Welcome to the last blog post of the year!! Makes you get a little weepy, doesn't it?
Pre-AP
In today's class, we fielded any questions about the final exam. We also presented the projects that students have been working on.
Homework: Study for finals!! NOTE: Make sure to study predicate adjectives, predicate nominatives, direct objects, and indirect objects even though they were left off of the study guide!!
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we reviewed the standards blitz that is also the study guide for the final eam.
The standards blitz (study guide) can be downloaded by clicking here.
Homework: Study for finals!
HAVE A MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
Monday, December 19, 2011
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Friday, December 16th
Pre-AP
In today's class, we fielded any questions about the final exam. Our in-depth review will be on Monday, December 19th, which is also WHEN THE FINAL PROJECTS ARE DUE! We also watched the 1963 version of Lord of the Flies.
Homework: Students should be studying all of their material on the semester exam study guide to prepare for their cumulative semester exam.
Also, as a note, predicate adjectives, predicate nominatives, direct objects, and indirect object were left off of the study guide. Students should know how to identify these parts of a sentence as well.
AHSGE Reading Review
Today was the big interview day! Several community business leaders came to the classroom today to run mock interviews with the students.
In today's class, we fielded any questions about the final exam. Our in-depth review will be on Monday, December 19th, which is also WHEN THE FINAL PROJECTS ARE DUE! We also watched the 1963 version of Lord of the Flies.
Homework: Students should be studying all of their material on the semester exam study guide to prepare for their cumulative semester exam.
Also, as a note, predicate adjectives, predicate nominatives, direct objects, and indirect object were left off of the study guide. Students should know how to identify these parts of a sentence as well.
AHSGE Reading Review
Today was the big interview day! Several community business leaders came to the classroom today to run mock interviews with the students.
Thursday, December 15th
Pre-AP
Today's class took the unit exam for Lord of the Flies.
Homework: Students should be studying all of their material on the semester exam study guide to prepare for their cumulative semester exam.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we played a review game for the semester exam and finished preparations for the mock interviews tomorrow.
Homework: Students need to bring TWO copies of their resumes and cover letters to class tomorrow. They also need to make sure to dress professionally, as it will be a part of their overall grade.
Today's class took the unit exam for Lord of the Flies.
Homework: Students should be studying all of their material on the semester exam study guide to prepare for their cumulative semester exam.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we played a review game for the semester exam and finished preparations for the mock interviews tomorrow.
Homework: Students need to bring TWO copies of their resumes and cover letters to class tomorrow. They also need to make sure to dress professionally, as it will be a part of their overall grade.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Wednesday, December 14th
Pre-AP English
In today's class, we received our final Word of the Day. Students also received a copy of the study guide for the Final Exam. (A copy of the study guide can be found by clicking here.)
We also had a class discussion about several of the questions that Lord of the Flies raises for its readers.
Homework: Students need to finish preparing for the LOTF unit test that they will take tomorrow (Thursday, December 15th). It will cover irregular verb conjugation, sentence complements and objects, and the action of the entire Lord of the Flies novel. Students should also continue studying for the semester exam. First block will take the exam on Wednesday, December 21st. Fourth block will take the exam on Tuesday, December 20th.
AHSGE Reading Review
"The Lottery" was the topic of today's class. After reading and watching this short story by Shirley Jackson, students completed a writing assignment comparing and contrasting what they read and saw.
In today's class, we received our final Word of the Day. Students also received a copy of the study guide for the Final Exam. (A copy of the study guide can be found by clicking here.)
We also had a class discussion about several of the questions that Lord of the Flies raises for its readers.
Homework: Students need to finish preparing for the LOTF unit test that they will take tomorrow (Thursday, December 15th). It will cover irregular verb conjugation, sentence complements and objects, and the action of the entire Lord of the Flies novel. Students should also continue studying for the semester exam. First block will take the exam on Wednesday, December 21st. Fourth block will take the exam on Tuesday, December 20th.
AHSGE Reading Review
"The Lottery" was the topic of today's class. After reading and watching this short story by Shirley Jackson, students completed a writing assignment comparing and contrasting what they read and saw.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Tuesday, December 13th
Pre-AP
We took the fourth quiz on Lord of the Flies today which covered our Words of the Day, irregular verb conjugation, and the action of the last four chapters of the book. When students finished the test, we discussed analogies and how analogies can be used to learn difficult concepts.
Homework: Students should study for the Lord of the Flies unit test which will take place on Thursday, December 15th. This will cover the entire novel as well as Words of the Day and all grammar concepts that we have covered in class. Students also need to complete the "Analogies" worksheet and turn it in tomorrow at the beginning of class.
A copy of the analogy worksheet can be downloaded by clicking here.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we finished discussing interviewing skills, resumes and cover letters. Then, we went to the library and students had a chance to finish their resumes and cover letters in class.
Homework: Students need to finish their resumes and cover letters and have them prepared and printed for class on Friday. (Each student will need to have two copies of each.) Students will also have to "dress for success" on Friday, wearing the appropriate clothing to class that should be worn in a professional interview.
We took the fourth quiz on Lord of the Flies today which covered our Words of the Day, irregular verb conjugation, and the action of the last four chapters of the book. When students finished the test, we discussed analogies and how analogies can be used to learn difficult concepts.
