your thesis, claims, and evidence.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 18 and bring your thesis, claims, evidence, AND one paragraph of the essay.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2013 / TUESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2013
Today the seniors talked about characterization, setting, and point of view and looked at a few examples of these in action. We read "The Yellow Wallpaper" together and viewed clips from a film adaptation of the story.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your thesis and claims/evidence ASAP. Read "The Yellow Wallpaper" in your textbook.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 16 and 17, and bring your thesis, claims, and evidence.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2013 / FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2013
The seniors discussed plot today and how the typical plot diagram may not fit every story. Students created their own artistic representations of the plot for the story story they used for their thesis statement. Next, we used the Billy Collins' poem "Flames" to review claims and evidence. Then students worked in their collaborative learning groups to create their own short story in our Wall Stories project. Finally, I gave students time to start reading their next (rather lengthy!) reading assignment.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your thesis ASAP. Talk to a group member about your Wall Story. See Miss B. if you need help with claims and evidence.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 13, 14, and 15 (skipping the 9 stories I said you could skip), and bring your thesis and either claims or evidence.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2013 / WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2013
Today the seniors peer reviewed each other's 2nd drafts of the Comparison-Contrast essay. We also did a consensus activity on the MC practice exam we did last class, trying to come up with the correct answer for each question by arguing our case with our group members. We then went over the correct answers together as a class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See a classmate or Miss B. for the correct answers to the MC exam. Ask a group member to peer review your paper before your final draft is due.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Final draft of the essay is DUE--either a printed copy OR an emailed copy is due by the start of class. Read chapters 11 and 12, and write a thesis statement.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2013 / MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
The seniors today shared their Twitter Fiction stories and discuss Chapter 9 and "HIlls Like White Elephants." Next, we went over the guidelines and formats of a resume, since the next Senior Exit Portfolio deadline is the resume (due in October). Finally, the students took a full practice AP multiple choice exam (55 questions). Next class, we'll go over the answers and figure out why we missed the ones we did.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your Twitter Fiction. See the SEP (Senior Exit Portfolio) Information link on the left for information on resumes. See Miss B. for a copy of the MC practice exam; give yourself about 45 minutes to take it.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Revise your essay and bring ONE copy of your 2nd draft with you to class.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2013 / THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2013
Today was our first Writers Workshop, where students discussed the first draft of their Comparison-Contrast essays. We also discussed ideas for revision, including a demonstration of organizational structures using Legos. :) Finally, we discussed the reading for today (chapter 10) and created our own Twitter Fiction stories.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get your commented-on copies of the drafts to your classmates. Retrieve your drafts from your file tub. Create a Twitter Fiction story.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 11 and finish your Twitter Fiction story.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2013 / TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013
Today the seniors exchanged 1st drafts of their essay and discussed the goals of a Writers Workshop. We also began our short story unit and chose a due date for the A Raisin in the Sun data sheet. Finally, Mrs. Dutton stopped by with some information from the counselor's office.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get your draft to your classmates ASAP. Check your tub file for your group members' drafts. Pick up an assignment sheet for the short story unit from the red pockets. See Mrs. Dutton for important information.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 10. Read and comment on your group members' drafts.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2013 / FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2013
The seniors read sample essays on The Street Q2 and rank them according to the rubric. We compared our scores to the AP Readers' scores. Next, we discussed Acts I and II ofA Raisin in the Sun and read Act III together.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the ranking exercise and A Raisin in the Sun discussion. Read the rest of the play.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 7. Bring your first draft of your Comparison-Contrast essay (copies for your group members and for Miss Bergman). Print the senior handbook that Mrs. Dutton sent to you, and bring it to class. (The handbook is also available here:
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2013 / WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
Today the APEs discussed the reading assignment and then wrote the practice Q2 essay over the excerpt from The Street. We also discussed the first formal essay assignment, the Comparison-Contrast essay over the summer reading novels. Finally, we began reading the play A Raisin in the Sun together in class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Give yourself 30 minutes to write the essay over The Street. PIck up a copy of the assignment sheet for the Comparison-Contrast essay from the red pockets. Read Acts I and II of A Raisin in the Sun.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading Acts I and II of A Raisin in the Sun.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2013 / MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2013
The AP students were assigned the Foster Poster project today, an assignment that asks them to summarize and explain one of Thomas C. Foster's principles in his book How to Read Literature Like a Professor (a summer reading book). Students will present their posters and projects to their classmates during Bell Ringer time over the next few classes. Next, we practiced the technique known as Close Reading, looking at the poem "The Whipping." We also did a close reading of a Q2 prompt on The Street. Students annotated the text as they read, and we discussed the significant elements they notes. In future classes, students will write their essay responses to this prompt, and we will look at actual student responses from this exam as well as the scores they received from the AP Readers.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss Bergman about your partner for the Foster Poster project, and pick up a copy of the assignment sheet. Ask a classmate to explain the concept of Close Reading. Pick up a copy of the Q2 prompt on The Street, and read and annotate the text.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 4 and 5, and (as necessary) review the story "Everyday Use" (read in Honors English II).
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2013 / THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2013
Today the seniors were assigned the Independent Reading Project (or IRP), which has them reading two additional novels outside of class throughout the year. We then discussed the three stories they read for today as well as the summer reading novel Jane Eyre.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the IRP assignment sheet from the red pockets, and ask Miss Bergman if you have questions. Ask a classmate about our Jane Eyre discussion.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 3, and read or review the three pieces mentioned there (p. 216, 1180, and 1176).
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THURSDAY, AUGUST 29, 2013 / FRIDAY, AUGUST 30, 2013
The seniors discussed Chapters 1 and 2 of the textbook as well as The Kite Runner from this summer. We discussed the literary canon in all its various forms.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about our discussion today.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read p. 36-42 and the three stories mentioned in the student essays (pages are listed on p. 36).
TUESDAY, AUGUST 27, 2013 / WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013
Today the seniors took their first practice Q3 exam over their summer reading novels. We also handed out textbooks and discussed outlining (see sample below).
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss Bergman for a copy of the practice exam. Give yourself 30 minutes to write your essay. Turn it in to Miss Bergman ASAP. Also, see Miss B. to checkout a textbook.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 1 & 2 (to page 36) in the textbook, and outline them.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 23, 2013 / MONDAY, AUGUST 26, 2013
Welcome to AP English! Today the students played The Animal Game and discussed how the needed skills transfer to English class. We then went over the course syllabus and the first several assignments, setting due dates for each. After a review of the information available here on this website, we did our first Allusion of the Week and Bell Ringer.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss Bergman ASAP to get your assignment sheets (available in the AP folder in the red pockets by the door).
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Get started on the three assignments!
For 2012-2013 AP Students, get your scores online next week!!
AP Daily Summary
Edit 0 685…MONDAY, MAY 9, 2016
LAST ENGLISH CLASS FOR THE SENIORS!!! We discussed the essay prompts from the AP Exam last week. Then we viewed more of the film version ofBeowulf.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in any books you still have!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: See you at graduation!!
THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016
The seniors reflected on their performance on the AP exam and what lessons/reviews we did in class that helped them the most. Next, we had our Life Lesson on How to Rent an Apartment. :) Finally, we did a little research on safe, kind, and clever senior pranks. :)
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Be sure to turn in all books.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring any books you still have.
TUESDAY, May 3, 2016
Today we reviewed for the AP exam with is TOMORROW!! Students chose from various review activities and also had some fun motivational speeches and, of course, the magic pencils!!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Stop by if you want your magic pencil!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Get some sleep for the exam!
FRIDAY, APRIL 29, 2016
Today was our glimpse of Beowulf and the Old English language. We read passages and looked at the original text in OE. We heard bits of OE read to us, and we viewed the beginning of the film.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about Old English!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: We'll review for the AP Exam on Thursday. Bring your questions!
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 27, 2016
Final exam day!!!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss Bergman to arrange to make up your final.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring your red literature textbook to turn in, if you haven't already.
MONDAY, APRIL 25, 2016
Today the seniors finished their Book Talks over their Lit. Circle books. Then we reviewed a bit for the final exam.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: No one was gone!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Study for your final exam!!
THURSDAY, APRIL 21, 2016
The seniors presented their Lit Circle books today! We had sugar cookies in the shape of hearts and cupcakes with fingers or brains on them! (Seriously!)
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Talk to your group members; you missed your part of the presentation.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None. We'll complete our Book Talks next time.
TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016
Today the seniors took their test over their 2nd Independent Reading Project book.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to arrange your make-up IRP test.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: All Lit Circle assignments are DUE. Be ready for your Book Talk!
THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2016
The seniors continued to work in Literature Circles today.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your groups to see what you should be doing for your Lit Circle assignment.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Continue to work on Lit Circle projects. TAKE 1ST LUNCH ON TUESDAY!!
TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016
The seniors continued to work in Literature Circles today.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your groups to see what you should be doing for your Lit Circle assignment.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Continue to work on Lit Circle projects.
FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016
Today was the seniors' first day to work in their new Literature Circles. Students set their own schedule of tasks and deadlines.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your groups to see what you should be doing for your Lit Circle assignment.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Continue to work on Lit Circle projects.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6, 2016
Today was Senior Skip Day. So the non-skippers had a bit of fun, looking at poetry in Calvin and Hobbes comics and the hot new musical Alexander Hamilton.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: B's turn in your assignment.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring your Lit Circle book.
MONDAY, APRIL 4, 2016
The seniors practiced an AP poetry prompt from the 2015 exam: a poem by Derek Walcott. After reading and annotating the poem and beginning their essay answer, the seniors discussed the poem and what a student could write about on the exam. Next, we looked at sample student essays from last year and discussed what had earned the student their score. Finally, I shared my insight as an AP Reader on this question last summer: what strong essays did and what poorer essays failed to do.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask Miss B. if you'd like to see the 2015 poetry prompt and sample essays. A's, turn in your assignment.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: B's, bring a thesis statement, claims, evidence AND one paragraph of support.
THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2016
Today the seniors talked about forms of poetry. We practiced labeling definitions and example poems. We also played with the website For Better For Verse:http://prosody.lib.virginia.edu/
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: B's, turn in your assignment.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 31. Study the literary terms. A's, bring a thesis statement, claims, evidence, AND one paragraph of support.
TUESDAY, MARCH 29, 2016
The seniors planned their Literature Circles deadlines today and divided up the assigned tasks. Then we returned to poetry, focusing on sound devices. We dissected a poem to see how form follows function (at least in really good poetry it does!).
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: No one was absent!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 30. Study the literary terms. B's, bring a thesis statement AND claims AND evidence. This will be your outline or plan of attack for the essay.
THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2016
Today the seniors reviewed literary terms, took a quiz over the terms in Chapters 22-28, and practiced identifying them in example sentences.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: B's, turn in your thesis statement and claims or evidence.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 29. A's, bring a thesis statement AND claims AND evidence. This will be your outline or plan of attack for the essay.
TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016
The seniors wrote imagery poems today, drawing one of the 5 senses and choosing a picture as inspiration. Then we completed the Lens Activity. Students interpret poems through a very narrow lens to see the limitations of using only one viewpoint in analyzing literature. It's a fascinating activity that often gets really loud. :)
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: A's, turn in your thesis statement and claims or evidence.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 28. Review the literary terms in Chapters 22-28 for a quiz! B's, bring a thesis statement AND claims or evidence.
FRIDAY, MARCH 11, 2016
Today the seniors discussed "bare poems" and debated if our understanding or interpretation of a poem changes if we know the author, the publication date, the title, etc.
Next, we looked at the diction and syntax of well-known poems and re-wrote them with a new syntax or diction.
Finally, we played a little Quizlet Live to review our literary terms.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: B's, turn in your thesis statements.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 27. A's, bring a thesis statement AND claims or evidence.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2016
The seniors took a quiz over literary terms in chapters 22 and 25. Then we discussed Tone Mapping, the process of identifying shifts of tone within a poem. The A's shared their thesis statements, and the B's helped them modify thesis statements as needed.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: A's, turn in your thesis statements.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: B's, bring your thesis statements over a Chapter 34 poem.
MONDAY, MARCH 7, 2016
The seniors wrote two original poems today! First, they followed the pattern of the "I am from" poem to create a poem about their childhood. Next, they used words found in magazines and newspapers to create Found Poems.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a packet on the "I am from" poem. Create your two poems.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 25. A's, bring a thesis over a Chapter 34 poem.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2016
Today the seniors discussed the question, "What makes a poem 'great'?" We looked at pairs of poems in order to figure out what makes one great and one forgotten. We had a great discussion!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: No one was absent! Again! This is an awesome group of APEs!!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapters 24. Maybe get a head start on chapter 25; it's a long one!
