General III Daily Summaries from Semester 2 (2014-2015)
MONDAY, MAY 18, 2015
FINAL EXAMS!!!!!!!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Contact Miss B. IMMEDIATELY if you intend to make up your final exam. Otherwise, it will remain a zero when she posts grades Tuesday afternoon. Turn in all books or see the office to PAY for your missing books.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Have a GREAT summer!!! See you in August!!
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THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2015
The juniors reviewed for their final exam today. Then we finished viewing the film version of The Crucible and took notes on the differences between the play and the film versions.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your Film Notes with "absent" written across the top. Pick up a final exam review form, if you wish, from the red pockets. Be ready for your final exam.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring all books to turn in. Study for your final exam!
TUESDAY, MAY 12, 2015
Today the juniors took their test over The Crucible. We also took the post-tests for vocabulary and literature for the district's required Student Growth Measures data. The students were troopers, taking three tests in one 90-minute block! Great job!!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to make up the test during Seminar or ASAP.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Find and turn in all novels and textbooks (unless you need them to study for the final exam).
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FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
The juniors compared the film adaptation of the play The Crucible to the original text. Since Arthur Miller wrote both the play and the adapted screenplay, we discussed the reasons behind the added scenes. We also reviewed for the test over the play.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about our test review and what to study for the test. Pick up your graded papers from the file tub.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Study for the test!
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WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, 2015
Today the juniors took a pre-test over ALL their vocabulary words from this year. We'll review for the next few classes and then take a post-test to see how many words we've retained. Then we discussed Act IV of The Crucible, taking Cornell Notes to review and then taking a Reading Check Quiz. We discussed the end of the play and the quotes the students should remember. Next, we discussed dynamic characters and which characters changed the most. Then we read and "red flagged" each other's Fictional Character Biographies, looking for clues of supposed witchcraft or Communist behavior. We also began viewing the film version of the play.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act IV. Get notes from a classmate. See Miss B. about completing your part of the red flagging process.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None
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MONDAY, MAY 4, 2015
Here's what the juniors did today:
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ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your Fictional Character Biography (share with Miss B and she'll do the rest). Complete the Themes essay questions on Infinite Campus.
Read Act IV.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Act IV of the play.
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THURSDAY, APRIL 30, 2015
Today the juniors looked at Arthur Miller's motivation for writing The Crucible. We read an excerpt from an article Miller wrote about how he came to write the play, and we viewed a clip from a documentary about Miller's experience with McCarthyism. Next, we explored various online resources on The Crucible (found over to the left on the menu) and hunted for answers for trivia questions (for extra credit!). Finally, we read an article called "We Aren't Superstitious" about the causes and aftermath of the Salem Witchcraft Trials.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check out The Crucible resources online.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be working on your Fictional Character biography. You'll have just 30 minutes to work in class on the 4th.
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TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015
We ACTED today! The juniors acted out Act III of The Crucible, the dramatic courtroom scene. We even had makeshift costumes and props. It was awesome!!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read act III (though it won't be the same without your classmates in judge's robes!). Get notes from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be working on your fictional biography.
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FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2015
Today the juniors had a guest teacher! Mr. Skinner worked with the juniors as they analyzed political cartoons from the McCarthyism era. They also began their creative writing project, drafting a fictional biography of a person who might have been suspected of being either a witch or a communist. We'll exchange these biographies with another class and perform our own "hunt" for clues.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the Fictional Biography assignment sheet and get started writing. Check with a classmate for our notes on suspicious behaviors.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Start writing your biography. You'll only have 30 minutes in class on May 1st/4th to finalize and exchange your bios. You may also want to look over Act III in order to prepare for our acting project in our next class.
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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015
The juniors discussed the ending to Act I today and identified conflicts between the characters. We also practiced writing an objective summary (one of the 11th grade skills in the Common Core Standards). Next, we assigned parts and began reading Act II together while taking Cornell Notes on themes.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up the Conflict web handout and the Cornell Notes sheet for Act II themes. Get notes on these and on quotes to know from a classmate. Read Act II.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading Act II. Be ready to explain the significance of the poppet.
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FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2015
Today the juniors did a vocabulary sort of religious, legal, and archaic words from The Crucible. Then they presented their research on their pairs of people from 1692 and the 1950s. We wrote a reflection journal entry on what we've learned from our collective research. Finally, we continued reading Act I of the play and tracking characters through Cornell Notes.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the vocab word sort handout from the red pockets. Turn in your part of the research project OR arrange to present your research. Read the rest of Act I.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading Act I.
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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15, 2015
The juniors worked for half the class today on their research projects, which they will present at the beginning of class on Friday. Then we began reading Act I together in class and taking Cornell Notes on characters.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Talk to your partner(s) to make sure you're ready to present and turn in your mini-poster, bibliography, and 5 W's notes sheets. Read p. 1215 to 1225.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Presentations and posters are due!
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MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2015
Today the juniors had 45 minutes to work on their Postmodern Poetry chart and paragraph. Then we began our study of Arthur Miller's The Crucible. Students will be researching historical figures from both the 1692 Salem witchcraft trials and the 1950s Red Scare era. They will present their findings to their classmates during a future class. Next, we began looking at a packet of background readings to begin noticing the connections between these two time periods.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the Background Research assignment sheet and find a group to join. Also, pick up a reading packet, and read and annotate the articles. Turn in your Postmodernism Poetry chart and paragraph.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading and annotating your reading packet. You will have 45-minutes to research in class.
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THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2015
The juniors read a Cold War story today called "Game" and discussed the concept of an unreliable narrator. Next, we began our Postmodern Poetry chart and paragraph project: analyzing the poets' use of poetic devices to bring out their theme.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read p. 972-978. Pick up a copy of the Postmodern Poetry chart from the red pockets and begin working.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None. You'll have 45 minutes of class on Monday to complete the chart and paragraph.
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TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015
Today the juniors looked at literature selections from the Harlem Renaissance and World War II. We also looked at footage of ball turrets in action. Finally, the students began reading the historical background for the Postmodern time period.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get quote notes from a classmate. Read the following pages: 815-833, 910, 951-953, 912-923.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the historical background p. 886-899.
THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015
Today the juniors took a quiz over the unit 7 vocab words. Then we reviewed poetry terms and read the works of Modernist poets Robert Frost, Carl Sandburg, and Edgar Lee Masters. The students then wrote a poem in the style of Masters, creating an epitaph for a character from an old photo.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to make up the vocab quiz. Get notes from a classmate. Read the poems on pages 790-810, 848-849, and 851-854.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: If you didn't already, finish your Masters-style poem on the old photograph.
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TUESDAY, MARCH 31, 2015
The juniors wrapped up our study of The Great Gatsby today with a look at the video game based on the novel and the final day of our Film Comparison project. We also practiced our vocabulary words with Quizlet. Finally, we began reading a James Thurber story, "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty," which the students will finish for next class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your Film Comparison chart.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read p. 780-786.
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FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2015
Today the juniors discussed the end of the book and worked on the film comparison chart, looking at the same scenes in the three film versions of the novel. We will continue this comparison project next class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get notes from a classmate. Pick up a Film Comparison chart and see Miss B. about making up this assignment.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring your literature textbooks with you to class next time.