Homework: Students should study for the Lord of the Flies unit test which will take place on Thursday, December 15th. This will cover the entire novel as well as Words of the Day and all grammar concepts that we have covered in class. Students also need to complete the "Analogies" worksheet and turn it in tomorrow at the beginning of class.
A copy of the analogy worksheet can be downloaded by clicking here.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we finished discussing interviewing skills, resumes and cover letters. Then, we went to the library and students had a chance to finish their resumes and cover letters in class.
Homework: Students need to finish their resumes and cover letters and have them prepared and printed for class on Friday. (Each student will need to have two copies of each.) Students will also have to "dress for success" on Friday, wearing the appropriate clothing to class that should be worn in a professional interview.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Monday, December 12th
Pre_AP
In today's class, we review sentence complements and sentence objects, and finished a close-reading of chapters 11-12 of Lord of the Flies.
Homework: Students need to study for their LOTF quiz tomorrow, which will cover the last four chapters of the book as well as the irregular verbs that students wrote in their notes.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we discussed the state of education in America, and how schools get funding for education. We also began discussing practical tips on job interviews, resumes, and cover letters, in preparation for our mock interviews on Friday. This is a major assignment, so all students need to understand the assignment's directions very well.
A copy of the mock interview assignment packet can be downloaded by clicking here.
In today's class, we review sentence complements and sentence objects, and finished a close-reading of chapters 11-12 of Lord of the Flies.
Homework: Students need to study for their LOTF quiz tomorrow, which will cover the last four chapters of the book as well as the irregular verbs that students wrote in their notes.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we discussed the state of education in America, and how schools get funding for education. We also began discussing practical tips on job interviews, resumes, and cover letters, in preparation for our mock interviews on Friday. This is a major assignment, so all students need to understand the assignment's directions very well.
A copy of the mock interview assignment packet can be downloaded by clicking here.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Friday, December 9th
Pre-AP
It was a grammarpalooza in today's class! To begin with, we learned about the three types of sentences in the English language: interrogative, imperative, and declarative. After working through an exercise dealing with this concept, we then moved on to a review of subject/verb agreement as well as a new lesson on conjugating irregular verb forms.
Since this can be a difficult subject, I would encourage students to not only review the chart in their notes of the specific verbs I gave in class, but I would also encourage them to take advantage of this website (click here) which not only lists irregular verb forms, but also provides online flash cards for additional practice.
To finish out the class, we finished analyzing chapter 10 of Lord of the Flies.
Homework: Students should review chapters 9-12 in preparation for the test they will have on Tuesday, December 13th. They should also review their grammar notes. To look ahead, students should also begin reviewing all Lord of the Flies and grammar notes for the Lord of the Flies unit test, which will be held on Thursday, December 15th.
The semester exam schedule is as follows: 4th block will take its semester exam on Tuesday, December 20th and 1st block will take its exam on Wednesday, December 21st.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we finished watching Freedom Writers and completed the quiz and writing assignment that related to the movie. We also had a class discussion on the state of education in our state and country.
It was a grammarpalooza in today's class! To begin with, we learned about the three types of sentences in the English language: interrogative, imperative, and declarative. After working through an exercise dealing with this concept, we then moved on to a review of subject/verb agreement as well as a new lesson on conjugating irregular verb forms.
Since this can be a difficult subject, I would encourage students to not only review the chart in their notes of the specific verbs I gave in class, but I would also encourage them to take advantage of this website (click here) which not only lists irregular verb forms, but also provides online flash cards for additional practice.
To finish out the class, we finished analyzing chapter 10 of Lord of the Flies.
Homework: Students should review chapters 9-12 in preparation for the test they will have on Tuesday, December 13th. They should also review their grammar notes. To look ahead, students should also begin reviewing all Lord of the Flies and grammar notes for the Lord of the Flies unit test, which will be held on Thursday, December 15th.
The semester exam schedule is as follows: 4th block will take its semester exam on Tuesday, December 20th and 1st block will take its exam on Wednesday, December 21st.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we finished watching Freedom Writers and completed the quiz and writing assignment that related to the movie. We also had a class discussion on the state of education in our state and country.
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Thursday, December 8th
Pre-AP
In today's class we analyzed chapter 10 of Lord of the Flies as the point in the book where society finally begins to break down completely. It's significant to the overall action of the novel because the showdown between Jack and Ralph (symbolizing savagery and civility) that was set up in chapter eight comes to a violent conlusion. From this point in the novel, things go from bad to worse.
We also reviewed thesis writing in today's class, and students received a worksheet that they should finish for homework. A copy of this worksheet can be found by clicking here.
Homework: Students should finish Lord of the Flies and review the action of the last part of the novel. They should also finish the "Thesis Activity" worksheet and turn it in at the beginning of class tomorrow. Finally, students should review the Tone worksheet that they received in class yesterday.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class we finished up our work on The Hunger Games. We also continued our discussion of the state of education in our society by beginning Freedom Writers. Students will have a quiz and a writing assignment based on the movie.