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2016
The seniors learned about and voted for their choice of Literature Circle books for April. Then we began our Poetry unit. Students wrote two original poems: 1 concrete poem, and 1 "anything goes" poem.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask your group if you are an A or a B and what exactly that means. :) Talk to Miss B. about the Lit Circle books.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 22 and 23. Bring your two original poems.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2016
Today the seniors viewed the rest of the film version of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. We also looked at several parodies of the novel or movie (fromSesame Street to Psych) and the Academy Awards ceremony of the year that the film swept the top five categories.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the ending of the movie and what they liked or disliked.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring your red literature textbook.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2016
The seniors received information today about the AP exams and how to sign up for those. Next, we had a silent discussion (and then a noisier one) over the novel One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. We watched more of the film version as we had time.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your classmates about the data sheet, due March 9th.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish and turn in your journals.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016
Today the seniors took the MC quizzes that they wrote last class. Then we viewed the film up to the point of the story that we've read. We also tried out Quizlet's new live feature; it was wild, loud, crazy fun and helped us review our literary terms. We loved it!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate how the book and the film differ so far.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish the book for next class!
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2016
The seniors voted on their favorite poems by the juniors today. Then we discussed the reading assignment for today by looking at significant quotes. Next, we began writing practice MC quizzes over the book for our classmates.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: No one was absent!! Yea!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Keep reading and journalling!
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2016
Today, the seniors used Valentine's Day as an AP review! First, we made Literary Conversation Hearts with lines or allusions from the stories we've studied. Next, we did a round of Speed Dating, a quick review activity for Q3 prompts.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about Speed Dating. Check out the classroom door to find the Literary Conversation Hearts.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read (and journal!) through p. 218 of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2016
The seniors had a wonderful discussion today over the first section of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest! Then we looked at the first few scenes of the film production.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about our discussion on the combine, the fog, and Nurse Ratched.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: By next WEDNESDAY, read through page 218. Nothing due on Friday.
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2016
Today the seniors took a full 3-hour practice exam to prepare them for the AP English exam in May. Students who had asked their 7th hour teacher's permission stayed throughout 7th hour to get the full experience.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. if you'd like to schedule a 3-hour practice exam.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read through page 101 in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest and have at least 2 journal entries completed.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2016
Today the seniors worked together on the Question 1 prompt on a Shakespearean passage. We looked at example student essays and saw an example of a 9! Then we started the novel One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest together. Students will keep a reader's journal as they read the bookl
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get a copy of the prompt, if you like. Pick up a copy of Cuckoo's Nest.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Turn in your "field trip" form if you plan to take the entire 3-hour exam.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2016
The seniors completed their film comparison chart today. We also practiced MC questions on other Shakespearean texts.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your film comparison chart. Pick up practice tests if you like.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: iPad users, be ready to turn your iPad back in. Don't forget the charger!
FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2016
Today the seniors practiced a Multiple Choice exam over Hamlet. Then we completed a film comparison while looking at different productions of Hamlet.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the different film productions.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be working on your Hamlet data sheet.
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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 27, 2016
The seniors killed off Hamlet today. Well, not really, but they finished reading the play and discovered which characters survive and which don't. We also talked about the word play or puns used in the gravedigger scene. Then we practiced writing a plan of attack for a Q3 prompt about the play.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Finish reading the play.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None.
MONDAY, JANUARY 25, 2016
The seniors read Act IV today and looked at two different interpretations of crazy Ophelia.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act IV.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None!
THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2016
The seniors read Act III scenes 1-3 together today and spent time reviewing the "To be or not to be" soliloquy.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act III.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Act III scene IV.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 19, 2016
Today the seniors discussed Act II scene II of Hamlet. We also practiced a MC test on passages from Hamlet. Then we viewed the A&E Biography video about William Shakespeare. Finally, we began reading Act III and read the famous "To be or not to be" soliloquy.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read the passages listed above.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None!
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2016
The seniors discussed the rest of Act I of Hamlet today. Then we read Act II scene I. After lunch, we had a wonderful visit with NHS graduate Conner Mitchell, who is currently attending KU. Conner answered our THOUSANDS of good questions about the AP exams, scholarships, choosing a college, academic classes at college, living in a residence hall on campus, finding friends and having fun at college, and anything else we could think of! It was a great discussion with thoughtful questions and answers.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act II scene I.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Act II scene II.
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MONDAY, JANUARY 11, 2016
The seniors discussed the ending of Death of a Salesman and viewed clips of different productions of the play, acting as the casting director, choosing their best version of Willy Loman. Next, we began the play Hamlet, reading Act I scenes 1-3 together.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act I of Hamlet.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Act I scenes 4 and 5.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
Today the seniors played Literary Terms Taboo as a review of the terms we've learned so far this year (and in previous years). Next, we discussed the rest of Act I of Death of a Salesman. Then we listened to Act II with a recorded production of the play. (On an actual record! Old School!)
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act II of the play.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish Act II and the Requiem of the play. Read the intro to Chapter 41 and take notes on the bold-faced terms for future vocab quizzes.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 5, 2016
Welcome back!! Today the seniors discussed the AP exam in May and opportunities to take a practice exam. Then we began reading Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman together.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Talk to a classmate about the possibility of taking a practice exam during the school day.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading Act I of the play.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015
FINAL EXAM DAY!!! Have a Merry Christmas and a relaxing break! See you in 2016!
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2015
The seniors used today to prepare and review for their final exam and to finish their portion of the class data sheets on our three plays.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: No one was absent! Awesome!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Take 1st lunch! Review for your final exam!!
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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2015
Today the seniors took their test over their 1st semester IRP book (Independent Reading Project).
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss Bergman ASAP to make up your IRP test.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring work to do: organizing notes for the final, doing your part of the group data sheets, reviewing literary terms on Quizlet.
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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015
The seniors finished reading Proof and watching more clips of the film version today. Next class is the IRP test!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Finish reading Proof.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be ready for your IRP test!! Take 1st lunch on Friday.
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MONDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2015
Today the seniors reviewed briefly for their final exam before beginning to read Proof aloud together.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act I of Proof.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the intro to chapter 42. Finish your IRP book for the test on Friday!!
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2015
The seniors discussed Act II of A Doll's House before viewing a production of Act III. Then we took a vocabulary quiz over the literary terms from chapters 36-40. We also drew slips for our responsibilities for the group Data Sheets over the three plays we're reading this quarter.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act III of A Doll's House. See Miss B. for your slip for the Data Sheets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the intro to Chapter 41.
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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2015
Today the seniors discussed the play Trifles and the true story behind the play. Next, we began reading A Doll's House together.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get notes from a classmate. Read Act I of A Doll's House.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the intro to Chapter 40, and read through the end of Act II in A Doll's House.
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2015
PERFORMANCE DAY!! Today the seniors performed their short plays from Chapter 37. We also discussed the real-life story behind the play Trifles.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the true story of Trifles.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the intro to chapter 39 and the play Trifles.
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2015
Today the seniors discussed the intro to drama that they read and annotated/outlined for class. We viewed behind-the-scenes videos of two different Broadway stage productions. Then the students drew parts in five 10-minute plays. They used the rest of class to prepare their productions for Friday's class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to find out your role in the Chapter 37 plays.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring whatever costumes or props you need for your play.
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015
The seniors continued their presentations today on Pride and Prejudice. We also ranked each other's practice essays on "The Flowers." Finally, we did a quick 10-minute timed essay on a DIFFERENT group's tracked device.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Be ready to present next class! Last chance!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read and annotate OR outline Chapter 36.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2015
Today the seniors presented their findings as they tracked a literary device throughout Pride and Prejudice.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Be ready to present on Monday!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read and annotate/outline chapter 36. This is due on the 18th.
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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2015
The seniors became AP Readers today and learned about the "norming process" that Readers go through. They scored sample essays and saw examples of student essays that earned all scores, from 0 to 9. Next, they met with their partners to plan and finalize their presentations over tracked devices in Pride and Prejudice.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the norming process and the sample essays we saw.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be ready to present!
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2015
Today the seniors participated in the Netherfield Ball! To wrap up our study of Pride and Prejudice, I taught the seniors a (fake) Regency Era dance. Then we drank tea out of real tea cups and ate snacks with cloth napkins. While enjoying our treats, we gossiped about the characters and the end of the book, just as the characters do.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Kick themselves for missing such an awesome day! :)
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Begin to finalize your presentation on your tracked device.
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2015
The seniors discussed chapters 44 through 51 of P&P today. We looked at Mr. Collins's letter to the Bennets and wrote a "plan of attack" or outline for an essay on this prompt. Next, we looked at the piano scene at Pemberly and an excellent essay written about the film's use of costumes and music to reinforce the themes of the scene. Finally, students worked in groups to create a short multiple-choice exam over an excerpt from the novel.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Talk to a classmate about the essay I read about costumes and music.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading the book! Take 1st lunch on Friday!
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2015
Today the seniors discussed chapters 23 through 43 of Pride and Prejudice. We viewed the two different film interpretations of Darcy's proposal to Elizabeth while analyzing Elizabeth's arguments for refusing him and Darcy's answer to each of those arguments. Next, students met with their partners to compare notes on the tracking devices project.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check in with your partner.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read through chapter 51. Expect another Reading Check Quiz!
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2015
The seniors wrote their essays in response to the three practice essay prompts today.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up the practice exam packet and write the three essays.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapters 23 through 43.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2015
The seniors began taking a full practice AP exam today. We took the Multiple Choice exam and scored it. Then we began looking at the three essay prompts. The students will write all three essays during class on Tuesday.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the practice exam from your tub folder. Take the MC exam and check answers with Miss B. or a classmate. Start reading and thinking about the three prompts so you are ready to write on Tuesday.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be reading chapters 23 through 43 in P&P. Take 1st lunch on Tuesday.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2015
Today the seniors discussed the first 22 chapters of Pride and Prejudice and watched comparison clips from different film interpretations. We also took a practice MC exam over a P&P passage that describes the character of Mr. Collins.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Take 1st lunch for the next two classes! Be reading Chapters 23 through 43, due Nov. 2nd.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2015
The seniors spent part of today reviewing Close Reading skills with a short story called "The Chaser." Then they read the creative writing stories of their classmates. Finally, we discussed more of the world of Pride and Prejudice.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in the Explication Essay and the Error Analysis Log for the Comp-Cont essay. Ask a classmate about the Creative Writing stories.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 14-22 in P&P.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2015
Today the seniors peer reviewed the 2nd draft of each other's Explication Essays. Then we discussed the first 13 chapters of Pride and Prejudice and compared opening scenes of two film versions of the novel.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See a group member if you'd like feedback on your 2nd draft. Meet with your partner to compare notes taken so far on your device.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Final draft of your Explication Essay is due as is your Error Analysis Log for the Comparison-Contrast essay.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2015
The seniors looked at student responses to the Q2 prompt Johnny Got His Gun and ranked them, using the rubric. They also assigned themselves scores. :) Next, we began reading Pride and Prejudice together and tracking Jane Austen's use of devices throughout the book.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapters 1-13. Bring one copy of your 2nd draft of the Explication Essay.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2015
Today the seniors had a Writers' Workshop over the 1st drafts of their Explication Essays. Next, we reviewed tips for the essay portion of the AP Lit exam and took a practice Q2 exam.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the Q2 prompt Johnny Got His Gun and give yourself 40 minutes to read, annotate, and write the essay. Exchange drafts back with your group members (check your tub file for you essay drafts).
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Creative Writing stories are DUE! 3-pages minimum and ready to be displayed/shared with the world. :)
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2015
The seniors wrapped up our study of short stories today with one last AP-level short story. They worked with a partner to complete a 4T chart (textual quote, technique or literary device used, topic, and overall theme) over one of these three stories:
p. 709 "A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings"
p. 725 "A Hunger Artist"
p. 799 "Teenage Wasteland"
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read one of the three stories above and complete a 4T chart with at least 5 example quotes.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read your group members' drafts and give them meaningful feedback. Bring to class next time to complete our Writers' Workshop.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2015
Today the seniors determined the tone of various passages from literature. Then we discussed the reading and writing assignment on Chapter 18 on themes. Students reviewed the 4 T's chart as a tool to determine the theme of a story. We also looked at an article on "Writing Viruses," a humorous view of cliched writing styles that just need to stop! :) Finally, the students worked on their Creative Writing stories.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your final thesis writing assignment. Complete a 4 T chart over a story from Chapter 18. Read this article: "Writer Wednesday: Do You Suffer From One of These Writing Viruses?"