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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015
The juniors discussed Chapter 7 and shared their post-it notes on the plot and symbols/motifs. Then we read Chapter 8 and most of 9 together in class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read chapters 8 and 9. Get quote notes from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the last 5 pages of Chapter 9 to finish the book. You do NOT need to take any post-it notes.
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MONDAY, MARCH 23, 2015
Today the juniors watched Daisy and Gatsby's reunion in the 1974 film version of the novel. Then they worked with their groups to take post-it notes on their characters and symbols/motifs and added notes to the class chart. Then we read Chapter 6 together and continued to add to our class chart.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read chapter 6. Get quote notes from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 7 and bring 5 post-it notes on your character and/or symbol/motif.
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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2015
The juniors discussed Chapters 2 and 3 of The Great Gatsby today by sharing their post-it notes on characters and symbols/motifs. We also compared the scenes of the two parties (Tom and Myrtle's party and Gatsby's party) in the 1974 film version. Then we read Chapter 4 together and added to our class chart.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read chapter 4. Get quote notes from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the rest of Chapter 4 and all of chapter 5. Bring 5 post-it notes on your character and/or symbol/motif.
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MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2015
The juniors began reading The Great Gatsby together in class today and tracking important quotes. Each student will also keep track of a specific character and a symbol or motif as we read.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. for your tracking assignment. Read Chapters 1 and 2.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 2 and 3, and bring 5 post-it notes on your character and symbol/motif.
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THURSDAY, MARCH 5, 2015
Today the juniors presented their 1920s posters and projects.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to check out a Gatsby book and get a list of quotes to know.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None.
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TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015
Today was the last day for juniors to work on their research papers, posters, and presentations.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your partner, and be ready to present!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Projects, papers, and presentations are DUE.
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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2015
Today the juniors worked on their research projects in the classroom.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your partner about your research project. What should you be doing to help?
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Meet in the classroom. Keep researching!
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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2015
The juniors spent the day in the library, researching their 1920s projects.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your partner about your research project. What should you be doing to help?
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Meet in the classroom. Keep researching!
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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015
Today the juniors took the beginning of the year Pre-Test for their Student Growth Measures data (long boring story, but district office says it has to be done, even though it's February). Then we worked in the library on our research paper projects.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to make up the Pre-Test. Check with your partner about your research paper project.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Keep researching!
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2015
The juniors read "A Rose for Emily" by William Faulkner. As I told the students, they'll never forget this story because of its surprise ending! Next, we discussed the Jazz Age, as Fitzgerald dubbed it, and the students' 1920s research project over Jazz Age topics. This project will prepare us to read Fitzgerald's novel The Great Gatsby.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read p. 717 to 728. Get notes from a classmate. Pick up an assignment sheet from the red pockets for the 1920s research project, and see Miss Bergman to draw for topics.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring materials for researching in the library.
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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2015
Today the juniors discussed the poetry of Marianne Moore, Archibald MacLeish, and e e cummings. We created our own cummings-esque poems using magnetic poetry, and the seniors will vote on their favorites next week. We also read the biography of and a short story by Ernest Hemingway.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get notes from a classmate. Read p. 682-692.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2015
The juniors looked at the poetry of the Imagists today, reading poems by Pound, Eliot, and Williams. We looked at allusions to "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufock" in an interview with Tom Hiddleston (better known as Loki in The Avengers) and in a Stephen Colbert interview with inaugural poet Elizabeth Alexander.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get notes from a classmate. Read p. 648-669.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read p. 671-3.
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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2015
Today the juniors read the Jack London story "To Build a Fire." Then we began reading the historical background for the next unit, the Moderns.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read "To Build a Fire."
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read p. 630-643.
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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015
The juniors read the works of Kate Chopin and Willa Cather and compared the protagonists in two stories. We also listened to the Wagner music mentioned in Cather's story.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read p. 568-574, 594-596, 578-586. Get notes from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None.
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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2015
Today the juniors watched clips of the film version of Huck Finn and compared it to the original text.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the differences between the book and the film.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring your literature textbook to class!
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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2015
The juniors took their --Huck Finn test today. They also had an extra credit opportunity--a cross-word puzzle over the novel. As time allowed, we viewed clips of the Disney version of the novel and compared it to the original text.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to make up your test during Seminar.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None! :)
THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, 2015
Today the juniors discussed the end of Huck Finn and what critics say about the disappointing resolution of the book. We also waded into the debate over banning, challenging, or editing the novel. We viewed a panel discussion on Anderson Cooper 360, compiled our own list of reasons for each approach to the book, read articles arguing all sides, and discussed our stance on the novel. We also viewed clips from Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert's shows, dealing both seriously and satirically about the issue. Finally, we reviewed for the final test over the novel, which will be on Friday/Monday.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a review sheet, if you like, from the red pockets. Ask a classmate about the discussion and clips on editing or banning the book.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Study for your test!
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TUESDAY, JANUARY 27, 2015
The juniors discussed Tom Sawyer's crazy escape plan with all the complications he is adding to make a bigger deal of setting Jim free. As we read the next few chapters, we created an artistic representation of part or all of Tom's plan.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get notes from a classmate. Read chapters 36 through 39.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading the book: chapter 40 through chapter 43 (or "Chapter the Last," as your book may call it).
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FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015
Today the juniors discussed the reading for today, looking at things like Mark Twain's bad taste and his use of satire throughout the book. We then began reading together Chapters 27 through 31.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read chapters 27 through 31.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 31 through 35.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015
The juniors used a Spark Notes reading check quiz as a study guide for chapters 19-22. Next, they viewed the rest of the A&E Biography video on Mark Twain and completed the study guide. Finally, we viewed clips of the musical version of Huck Finn, called Big River.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up both study guides, and borrow a classmate's copies for the answers. Catch up on the reading.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 24-26.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 15, 2015
Today the juniors talked about the reading in Huck Finn and took notes on conflict, motif, and themes. We read Chapter 19 together and met the Duke and the King, two con men who join Huck and Jim on the river.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get notes from a classmate. Read chapter 19.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapters 20-22.
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TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015
The juniors discussed their options for Senior English classes for next year. Then we discussed the reading in Huck Finn. We looked at the literary device of dialect more closely and took this quiz (How Y'all, Youse and You Guys Talk) to see how our regional vocabulary compares to other places in the United States.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Chapters 12-14. Talk to a classmate about dialect and get the notes.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 15-18.
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FRIDAY, JANUARY 9, 2015
Today the juniors read Chapter 8 and discussed four themes established in the first eight chapters of the book.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a themes worksheet from the red pockets. Ask a classmate to borrow his/her notes. Read chapter 8.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read through Chapter 10.
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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2015
Welcome back, everyone! Today the juniors reviewed classroom policies and our study of American Literature so far. Next, we looked at dialect and read the story "Ladle Rat Rotten Hut" (ask your junior what this means! :) ). Finally, we began reading The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn together.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss Bergman to check out a copy of the novel.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 1-7 of Huck Finn.
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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2014 / THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
FINAL EXAMS!