In today's class we analyzed chapter 10 of Lord of the Flies as the point in the book where society finally begins to break down completely. It's significant to the overall action of the novel because the showdown between Jack and Ralph (symbolizing savagery and civility) that was set up in chapter eight comes to a violent conlusion. From this point in the novel, things go from bad to worse.
We also reviewed thesis writing in today's class, and students received a worksheet that they should finish for homework. A copy of this worksheet can be found by clicking here.
Homework: Students should finish Lord of the Flies and review the action of the last part of the novel. They should also finish the "Thesis Activity" worksheet and turn it in at the beginning of class tomorrow. Finally, students should review the Tone worksheet that they received in class yesterday.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class we finished up our work on The Hunger Games. We also continued our discussion of the state of education in our society by beginning Freedom Writers. Students will have a quiz and a writing assignment based on the movie.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Wednesday, December 7th
Pre-AP
Tone and Mood were the topics of today's class. We focused on the difference between the two concepts and went over a list of words that authors typically use to set a certain tone and elicit a certain mood. We then watched two short video clips that were trailers of the same movie, Mary Poppins, and showed how the two editors used elements, such as character and action, to create a very different tone for the movie. We also discussed chapter 9 of Lord of the Flies.
Homework: Students should finish reading Lord of the Flies (chapters 9-12). They should also review their notes on tone and mood, knowing the difference between the two and being able to identify some the key words that set each. Students should also begin working on their final project for the class, which is due December 19th.
AHSGE Reading Review
In preparation for the reading section of the graduation exam, which will take place tomorrow, we will be playing a review game in class today covering all of the different standards that are tested on the AHSGE. We will also take a quiz on Stand and Deliver.
Tone and Mood were the topics of today's class. We focused on the difference between the two concepts and went over a list of words that authors typically use to set a certain tone and elicit a certain mood. We then watched two short video clips that were trailers of the same movie, Mary Poppins, and showed how the two editors used elements, such as character and action, to create a very different tone for the movie. We also discussed chapter 9 of Lord of the Flies.
Homework: Students should finish reading Lord of the Flies (chapters 9-12). They should also review their notes on tone and mood, knowing the difference between the two and being able to identify some the key words that set each. Students should also begin working on their final project for the class, which is due December 19th.
AHSGE Reading Review
In preparation for the reading section of the graduation exam, which will take place tomorrow, we will be playing a review game in class today covering all of the different standards that are tested on the AHSGE. We will also take a quiz on Stand and Deliver.
Monday and Tuesday, December 5th and 6th
Pre-AP
In Monday's class, we finished our analysis of chapters 6-8 of Lord of the Flies. We also finished discussing sentences objects and complements by discussing indirect objects and reviewing direct objects, predicate adjectives, and predicate nominatives. On Tuesday, students took the third Lord of the Flies quiz and were given their final project assignment for the class, which was to choose from an extensive list of art projects related to material that we've covered.
Homework: Read the remainder of Lord of the Flies (chapters 9-12) by Tuesday, December 13th. Also, students must choose which project they will be working on by Friday, December 9th. After this date, students will not be allowed to change projects.
AHSGE Reading Review
In Monday and Tuesday's class, we spoke about what Jaime Escalante called "ganas" in the movie Stand and Deliver. The basis of our discussion was the fact that if there is something that a student wants to achieve, he or she must have the desire to achieve it and be willing to work hard to get there. In relation to the graduation exam, which many students are currently taking, this talk and this movie are meant to inspire student efforts to pass.
In Wednesday's class, students will take a quiz on the movie Stand and Deliver.
In Monday's class, we finished our analysis of chapters 6-8 of Lord of the Flies. We also finished discussing sentences objects and complements by discussing indirect objects and reviewing direct objects, predicate adjectives, and predicate nominatives. On Tuesday, students took the third Lord of the Flies quiz and were given their final project assignment for the class, which was to choose from an extensive list of art projects related to material that we've covered.
Homework: Read the remainder of Lord of the Flies (chapters 9-12) by Tuesday, December 13th. Also, students must choose which project they will be working on by Friday, December 9th. After this date, students will not be allowed to change projects.
AHSGE Reading Review
In Monday and Tuesday's class, we spoke about what Jaime Escalante called "ganas" in the movie Stand and Deliver. The basis of our discussion was the fact that if there is something that a student wants to achieve, he or she must have the desire to achieve it and be willing to work hard to get there. In relation to the graduation exam, which many students are currently taking, this talk and this movie are meant to inspire student efforts to pass.
In Wednesday's class, students will take a quiz on the movie Stand and Deliver.
Friday, December 2, 2011
Friday, December 2nd
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| Screenshot from Macintosh's 1984 Superbowl Ad |
Pre-AP
In today's class, we discussed transitive and intransitive verbs and direct objects. After our grammar selection, we then discussed the question, "Is the world getting better?" In other words, are all of the technology and communication advancements that are touted to make our lives easier really doing that? Is the world a better place to be in today because of our culture and technology, or is it actually worse for the advancements? We watched two short clips to show each viewpoint on this issue. One was a video of the "Carousel of Progress" ride from Disney World. On this ride, the narrator touts the wonders of technology and expresses numerous times how it has made our lives better. Then, we watched a clip from Macintosh's 1984 Superbowl ad, in which the dangers of technology are underlined. We also briefly discussed George Orwell's 1984 and drew correlations from the commercial to the novel. Student answers on this technological topic varied, but one consensus was reached... much like the Orwellian society of 1984, our society has the potential of running out of control. The students decided that it is up to each person how he/she will use the technology given to him/her.