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring 5 copies of the 1st draft of your Explication Essay.
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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
The seniors worked on their EAL today: the Error Analysis Log, a writing bootcamp exercise that helps students identify and correct errors in their writing. We also took a vocab quiz over the literary terms in chapters 15 through 17.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the EAL instructions and example (green). Retrieve your paper either physically or electronically, and ask Miss B. for more help as needed. See Miss B. to make up your vocab quiz.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 18. Write a thesis, claims, evidence AND one of the body/supporting paragraphs.
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2015
Today, the seniors looked at tone, motif, and archetypes in the short stories they read and in Veggie Tales. :) Yep, we viewed a Veggie Tales short and listed the archetypes contained within. Seniors also worked on their creative writing stories.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your thesis, claims and evidence. Pick up a copy of the Tone Classification packet from the red pocket, and complete part 1.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 17 (no thesis writing this time). Data Sheets are DUE over the two summer reading novels.
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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015
The seniors discussed point of view today and looked at a few examples of authors playing with POV in their poems and stories. Next, we reviewed strong Question 2 thesis statements. Then I shared with the seniors one of my favorite short stories, "The Yellow Wallpaper" by Charlotte Perkins Gilman. We looked at a few videos inspired by the story.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read "The Yellow Wallpaper" in your books (p. 421).
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 16 and bring a thesis, claims, and evidence over one of the stories in that chapter.
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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2015
Today the seniors peer reviewed each other's thesis plus claims/evidence over a chapter 13 or 14 story. Next, we review the five methods of characterization and looked at how they were used in these stories to create characters. We then took a vocabulary quiz over the literary terms in Chapters 12-14. Finally, students worked on creating character and defining setting in their creative writing stories.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your thesis statement and claims/evidence. See Miss B. to make-up the vocabulary quiz. Work on your CW story.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 15.
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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2015
The seniors discussed the stories in Chapters 11 and 12 and created plot diagrams. Then we peer reviewed our thesis statements and reviewed the concept of claims and evidence. Finally, we worked on our creative writing stories.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your thesis statement. Ask a classmate about Smokey the Bear and his poem.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapters 13 and 14 and bring a thesis and claims/evidence.
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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2015
Today the seniors finished the consensus activity over the practice MC exam. Then we took a vocab "quiz" as a class over the literary terms from Chapters 9-11. Next, the students reviewed the SAS Curriculum Pathways site, an online service for review and revising written work. Finally, the seniors worked on beginning their own creative writing stories through which they'll practice some of the literary devices we'll be studying.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your final draft of your essay ASAP. Check with a classmate for the correct answers to the practice MC exam. Begin writing a creative story.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 12 and bring a thesis over one of the stories (IF you haven't already turned a thesis in).
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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2015
The seniors peer reviewed each other's 2nd drafts of the Comparison-Contrast essay. We looked at a few proofreading/editing tools and resources. Then we started the Consensus Activity, a group activity that helps students identify the multiple-choice questions that challenge them. We will continue this activity during our next class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate if they will peer review your 2nd draft.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Final draft of the essay is DUE! Read chapter 11 and bring your first thesis statement. Sign up for a Quizlet membership (search for user "MissBergman"; icon is a kitten!). Click on this link: https://quizlet.com/join/RxCJDYVhF
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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2015
Today the APEs took a quiz over the literary terms in Chapter 9. Next, we shared our Twitter Fiction stories. After lunch, we took a practice AP MC (multiple choice) exam. We'll discuss our answers and the types of questions that AP asks in our next class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to make up the lit term quiz. Turn in your Twitter Fiction story. See Miss B. to get a copy of the practice AP exam to take at home (1 hour).
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring the 2nd draft of your essay. (One copy only)
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Easy way to sign up for Miss Bergman's AP class on Quizlet: https://quizlet.com/join/RxCJDYVhF
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015
The APEs conducted their first Writers' Workshop today, gaining valuable feedback from their group members on the first draft of their essays. Next, we discussed revision ideas and looked at a sample essay with good use of textual evidence. We also discussed the stories we read in Chapter 10 and identified a theme of each story.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Exchanged commented-upon drafts with your group members (check your tub file for your drafts).
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 9 and create a Twitter fiction story (140 characters or fewer).
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2015
The seniors exchanged rough drafts of their Comparison-Contrast essays with group members. We discussed things to watch for as students read and comment on each other's papers, and we talked about the procedure and guidelines of a Writers' Workshop, in which students will participate in our next class. Next, we talked about our study of Short Stories and how we'll work on writing strong thesis statements and building toward a plan of attack for an essay exam.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: No one was absent! :)
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 10. Read and comment upon your classmates' drafts.
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MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2015
Today the seniors looked at essays written for the AP exam on The Street prompt. Using the rubric, students decided on a score for each essay. We discussed our reasons for the scores we gave. Then we looked at the actual scores the essays received and the AP Readers' explanation for those scores. NHS students then recorded two notes to themselves about how to improve their next timed essay. Next, we looked at THEME and a method for determining theme called The Four T's: text, technique, topic, theme. Students practiced on poems by Frost and Millay.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Have a classmate explain the Four T's to you; we'll be completing more in the future. Turn in your practice essay on The Street.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring five printed copies of your rough draft: one for Miss B. and for each of your group members (and you). Rough Drafts should be at least 1 1/2 pages long.
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THURSDAY, AUGUST 27, 2015
The seniors practiced the skill of Close Reading today by examining two different Question 2 prompts from past AP Lit exams. First, we read a selection from Viramontes' novel Under the Feet of Jesus. We looked at the connection Estrella makes between tools and the alphabet. Next, we discussed the Comparison-Contrast essay assignment and our 1st Quarter "Writing Bootcamp." Then we walked through the process of reading, annotating, planning, and writing an essay over a prompt from the novel The Street by Ann Petry. Next class, we'll look at actual student essays written for this exam question and the scores they received.__
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: No one was absent today! Yay!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 7 and 8. Begin thinking about topics and thesis statements for your essay.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 25, 2015
Today the seniors wrapped up their presentations on their summer reading projects. Next, we began our review of the concept of Close Reading. We practiced on two poems: "Spring and Fall" and "The Whipping Boy." Next, we examined the short-short story, "All About Suicide." We'll practice more during our next class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up the lilac and salmon handouts on close reading from the red pockets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 4 and 5 and review "Everyday Use."
FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015
The seniors learned about their Independent Reading Project (or IRP) today. Each semester they will choose an additional AP-worthy novel to read on their own. This will give them two more choices for the AP Exam. Next, we discussed the concept of a literary canon and looked at a few examples of canons. Then they just exploded with questions for me about the AP Exam! :) So we went with it! I gave the students an overview of the AP English exam and answered their questions as they thought of them. Finally, we returned to our presentations over the summer reading books.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up an IRP assignment sheet (green) in the red pockets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 3 and the selections mentioned in the same essays.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2015
Today the seniors presented their projects over the summer reading assignment. We also went over the expectations for collaborative discussion, looked at the college-style syllabus for 1st quarter, and saw another example of an allusion presentation.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up two handouts from the red pockets: Collaborative Discussion and the college syllabus.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read p. 36-42 and the three short stories mentioned in the student essays.
MONDAY, AUGUST 17, 2015
The seniors signed up for Bell Ringer presentations of Allusions and saw example presentations. We went over the high school syllabus for the class and reviewed a few Training Topics. Next, we handed out textbooks and discussed outlining, the assignment for next class. We also reviewed Literary Data Sheets and set deadlines for the Jane Eyre and The Kite Runner data sheets. Finally, the seniors took their Summer Reading test.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. ASAP to arrange to take the make-up summer reading test and to check out a textbook. Pick up copies of the syllabus and Data Sheet assignment sheet from the red folder in the red pockets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be ready to present your summer reading project. Read Chapters 1 and 2 (to p. 36), and outline them. See the following sample outline to get you started:
FRIDAY, AUGUST 14, 2015
WELCOME BACK, EVERYONE!!!
Today the seniors learned more about our schedule for the first full week of class. Then we played "The Animal Game" and discussed how those skills are also relevant to AP English class (in a manner of speaking). Next, we discussed the first few assignments: Student Info Sheet and the Literary Data Sheets over the summer novels.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. for information on the first assignments and the schedule for next week.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be ready for your summer reading test!
AP Daily Summaries from Semester 2 (2014-2015)
MONDAY, MAY 11, 2015
The seniors' last day of AP English!!! We finished sharing our Beowulf boasts and our wanted posters. Then we watched more of the film version of the epic poem Beowulf.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your Beowulf project AND all textbooks and novels ASAP!!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Behave yourself until Graduation!! :) See you there!
THURSDAY, MAY 7, 2015
The APEs discussed the process of the AP Exam from yesterday. (We're not allowed to discuss the content of the test.) Then they presented their Beowulf projects: their boasts and wanted posters. As time allowed, we watch some of the film version of the epic poem.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in their Beowulf projects ASAP!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring all textbooks and iPads (with cases and chargers) to turn in.
TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015
Today the seniors studied the Old English language and listened to "The Lord's Prayer" and passages of Beowulf in this language. Next, we finished reading the passages from the epic poem. Finally, students worked on their LAST ASSIGNMENT IN HIGH SCHOOL ENGLISH!!! (They are a little excited about this.) This project is the Beowulf boast and wanted poster that students will present in class on Thursday.
BEST OF LUCK TO ALL THE APES WHO ARE TAKING THE AP ENGLISH LIT EXAM ON WEDNESDAY!!! MAY THE ODDS (AND THE #APMAGICPENCILS) BE EVER YOUR FAVOR!!!!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up copies of the Beowulf assignment sheets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Study for the exam! Get some sleep! Finish your two Beowulf projects and be ready to present.
FRIDAY, MAY 1, 2015
We reviewed for the AP English Lit exam today, going over the format of the exam and options for studying. I shared with the students a few handouts that they received early this year that would be good for review. We played literary terms Taboo to review all the terms we've learned this year. Finally, in a secret ceremony I can't discuss here, I handed out the Magic AP Pencils for the students to use on their exam.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. for any exam review.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Review for the AP Exam!
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29, 2015
Today the seniors began their study of Beowulf by discussing the Anglo-Saxon culture and literary features and reading the first few sections of the epic poem. We also looked at the introduction to the film version of the poem.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read p. 18 to 38 in the green literature textbooks (see Miss B. to check one out). Pick up copies of the Beowulf assignments: wanted poster and boast. They can be found in the red pockets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Get ready to hand in your red textbook.
MONDAY, APRIL 27, 2015
The seniors presented their Book Talks today over their Literature Circle novels. Very entertaining and, in one case, delicious!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with their group members about the Lit Circle project and your part of it.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Prepare to hand in your red textbooks. Clean it out, take a selfie with it, say goodbye.
THURSDAY, APRIL 23, 2015
Today the seniors took the test over their 2nd semester Independent Reading Project novel. As time allowed, they worked on finalizing their Literature Circles project, as Book Talks are due on Monday.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. ASAP to schedule your make-up IRP test. Check with your groups about Lit Circle tasks.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Book Talks are DUE along with all other Lit Circle tasks.
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TUESDAY, APRIL 21, 2015
The seniors worked on their Literature Circles project today.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your Lit Circle group members to see what you missed and what you can be doing to assist with the project.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Work on your Literature Circles project. Be ready for your IRP test!! Take 1st lunch on Thursday.
THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2015
The seniors worked on their Literature Circles project today.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your Lit Circle group members to see what you missed and what you can be doing to assist with the project.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Work on your Literature Circles project.
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TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 2015
The seniors worked on their Literature Circles project today.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your Lit Circle group members to see what you missed and what you can be doing to assist with the project.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Work on your Literature Circles project.
FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 2015
Today was the seniors' first day to work in their Literature Circles as they study a "modern-day classic."
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your Lit Circle group members to see what you missed and what you can be doing to assist with the project.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Work on your Literature Circles project.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015
SENIOR SKIP DAY!!! Either that, or a whole lotta seniors got sick suddenly today. :) Those who stayed worked on projects for English and other classes and enjoyed the 2013 film version of The Great Gatsby.
ABSENT STUDENTS: B's, be sure to turn in your last thesis, claims, evidence and supporting paragraph.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: We start Literature Circles on Friday. Bring your Lit. Circle book and have read whatever pages your group decided upon.