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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2014
The juniors took their vocabulary quiz over the Unit 4 words today. Then we reviewed for the final exam, looking at previous literature tests and reading quizzes.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: No one was absent! It's a Christmas miracle!!! :) :) :)
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Review for your final exam!
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MONDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2014
Today the juniors looked at nonfiction from the Civil War era and discussed the difference between primary and secondary sources. We also read a short story by Mark Twain.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with a classmate for notes on the Civil War Perspectives authors. Read p. 525-535.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Review for your final exam.
General III Daily Summaries from Semester 1 (2014-2015)
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2014 / THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014 FINAL EXAMS! ----------
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2014 The juniors took their vocabulary quiz over the Unit 4 words today. Then we reviewed for the final exam, looking at previous literature tests and reading quizzes. ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: No one was absent! It's a Christmas miracle!!! :) :) :) ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Review for your final exam! ----------
MONDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2014
Today the juniors looked at nonfiction from the Civil War era and discussed the difference between primary and secondary sources. We also read a short story by Mark Twain.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with a classmate for notes on the Civil War Perspectives authors. Read p. 525-535.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Review for your final exam.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
The juniors discussed the Civil War today and the literature of the era. We read Ambrose Bierce's "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" and looked at the episode of The Twilight Zone inspired by the story. We also reviewed verbal irony and read Stephen Crane's poem "War is Kind."
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read 490-509 and get notes from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the Mark Twain biography on pages 523-524.
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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2014
Today the juniors read passages from the autobiography of Frederick Douglass. We also looked at three slave songs in their original versions as well as modern interpretations.
Next, we began reading the historical background together.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read p. 463-482 and get notes from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read p. 443-461, the historical background for the Civil War.
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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2014
The juniors finished their summary practice with clips of Into the Wild. We also reviewed for the final exam.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your Into the Wild notes. Pick up a final review sheet from the red pockets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring your literature textbook with you to class.
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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2014
The juniors continued viewing the film Into the Wild and practiced writing objective summaries (Common Core standard RL.11-12.2).
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about Chris McCandless and his Transcendentalist beliefs.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None.
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MONDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2014
The juniors worked in their collaborative groups today in order to complete their film project on Transcendentalism. As time allowed, we looked at Into the Wild and how Chris McCandless chose to apply the tenets of Transcendentalism.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See your group members ASAP to do your part to complete the project.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish your film questions and be ready to turn it in.
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2014
Today the juniors worked on the film project over Dead Poets Society. They continued to answer questions about how the boys of Welton Academy explore Transcendentalism. Juniors will now type up their answers to the film questions and submit their final combined group project.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See your group members ASAP to find out how you can contribute to the group project.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None.
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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014 The juniors began their final project in the Transcendentalism unit today: analyzing the use of Transcendental ideals and authors in the film Dead Poets Society. Students will view the film in class and answer questions about plot and conflict.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your poetry chart and essay question. Ask your group members what you should be doing to help with this project. Arrange to review the film in Seminar. ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None.
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014
Today the juniors read more poetry by Whitman and Dickinson, looking at each author's unique use of literary devices. Then we began a comparison-contrast chart and essay answer, looking at the poets' tone in their poems about death or nature.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read p. 436, 415, 368-373, 417, 418, 391-403. Get notes from a classmate. Pick up a copy of the Transcendentalism Poetry chart from the red pockets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish the chart and essay question.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2014
The juniors continued their study of Walden today, reading two more passages. We also looked at pop culture references to Thoreau's writing. Next, we began studying the poetry of Walt Whitman and Emily Dickinson.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get notes from a classmate. Look at the pastiche posters in the hallway, and create your own. Read p. 224-228 and 361-365.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read p. 388-391 and 398-9.
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014
Today the juniors resumed their study of American literature with a look at the writings of Transcendentalists Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau. We read passages of both men's essays and looked at Miss Bergman's photographs of their houses in Concord, Mass. We also practiced paraphrasing by putting three of Thoreau's quotes in our own words and wrote our own version of Thoreau's missing statement.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read p. 170-172, 203-210, and 213-222. Get bell ringer and quote notes from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring your mission statement poster, ready to hang in the hallway.
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2014
LAST DAY to work on research papers! Students may submit their final papers at any time (see instructions on the wikispace page). Final deadline is 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, November 12th.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss Bergman if you need help with your paper.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring your literature textbook to class.
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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2014
Today was the juniors' penultimate (second-to-last) day to work on their research papers. They peer reviewed each other's papers in class and showed Miss Bergman evidence of that peer review. For extra credit, students could use an online editor (SAS Curriculum Pathways or paperrater.com) to examine their writing more closely. Thurs will be the last day of class time to work on the assignment.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Use the resources on this wikispace page to revise and edit your papers.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: No new deadline. Just finish your paper!
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2014
Today the juniors worked on their two pages of their rough drafts. They will show these to me on Tuesday before we get some feedback both from our peers and from a few cool online editing tools.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Write, write, write!!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Two pages due at the BEGINNING of class!
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2014
Today the juniors showed me their outlines and then worked on writing the research paper. Two pages are due at the beginning of class on Tuesday, when we will peer review each other's drafts.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Have Miss Bergman check our Outline ASAP. Write!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Two pages---any two pages of your paper---are due at the beginning of class on Tuesday. Work well on Friday with the sub
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MONDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2014
The juniors worked on notes today---50 were due at the end of the hour---and then started creating their outlines.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Work to get caught up!! See your partner or see Miss Bergman, and get caught up ASAP!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Outlines are DUE at the beginning of the hour.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2014
Today the juniors shared their Annotated Bibliographies for a deadline grade and then worked on taking notes. By the end of the hour, they had to show Miss B. 25 notes on their subject.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your partner and do your part to take notes on your source.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Nothing due at the beginning of the hour, but 50 total notes are due at the end of class.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2014
The juniors worked on their research papers today, finding sources and locking in their topics. Then we worked on the Annotated Bibliography, which is due at the beginning of class on Thursday.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your partner (if you have one) to see what topic he/she selected. If you are working on your own, start finding three sources for your topic, and see Miss Bergman to lock it in.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Annotated Bibliography with FIVE sources is due at the start of class. Also, be working on your notes: 25 are due at the end of class Thursday.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014
Today the juniors finished reading the novel The Scarlet Letter and watching the film version of the novel. Next, we began our research paper project on a shunned person. Students learned about annotated bibliographies and spreadsheet-style notes and then began exploring possible topics.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the Research Paper assignment sheet from the red pockets. Look on this website for more handouts and resources under the page called "Research Paper Resources" (see list on the left).
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be thinking about your top 3 choices for topics and start finding sources.
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014
The juniors watched the film of the novel until we reached the 3rd and final scaffold scene. We read through Chapter 23 and completed our chart comparing the three scaffold scenes. We then started reading the final chapter of the book, which we will finish next class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read through Chapter 23.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Study for your Unit 2 vocabulary quiz!