After this fruitful discussion (Get it? Macintosh- Apple computers?), we analyzed a selection from chapter seven of Lord of the Flies, in which Ralph, the very symbol of civilized and lawful living in the novel, is overcome with the blood-lust of the hunt.
Homework: Students should finish and review chapters 6-8 of Lord of the Flies. They should also re-read their notes on transitive and intransitive verbs, subject complements, and direct objects. If a student would like to take advantage of the extra credit essay that has been assigned (see Wednesday, November 30's post), then he/she must turn in the essay on Monday, December 5th.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we continued our discussion on the state of education in our nation, and finished watching the documentary Waiting for Superman.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Thursday, December 1st
Pre-AP
The main question that Lord of the Flies presents to its reader is, "Is a civilized man capable of savagery." After discussing predicate adjectives and predicate nominatives, the class went through a powerpoint set of very nice art pieces depicting scenes of beautiful building, budding plants, and loving parents. After asking the students to guess who the artist was who painted these works, students found out that it was not who they thought it was at all. (You'll have to ask the students who the artist was to find out!)
We finished out the class by examining chapter six of Lord of the Flies and seeing the society that the boys set up on the island beginning to break down.
Homework: Students should continue reading chapters 6-8 of Lord of the Flies. Their next quiz will be on Tuesday, December 6. Students should also review their notes on predicate adjectives and nominatives.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we finished up our standards review in preparation for the graduation exam. We also began a unit on American education, examining its flaws and successes. We ended the class with a challenge for the students to take a greater role in their educational acquisition.
The main question that Lord of the Flies presents to its reader is, "Is a civilized man capable of savagery." After discussing predicate adjectives and predicate nominatives, the class went through a powerpoint set of very nice art pieces depicting scenes of beautiful building, budding plants, and loving parents. After asking the students to guess who the artist was who painted these works, students found out that it was not who they thought it was at all. (You'll have to ask the students who the artist was to find out!)
We finished out the class by examining chapter six of Lord of the Flies and seeing the society that the boys set up on the island beginning to break down.
Homework: Students should continue reading chapters 6-8 of Lord of the Flies. Their next quiz will be on Tuesday, December 6. Students should also review their notes on predicate adjectives and nominatives.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we finished up our standards review in preparation for the graduation exam. We also began a unit on American education, examining its flaws and successes. We ended the class with a challenge for the students to take a greater role in their educational acquisition.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Wednesday, November 30th
Pre_AP
Students took their second quiz on Lord of the Flies today. After the quiz, we had a short lesson on Robert Frost and the ambiguity of his poetry. Since we are focusing on postmodernism, students received an extra credit opportunity to write a postmodern critique of a Robert Frost poem. Students can choose from "Mending Wall," "Birches," or "Nothing Gold Can Stay" and write a five-paragraph essay (MUST BE TYPED!) analyzing the poem from the postmodern perspective. The essay is due Monday, December 5th.
Homework: Students need to read chapters 6-8 in Lord of the Flies. The next quiz will be on Tuesday, December 6th.
AHSGE Reading Review
In an effort to prepare for next week's graduation exam, we blitzed through all of the standards in class today that the exam covers. Using O. Henry's short story "The Gift of the Magi," students worked through questions that covered each content standard.
A copy of this packet can be downloaded by clicking here.
Students took their second quiz on Lord of the Flies today. After the quiz, we had a short lesson on Robert Frost and the ambiguity of his poetry. Since we are focusing on postmodernism, students received an extra credit opportunity to write a postmodern critique of a Robert Frost poem. Students can choose from "Mending Wall," "Birches," or "Nothing Gold Can Stay" and write a five-paragraph essay (MUST BE TYPED!) analyzing the poem from the postmodern perspective. The essay is due Monday, December 5th.
Homework: Students need to read chapters 6-8 in Lord of the Flies. The next quiz will be on Tuesday, December 6th.
AHSGE Reading Review
In an effort to prepare for next week's graduation exam, we blitzed through all of the standards in class today that the exam covers. Using O. Henry's short story "The Gift of the Magi," students worked through questions that covered each content standard.
A copy of this packet can be downloaded by clicking here.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Tuesday, November 29
Today's class focused around the essential questions presented by Lord of the Flies, "Is humanity basically good?" and "What happens to cause a society to break down?" Some of the ideas we focused on included microcosms, utopias, dystopias, and civilization. After discussing adverbs and looking over a reference packet that the students received outlining many baisc grammatical prinicples, we looked in detail at chapter five of Lord of the Flies, and saw why it is the turning point of the novel as a whole.
Homework: Students should study their Words of the Day and review chapters 4-5 of Lord of the Flies for the quiz that they will take tomorrow (November 30th).
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's review class, students spent time on USATest Prep, a service that is offered through the school that gives extra practice for the graduation exam. Several seniors will be taking the exam next week, so students created accounts that would allow them to access the practice service from any computer with an internet connection.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Monday, November 28th
"Piggy" from Lord of the Flies
I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving! Sorry for not posting last week, but the school's internet was down again. Thankfully, everything seems to be straightened out now.