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MONDAY, APRIL 7, 2015
Today the seniors used the poetry of Calvin and Hobbes to review key poetic terms. (Bill Watterson is quite the poet!) We also discussed the use of TP-CASTT tool to help students remember the different aspects of a poem they might analyze. We practiced this tool by working in teams to categorize our Chapter 34 poems by topic, select two poems on the same topic, complete a TP-CASTT over each, and write a thesis statement that compares/contrasts the two poems.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up the TP-CASTT handouts (2), and select a Chapter 34 poem to analyze with this tool.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 32. B's bring your thesis, claims, evidence, AND one supporting paragraph.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015
The seniors studied different forms of poetry and reviewed poetry terms. We also played with the website For Better or Verse to practice scanning (identifying rhythm) poems and figuring rhyme scheme.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the Identifying Poetic Forms worksheet, and get the answers from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 31. A's, bring your thesis, claims, evidence, AND one supporting paragraph.
MONDAY, MARCH 30, 2015
Today the seniors sketched out their Literature Circles unit schedule for the month of April. This is a student-led unit over "modern day classics" and an opportunity to practice again all the literary analysis skills they've developed this year. Next, we looked at sound devices in poetry and "dissected" a poem.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check your file folder in the tub for a copy of the assignment sheet with deadlines and projects. Ask a classmate about our dissection project.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 30. B's, bring your thesis, claims, and evidence (line #s and quotes).
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THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015
The seniors taught each other about the different schools of literary criticism today. Then we reviewed and practiced identifying different Figures of Speech in poetry.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Appendix A in the textbook. Pick up a copy of the Identifying Figures of Speech worksheet, and check with a classmate for answers.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 29. A's, bring your thesis, claims, and evidence (line #s and quotes).
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TUESDAY, MARCH 24, 2015
Today the seniors wrote Imagery poems, focusing on one of 5 senses. Then we did an activity to reveal our "lenses" when it comes to poetry. We read about schools of literary criticism, or officially accepted "lenses."
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the Lens Activity. A's, turn in your thesis statement and claims/evidence.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 28. B's, bring your thesis and claims/evidence.
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THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2015
The seniors signed up for their Literature Circles books today. They can be working on buying/borrowing the books for April. Next, we looked at bare poems, poems stripped of information like author, title and publication date. Then we layered that information back onto the poem and discussed how or if that information changed our interpretation of the poem. Then we looked at diction and syntax and rewrote a poem in a distinctly different diction and/or syntax. Finally, the B's shared their thesis statements, and the A's helped them locate claims and evidence.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: B's, turn in your thesis statements. Sign up for your Literature Circle book.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 27. A's, bring your thesis and claims/evidence.
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TUESDAY, MARCH 10, 2015
Today the seniors looked at tone words and how the tone can shift throughout a poem. We defined unknown tone words and used them to recreate famous movie quotes. Then we looked at two poems--"Jenny Kissed Me" and "The World is Too Much With Us"--and watched for shifts in tones. Next, the A's shared their thesis statements, and the B's helped them locate claims or evidence.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: A's, turn in your thesis statements.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 26. B's, bring your first thesis on a Chapter 34 poem.
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FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2015
The seniors explored the question "What makes poetry great?" today. We first looked at two poems named "Ozymandias" and tried to determine which was the famous poem. We brainstormed a list of what makes a poem/poet "great." Then we read an article entitled "The Great(ness) Game" that explores this very issue. Finally, we looked at a series of poem pairs--one famous and considered "great," one not so much--and made our guesses, checked our answers, and discussed why one poem might be considered better than another.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the poem pairs. What was the difference between the two poems by Keats? Choose one of your four original poems to have displayed in the hallway.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 25. A's, bring your first thesis on a Chapter 34 poem.
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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4, 2015
The seniors shared their original poetry with their groups today and also wrote two additional poems: the "I am from" childhood poem and the Found Poem with words located in magazines.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Make sure you've written at least two original poems. See Miss B. for more help.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 24.
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MONDAY, MARCH 2, 2015
Today the seniors learned about their choices of books for our Literature Circles in April. I gave a brief description of each book, and students votes for their top three choices. We also began our Poetry unit today, and students will be writing two original poems for our next class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a Lit Circle ballot from Miss B, do any research you need to select your top three titles, and turn in your ballot ASAP. Pick up the Poetry unit assignment sheet AND the schedule for the unit (two separate handouts this time).
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 22 and 23, and bring two original poems to share---one regular poem and one concrete poem.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2015
Today the seniors completed the film version of the novel One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, and we looked at the Academy Award acceptance speeches of the protagonist and antagonist of the story. We also looked at allusions to the novel in recent pop culture. As time allowed, students worked on the Data Sheet over the novel.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Do your part of the Data Sheet.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring your red literature textbooks.
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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2015
The seniors discussed the end of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest today, looking at themes, motifs, conflicts, and resolution. We conducted a silent discussion: students recorded their ideas on the BIG questions of the novel and passed them on, without seeing their classmates' comments. After everyone had a chance to record his/her own ideas, we gathered to look at all the responses and look for trends. We also discussed using the novel for the AP exams and Q3 topics that would be good fits.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Work on the Data Sheet.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Journals are DUE
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2015
Today the seniors finished writing their MC exams and exchanged them with another group. We discussed strong MC questions and what we learned by trying to write MC questions. We also viewed clips of the film version of the novel.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Keep reading!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish the book for next class.
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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015
The seniors voted on their favorite magnetic poetry by the juniors, awarding 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places. Then we discussed key quotes from the middle section of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. Next, we began writing AP-style multiple choice exams over close reading passages from the novel. We'll continue this work next class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with their group members on the progress made on the MC exam. What can you do to help?
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Keep reading and journaling!
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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2015
Today the seniors created literary Conversation Hearts and did Speed Dating, an AP review activity.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about our activities for today.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Keep reading and journaling!
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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2015
The seniors led their classmates in a close reading of five different passages from One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. We looked at Chief Bromden's use of the metaphors of "The Combine" and "the fog" to explain how the mental hospital is "curing" patients. We also viewed the beginning of the film interpretation of the text and noticed the significant differences between the novel and the film.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Talk to a classmate about the film version of the book. How do the discrepancies change their feelings toward the characters?
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Keep reading and journaling! Your Hamlet data sheet is due next class.
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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2015
Today the seniors took a full 3-hour practice AP exam: multiple choice and three essays. If students were able, they stayed through 7th hour to write the essays. If they needed to attend their 7th hour class, they took the essay prompts with them to complete on their own, if they like.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. if you'd like a copy of the practice exam.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read and journal over One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2015
The seniors began One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest today. We discussed the journaling assignment as well as the schedule for February. Then we began reading, noting the unreliable narrator of Chief Bromden. Students continued reading and began their journals.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to check out a book. Pick up a copy of the assignment sheet from the red pockets. Turn in your field trip form for Monday's 3-hour practice exam.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Keep reading and journaling for your first deadline next week.
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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2015
Today the seniors finished up the film comparison sheet, looking at the final duel scene in the Zeffirelli production. Then they took two practice AP exams over other Shakespearean texts, as long as we have his language fresh in our heads.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up copies of the practice exams, if you like. Write "absent" on your film comparison sheet, and turn it in.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Work on your Data Sheet for Hamlet. **Bring your field trip form with your 7th hour teacher's signature.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, 2015
The seniors wrapped up their study of Hamlet today, completing practice MC exams and comparing thesis statements and plans of attack for practice Q3 essay prompts. We also completed a film comparison, looking at the Zeffirelli and the Branaugh Hamlets.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your Q3 prompt with thesis and plan of attack.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None! You can be working on your Data Sheet.
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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28, 2015
Today the seniors discussed four major characters and how they contribute to the plot and theme of the play. Then we read Act V, the final act of the play.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act V.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Choose one of the two Q3 prompts, and sketch out a plan of attack or outline for the essay, using Hamlet as your selected play.
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MONDAY, JANUARY 26, 2015
The seniors discussed the rest of Act III before reading Act IV and discussing Crazy Ophelia. We looked at different actresses' interpretations of Ophelia's insanity.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with a classmate for notes on notable quotes for your data sheet. Read Act IV.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None! We finished Act IV together in class.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 22, 2015
Today, the seniors graded our practice MC exam and generally agreed the book's answers were wrong. Or dumb. Or both. :) Then we read Act III scenes 1 and 2 of Hamlet and looked at various interpretations of the famous "To be or not to be..." soliloquy.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with a classmate about the answers for the MC practice exam. Read Act III scenes 1 and 2.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading Act III.
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TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015
With the sub today, the seniors took a practice AP-style multiple choice exam over a passage from Hamlet. Then they took at practice AP-style essay exam over a passage fromHamlet. As time allowed, they watched part of the A&E Biography video on William Shakespeare.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. if you'd like the practice AP exams we took today.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Make sure you've finished reading Act II.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2015
Today the seniors discussed their sub day lesson for next Tuesday (I'll be at the 4th of 4 required days of Adaptive Schools training at the district office.). Then we talked took a practice AP-style multiple choice exam over a passage from Act I of Hamlet and practiced annotation another passage. We then continued reading Act II together, with the BBC radio production.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act II. See Miss B. if you'd like the practice AP exams we took today.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading Act II.
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MONDAY, JANUARY 12, 2015
The seniors discussed the ending of Death of a Salesman today and watched three different actors portraying Willy Loman. Next, we began Hamlet, reading the first two scenes of the play together.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to check out a Hamlet paperback, if you wish. Read Act I scenes 1 and 2.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the rest of Act I.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 8, 2015
Today the seniors discussed Act I of Death of a Salesman and then read DOAS Act II with a genuine vinyl record version of the play. (Very old school!)
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read the rest of the play.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish the play, as necessary.
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TUESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2015
The seniors discussed their Christmas Break plays in groups and shared summaries with the rest of the class. We also viewed trailers of film/play productions of the plays. Next, we began reading Death of a Salesman.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your notes on motifs and themes of your break play. See Miss B. to sign up for Allusion presentations during Bell Ringers. Read Act I of Death of a Salesman.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading Act I of Death of a Salesman.
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CHRISTMAS BREAK ASSIGNMENT:
Read one of the following plays and take notes on two themes and two motifs (see your assignment sheet for a list of possible themes and motifs).
The Glass Menagerie
A Raisin in the Sun
The Importance of Being Earnest
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
FINAL EXAM!!
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2014
Today the seniors worked on their EAL (Error Analysis Log), their DS on P&P (Data Sheet on Pride and Prejudice), and prepped their notes for their final exam.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: No one was absent! It's a Christmas miracle!!! :) :) :) :) :)
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Study and prep for your final exam! The P&P Data Sheet is also due.
AP Daily Summaries from Semester 1 (2014-2015)
CHRISTMAS BREAK ASSIGNMENT:
Read one of the following plays and take notes on two themes and two motifs (see your assignment sheet for a list of possible themes and motifs).
The Glass Menagerie
A Raisin in the Sun
The Importance of Being Earnest
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
FINAL EXAM!!
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2014
Today the seniors worked on their EAL (Error Analysis Log), their DS on P&P (Data Sheet on Pride and Prejudice), and prepped their notes for their final exam.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: No one was absent! It's a Christmas miracle!!! :) :) :) :) :)
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Study and prep for your final exam! The P&P Data Sheet is also due.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2014
The seniors took their test today over their Independent Reading Project (IRP) novel. They also selected their plays to read over Christmas Break and got started on the assignment.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. immediately to arrange to make up the IRP test during Seminar on Monday.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Prep for your final exam.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2014
The seniors finished reading the wonderful play Proof by David Auburn today. We also viewed some of the film interpretation of the play.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act II of Proof.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2014
Today the seniors went over what will be on the final exam next week. We also drew slips for our group data sheets over the three plays we're read this semester. Next, we took parts and began reading Proof together.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to find out your assigned play for the group data sheet. Read Proof through the end of Act I.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the intro to Chapter 42.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2014
The seniors reviewed literary terms from our drama study so far. We also reviewed a little for the final exam (more on that next Monday). Then we watched Act III of A Doll's House and compared it to the text.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act III of A Doll's House.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the intro to Chapter 41 (and 40, if need be).