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2014
Today the juniors read and discussed an article about a modern-day judge who gives out scarlet-letter-like punishments. We discussed if we thought public shaming was a fair and effective technique. Next, we viewed a portion of the film in which Hester talks to Chillingworth about revealing his secret. Finally, we attended the Career Fair and visited with college and tech school representatives.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read through Chapter 15.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: none.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2014
The juniors read Chapter 12, the 2nd scaffold scene of the novel, and created a chart to compare the first two of the three scaffold scenes. Then we viewed the film's version of this scene.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read through chapter 12 OR arrange with Miss Bergman to make up the viewing of the film. Turn in your Biblical analogy worksheet/chart and Venn Diagram.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: none.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2014
Today the juniors viewed more of The Scarlet Letter and found evidence for their guess of who Pearl's father is. Then we discussed the Biblical analogy in the tapestry in Dimmesdale's room. Students compared and contrasted the novel's characters with the Biblical figures.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read through chapter 10 OR arrange with Miss Bergman to make up the viewing of the film. Pick up a copy of the Biblical analogy worksheet and Bible passage. Get notes from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish the Biblical analogy worksheet and Venn Diagram.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014
The juniors read through Chapter 3, wrapping up the 1st scaffold scene of the book. We then completed a study guide over Chapters 1-6, answering what we know now and watching for additional answers as we viewed the film interpretation of chapters 4-6.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read through chapter 6 OR arrange with Miss Bergman to make up the viewing of the film. Pick up a copy of the Chapter 1-6 study guide, and get answers from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Your My Five poster is DUE!
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014
Today the juniors began reading The Scarlet Letter. We'll be reading the three scaffold scenes that Hawthorne placed at the beginning, middle, and end of his story. Then we'll watch the PBS production to connect the dots. Today we read through Chapters 1 and 2 as well as portions of Hawthorne's essay "The Custom House."
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to check out a book. Read chapters 1 and 2. Get notes from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be working on your My Five poster--due Oct 2nd.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2014
The juniors took their first literature test today over the selections we've studied from the earliest American writers up through the Dark Romantics. After the test students had time to work on their "My Five" projects.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. ASAP to arrange to make up your test during Seminar or before or after school.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: You do not need to bring your literature book to class for a while. We'll be starting The Scarlet Letter.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2014
Today the juniors reviewed "The Pit and the Pendulum" before reading "Dr. Heidegger's Experiment" together. Then we reviewed for their literature test, which will be on Wednesday.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up the test review sheets and get answers from a classmate as needed.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Study for your test! Be thinking about your My Five poster so you can work on it after the test.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2014
The juniors discussed the ending of the Irving story today before reading a poem and a short story by Edgar Allan Poe. We watched a Vincent Price retelling of "The Pit and the Pendulum"---very creepy! Finally, we discussed the My Five project assignment.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read p. 277-302. Get quote notes from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: none!
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2014
Today the juniors took their first vocabulary quiz, over the words in Unit One. Next, we discussed the Romantics and read some sample Romantic poems. Finally, we started a short story by Washington Irving.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to make up the vocabulary quiz during Seminar. Get notes from a classmate. Read p. 189-198 and 174-185.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish the Irving story (p. 174-185).
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2014
The juniors discussed the reading assignment of a sermon by Jonathan Edwards. Next, we read a selection from Benjamin Franklin's autobiography and compared the two writers. We then read Patrick Henry's famous "Give me liberty, or give me death!" speech and identified the literary devices he uses. We looked for these same devices in Martin Luther King, Jr.'s famous "I have a dream" speech. Finally, we read the children's book John, Paul, George, and Ben as a fun review of the Revolutionary War writing we have studied.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get notes from a classmate. Read p. 80-86.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read p. 156-173.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2014
Today the juniors discussed their reading assignment, which included Bradford and Cabeza de Vaca. We then reviewed a smattering of poetry terms as we read the poetry of Anne Bradstreet.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get notes from a classmate. Read p. 27-33 and 44-51.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the Edwards selection p. 44-51.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2014
The juniors took their first RCQ (Reading Check Quiz) today over the reading in the literature textbook (p. 1-19). We discussed the four groups of writers from this time period before beginning an assignment over Native American Oral Tradition. In partners, students worked through a reading packet of Lushootseed (Puget Sound Salish) stories and completed a Venn Diagram and several analytic questions.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your 3rd Ad Analysis. Get notes from a classmate. Come see Miss B. during Seminar to make up the Native American oral tradition assignment with reading packet.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read p. 115-118 (Cabeza de Vaca) and p. 119-127 (Bradford).
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2014
Today the juniors did a short writing exercise to reflect on the overall message behind an advertisement. They will look for all these techniques as they complete their 3rd and final Ad Analysis. We also looked at the literature textbook as we begin our study of American Lit. Students are reading the historical background for the first unit of study. We started reading the passage together in class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get notes from a classmate. Turn in your 2nd Ad Analysis. See Miss Bergman to check out a literature textbook.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: 3rd Ad Analysis DUE. Read pages 1-19 (historical background) in the literature textbook.
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FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014
Today the juniors finished discussing Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs and also looked at Lutz's "Weasel Words." We played a "go-fish" style game to find examples of other persuasion techniques in ads. Finally, students began writing their 2nd Ad Analysis.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get notes from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: 2nd Ad Analysis is DUE.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 27, 2014
The juniors today taught each other the different forms of Propaganda they should be watching for in their next Ad Analysis. We began talking about Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, and we will continue our discussion on Friday.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Hand in the Student Info Sheet and the 1st Ad Analysis. Get notes from a reliable classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None.
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MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014
Today the juniors discussed the expectations of a Collaborative Discussion and how they'll be graded on this throughout the year. Next, we shared our group findings on the ads we discussed last week. I also presented the findings of author Bill Bryson in his study of the history of advertising. The juniors will watch for these techniques as they complete their first Ad Analysis, due at the start of class on Wednesday.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get notes from a classmate on the Bryson advertising techniques. Pick up a copy of the Collaborative Discussion handout from the red pockets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: 1st Ad Analysis is DUE.
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THURSDAY, AUGUST 21, 2014
The juniors took the Classroom Expectations "Quiz" today (and all aced it!) before turning our attention to Media Literacy and learning about ad analysis. We practiced the process as a class and then in small groups. We ended our day with a visit to the library for a tour and snacks with the librarian, Mrs. Henning.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the Ad Analysis assignment sheet from the green General English III folder in the red pockets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None. We'll present our groups' notes on our chosen ad. Be working on your Student Info sheet (due Wednesday).
TUESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2014
Today we graded the Commercial Quiz and determined how well we observed details. Next, we discussed our first assignments: the Student Info sheet and the Coolest Person paragraph. We then learned about Bell Ringers and the vocabulary workbooks we'll be using this year. We also went over the course syllabus. Finally, students worked on their Coolest Person paragraphs.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate for the Bell Ringer notes. Pick up a copy of the syllabus from the General III folder in the red pockets. Ask Miss Bergman for the Coolest Person instructions.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Coolest Person paragraphs are DUE at the beginning of the hour. Set up your English binder with dividers and labels (see syllabus).
FRIDAY, AUGUST 15, 2014
What a crazy first day of school! Juniors had pictures taken during 2nd hour, so we were never all in the room at the same time. We did managed to test our observation skills with a silly quiz over Superbowl commercials. We'll finish up on Tuesday.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about their favorite Superbowl commercial.