Pre-AP
In today's class, we reviewed adverbs and how they can be identified and used. We also had two writing assignments that students completed in their journals. To finish out the class, we watched the remainder of Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird.
Homework: Students need to finish reading and reviewing chapters 4-5 of Lord of the Flies (with a special emphasis on chapter 5.) We will have a quiz on Wednesday, November 30th that covers these chapters, the grammar material we've covered in class, and the Words of the Day.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we reviewed the quiz that students took last Tuesday covering the concepts of comparing and contrasting, identifying sequence of events, and summarizing a text adequately. After our review, we finished watching Dead Poets' Society and completed the viewing guide that accompanied the movie.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Friday, November 18th
Pre-AP
Postmodernism and deconstruction dominated today's class discussion. Beginning our notes for William Golding's Lord of the Flies (students are responsible for obtaining their OWN copies of this book!!), we took notes on postmodernism as it manifested itself after WWII. To ensure a complete understanding of LOTF, students need to have a firm grasp of postmodernism and postmodern writing.
Homework: Students should study their notes on postmodernism and begin reading Lord of the Flies. They should have chapters 1-3 finished by Tuesday, November 22nd.
For a copy of the PPT on postmodernism, click here.
(PowerPoint was adapted from http://exchange.guhsd.net/details.php?object_id=513)
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we will review all of the reading concepts that will be on Monday's test.
Postmodernism and deconstruction dominated today's class discussion. Beginning our notes for William Golding's Lord of the Flies (students are responsible for obtaining their OWN copies of this book!!), we took notes on postmodernism as it manifested itself after WWII. To ensure a complete understanding of LOTF, students need to have a firm grasp of postmodernism and postmodern writing.
Homework: Students should study their notes on postmodernism and begin reading Lord of the Flies. They should have chapters 1-3 finished by Tuesday, November 22nd.
For a copy of the PPT on postmodernism, click here.
(PowerPoint was adapted from http://exchange.guhsd.net/details.php?object_id=513)
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we will review all of the reading concepts that will be on Monday's test.
Wednesday and Thursday, November 16th and 17th
Pre-AP
In Wednesday and Thursday's class, we finished our discussion of To Kill a Mockingbird and reviewed all of our grammar concepts for the Unit Test that we took on Thursday.
AHSGE Reading Review
Sequence of Events and Functional Literacy were the objects of our focus in Wednesday and Thursday's class.
Homework: Students should review over all notes for a concept test on Monday, November 21st.
In Wednesday and Thursday's class, we finished our discussion of To Kill a Mockingbird and reviewed all of our grammar concepts for the Unit Test that we took on Thursday.
AHSGE Reading Review
Sequence of Events and Functional Literacy were the objects of our focus in Wednesday and Thursday's class.
Homework: Students should review over all notes for a concept test on Monday, November 21st.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Tuesday, November 15th
Pre-AP
In today's class, students took their fourth quiz on To Kill a Mockingbird. They also completed a characterization activity where they created an acrostic poem using the name of one of the main characters. These poems paint an accurate picture of the characters as we read them in the book.
Homework: Students need to look back over all notes that they have taken or been given during our study of To Kill a Mockingbird. Their unit test will be on Thursday. It will cover the grammar white pages, commas, colons, semi-colons, the subjunctive mood, active vs. passive voice, the Harper Lee notes, Words of the Day, and all of the action of the novel.
Remember: a great grammar resource can be found by going to http://grammar.quickanddirtytips.com/
AHSGE Reading Review
Sequence of events dominated the discussion today. After discussing sequence of events,students had several pieces of literature to read, and several questions which measured their grasp of sequence of events.
In today's class, students took their fourth quiz on To Kill a Mockingbird. They also completed a characterization activity where they created an acrostic poem using the name of one of the main characters. These poems paint an accurate picture of the characters as we read them in the book.
Homework: Students need to look back over all notes that they have taken or been given during our study of To Kill a Mockingbird. Their unit test will be on Thursday. It will cover the grammar white pages, commas, colons, semi-colons, the subjunctive mood, active vs. passive voice, the Harper Lee notes, Words of the Day, and all of the action of the novel.
Remember: a great grammar resource can be found by going to http://grammar.quickanddirtytips.com/
AHSGE Reading Review
Sequence of events dominated the discussion today. After discussing sequence of events,students had several pieces of literature to read, and several questions which measured their grasp of sequence of events.
Monday, November 14, 2011
Monday, November 14th
Pre-AP
Coming back from Veteran's Day, we hit the ground running to finish out our time in To Kill a Mockingbird. After a discussion on active and passive voice, students did several activities to ensure that they understood the concept. Then, as a class, we covered several important passages in the last part of To Kill a Mockingbird.
Homework: Students need to ensure that they understand active and passive voice. They also need to study their Words of the Day and finish reading To Kill a Mockinbird for their quiz tomorrow. Also, students need to look back over all notes that they have taken or been given during our study of To Kill a Mockingbird. Their unit test will be on Thursday. It will cover, the grammar white pages, commas, colons, semi-colons, the subjunctive mood, active vs. passive voice, the Harper Lee notes, Words of the Day, and all of the action of the novel.