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2014
Today the seniors discussed the play Trifles and the playwright's use of symbols and ambiguity. Then we began reading A Doll's House, taking parts and enjoying macaroons, a key motif of the play.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Acts I and II of A Doll's House.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish Acts I and II of A Doll's House. Read the intro to Chapter 40. Data Sheet over Pride and Prejudice is due.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2014
The seniors performed their Chapter 37 plays today---very entertaining!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read the Chapter 37 plays.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read intro to Chapter 39 and the play Trifles, based on a real-life murder in Iowa.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2014
Today the seniors wrapped up their Pride and Prejudice presentations. Then we read and ranked each other's essays on the Q1 prompt on Alice Walker's "The Flowers." Students will receive back their classmates' scores and comments on their essays. Next, we began our discussion of drama with a look at Chapter 36's background information on the development of drama and theaters through history. Finally, the seniors drew slips for their roles and responsibilities for the Chapter 37 plays that we will perform next class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with Miss B. ASAP to find out your role in the Chapter 37 plays.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read through and prep your Chapter 37 play.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2014
The seniors continued their presentations on literary devices in Austen's novel.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Be ready to present on Wednesday: your last chance.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2014
Today the seniors presented their findings as they tracked Jane Austen's use of literary devices through the novel Pride and Prejudice.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Make sure you are ready to present!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be reading and annotating/outlining Chapter 36. P&P data sheet is due December 4th.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2014
The seniors met with their partners today to plan their presentation over tracked devices in Pride and Prejudice. Presentations will be Thursday and Monday. Next, we took on the role of the AP Readers and ranked sample essays. This will help us prepare to rank each other's essays next week.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your partner.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be reading and annotating/outlining Chapter 36. P&P data sheet is due December 4th.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014
Today was the Netherfield Ball!! To wrap up our study of Pride and Prejudice, seniors took on the identities of characters from the novel and played cheesy party games. We also DANCED!! We took an Irish gig ("The Waves of Tory") and turned it into a (sort of) stately Regency Era dance. Then we ate refreshments and gossiped about the end of the book, as the characters would. Finally, we compared film versions of the end of the book.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate to teach you "The Waves of Tory"! :)
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2014
Today the APEs finished writing their MC practice quizzes over passages from Pride and Prejudice. We exchanged quizzes with other groups and took them, noting both our understanding of the novel AND our ability to write AP-style MC questions. Next, we read an essay about the use of costuming and musical score to enhance the conflicts and themes in the 1995 film version of the novel. Finally, we took a practice Q2 essay exam over Mr. Collins's "comforting" letter to the Bennets.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check in with your partner on your tracking devices project.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish the novel! Come to class ready to dance! :)
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2014
The seniors discussed the next chunk of Pride and Prejudice, looking specifically at Darcy's failed proposal to Elizabeth and her rejection. By looking at Darcy's response and Elizabeth's reflection on it, we examined the external and internal conflicts of our protagonists. Finally, seniors started writing their own multiple-choice quizzes over passages from the novel.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check in with your partner on your tracking devices project.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read P&P chapters 44-51.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2014
Today the seniors finished taking the practice AP exam with three essay prompts. We voted on which of the three we want evaluated and scored by our classmates during a future class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Write the three essays and bring them to Miss B. pronto if you want feedback from your classmates.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read P&P chapters 23-43.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2014
The seniors began a full practice AP exam today. We took the Multiple-Choice section and then graded it. Then we began the three essays, which we will continue next class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Stop by Miss Bergman's room, pick up a copy of the MC practice exam, and take it at home or during Seminar. It takes one hour.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Keep reading P&P. We'll discuss the next chunk in class next week. Remember: 1st lunch on Thursday.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014
Today the seniors finished our discussion of the short story "The Chaser." We then spent time discussing the next section of Pride and Prejudice, which includes the introduction of Wickham and Mr. Collins. We did a quick practice MC quiz over a passage involving Mr. Collins. Then we viewed one film's interpretation of the all-important Netherfield Ball scene.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your Error Analysis Log. Check with your partner regarding tracking devices in P&P.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Keep reading! Remember: 1st lunch all next week
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2014
Mrs. Henning presented information to us today on two different ways of checking out ebooks. We then discussed the importance of dancing in the Regency era and to the characters of Pride and Prejudice. We also took notes on major themes of P&P to consider as we track devices. Next, we had a reading half-hour to experience each other's creative writing stories and give some kind feedback. Finally, we did a close reading of a short story called "The Chaser."
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your Explication Essay and your Error Analysis Log. Check with your partner or a classmate for notes on the themes of the novel.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 14-22.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014
Today the seniors peer reviewed the 2nd draft of their Explication Essays. Then we turned our attention to Pride and Prejudice, discussing the first 13 chapters of the book and looking at Austen's use of literary devices. We also discussed the Regency era and some of the class issues that affect the characters and conflicts.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Send Miss B. the 2nd draft of your essay. Get a peer to review it for you, if you like. Check in with your partner on tracking devices.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Final draft of Explication Essay AND the Error Analysis Log are DUE.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2014
The seniors looked at student essays written on the Johnny... prompt back in 2007. We ranked the essays using the 9-point rubric and then checked our scores against the actual scores received by those essays. Next, we began our Pride and Prejudice unit which involves tracking Austen's use of literary devices throughout the novel. Students will present their findings at the end of the unit.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss Bergman to check out a P&P book (or iPad..??). Pick up a copy of the assignment sheet from the red pockets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapters 1-13 of P&P and take notes on Austen's use of your device.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2014
Today the seniors had a Writers' Workshop over the first draft of their Explication Essays. We then took a practice Q2 exam on a passage from Johnny Got His Gun, after discussing the overall set-up of the AP Exam and reviewing Miss Bergman's and our own tips to ourselves (after our last practice exam) on how to do well on an essay exam.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get your group members' essays back to them with your brilliant comments ASAP. Pick up the copies of your own draft from your tub file. Pick up a copy of the handout Things To Tell My Students from the red pockets, along with a copy of the Q2 exam prompt. Give yourself 40 minutes to write the essay. Bring it to class next time.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish your Creative Writing story and bring it to class.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2014
About half of the seniors were gone to various activities, field trips, and sports today! But the few remaining worked hard on their group members' 1st drafts of the Explication Essay. They also read a short story from Chapter 21 and completed a 4T's chart (text, technique, topic, theme).
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get copies of your 1st draft to Miss Bergman AND to your group members. Pick up your group members' papers from your tub folder. Read one of these short stories and complete a 4T's chart on it.
Three stories to choose from:
p. 709 "A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings"
p. 725 "A Hunger Artist"
p. 799 "Teenage Wasteland"
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read and comment upon your group members' drafts.
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2014
Today the seniors workshopped their thesis statements, claims and evidence, and first paragraph. We also practiced identifying the tone of selected passages. Finally, we worked on writing our Creative Writing stories (due on Oct 13th) and the 1st draft of their Explication Essays.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check your Tone Classification answers with a classmate. Turn in your final thesis, claims, evidence, and paragraph to the red tray.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Write the first draft of your Explication Essay, and bring copies for your group members and Miss Bergman. Be sure to write your Top Three issues across the top of the front page.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2014
The seniors practiced and then took a test over their literary terms from Chapters 15-17 on Quizlet. Next, we looked at their Comparison-Contrast essays and learned how to complete an Error Analysis Log. This tool will help students improve their writing over the course of the next few weeks. Students used the remaining class time to work on their EALs, their Creative Writing stories, or their reading assignment (and thesis writing) for next class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Retrieve your graded Comparison-Contrast essay either from the file tub in the back of the classroom OR from the shared class folder in Google Drive. Pick up a copy of the Error Analysis Log (green) from the red pockets. Ask Miss Bergman for help deciphering her comments and notes. :)
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 18 and write a thesis, claims, evidence, AND the first paragraph of the essay over a short story in Chapter 18. Be sure to use the NEW theme-focused thesis formula on the Short Story Unit assignment sheet.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2014
Today the seniors discussed the stories in Chapter 16 and looked at tone. We viewed a clip of Veggie Tales and identified archetypes. Finally, we worked on our own creative writing stories.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the Tone Classification packet from the red pockets. Turn in your thesis, claims and evidence.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 17.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2014
The seniors looked at point of view today, looking at examples of when an author has changed the point of view of a poem, short story, or novel. We then read "The Yellow Wallpaper" by Charlotte Perkins Gilman and viewed two short video clips based on the story: one a PBS film production, and the other a stop-motion retelling with paper art. Finally, we looked at how POV was working in our own creative writing stories.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read "The Yellow Wallpaper" in your literature textbooks.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 16 and bring a thesis, claims and evidence on a story.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2014
Today the seniors shared their thesis and claims/evidence over their Ch. 13 and 14 story. They also identified the methods of characterization used for one of their characters AND the setting of the story. We quizzed ourselves on the literary terms mentioned in these two chapters. Finally, we worked on our creative writing stories, fleshing out the characters and establishing setting.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your thesis and claims/evidence ASAP. Work on your Creative Writing story.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 15.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2014
The seniors began the process of writing their 2nd formal out-of-class essay today, the Explication Essay. We looked at our thesis statements over Chapter 12 stories and reviewed the difference between Claims and Evidence. We also talked at length about sentence variety in writing and used an online tool (SAS Curriculum Pathways) to evaluate our own writing. Finally, the students worked on the plot of their creative writing stories.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your thesis statement ASAP. Pick up an assignment sheet for the Explication Essay and a handout on Sentence Variety. Ask a classmate about the difference between Claims and Evidence. Work on the plot of your creative writing story.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 13 and bring a thesis and claims or evidence on a story.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014
Today the seniors looked at specific questions from the practice MC exam we took last week. We quizzed ourselves over the literary terms in chapters 9, 10, and 11. We also took time to put these fiction skills into practice in our own creative short stories.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in the final draft of your Comparison-Contrast essay. Turn in your Ch. 11 thesis statement. Start a creative short story by jotting down your ideas.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 12 and bring a thesis on a story.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2014
The seniors peer reviewed the 2nd draft of their Comparison-Contrast essays today, getting valuable feedback for the drafting of their final drafts. We also discussed the short story "Hills Like White Elephants" from Chapter 9. We also looked at the practice MC exam the students took on Wednesday and attempted to come to consensus on our answers before hearing the real answers.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate for the answers for the MC practice exam. Get a group member to review your paper, if you wish.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Final draft of the Comparison-Contrast essay is DUE. Read chapter 11, and bring a thesis statement over a Chapter 11 story.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2014
Today the seniors had a substitute (I had training at the district office all afternoon) and took a quiz over the literary terms in Chapter 9. After lunch, they took a full AP Multiple Choice practice exam. We'll grade these together in a future class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to make up the lit term quiz. Pick up a copy of the MC practice exam and give yourself an hour to take it.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring a copy of your 2nd draft to peer review in class.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2014
The seniors held their first Writers' Workshop today, discussing each others' first drafts and giving feedback for the writing of the 2nd draft. We looked over the 9-point rubric used on the AP exam and Miss Bergman's unofficially 9-point rubric. We also discussed ideas for revision, with a demonstration with Lego pieces and a sample student paper with the appropriate amount of textual evidence. We also discussed the Chapter 10 short-short stories and reviewed the 4 T tool. As time allowed, be began writing our Twitter Fiction stories and reading Chapter 9 for next time.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up your drafts from the tub file. Give your group members their drafts with your comments. Pick up copies of the official and unofficial rubrics from the red pockets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 9, taking notes on the bold-faced terms as you go, and write a Twitter Fiction story to share with the class.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2014
Today the APEs discussed the expectations of a Writers' Workshop and exchanged 1st drafts of their Comparison-Contrast Essay with their group members. We also reflected on our own writing process in writing this draft. Next, we continued our discussion of the Millay poems on death and noticed how the topic may be the same but the theme of each poem is quite different. We then talked about our short story study and how we'll practice writing strong thesis statements and plans of attack for potential essays over these stories, two more tools for our toolbox.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get copies of your 1st draft to your group members and to Miss Bergman, but recognize that you may not get any feedback since your paper was received late. Pick up your group members' drafts from your tub folder. Pick up a copy of the Writers' Workshop guidelines and the Short Story unit calendar from the red pockets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 10, and read and comment upon your group members' drafts.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2014
The seniors looked today at sample student essays from the Q2 passage on The Street. We learned, very quickly, that handwriting is important! The Reader can't reward you for what he/she can't read! We also discussed other strengths and weaknesses of these essays and then looked at our own essays and scored them. Next, we learned a technique for identifying the theme of a passage and the techniques used by the author to make that theme apparent to the readers. We practiced as a class and in small groups on poems by Robert Frost and Edna St. Vincent Millay.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate to explain the 4 T's to you. Turn in your practice essay on The Street.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring five copies of your first draft of the Comparison-Contrast essay, one for each of your group members and one for Miss B.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 28, 2014
Today the seniors began their Writing Bootcamp. This is a writing-intensive unit that focuses on improving our skills through both in-class and out-of-class writing assignments and projects. The first out-of-class writing assignment is the Comparison-Contrast essay over one or both of the summer reading novels. In-class, we worked today on reading and understanding a Q2 prompt and fiction passage. We read and annotated a selection from Ann Petry's novel The Street. After discussing our annotations, we wrote the essay in class. Next class, we'll look at some sample student essays from the year this essay was on the exam.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up copies of the Comparison-Contrast essay assignment sheet AND the Q2: The Street passage from the red pockets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapters 7 and 8.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 26, 2014
The seniors drew topics and signed up for presentation slots for their Foster Poster assignment. Then we focused on the skill of close reading. We examined a poem "The Whipping" and a Q2 passage from the novel Under the Feet of Jesus, which led to a discussion of the theme of tools to unlock doors. Finally, students completed an Evaluation of one of the five selections (counting the three they read as homework).