General III Daily Summaries from Semester 2 (2014-2015)
MONDAY, MAY 18, 2015
FINAL EXAMS!!!!!!!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Contact Miss B. IMMEDIATELY if you intend to make up your final exam. Otherwise, it will remain a zero when she posts grades Tuesday afternoon. Turn in all books or see the office to PAY for your missing books.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Have a GREAT summer!!! See you in August!!
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THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2015
The juniors reviewed for their final exam today. Then we finished viewing the film version of The Crucible and took notes on the differences between the play and the film versions.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your Film Notes with "absent" written across the top. Pick up a final exam review form, if you wish, from the red pockets. Be ready for your final exam.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring all books to turn in. Study for your final exam!
TUESDAY, MAY 12, 2015
Today the juniors took their test over The Crucible. We also took the post-tests for vocabulary and literature for the district's required Student Growth Measures data. The students were troopers, taking three tests in one 90-minute block! Great job!!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to make up the test during Seminar or ASAP.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Find and turn in all novels and textbooks (unless you need them to study for the final exam).
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FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015
The juniors compared the film adaptation of the play The Crucible to the original text. Since Arthur Miller wrote both the play and the adapted screenplay, we discussed the reasons behind the added scenes. We also reviewed for the test over the play.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about our test review and what to study for the test. Pick up your graded papers from the file tub.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Study for the test!
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WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, 2015
Today the juniors took a pre-test over ALL their vocabulary words from this year. We'll review for the next few classes and then take a post-test to see how many words we've retained. Then we discussed Act IV of The Crucible, taking Cornell Notes to review and then taking a Reading Check Quiz. We discussed the end of the play and the quotes the students should remember. Next, we discussed dynamic characters and which characters changed the most. Then we read and "red flagged" each other's Fictional Character Biographies, looking for clues of supposed witchcraft or Communist behavior. We also began viewing the film version of the play.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Act IV. Get notes from a classmate. See Miss B. about completing your part of the red flagging process.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None
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MONDAY, MAY 4, 2015
Here's what the juniors did today:
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your Fictional Character Biography (share with Miss B and she'll do the rest). Complete the Themes essay questions on Infinite Campus.
Read Act IV.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Act IV of the play.
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THURSDAY, APRIL 30, 2015
Today the juniors looked at Arthur Miller's motivation for writing The Crucible. We read an excerpt from an article Miller wrote about how he came to write the play, and we viewed a clip from a documentary about Miller's experience with McCarthyism. Next, we explored various online resources on The Crucible (found over to the left on the menu) and hunted for answers for trivia questions (for extra credit!). Finally, we read an article called "We Aren't Superstitious" about the causes and aftermath of the Salem Witchcraft Trials.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check out The Crucible resources online.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be working on your Fictional Character biography. You'll have just 30 minutes to work in class on the 4th.
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TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015
We ACTED today! The juniors acted out Act III of The Crucible, the dramatic courtroom scene. We even had makeshift costumes and props. It was awesome!!
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read act III (though it won't be the same without your classmates in judge's robes!). Get notes from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be working on your fictional biography.
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FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2015
Today the juniors had a guest teacher! Mr. Skinner worked with the juniors as they analyzed political cartoons from the McCarthyism era. They also began their creative writing project, drafting a fictional biography of a person who might have been suspected of being either a witch or a communist. We'll exchange these biographies with another class and perform our own "hunt" for clues.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the Fictional Biography assignment sheet and get started writing. Check with a classmate for our notes on suspicious behaviors.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Start writing your biography. You'll only have 30 minutes in class on May 1st/4th to finalize and exchange your bios. You may also want to look over Act III in order to prepare for our acting project in our next class.
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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015
The juniors discussed the ending to Act I today and identified conflicts between the characters. We also practiced writing an objective summary (one of the 11th grade skills in the Common Core Standards). Next, we assigned parts and began reading Act II together while taking Cornell Notes on themes.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up the Conflict web handout and the Cornell Notes sheet for Act II themes. Get notes on these and on quotes to know from a classmate. Read Act II.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading Act II. Be ready to explain the significance of the poppet.
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FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2015
Today the juniors did a vocabulary sort of religious, legal, and archaic words from The Crucible. Then they presented their research on their pairs of people from 1692 and the 1950s. We wrote a reflection journal entry on what we've learned from our collective research. Finally, we continued reading Act I of the play and tracking characters through Cornell Notes.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the vocab word sort handout from the red pockets. Turn in your part of the research project OR arrange to present your research. Read the rest of Act I.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading Act I.
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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15, 2015
The juniors worked for half the class today on their research projects, which they will present at the beginning of class on Friday. Then we began reading Act I together in class and taking Cornell Notes on characters.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Talk to your partner(s) to make sure you're ready to present and turn in your mini-poster, bibliography, and 5 W's notes sheets. Read p. 1215 to 1225.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Presentations and posters are due!
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MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2015
Today the juniors had 45 minutes to work on their Postmodern Poetry chart and paragraph. Then we began our study of Arthur Miller's The Crucible. Students will be researching historical figures from both the 1692 Salem witchcraft trials and the 1950s Red Scare era. They will present their findings to their classmates during a future class. Next, we began looking at a packet of background readings to begin noticing the connections between these two time periods.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the Background Research assignment sheet and find a group to join. Also, pick up a reading packet, and read and annotate the articles. Turn in your Postmodernism Poetry chart and paragraph.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading and annotating your reading packet. You will have 45-minutes to research in class.
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THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2015
The juniors read a Cold War story today called "Game" and discussed the concept of an unreliable narrator. Next, we began our Postmodern Poetry chart and paragraph project: analyzing the poets' use of poetic devices to bring out their theme.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read p. 972-978. Pick up a copy of the Postmodern Poetry chart from the red pockets and begin working.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None. You'll have 45 minutes of class on Monday to complete the chart and paragraph.
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TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015
Today the juniors looked at literature selections from the Harlem Renaissance and World War II. We also looked at footage of ball turrets in action. Finally, the students began reading the historical background for the Postmodern time period.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get quote notes from a classmate. Read the following pages: 815-833, 910, 951-953, 912-923.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the historical background p. 886-899.
THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015
Today the juniors took a quiz over the unit 7 vocab words. Then we reviewed poetry terms and read the works of Modernist poets Robert Frost, Carl Sandburg, and Edgar Lee Masters. The students then wrote a poem in the style of Masters, creating an epitaph for a character from an old photo.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to make up the vocab quiz. Get notes from a classmate. Read the poems on pages 790-810, 848-849, and 851-854.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: If you didn't already, finish your Masters-style poem on the old photograph.
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TUESDAY, MARCH 31, 2015
The juniors wrapped up our study of The Great Gatsby today with a look at the video game based on the novel and the final day of our Film Comparison project. We also practiced our vocabulary words with Quizlet. Finally, we began reading a James Thurber story, "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty," which the students will finish for next class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your Film Comparison chart.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read p. 780-786.
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FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2015
Today the juniors discussed the end of the book and worked on the film comparison chart, looking at the same scenes in the three film versions of the novel. We will continue this comparison project next class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get notes from a classmate. Pick up a Film Comparison chart and see Miss B. about making up this assignment.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring your literature textbooks with you to class next time.