Remember: a great grammar resource can be found by going to http://grammar.quickanddirtytips.com/
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we discussed the difference between summarizing and paraphrasing. Students broke into groups and read several Cherokee creation myths. Then, as a group, students had to present the stories to the class. This was an exercise to prove the importance and ease of paraphrasing, a skill vital to a student's reading comprehension ability.
Coming back from Veteran's Day, we hit the ground running to finish out our time in To Kill a Mockingbird. After a discussion on active and passive voice, students did several activities to ensure that they understood the concept. Then, as a class, we covered several important passages in the last part of To Kill a Mockingbird.
Homework: Students need to ensure that they understand active and passive voice. They also need to study their Words of the Day and finish reading To Kill a Mockinbird for their quiz tomorrow. Also, students need to look back over all notes that they have taken or been given during our study of To Kill a Mockingbird. Their unit test will be on Thursday. It will cover, the grammar white pages, commas, colons, semi-colons, the subjunctive mood, active vs. passive voice, the Harper Lee notes, Words of the Day, and all of the action of the novel.
Remember: a great grammar resource can be found by going to http://grammar.quickanddirtytips.com/
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we discussed the difference between summarizing and paraphrasing. Students broke into groups and read several Cherokee creation myths. Then, as a group, students had to present the stories to the class. This was an exercise to prove the importance and ease of paraphrasing, a skill vital to a student's reading comprehension ability.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Wednesday and Thursday, November 9th and 10th
Sorry for yesterday's non-posting! Our internet was down! Have a great Veteran's Day!
Pre-AP
In Wednesday's class, we discussed the importance of being able to wield our words well, and the fact that our writing needs to be clear, concise, and say exactly what we are trying to say. In this vein, we completed a sentence manipulation exercise where students were asked to choose a sentence from a paragraph they were given and manipulate it in certain ways.
We also began a discussion of active and passive voice, which we concluded in Thursday's class. For a good explanation of active vs. passive voice, you can click here.
Homework: Students need to finish reading chapters 22-31 (the end of the book) in To Kill a Mockingbird. They also need to study their Words of the Day, the active and passive voice, and all of their notes on To Kill a Mockingbird. Looking to the future, students need to study all of their notes that we've taken in this unit. We will have the comprehensive unit test on Thursday, November 17th.
AHSGE Reading Review
In Wednesday's class, we began a comparison/contrasting activity where we read through parts of Romeo and Juliet and watched Simon Birch and compared the two. As an exercise in literary analysis, in this activity students look beyond the surface differences of the two stories and begin to draw connections between their plot and the main characters.
In Thursday's class, students finished Simon Birch and took a test on the literary elements that we studied. (Freytag's triangle, figurative language, plot, etc.)
Pre-AP
In Wednesday's class, we discussed the importance of being able to wield our words well, and the fact that our writing needs to be clear, concise, and say exactly what we are trying to say. In this vein, we completed a sentence manipulation exercise where students were asked to choose a sentence from a paragraph they were given and manipulate it in certain ways.
We also began a discussion of active and passive voice, which we concluded in Thursday's class. For a good explanation of active vs. passive voice, you can click here.
Homework: Students need to finish reading chapters 22-31 (the end of the book) in To Kill a Mockingbird. They also need to study their Words of the Day, the active and passive voice, and all of their notes on To Kill a Mockingbird. Looking to the future, students need to study all of their notes that we've taken in this unit. We will have the comprehensive unit test on Thursday, November 17th.
AHSGE Reading Review
In Wednesday's class, we began a comparison/contrasting activity where we read through parts of Romeo and Juliet and watched Simon Birch and compared the two. As an exercise in literary analysis, in this activity students look beyond the surface differences of the two stories and begin to draw connections between their plot and the main characters.
In Thursday's class, students finished Simon Birch and took a test on the literary elements that we studied. (Freytag's triangle, figurative language, plot, etc.)
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Monday and Tuesday, November 7th and 8th
Pre-AP
In preparation for Tuesday's quiz, on Monday we read through Bob Ewell, Mayella Ewell, and Tom Robinson's testimony in the courtroom scene of To Kill a Mockingbird (found in chapters 17-18). We also discussed the subjunctive, imperative, and indicative mood as they relate to subject-verb agreement. (For quick grammar hints, students can access http://grammar.quickanddirtytips.com/ and find many helpful grammar tips there.)
Homework: Students need to finish the "Bucket List" activity that we began in class. It is due tomorrow (Wednesday, November 9th). Students should also begin reading Chapter 22-31 of To Kill a Mockingbird (through the end of the book).
For a copy of the "Bucket List" activity, click here.
AHSGE Reading Review
We finished a discussion on figurative language and Freytag's triangle on Monday. On Tuesday, we read through a selection entitled "The Most Dangerous Game" and analyzed it by comparison and contrasting; we compared one of the story's main characters, General Zaroff, to the main character in The Hunger Games, Katniss Everdeen.
Tomorrow, we will have a test covering figurative language, Freytag's triangle, plot, comparing and contrasting, and cause and effect. Students should read over their notes that relate to these topics.