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss Bergman to draw a Foster Poster topic and sign up for a presentation slot. Pick up the following from the red pockets: a copy of the Foster Poster assignment sheet, the passage from Under the Feet of Jesus, and the Evaluation Form. Complete the Evaluation Form over one of the selections.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapters 4 and 5, and review/read "Everyday Use" on p. 469.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 22, 2014
Today the seniors learned about their Independent Reading Project (or IRP), a semester-long project in which students read one AP-worthy novel outside of class. We also discussed the reading for today (3 short stories plus two sample student papers) and the summer reading novel Jane Eyre.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the IRP assignment sheet from the red pockets. Ask a classmate about our discussion of the short stories and Jane Eyre.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 3 and, as necessary, read/review the three selections mentioned (p. 216, 1180, 1176).
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 20, 2014
The seniors reviewed the expectations of a Collaborative Discussion before discussing the reading for today. We looked at different canons of literature and discussed how these canons come to be. We also spent time discussing one of our summer reading novels, The Kite Runner, while looking at clips of the film interpretation.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a Collaborative Discussion handout. Ask a classmate about our discussion of the canon and The Kite Runner.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the rest of Chapter 2, starting on page 36. Read the three stories mentioned on page 36 as well.
MONDAY, AUGUST 18, 2014
Today the seniors learned how we will handle Bell Ringers this year and signed up for their Allusion presentations. Next, we discussed outlining techniques and handed out textbooks. Then we took our first practice Q3 exam, over the summer reading novels. Finally, we visited the library for a refresher on resources available there.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask Miss B. for info on Bell Ringers, and sign up for your Allusion presentations. Check out a textbook and see this info on outlining.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 1 and 2 in the textbook and bring your outline to turn in.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 15, 2014
Welcome back!
Today the seniors played a game called The Animal Game and discussed how skills from the game transfer to English class. Next, we looked at the class syllabus and discussed the first few assignments of the year.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about The Animal Game. Pick up a copy of the class syllabus, the Student Info Sheet, and the film clips letter from the AP folder (red) in the red pockets. Also, pick up an assignment sheet for the Data Sheets over the summer novels (find a group to work with, if you like). Complete the AUP form on Infinite Campus.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Work on the Student Information Sheet, due August 26th.
AP Daily Summaries from Quarter 4 (2013-2014)
FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2014 / MONDAY, MAY 12, 2014 / TUESDAY, MAY 13, 2014
Last days for the seniors!!! Before you can leave you must,
---take this survey http://alturl.com/4tpfn for Mr. Dietz
---complete the Exam Reflection and the End-of-Year Survey and turn them in to the red tray
---have Miss Bergman check your Bell Ringers and Allusions AND the list of missing materials
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See above!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Behave yourself and show up for the two required meetings/practices: Wed and Sat at 10:00. See you at Graduation!!
THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2014
EXAM DAY!!! GOOD LUCK, APES!
MONDAY, MAY 5, 2014 / TUESDAY, MAY 6, 2014/ WEDNESDAY, MAY 7, 2014
Today was review day! We reviewed the format of the AP English exam, what Readers want from our essays, the Ten Commandments of AP English, and Things Miss Bergman Learned at the AP Reading. Then students chose various review activities (MC drills, literary terms taboo, Title Twitter, Speed Dating, silly exam) to practice. And we ended with this inspirational video: 40 Inspirational Speeches in Two Minutes
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. if you want to do any of these review activities.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Review for the exam!! Get some sleep! Eat a good breakfast! Be to McKinley by 7:45 a.m. on Thursday! Good luck! May the force be with you! May the odds be ever in your favor!! Live long and prosper!!
THURSDAY, MAY 1, 2014 / FRIDAY, MAY 2, 2014
Today, the seniors presented their Beowulf Boasts. They were full of kennings, patronymics, and alliterative awesomeness. Then we viewed clips of the animated version of Beowulf.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in their Boasts. Ask a classmate about the film's changes to the story.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None. We will review for the AP exam! Bring your brains!!
TUESDAY, APRIL 29, 2014 / WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30, 2014
The focus today was on Old English, the language of Beowulf and the Anglo-Saxons. We looked at The Lord's Prayer in Old English and listened to recitations of the prayer and of passages of Beowulf in Old English. Students attempted to write their names in OE, and we identified movie quotes that had been "translated" into OE. We also deciphered modern day kennings, and read of Beowulf's final battle, with the dragon. Students will now write a Beowulf-style boast, putting all this into action.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate for a brief explanation of Old English. Read p. 42-48 in the green textbook. Pick up a copy of the Boast assignment sheet.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Work on your boast----you will have time in class to work as well. Boasts are due mid-way through class next time.
FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014 / MONDAY, APRIL 28, 2014
Today we started reading Beowulf. Dragons, swords, bloodshed---all in Old English! :) (Actually, we're reading a translation.) We discussed the features of Anglo-Saxon writing (kennings, patronymics, gnomic sentences, etc.) and read the battle with Grendel and Grendel's mother.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to check out a green lit book, and read p. 18-38.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23, 2014 / THURSDAY, APRIL 24, 2014
The seniors presented their Book Talks today, attempting to convince their classmates to read their Literature Circle books. We've seen reenactments of key scenes, heard readings of scenes, viewed clips from film versions, and enjoyed such delicacies as vegan Snickerdoodles, honey with bread and apples and parsley, Batman cupcakes, "soap," and arm cake. :)
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Rue the day they ever thought of missing AP English class! :) This was a bad day to miss!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None. We'll start Beowulf next class.
MONDAY, APRIL 21, 2014 / TUESDAY, APRIL 22, 2014
Today was the LAST DAY for the seniors to work on their Literature Circles project. Everything---including the Book Talk---is due next class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your Lit Circle to see what you need to do to catch up.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Get everything done!
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16, 2014 / THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014
The seniors worked in their Literature Circles today.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your Lit Circle to see what you need to do to catch up.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Whatever your group has assigned.
MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014 / TUESDAY, APRIL 15, 2014
The seniors worked in their Literature Circles today.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your Lit Circl to see what you need to do to catch up.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Whatever your group has assigned.
TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014 / WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9, 2014
Today was the first day of Literature Circles! The students worked in their collaborative learning groups who are all reading "modern classics," books written in the last 10-12 years and are already garnering discussion of "literary merit." These books will give students another option for the AP Exam open-ended question. Each group has created their own assignment schedule in order to complete the eight required elements in addition to the final Book Talk presentation.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your Lit. Circle to see what you need to do to catch up.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Whatever your group assigned yourselves! :)
FRIDAY, APRIL 4, 2014 / MONDAY, APRIL 7, 2014
Today the seniors wrapped up their study of poetry with a Calvin and Hobbes review activity. We also looked at analytical tools (DIDLS, TP-CASTT, etc.) and tried them out on two poems on the same topic. 4th hour also took their Allusions quiz.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See the folder in the red pockets for the handouts on analytical tools. Complete a TP-CASTT worksheet on two poems.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: We start Literature Circles next class, so make sure you have your group-created assignment done and ready to go.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 / THURSDAY, APRIL 3, 2014
5th hour seniors took a quiz over their Allusions (4th hour has their quiz next Monday). Next, we focused on two practice MC exams over poetry. Lastly, groups helped the A's write the rest of their essays on a chapter 34 poem.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up copies of the MC quizzes and have a classmate share the answers. A's turn in your thesis, etc.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: 4th hour: Allusion glossaries are DUE. B's bring thesis, claims, evidence, and paragraph. Everyone reads the chapter.
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MONDAY, MARCH 31, 2014 / TUESDAY, APRIL 1, 2014
Today the seniors worked on types of poems (sonnet, sestina, villanelle, etc.), matching definitions and labeling example poems. We also played on the fantastic (and punny) website For Better or For Verse, checking our skills at labeling poetic rhythms. Finally, the B's shared their thesis notes and used the A's to help them write one paragraph of the essay.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the Identify Poetic Forms worksheet, and check answers with a classmate. B's turn in your thesis, claims and evidence.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: A's, bring thesis, claims, evidence, and paragraph. Everyone reads the chapter. Allusions glossaries are DUE.
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THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 2014 / FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 2014
The seniors "dissected" a poem today. (Not nearly as messy as other dissections.) We looked at the rhyme and rhythm of the poem and how they reinforce the poem's meaning. The A's also shared their thesis notes and used the B's to help them write a paragraph of the essay.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about our dissection. A's turn in your thesis, claims and evidence.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: B's bring thesis, claims, AND evidence. Everyone reads the chapter.
TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 2014 / WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 2014
Today the seniors looked at Figures of Speech in poetry. We completed a "quiz" to see how well we can identify examples of the various types of figurative language. We also worked on our thesis statements and claims/evidence, beginning to add in the final piece.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: B's turn in your thesis statement and claims/evidence.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: A's, bring thesis, claims, AND evidence. Everyone reads the chapter.
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THURSDAY, MARCH 13, 2014 / FRIDAY, MARCH 14, 2014
The seniors completed the Lens Activity today, looking at poetry through restrictive lenses and noting how much more you can get out of poetry analysis if you are open to different interpretations. Next, we wrote poems with strong imagery (the focus of our reading for today).
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: A's, turn in your thesis statements and claims/evidence.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: B's, thesis and claims OR evidence (your choice). Everyone reads the chapter.
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TUESDAY, MARCH 11, 2014 / WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 2014
Today the seniors looked a poems stripped of all external information: title, author, publication date, etc. We discussed whether our analysis/interpretation of the poem was affected by this external information and the question, "Should it be affected?" The B's shared their thesis statements over Chapter 34 poems.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: B's, turn in your thesis statements.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: A's, thesis and claims OR evidence (your choice). Everyone reads the chapter.
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AP Daily Summaries from Quarter 3 (2013-2014)
THURSDAY, MARCH 13, 2014 / FRIDAY, MARCH 14, 2014
The seniors completed the Lens Activity today, looking at poetry through restrictive lenses and noting how much more you can get out of poetry analysis if you are open to different interpretations. Next, we wrote poems with strong imagery (the focus of our reading for today).
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: A's, turn in your thesis statements and claims/evidence.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: B's, thesis and claims OR evidence (your choice). Everyone reads the chapter.
TUESDAY, MARCH 11, 2014 / WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 2014
Today the seniors looked a poems stripped of all external information: title, author, publication date, etc. We discussed whether our analysis/interpretation of the poem was affected by this external information and the question, "Should it be affected?" The B's shared their thesis statements over Chapter 34 poems.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: B's, turn in your thesis statements.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: A's, thesis and claims OR evidence (your choice). Everyone reads the chapter.
FRIDAY, MARCH 7, 2014 / MONDAY, MARCH 10, 2014
The seniors did a tone mapping exercise today, looking at shifts in tone throughout a poem. The A's also shared their thesis over a Chapter 34 poem.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your thesis, all A's.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: B's, your thesis will be due. Everyone reads the chapter.
OUR SCHEDULES ARE GETTING A LITTLE CRAZY FOR THE NEXT COUPLE OF WEEKS, SO THE TWO CLASSES ARE LISTED SEPARATELY FOR A WHILE:
THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 2014
Today the seniors completed a poetry project, discussing their original poems and the poems in the book, and then creating a new "I am from" poem.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a packet and complete it and turn it in.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Check the poetry assignment sheet for your reading and writing assignment.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5, 2014
The 5th hour seniors did a little snow-day-induced catching up. We went over the choices of books for the Literature Circles in April. Then we discussed the question, "What makes a poem 'great'?" We looked at pairs of poems on the same subject or theme and tried to determine why some poems are considered "great" and others aren't.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a ballot for the Lit Circle books, do whatever research you need to make your choices, complete the ballot, and turn it in to the tray. Ask a classmate about the "greatness" discussion. What was our criteria for "greatness" in poems?