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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015
The juniors discussed Chapter 7 and shared their post-it notes on the plot and symbols/motifs. Then we read Chapter 8 and most of 9 together in class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read chapters 8 and 9. Get quote notes from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the last 5 pages of Chapter 9 to finish the book. You do NOT need to take any post-it notes.
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MONDAY, MARCH 23, 2015
Today the juniors watched Daisy and Gatsby's reunion in the 1974 film version of the novel. Then they worked with their groups to take post-it notes on their characters and symbols/motifs and added notes to the class chart. Then we read Chapter 6 together and continued to add to our class chart.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read chapter 6. Get quote notes from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapter 7 and bring 5 post-it notes on your character and/or symbol/motif.
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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2015
The juniors discussed Chapters 2 and 3 of The Great Gatsby today by sharing their post-it notes on characters and symbols/motifs. We also compared the scenes of the two parties (Tom and Myrtle's party and Gatsby's party) in the 1974 film version. Then we read Chapter 4 together and added to our class chart.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read chapter 4. Get quote notes from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the rest of Chapter 4 and all of chapter 5. Bring 5 post-it notes on your character and/or symbol/motif.
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MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2015
The juniors began reading The Great Gatsby together in class today and tracking important quotes. Each student will also keep track of a specific character and a symbol or motif as we read.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. for your tracking assignment. Read Chapters 1 and 2.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 2 and 3, and bring 5 post-it notes on your character and symbol/motif.
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THURSDAY, MARCH 5, 2015
Today the juniors presented their 1920s posters and projects.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to check out a Gatsby book and get a list of quotes to know.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None.
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TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015
Today was the last day for juniors to work on their research papers, posters, and presentations.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your partner, and be ready to present!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Projects, papers, and presentations are DUE.
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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2015
Today the juniors worked on their research projects in the classroom.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your partner about your research project. What should you be doing to help?
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Meet in the classroom. Keep researching!
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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2015
The juniors spent the day in the library, researching their 1920s projects.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your partner about your research project. What should you be doing to help?
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Meet in the classroom. Keep researching!
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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015
Today the juniors took the beginning of the year Pre-Test for their Student Growth Measures data (long boring story, but district office says it has to be done, even though it's February). Then we worked in the library on our research paper projects.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to make up the Pre-Test. Check with your partner about your research paper project.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Keep researching!
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2015
The juniors read "A Rose for Emily" by William Faulkner. As I told the students, they'll never forget this story because of its surprise ending! Next, we discussed the Jazz Age, as Fitzgerald dubbed it, and the students' 1920s research project over Jazz Age topics. This project will prepare us to read Fitzgerald's novel The Great Gatsby.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read p. 717 to 728. Get notes from a classmate. Pick up an assignment sheet from the red pockets for the 1920s research project, and see Miss Bergman to draw for topics.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring materials for researching in the library.
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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2015
Today the juniors discussed the poetry of Marianne Moore, Archibald MacLeish, and e e cummings. We created our own cummings-esque poems using magnetic poetry, and the seniors will vote on their favorites next week. We also read the biography of and a short story by Ernest Hemingway.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get notes from a classmate. Read p. 682-692.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2015
The juniors looked at the poetry of the Imagists today, reading poems by Pound, Eliot, and Williams. We looked at allusions to "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufock" in an interview with Tom Hiddleston (better known as Loki in The Avengers) and in a Stephen Colbert interview with inaugural poet Elizabeth Alexander.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get notes from a classmate. Read p. 648-669.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read p. 671-3.
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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2015
Today the juniors read the Jack London story "To Build a Fire." Then we began reading the historical background for the next unit, the Moderns.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read "To Build a Fire."
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read p. 630-643.
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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015
The juniors read the works of Kate Chopin and Willa Cather and compared the protagonists in two stories. We also listened to the Wagner music mentioned in Cather's story.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read p. 568-574, 594-596, 578-586. Get notes from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None.
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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2015
Today the juniors watched clips of the film version of Huck Finn and compared it to the original text.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about the differences between the book and the film.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring your literature textbook to class!
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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2015
The juniors took their --Huck Finn test today. They also had an extra credit opportunity--a cross-word puzzle over the novel. As time allowed, we viewed clips of the Disney version of the novel and compared it to the original text.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to make up your test during Seminar.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None! :)
THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, 2015
Today the juniors discussed the end of Huck Finn and what critics say about the disappointing resolution of the book. We also waded into the debate over banning, challenging, or editing the novel. We viewed a panel discussion on Anderson Cooper 360, compiled our own list of reasons for each approach to the book, read articles arguing all sides, and discussed our stance on the novel. We also viewed clips from Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert's shows, dealing both seriously and satirically about the issue. Finally, we reviewed for the final test over the novel, which will be on Friday/Monday.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a review sheet, if you like, from the red pockets. Ask a classmate about the discussion and clips on editing or banning the book.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Study for your test!
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TUESDAY, JANUARY 27, 2015
The juniors discussed Tom Sawyer's crazy escape plan with all the complications he is adding to make a bigger deal of setting Jim free. As we read the next few chapters, we created an artistic representation of part or all of Tom's plan.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get notes from a classmate. Read chapters 36 through 39.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish reading the book: chapter 40 through chapter 43 (or "Chapter the Last," as your book may call it).
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FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015
Today the juniors discussed the reading for today, looking at things like Mark Twain's bad taste and his use of satire throughout the book. We then began reading together Chapters 27 through 31.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read chapters 27 through 31.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 31 through 35.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015
The juniors used a Spark Notes reading check quiz as a study guide for chapters 19-22. Next, they viewed the rest of the A&E Biography video on Mark Twain and completed the study guide. Finally, we viewed clips of the musical version of Huck Finn, called Big River.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up both study guides, and borrow a classmate's copies for the answers. Catch up on the reading.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 24-26.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 15, 2015
Today the juniors talked about the reading in Huck Finn and took notes on conflict, motif, and themes. We read Chapter 19 together and met the Duke and the King, two con men who join Huck and Jim on the river.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get notes from a classmate. Read chapter 19.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read Chapters 20-22.
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TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015
The juniors discussed their options for Senior English classes for next year. Then we discussed the reading in Huck Finn. We looked at the literary device of dialect more closely and took this quiz (How Y'all, Youse and You Guys Talk) to see how our regional vocabulary compares to other places in the United States.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read Chapters 12-14. Talk to a classmate about dialect and get the notes.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 15-18.
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FRIDAY, JANUARY 9, 2015
Today the juniors read Chapter 8 and discussed four themes established in the first eight chapters of the book.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a themes worksheet from the red pockets. Ask a classmate to borrow his/her notes. Read chapter 8.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read through Chapter 10.
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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2015
Welcome back, everyone! Today the juniors reviewed classroom policies and our study of American Literature so far. Next, we looked at dialect and read the story "Ladle Rat Rotten Hut" (ask your junior what this means! :) ). Finally, we began reading The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn together.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss Bergman to check out a copy of the novel.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read chapters 1-7 of Huck Finn.
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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2014 / THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
FINAL EXAMS!
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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2014
The juniors took their vocabulary quiz over the Unit 4 words today. Then we reviewed for the final exam, looking at previous literature tests and reading quizzes.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: No one was absent! It's a Christmas miracle!!! :) :) :)
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Review for your final exam!