In preparation for Tuesday's quiz, on Monday we read through Bob Ewell, Mayella Ewell, and Tom Robinson's testimony in the courtroom scene of To Kill a Mockingbird (found in chapters 17-18). We also discussed the subjunctive, imperative, and indicative mood as they relate to subject-verb agreement. (For quick grammar hints, students can access http://grammar.quickanddirtytips.com/ and find many helpful grammar tips there.)
Homework: Students need to finish the "Bucket List" activity that we began in class. It is due tomorrow (Wednesday, November 9th). Students should also begin reading Chapter 22-31 of To Kill a Mockingbird (through the end of the book).
For a copy of the "Bucket List" activity, click here.
AHSGE Reading Review
We finished a discussion on figurative language and Freytag's triangle on Monday. On Tuesday, we read through a selection entitled "The Most Dangerous Game" and analyzed it by comparison and contrasting; we compared one of the story's main characters, General Zaroff, to the main character in The Hunger Games, Katniss Everdeen.
Tomorrow, we will have a test covering figurative language, Freytag's triangle, plot, comparing and contrasting, and cause and effect. Students should read over their notes that relate to these topics.
Friday, November 4, 2011
Friday, November 4th
Reauxll Tide Reauxll
Pre-AP
In today's class, we studied about subject-verb agreement. All of our notes came from pages 166-179 of Elements of Language. We also watched and analyzed Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech, discussing how it shows the true nature of prejudice and racism in the country at the time. Finally, we continued reading through Tom Robinson's trial in To Kill a Mockingbird.
Homework: Students need to finish chapters 12-21 of To Kill a Mockingbird for the test on Tuesday, November 8th. They also need to study all of their comma rules, semi-colon rules, colon rules, and subject-verb agreement rules. Finally, they also need to be familiar with their Words of the Day and all of the "Grammar Rules" they received at the beginning of class each day.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class we learned about figurative language and Freytag's Triangle. If you missed class today, you need to be sure to get the notes from a classmate you trust.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Thursday, November 3rd
Pre-AP
In today's class, we discussed how to use semi-colons and colons. We also completed a graded activity to ensure comprehension of these two types of punctuation. Following this, we started analzying the trial of Tom Robinson in To Kill a Mockingbird.
Homework: Students should complete the comma practice, found on page 766 of their grammar textbook, if they did not complete it in-class. Students should also finish reading through chapter 21 of To Kill a Mockingbird in preparation for their quiz on Tuesday. Also for the quiz, students need to make sure they understand how to use commas, colons, and semicolons; they need to understand the subjunctive mood; they also need to know all of their Words of the Day and grammar rules.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, our school's senior counselor, Mrs. Coleman, came and talked to the class about college preparation, as well as take-taking skills. We also began discussing figurative language.
In today's class, we discussed how to use semi-colons and colons. We also completed a graded activity to ensure comprehension of these two types of punctuation. Following this, we started analzying the trial of Tom Robinson in To Kill a Mockingbird.
Homework: Students should complete the comma practice, found on page 766 of their grammar textbook, if they did not complete it in-class. Students should also finish reading through chapter 21 of To Kill a Mockingbird in preparation for their quiz on Tuesday. Also for the quiz, students need to make sure they understand how to use commas, colons, and semicolons; they need to understand the subjunctive mood; they also need to know all of their Words of the Day and grammar rules.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, our school's senior counselor, Mrs. Coleman, came and talked to the class about college preparation, as well as take-taking skills. We also began discussing figurative language.
Tuesday and Wednesday, November 1st and 2nd
Pre-AP
We are hitting the heart of To Kill a Mockingbird now, and we are making sure that we aren't missing any of the symbolism with which Lee filled her novel. On Tuesday and Wednesday, we had extra practice on comma and appostrophe usage, and then spent our time analyzing chapters 12-16 of TKAM. We used several of the devices off of the "grammar white pages" to see how Lee makes her story come to life.
Homework: Students should complete the comma practice, found on page 766 of their grammar textbook, if they did not complete it in-class. Students should also finish reading through chapter 21 of To Kill a Mockingbird in preparation for their quiz on Tuesday. Also for the quiz, students need to make sure they understand how to use commas, colons, and semicolons; they need to understand the subjunctive mood; they also need to know all of their Words of the Day and grammar rules.
AHSGE Reading Review
In these days' classes, we finished up talking about propaganda, fallacious thinking, and fact vs. opinion. We did several activities making sure we understood these concepts.
We also review how to find main ideas (directly stated and implied), how to find supporting details, and how to summarize a passage adequately.
We are hitting the heart of To Kill a Mockingbird now, and we are making sure that we aren't missing any of the symbolism with which Lee filled her novel. On Tuesday and Wednesday, we had extra practice on comma and appostrophe usage, and then spent our time analyzing chapters 12-16 of TKAM. We used several of the devices off of the "grammar white pages" to see how Lee makes her story come to life.
Homework: Students should complete the comma practice, found on page 766 of their grammar textbook, if they did not complete it in-class. Students should also finish reading through chapter 21 of To Kill a Mockingbird in preparation for their quiz on Tuesday. Also for the quiz, students need to make sure they understand how to use commas, colons, and semicolons; they need to understand the subjunctive mood; they also need to know all of their Words of the Day and grammar rules.