TUESDAY, MARCH 4, 2014
Today the seniors discussed the question, "What makes a poem 'great'?" We looked at pairs of poems on the same subject or theme and tried to determine why some poems are considered "great" and others aren't.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the "greatness" discussion. What was our criteria for "greatness" in poems?
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Check your poetry reading schedule. B's, bring your thesis to turn in.
MONDAY, MARCH 3, 2014
SNOW DAY!!
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2014
The 4th hour APEs finished up their presentations on Pride and Prejudice and then used the remaining time to work on their poetry assignment or their SEP essay (procrastinators!).
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Make sure you're caught up on poetry assignments.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Check the poetry assignment sheet for your reading and writing assignment.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2014
Today the seniors completed a poetry project, discussing their original poems and the poems in the book, and then creating a new "I am from" poem.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a packet and complete it and turn it in.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Check the poetry assignment sheet for your reading and writing assignment.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2014 / WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2014
The seniors presented their Pride and Prejudice projects today, showing us their findings after tracking Austen's use of their literary device. In 5th hour, we also discussed the poetry unit we're about to begin and designated A's and B's in each group. We also selected a deadline for the P&P data sheet.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: 5th hour: get a copy of the poetry assignment sheet, and ask your group members if you are an A or a B.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring your red literature textbook!
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2014 / MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2014
The seniors met today with their partners to plan their presentation on Austen's use of their literary device. We also compared film interpretations of key scenes and characters from the novel.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Talk to your partner ASAP about your presentation!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Presentations!!
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2014 / THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2014
Today the seniors were cordially invited to the Netherfield Ball! To wrap up our discussion of Pride and Prejudice, the seniors took on the identities of the characters, filled out their dance cards, and danced the night/class away!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask their classmates to take a turn about the room with them to gossip about the Ball!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring your notes to begin planning your presentation.
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2014 / TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2014
The APEs discussed Chapters 44-51 of Pride and Prejudice today, looking at a wonderful essay about the use of music and costume in one film adaptation. I pointed out to students how music and costume are the "literary devices" used by the film makers. We also completed a practice Q2 exam over Mr. Collins's letter.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Talk to your partner re: your tracking devices project AND ask when you will be presenting.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading the book and be ready to discuss. We have a special end-of-book event happening in class next time! :)
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2014 / FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014
Today we completed an activity called Speed Dating to review for the essay portion of the AP Exam. We also discussed Pride and Prejudice through chapter 43, looking at Darcy's letter to Elizabeth and her contemplation of his assertions.
5th hour also got a bit caught up by discussing two key scenes: the Netherfield Ball and Mr. Darcy's proposal to Elizabeth. Students compared the two proposals Elizabeth as received so far and her reactions to both. We talked about dancing in the Regency era and viewed a clip of the 1995 film version of the novel. Students also met with their partners to compare tracking notes.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your partner on notes. Ask about the film clips we viewed today.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Continue with the reading schedule,and bring your notes on your device.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2014 / THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2014
The seniors discussed the sections of Pride and Prejudice that they've read so far and paid special attention to two key scenes: the Netherfield Ball and Mr. Darcy's proposal to Elizabeth. Students compared the two proposals Elizabeth as received so far and her reactions to both. We talked about dancing in the Regency era and viewed a clip of the 1995 film version of the novel. Students also met with their partners to compare tracking notes.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your partner on notes. Ask about the film clips we viewed today.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Continue with the reading schedule,and bring your notes on your device.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2014 / TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2014
And....we're back!
Today's seniors discussed the first two reading chunks of Pride and Prejudice. Partners met to compare tracking devices notes, and I offered suggestions from my own reading. We also completed a practice MC exam over a passage from Shakespeare.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your partner on notes. Ask about the Regency era customs we discussed in class.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Get caught up on reading---check your assignment sheet schedule.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2014
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2014
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2014
SNOWS DAY!! Check your reading schedule and keep reading Pride and Prejudice and tracking your literary device.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014 / MONDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2014
The seniors wrapped up discussion of Hamlet today, completed a practice Q1 essay exam over a passage from another Shakespearean play, and then began Pride and Prejudice. Students selected partners for the tracking devices project they will complete as we read the novel.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your Lit. Crit essay. Check out a Pride and Prejudice book from Miss B. Find out who your partner is and what device you are supposed to be tracking.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 1-13 of Pride and Prejudice AND bring your notes for Miss B. to check.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 29, 2014 / THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2014
Today the seniors peer reviewed the next draft of their Literary Criticism essays. We discussed Q3 topics for Hamlet and assigned tasks for the Data Sheet. Then we did a film comparison of different interpretations of scenes from Hamlet.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask your classmates about your responsibilities for the data sheet.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Final draft of the Lit Crit essay is DUE. 5th hour: You MUST bring your iPads by Friday as well.
MONDAY, JANUARY 27, 2014/ TUESDAY, JANUARY 28, 2014
The seniors analyzed four of the major characters from Hamlet today and made predictions for the ultimate fate of these and other characters. Then we finished reading the play. We also did a practice MC-test over Act V.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act V. Pick up a copy of the MC test if you like.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring one copy of your 2nd draft of the essay for Peer Reviewing in class.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014 / FRIDAY, JANUARY 24, 2014
Today the seniors played Literary Terms Taboo to review. Then we read Act III scenes 3 and 4 and Act IV scenes 1-4 of Hamlet. We also compared actresses' portrayals of crazy Ophelia.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get caught up on reading (see above).
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish Act IV.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2014 / WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22, 2014
The seniors workshopped the latest draft of their Lit Crit essays today before returning to Hamlet. We shared our translations of the "To be or not to be..." soliloquy and then read Act III scenes 4 and 5.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read the scenes listed above. Get your commented-upon drafts back to the authors.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None! It's a miracle!! Use the extra time to finalize things for your SEP and any scholarship essays.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 16, 2014 / MONDAY, JANUARY 20, 2014
Today the clouds parted, the angels sang, and the seniors' lives were forever changed when they read the infamous "To be or not to be..." soliloquy from Hamlet. Well, maybe not, but they did read Act 3 scene 1, including Hamlet's fussing yet again over life or death, and spent some time analyzing the speech. We saw four different actors' interpretations of the soliloquy, and even used a Calvin and Hobbes comic to practice arranging the phrases in order.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your rough draft ASAP to Miss B, AND get copies to your group members. Pick up copies of their drafts from your tub file, read, and comment on them. Read Act 3 scene 1 of Hamlet.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring your commented-on drafts for our writer's workshop.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2014 / WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 15, 2014
Today the seniors discussed Act I of Hamlet and practiced annotating a passage from Act I scene 5. Next, we read and discussed Act II scenes 1 and 2.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get caught up on reading and check with a classmate on notes.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish Act II. Bring copies of your rough draft for Miss B. and your group members.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 10, 2014/ MONDAY, JANUARY 13, 2014
The seniors briefly shared their Discovery Drafts or journals and brainstormed ideas for their Lit. Crit. essays. Next, we began Hamlet, reading Act I scenes 1 and 2 together.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. ASAP to check out a book or iPad. Read Act I scenes 1 and 2. Ask a classmate or Miss Bergman if you need help understanding what the heck is going on. :)
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the rest of Act I.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8, 2014 / THURSDAY, JANUARY 9, 2014
Today the seniors spent the hour completing tasks for the office: the Kansas Communities that Care survey and testing the new assessment program on the laptops.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Mr. Dietz about completing the survey.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring one copy of your Discovery draft or journal, exploring options for your Lit. Crit. essay.
MONDAY, JANUARY 6, 2014 / TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2014
Welcome back! Today the seniors reviewed school and classroom policies before discussing the AP Exam in May. We also looked at the Literary Criticism Essay, which seniors will be writing over one of the plays we've studied. We then discussed the play read over break, The Importance of Being Earnest.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the Literary Criticism assignment sheet from the red pockets. Turn in your Earnest assignment worksheet ASAP.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Write a Discovery Draft or journal, exploring options for your Lit. Crit. essay. Bring it to class to brainstorm with group members.
AP Daily Summaries from Quarter 2 (2013-2014)
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2013 / FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2013
FINAL EXAM!!!!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Rue the day they were born, and beg Miss Bergman for an opportunity to make up the final exam.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Have a wonderful break and a Merry Christmas!! Be sure your Importance of Being Earnest assignment is done by Jan 6th. Bring your red textbook with you when you return to school.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2013 / WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013
Today was a much-needed catch-up day as the seniors have two Data Sheets due this week AND a 100-question final exam. Students worked in their groups to finish their data sheets over the plays as well as revise their glossaries for the final. They also worked on their The Importance of Being Earnest assignment.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your group members about your play data sheet.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be ready for the final exam.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013 / MONDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2013
Today the seniors discussed their assignment on The Importance of Being Earnest, which is due in January. Next, we discussed the first half of the play The Glass Menagerie and viewed a production with Katherine Hepburn as Amanda before reading the rest of the play.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read the rest of The Glass Menagerie. Pick up a copy of the Earnest assignment sheet, and check out a book if you like.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring what you need to work on your two glossaries and your data sheets.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2013 / THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013
The seniors took a quiz over their mythological and literary allusions before handing in their glossaries. Next, we selected plays over which to complete Data Sheets. Then we discussed Fences and compared it to Death of a Salesman. After a brief discussion of Oedipus Rex, we began our final play for this semester: The Glass Menagerie.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Hand in their glossaries ASAP if you want credit for it. See Miss B. for your play title for the group Data Sheets. Read Oedipus Rex (!). Read The Glass Menagerie through scene 5.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2013 / TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2013
The seniors discussed the rest of Death of a Salesman today. We compared four different productions' versions of a scene from the play, and students played Casting Director as they selected their Willy Loman. Next, we looked at a Broadway production of Fences before reading the play.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the various Willy Lomans and why he/she picked the one he/she did!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Fences and the intro to Chapter 42. Allusions Glossary (Myth and Lit) is DUE.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2013 / FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2013
Today the seniors discussed Act I of Death of a Salesman and the concepts of an anti-hero and the American Dream before reading Act II with a recorded production starring Lee J. Cobb.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act II.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish the play (Act II and Requiem). Read the intro to Chapter 41.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013 / WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2013
The seniors reviewed for their final exam today. Next, we discussed the play Proof, which the students read for today. Finally, we began reading Death of a Salesman as we look at father-son relationships through the next two plays (Death of a Salesman and Fences).
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the final exam and about our discussion of Proof.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading Act I
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2013 / MONDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2013
Today the seniors discussed Acts I and II of A Doll's House and then viewed a performance of Act III. Next, we took parts and began reading Proof.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act III of A Doll's House and Proof.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading Proof.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2013 / THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21/ 2013
The seniors discussed Trifles today and then began reading A Doll's House, while we sampled macaroons (a key plot point in the play).
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act I of A Doll's House.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 40 intro and Acts I and II of A Doll's House.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2013 / TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2013
Today the seniors performed their Chapter 37 plays. As time allowed, we began looking at the play Trifles, a fascinating based-on-a-true-story play by journalist Susan Glaspell.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the plays and about the background information for Trifles.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 39 intro and the play Trifles.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2013 / FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2013
The seniors began our drama study today, sharing information on three eras of theater. Next, we viewed a behind-the-scenes tour of a Broadway production of a musical. Finally, students drew parts for the Chapter 37 plays and began preparing their performance (which will take place next class).
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Talk to Miss B. to find out what part you'll be playing. Turn in your Ch. 36 annotation/outline.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read your play from Chapter 37.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2013 / WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2013
Today the seniors looked at clips of the 1974 film version of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest and considered the impact of the filmmakers' changes (i.e., no narration by Chief Bromden, McMurphy's motivations for smashing the glass window, etc.).