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MONDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2014
Today the juniors looked at nonfiction from the Civil War era and discussed the difference between primary and secondary sources. We also read a short story by Mark Twain.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with a classmate for notes on the Civil War Perspectives authors. Read p. 525-535.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Review for your final exam.General III Daily Summaries from Semester 1 (2014-2015)
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2014 / THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
FINAL EXAMS!
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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2014
The juniors took their vocabulary quiz over the Unit 4 words today. Then we reviewed for the final exam, looking at previous literature tests and reading quizzes.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: No one was absent! It's a Christmas miracle!!! :) :) :)
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Review for your final exam!
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MONDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2014
Today the juniors looked at nonfiction from the Civil War era and discussed the difference between primary and secondary sources. We also read a short story by Mark Twain.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with a classmate for notes on the Civil War Perspectives authors. Read p. 525-535.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Review for your final exam.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
The juniors discussed the Civil War today and the literature of the era. We read Ambrose Bierce's "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" and looked at the episode of The Twilight Zone inspired by the story. We also reviewed verbal irony and read Stephen Crane's poem "War is Kind."
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read 490-509 and get notes from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the Mark Twain biography on pages 523-524.
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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2014
Today the juniors read passages from the autobiography of Frederick Douglass. We also looked at three slave songs in their original versions as well as modern interpretations.
Next, we began reading the historical background together.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read p. 463-482 and get notes from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read p. 443-461, the historical background for the Civil War.
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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2014
The juniors finished their summary practice with clips of Into the Wild. We also reviewed for the final exam.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your Into the Wild notes. Pick up a final review sheet from the red pockets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring your literature textbook with you to class.
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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2014
The juniors continued viewing the film Into the Wild and practiced writing objective summaries (Common Core standard RL.11-12.2).
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about Chris McCandless and his Transcendentalist beliefs.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None.
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MONDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2014
The juniors worked in their collaborative groups today in order to complete their film project on Transcendentalism. As time allowed, we looked at Into the Wild and how Chris McCandless chose to apply the tenets of Transcendentalism.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See your group members ASAP to do your part to complete the project.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish your film questions and be ready to turn it in.
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2014
Today the juniors worked on the film project over Dead Poets Society. They continued to answer questions about how the boys of Welton Academy explore Transcendentalism. Juniors will now type up their answers to the film questions and submit their final combined group project.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See your group members ASAP to find out how you can contribute to the group project.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None.
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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014
The juniors began their final project in the Transcendentalism unit today: analyzing the use of Transcendental ideals and authors in the film Dead Poets Society. Students will view the film in class and answer questions about plot and conflict.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your poetry chart and essay question. Ask your group members what you should be doing to help with this project. Arrange to review the film in Seminar.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None.
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014
Today the juniors read more poetry by Whitman and Dickinson, looking at each author's unique use of literary devices. Then we began a comparison-contrast chart and essay answer, looking at the poets' tone in their poems about death or nature.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read p. 436, 415, 368-373, 417, 418, 391-403. Get notes from a classmate. Pick up a copy of the Transcendentalism Poetry chart from the red pockets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish the chart and essay question.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2014
The juniors continued their study of Walden today, reading two more passages. We also looked at pop culture references to Thoreau's writing. Next, we began studying the poetry of Walt Whitman and Emily Dickinson.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get notes from a classmate. Look at the pastiche posters in the hallway, and create your own. Read p. 224-228 and 361-365.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read p. 388-391 and 398-9.
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014
Today the juniors resumed their study of American literature with a look at the writings of Transcendentalists Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau. We read passages of both men's essays and looked at Miss Bergman's photographs of their houses in Concord, Mass. We also practiced paraphrasing by putting three of Thoreau's quotes in our own words and wrote our own version of Thoreau's missing statement.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read p. 170-172, 203-210, and 213-222. Get bell ringer and quote notes from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring your mission statement poster, ready to hang in the hallway.
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2014
LAST DAY to work on research papers! Students may submit their final papers at any time (see instructions on the wikispace page). Final deadline is 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, November 12th.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss Bergman if you need help with your paper.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Bring your literature textbook to class.
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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2014
Today was the juniors' penultimate (second-to-last) day to work on their research papers. They peer reviewed each other's papers in class and showed Miss Bergman evidence of that peer review. For extra credit, students could use an online editor (SAS Curriculum Pathways or paperrater.com) to examine their writing more closely. Thurs will be the last day of class time to work on the assignment.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Use the resources on this wikispace page to revise and edit your papers.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: No new deadline. Just finish your paper!
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2014
Today the juniors worked on their two pages of their rough drafts. They will show these to me on Tuesday before we get some feedback both from our peers and from a few cool online editing tools.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Write, write, write!!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Two pages due at the BEGINNING of class!
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2014
Today the juniors showed me their outlines and then worked on writing the research paper. Two pages are due at the beginning of class on Tuesday, when we will peer review each other's drafts.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Have Miss Bergman check our Outline ASAP. Write!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Two pages---any two pages of your paper---are due at the beginning of class on Tuesday. Work well on Friday with the sub
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MONDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2014
The juniors worked on notes today---50 were due at the end of the hour---and then started creating their outlines.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Work to get caught up!! See your partner or see Miss Bergman, and get caught up ASAP!
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Outlines are DUE at the beginning of the hour.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2014
Today the juniors shared their Annotated Bibliographies for a deadline grade and then worked on taking notes. By the end of the hour, they had to show Miss B. 25 notes on their subject.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your partner and do your part to take notes on your source.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Nothing due at the beginning of the hour, but 50 total notes are due at the end of class.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2014
The juniors worked on their research papers today, finding sources and locking in their topics. Then we worked on the Annotated Bibliography, which is due at the beginning of class on Thursday.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Check with your partner (if you have one) to see what topic he/she selected. If you are working on your own, start finding three sources for your topic, and see Miss Bergman to lock it in.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Annotated Bibliography with FIVE sources is due at the start of class. Also, be working on your notes: 25 are due at the end of class Thursday.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014
Today the juniors finished reading the novel The Scarlet Letter and watching the film version of the novel. Next, we began our research paper project on a shunned person. Students learned about annotated bibliographies and spreadsheet-style notes and then began exploring possible topics.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the Research Paper assignment sheet from the red pockets. Look on this website for more handouts and resources under the page called "Research Paper Resources" (see list on the left).
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be thinking about your top 3 choices for topics and start finding sources.
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014
The juniors watched the film of the novel until we reached the 3rd and final scaffold scene. We read through Chapter 23 and completed our chart comparing the three scaffold scenes. We then started reading the final chapter of the book, which we will finish next class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read through Chapter 23.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Study for your Unit 2 vocabulary quiz!