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your journals ASAP.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 36, and either annotate or outline it. Bring your red literature textbook to class.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2013 / MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2013
The seniors wrapped up discussion of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest today with a look at themes, motifs, symbols, and critical response. We then worked on finishing our journals and getting the data sheet created.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Finish up your journals for Tuesday/Wednesday. Join a data sheet group, if you like.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Journals due Tues/Wed. Read and annotate/outline Chapter 36 by Thurs/Fri.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2013 / THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2013
Today the seniors exchanged MC quizzes over One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest with another group. Then we ranked each other's practice essays on "The Flowers" or "The Naked and the Nude." Finally, we looked at comparative film clips from the film version of Cuckoo's Nest.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the film clips.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading the novel.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2013 / TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2013
The seniors today finished playing the part of AP Readers and ranking/evaluating the sample student essays. We discussed the differences between essays that score a 7 versus and 8 or a 4 versus a 5. Next, we discussed quotes from the next chunk of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest that we read for today. Finally, groups began writing practice MC questions over passages from the novel.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with their group members about the MC exam questions.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish any work on the MC questions so that we're ready to exchange quizzes at the beginning of class.
4TH HOUR: FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2013
Today the seniors took a quiz over their literary terms glossary. Next we became AP Readers and evaluated sample student essays. Finally, we viewed scenes from the film version of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest to see how the filmmakers interpreted Kesey's story.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the film version.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest through the end of Part 3.
5TH HOUR: THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2013
The seniors took a quiz over their literary terms glossary and then finished writing the three practice essays. We voted on which essay will be graded/ranked by their classmates and Miss Bergman. Next, we became AP Readers and evaluated sample student essays.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Finish your three essays and turn them in to Miss B. ASAP!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest through the end of Part 3.
4TH HOUR: WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2013
Today the seniors finished the three practice essays and voted on which essay will be graded/ranked by their classmates and Miss Bergman. Then we discussed the reading in Cuckoo's Nest.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Finish your three essays and turn them in to Miss B. ASAP!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Your Literary Terms glossary is DUE! Bring a printed copy to class with you.
5TH HOUR: TUESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2013
Today the seniors took a full practice essay exam with all three prompts. They will have additional time to write on Thursday.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Give yourself 90 minutes to write at least two of the three essays (see your MC packet).
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Your Literary Terms glossary is DUE! Bring a printed copy to class with you.
4TH HOUR: MONDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2013
Today the seniors took a full practice essay exam with all three prompts. They will have additional time to write on Wednesday.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Give yourself 90 minutes to write at least two of the three essays (see your MC packet).
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be to page 101 (36%) in Cuckoo's Nest.
5TH HOUR: FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013
Today the seniors discussed the reading in Cuckoo's Nest and watched the corresponding scenes in the Academy Award-winning film version starring Jack Nicholson.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the film version so far. How does it compare to the book?
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Keep reading and journaling!
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2013 / THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2013
The seniors learned about the Senior Exit Portfolio essay today (see SEP Info to the left) and then worked in groups to decide on answers to the practice MC exam we took last time. After going over the answers (and hotly debating some of them!), we did a close reading of a short story called "The Chaser."
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in the final draft of their Explication Essays ASAP. Get the right MC answers from a classmate or from Miss Bergman.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be done with the first chunk of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013 / TUESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2013
Today the seniors peer reviewed the 2nd draft of their Explication Essays. Then we took a compete MC practice exam.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the MC exam from Miss B, give yourself an hour, and take it.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Final draft of the Explication Essay is DUE! Also, your literary terms glossary is DUE soon!
AP Daily Summaries from Quarter 1 (2013-2014)
MONDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2013 / TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013
The seniors worked on a practice Q2 exam essay over a passage from Johnny Got HIs Gun. They took the exam test, writing the essay over the prompt in 40 minutes. Next, we looked at actual student essays from the year this prompt was used. Students ranked or graded the essays as if they were AP Readers, and we discussed their scores. After discussing the actual scores these essays received, we ranked/scored our own essays. Finally, we began our study of the novel One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, checking out books, discussing the journaling assignment for the unit, and reading part of Chapter 1 together.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to check out a copy of Cuckoo's Nest. Pick up a copy of the journaling and reading assignment sheet from the red pockets. Also, pick up a copy of the Johnny prompt from Miss B, give yourself 40 minutes, and write the essay. Turn in to Miss B.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring one copy of the 2nd draft of your Explication Essay.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2013 / FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2014
Today the seniors workshopped the first draft of their Explication Essays. We also shared our Wall Stories. We then took a deeper look at the structure of the AP English Lit exam and some words of wisdom (I hope!) from Miss Bergman as a two-time AP Reader (grader). As time allowed, we began a practice Q2 essay on Johnny Got His Gun.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get your copies of their papers back to your group members. Pick up your drafts from your tub file. Ask a classmate about the structure of the AP Lit exam. Pick up the Unofficial Rubric and the Things to tell My Students handouts from the red pockets. Get a Q2: Johnny prompt from Miss B.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 20.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2013 / WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2013
The seniors exchanged first drafts of their Explication Essays today, to be read and commented on by next class. Then we wrapped up our study of the genre of short stories by taking an in-depth look at two stories: "A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings" as a class, and the students' choice of "The Red Convertible" or "Teenage Wasteland" in partners.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read the stories listed above. Complete the Reading Fiction questions (available under Handouts and Worksheets) over one of the stories. Get copies of your essay to your group members. PIck up their papers from your tub file folder.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read your classmates' drafts and comment on them. Finish the Reading Fiction questions.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2013 / MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013
Today the seniors discussed theme and identified the themes of the stories they read in Chapter 18. We also worked on our Wall Stories, finishing them and posting on the wall for others to see.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your thesis, claims, evidence, and paragraph.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring the 1st draft of your Explication Essay.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2013 / THURSDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2013
The seniors worked on tone and archetypes today, looking at example excerpts from various writing and identifying tone and then viewing an episode of Veggie Tales to identify and label archetypes.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Have Miss B. check your Bell Ringers and Allusions ASAP. Turn in your thesis, claims, and evidence.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 18 and bring your thesis, claims, evidence, AND one paragraph of the essay.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2013 / TUESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2013
Today the seniors talked about characterization, setting, and point of view and looked at a few examples of these in action. We read "The Yellow Wallpaper" together and viewed clips from a film adaptation of the story.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your thesis and claims/evidence ASAP. Read "The Yellow Wallpaper" in your textbook.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 16 and 17, and bring your thesis, claims, and evidence.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2013 / FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2013
The seniors discussed plot today and how the typical plot diagram may not fit every story. Students created their own artistic representations of the plot for the story story they used for their thesis statement. Next, we used the Billy Collins' poem "Flames" to review claims and evidence. Then students worked in their collaborative learning groups to create their own short story in our Wall Stories project. Finally, I gave students time to start reading their next (rather lengthy!) reading assignment.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your thesis ASAP. Talk to a group member about your Wall Story. See Miss B. if you need help with claims and evidence.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 13, 14, and 15 (skipping the 9 stories I said you could skip), and bring your thesis and either claims or evidence.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2013 / WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2013
Today the seniors peer reviewed each other's 2nd drafts of the Comparison-Contrast essay. We also did a consensus activity on the MC practice exam we did last class, trying to come up with the correct answer for each question by arguing our case with our group members. We then went over the correct answers together as a class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See a classmate or Miss B. for the correct answers to the MC exam. Ask a group member to peer review your paper before your final draft is due.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Final draft of the essay is DUE--either a printed copy OR an emailed copy is due by the start of class. Read chapters 11 and 12, and write a thesis statement.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2013 / MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
The seniors today shared their Twitter Fiction stories and discuss Chapter 9 and "HIlls Like White Elephants." Next, we went over the guidelines and formats of a resume, since the next Senior Exit Portfolio deadline is the resume (due in October). Finally, the students took a full practice AP multiple choice exam (55 questions). Next class, we'll go over the answers and figure out why we missed the ones we did.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your Twitter Fiction. See the SEP (Senior Exit Portfolio) Information link on the left for information on resumes. See Miss B. for a copy of the MC practice exam; give yourself about 45 minutes to take it.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Revise your essay and bring ONE copy of your 2nd draft with you to class.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2013 / THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2013
Today was our first Writers Workshop, where students discussed the first draft of their Comparison-Contrast essays. We also discussed ideas for revision, including a demonstration of organizational structures using Legos. :) Finally, we discussed the reading for today (chapter 10) and created our own Twitter Fiction stories.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get your commented-on copies of the drafts to your classmates. Retrieve your drafts from your file tub. Create a Twitter Fiction story.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 11 and finish your Twitter Fiction story.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2013 / TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013
Today the seniors exchanged 1st drafts of their essay and discussed the goals of a Writers Workshop. We also began our short story unit and chose a due date for the A Raisin in the Sun data sheet. Finally, Mrs. Dutton stopped by with some information from the counselor's office.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get your draft to your classmates ASAP. Check your tub file for your group members' drafts. Pick up an assignment sheet for the short story unit from the red pockets. See Mrs. Dutton for important information.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 10. Read and comment on your group members' drafts.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2013 / FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2013
The seniors read sample essays on The Street Q2 and rank them according to the rubric. We compared our scores to the AP Readers' scores. Next, we discussed Acts I and II ofA Raisin in the Sun and read Act III together.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the ranking exercise and A Raisin in the Sun discussion. Read the rest of the play.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 7. Bring your first draft of your Comparison-Contrast essay (copies for your group members and for Miss Bergman). Print the senior handbook that Mrs. Dutton sent to you, and bring it to class. (The handbook is also available here:
senior handbook,2013,2014.doc
)
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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2013 / WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
Today the APEs discussed the reading assignment and then wrote the practice Q2 essay over the excerpt from The Street. We also discussed the first formal essay assignment, the Comparison-Contrast essay over the summer reading novels. Finally, we began reading the play A Raisin in the Sun together in class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Give yourself 30 minutes to write the essay over The Street. PIck up a copy of the assignment sheet for the Comparison-Contrast essay from the red pockets. Read Acts I and II of A Raisin in the Sun.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading Acts I and II of A Raisin in the Sun.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2013 / MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2013
The AP students were assigned the Foster Poster project today, an assignment that asks them to summarize and explain one of Thomas C. Foster's principles in his book How to Read Literature Like a Professor (a summer reading book). Students will present their posters and projects to their classmates during Bell Ringer time over the next few classes. Next, we practiced the technique known as Close Reading, looking at the poem "The Whipping." We also did a close reading of a Q2 prompt on The Street. Students annotated the text as they read, and we discussed the significant elements they notes. In future classes, students will write their essay responses to this prompt, and we will look at actual student responses from this exam as well as the scores they received from the AP Readers.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss Bergman about your partner for the Foster Poster project, and pick up a copy of the assignment sheet. Ask a classmate to explain the concept of Close Reading. Pick up a copy of the Q2 prompt on The Street, and read and annotate the text.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 4 and 5, and (as necessary) review the story "Everyday Use" (read in Honors English II).
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2013 / THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2013
Today the seniors were assigned the Independent Reading Project (or IRP), which has them reading two additional novels outside of class throughout the year. We then discussed the three stories they read for today as well as the summer reading novel Jane Eyre.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the IRP assignment sheet from the red pockets, and ask Miss Bergman if you have questions. Ask a classmate about our Jane Eyre discussion.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapter 3, and read or review the three pieces mentioned there (p. 216, 1180, and 1176).
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THURSDAY, AUGUST 29, 2013 / FRIDAY, AUGUST 30, 2013
The seniors discussed Chapters 1 and 2 of the textbook as well as The Kite Runner from this summer. We discussed the literary canon in all its various forms.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about our discussion today.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read p. 36-42 and the three stories mentioned in the student essays (pages are listed on p. 36).
TUESDAY, AUGUST 27, 2013 / WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013
Today the seniors took their first practice Q3 exam over their summer reading novels. We also handed out textbooks and discussed outlining (see sample below).
Sample Outline---AP chapters 1 and 2.docx
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss Bergman for a copy of the practice exam. Give yourself 30 minutes to write your essay. Turn it in to Miss Bergman ASAP. Also, see Miss B. to checkout a textbook.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 1 & 2 (to page 36) in the textbook, and outline them.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 23, 2013 / MONDAY, AUGUST 26, 2013
Welcome to AP English! Today the students played The Animal Game and discussed how the needed skills transfer to English class. We then went over the course syllabus and the first several assignments, setting due dates for each. After a review of the information available here on this website, we did our first Allusion of the Week and Bell Ringer.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss Bergman ASAP to get your assignment sheets (available in the AP folder in the red pockets by the door).
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Get started on the three assignments!
For 2012-2013 AP Students, get your scores online next week!!
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Cool tool I found online to calculate your AP Exam score:
http://appass.com/calculators/englishliterature
Check it out!