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2014
Today the juniors read and discussed an article about a modern-day judge who gives out scarlet-letter-like punishments. We discussed if we thought public shaming was a fair and effective technique. Next, we viewed a portion of the film in which Hester talks to Chillingworth about revealing his secret. Finally, we attended the Career Fair and visited with college and tech school representatives.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read through Chapter 15.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: none.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2014
The juniors read Chapter 12, the 2nd scaffold scene of the novel, and created a chart to compare the first two of the three scaffold scenes. Then we viewed the film's version of this scene.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read through chapter 12 OR arrange with Miss Bergman to make up the viewing of the film. Turn in your Biblical analogy worksheet/chart and Venn Diagram.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: none.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2014
Today the juniors viewed more of The Scarlet Letter and found evidence for their guess of who Pearl's father is. Then we discussed the Biblical analogy in the tapestry in Dimmesdale's room. Students compared and contrasted the novel's characters with the Biblical figures.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read through chapter 10 OR arrange with Miss Bergman to make up the viewing of the film. Pick up a copy of the Biblical analogy worksheet and Bible passage. Get notes from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish the Biblical analogy worksheet and Venn Diagram.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014
The juniors read through Chapter 3, wrapping up the 1st scaffold scene of the book. We then completed a study guide over Chapters 1-6, answering what we know now and watching for additional answers as we viewed the film interpretation of chapters 4-6.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read through chapter 6 OR arrange with Miss Bergman to make up the viewing of the film. Pick up a copy of the Chapter 1-6 study guide, and get answers from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Your My Five poster is DUE!
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014
Today the juniors began reading The Scarlet Letter. We'll be reading the three scaffold scenes that Hawthorne placed at the beginning, middle, and end of his story. Then we'll watch the PBS production to connect the dots. Today we read through Chapters 1 and 2 as well as portions of Hawthorne's essay "The Custom House."
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to check out a book. Read chapters 1 and 2. Get notes from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Be working on your My Five poster--due Oct 2nd.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2014
The juniors took their first literature test today over the selections we've studied from the earliest American writers up through the Dark Romantics. After the test students had time to work on their "My Five" projects.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. ASAP to arrange to make up your test during Seminar or before or after school.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: You do not need to bring your literature book to class for a while. We'll be starting The Scarlet Letter.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2014
Today the juniors reviewed "The Pit and the Pendulum" before reading "Dr. Heidegger's Experiment" together. Then we reviewed for their literature test, which will be on Wednesday.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up the test review sheets and get answers from a classmate as needed.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Study for your test! Be thinking about your My Five poster so you can work on it after the test.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2014
The juniors discussed the ending of the Irving story today before reading a poem and a short story by Edgar Allan Poe. We watched a Vincent Price retelling of "The Pit and the Pendulum"---very creepy! Finally, we discussed the My Five project assignment.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Read p. 277-302. Get quote notes from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: none!
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2014
Today the juniors took their first vocabulary quiz, over the words in Unit One. Next, we discussed the Romantics and read some sample Romantic poems. Finally, we started a short story by Washington Irving.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: See Miss B. to make up the vocabulary quiz during Seminar. Get notes from a classmate. Read p. 189-198 and 174-185.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Finish the Irving story (p. 174-185).
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2014
The juniors discussed the reading assignment of a sermon by Jonathan Edwards. Next, we read a selection from Benjamin Franklin's autobiography and compared the two writers. We then read Patrick Henry's famous "Give me liberty, or give me death!" speech and identified the literary devices he uses. We looked for these same devices in Martin Luther King, Jr.'s famous "I have a dream" speech. Finally, we read the children's book John, Paul, George, and Ben as a fun review of the Revolutionary War writing we have studied.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get notes from a classmate. Read p. 80-86.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read p. 156-173.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2014
Today the juniors discussed their reading assignment, which included Bradford and Cabeza de Vaca. We then reviewed a smattering of poetry terms as we read the poetry of Anne Bradstreet.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get notes from a classmate. Read p. 27-33 and 44-51.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read the Edwards selection p. 44-51.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2014
The juniors took their first RCQ (Reading Check Quiz) today over the reading in the literature textbook (p. 1-19). We discussed the four groups of writers from this time period before beginning an assignment over Native American Oral Tradition. In partners, students worked through a reading packet of Lushootseed (Puget Sound Salish) stories and completed a Venn Diagram and several analytic questions.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Turn in your 3rd Ad Analysis. Get notes from a classmate. Come see Miss B. during Seminar to make up the Native American oral tradition assignment with reading packet.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Read p. 115-118 (Cabeza de Vaca) and p. 119-127 (Bradford).
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2014
Today the juniors did a short writing exercise to reflect on the overall message behind an advertisement. They will look for all these techniques as they complete their 3rd and final Ad Analysis. We also looked at the literature textbook as we begin our study of American Lit. Students are reading the historical background for the first unit of study. We started reading the passage together in class.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get notes from a classmate. Turn in your 2nd Ad Analysis. See Miss Bergman to check out a literature textbook.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: 3rd Ad Analysis DUE. Read pages 1-19 (historical background) in the literature textbook.
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FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014
Today the juniors finished discussing Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs and also looked at Lutz's "Weasel Words." We played a "go-fish" style game to find examples of other persuasion techniques in ads. Finally, students began writing their 2nd Ad Analysis.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get notes from a classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: 2nd Ad Analysis is DUE.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 27, 2014
The juniors today taught each other the different forms of Propaganda they should be watching for in their next Ad Analysis. We began talking about Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, and we will continue our discussion on Friday.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Hand in the Student Info Sheet and the 1st Ad Analysis. Get notes from a reliable classmate.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None.
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MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014
Today the juniors discussed the expectations of a Collaborative Discussion and how they'll be graded on this throughout the year. Next, we shared our group findings on the ads we discussed last week. I also presented the findings of author Bill Bryson in his study of the history of advertising. The juniors will watch for these techniques as they complete their first Ad Analysis, due at the start of class on Wednesday.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Get notes from a classmate on the Bryson advertising techniques. Pick up a copy of the Collaborative Discussion handout from the red pockets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: 1st Ad Analysis is DUE.
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THURSDAY, AUGUST 21, 2014
The juniors took the Classroom Expectations "Quiz" today (and all aced it!) before turning our attention to Media Literacy and learning about ad analysis. We practiced the process as a class and then in small groups. We ended our day with a visit to the library for a tour and snacks with the librarian, Mrs. Henning.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Pick up a copy of the Ad Analysis assignment sheet from the green General English III folder in the red pockets.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None. We'll present our groups' notes on our chosen ad. Be working on your Student Info sheet (due Wednesday).
TUESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2014
Today we graded the Commercial Quiz and determined how well we observed details. Next, we discussed our first assignments: the Student Info sheet and the Coolest Person paragraph. We then learned about Bell Ringers and the vocabulary workbooks we'll be using this year. We also went over the course syllabus. Finally, students worked on their Coolest Person paragraphs.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate for the Bell Ringer notes. Pick up a copy of the syllabus from the General III folder in the red pockets. Ask Miss Bergman for the Coolest Person instructions.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Coolest Person paragraphs are DUE at the beginning of the hour. Set up your English binder with dividers and labels (see syllabus).
FRIDAY, AUGUST 15, 2014
What a crazy first day of school! Juniors had pictures taken during 2nd hour, so we were never all in the room at the same time. We did managed to test our observation skills with a silly quiz over Superbowl commercials. We'll finish up on Tuesday.
ABSENT STUDENTS SHOULD: Ask a classmate about their favorite Superbowl commercial.
ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: None
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