AHSGE Reading Review
In these days' classes, we finished up talking about propaganda, fallacious thinking, and fact vs. opinion. We did several activities making sure we understood these concepts.
We also review how to find main ideas (directly stated and implied), how to find supporting details, and how to summarize a passage adequately.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Monday, October 31st
Happy Halloween!
Pre-AP
In today's class, we took our second quiz on To Kill a Mockingbird, that also included everything we discussed in class over the past week and a half. We also discussed the horror genre, reading through works by Edgar Allen Poe and Mark Twain, as well listening to a tale by Alfred Hitchcock.
Homework: Students need to begin reading chapters 12-21. We will have another quiz on these chapters as well as the other class content we cover on Tuesday, November 8th.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we took a quiz on propaganda. We also began talking about fact vs. opinion and logical fallacies. For notes that deal with these subjects, please reference the posts from last week, where electronic copies of these notes can be found.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Friday, October 28th
Pre-AP
In today's class, we went over the rules for using commas and apostrophes. We also finished discussing the last section of To Kill a Mockingbird that the students are required to read before the test.
Homework: Students need to study their Words of the Day, grammar "white pages," and comma/apostrophe worksheets, as well as finishing read Chapters 8 through 11 of To Kill a Mockingbird and looking over their Harper Lee notes. The test on this section of the book and notes will be on Monday, October 31st.
For a copy of the comma worksheet, click here.
For a copy of the apostrophe worksheet, click here.
AHSGE Reading Review
We finished our discussion of propaganda, fallacy, and fact vs. opinion today.
For a complete list of notes, Powerpoint Presentations, and handouts, please refer to the blog post from Tuesday, October 25th.
In today's class, we went over the rules for using commas and apostrophes. We also finished discussing the last section of To Kill a Mockingbird that the students are required to read before the test.
Homework: Students need to study their Words of the Day, grammar "white pages," and comma/apostrophe worksheets, as well as finishing read Chapters 8 through 11 of To Kill a Mockingbird and looking over their Harper Lee notes. The test on this section of the book and notes will be on Monday, October 31st.
For a copy of the comma worksheet, click here.
For a copy of the apostrophe worksheet, click here.
AHSGE Reading Review
We finished our discussion of propaganda, fallacy, and fact vs. opinion today.
For a complete list of notes, Powerpoint Presentations, and handouts, please refer to the blog post from Tuesday, October 25th.
Thursday, October 27th
Pre-AP
In today's class, we finished discussing and presenting all of the concepts found on the grammar "white pages." (See yesterday's post.)
We also began a discussion of Chapter 9 and 10 in To Kill a Mockingbird.
Homework: Students need to study their Words of the Day and Grammar "white pages," as well as finishing read Chapters 8 through 11 of To Kill a Mockingbird and looking over their Harper Lee notes. The test on this section of the book and notes will be on Monday, October 31st.
AHSGE Reading Review
We continued our discussion of propaganda and fallacy today, and we watched part of a movie entitled August Rush to determine whether or not it is propaganda.
In today's class, we finished discussing and presenting all of the concepts found on the grammar "white pages." (See yesterday's post.)
We also began a discussion of Chapter 9 and 10 in To Kill a Mockingbird.
Homework: Students need to study their Words of the Day and Grammar "white pages," as well as finishing read Chapters 8 through 11 of To Kill a Mockingbird and looking over their Harper Lee notes. The test on this section of the book and notes will be on Monday, October 31st.
AHSGE Reading Review
We continued our discussion of propaganda and fallacy today, and we watched part of a movie entitled August Rush to determine whether or not it is propaganda.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Wednesday, October 26th
Pre-AP
Grammar, grammar, grammar! Even though this is an often ill-sought after subject, our class centers around grammar's importance in our everyday life. This is also an issue in the novel we are reading, To Kill a Mockingbird, and whether or not someone speaks proper grammar says a lot about their character and upbringing.
This being the case, we spent a lot of time in class today on several close-reading devices that, when used properly, help to increase our understanding of the works that we are reading and writing about.
A copy of the grammar "white pages" that we used for the lesson in class today can be found by...
Clicking here for page 1
Clicking here for page 2
Homework: Students need to familiarize themselves with all of the terms on the grammar "white pages" and finish reading chapters 8-11 in To Kill a Mockingbird, to get prepared for the test on Monday, October 31st. (Please note, this test has been moved to Monday. It was originally scheduled for Friday, October 28th.)
AHSGE Reading Review
We continued our propaganda lesson that we began yesterday, watching several different examples of WW II propaganda and modern-day propaganda.
For a copy of any of the notes and documents related to this lesson, please see the blog post for Tuesday, October 25th. We will have a propaganda quiz on Friday.
Grammar, grammar, grammar! Even though this is an often ill-sought after subject, our class centers around grammar's importance in our everyday life. This is also an issue in the novel we are reading, To Kill a Mockingbird, and whether or not someone speaks proper grammar says a lot about their character and upbringing.
This being the case, we spent a lot of time in class today on several close-reading devices that, when used properly, help to increase our understanding of the works that we are reading and writing about.
A copy of the grammar "white pages" that we used for the lesson in class today can be found by...
Clicking here for page 1
Clicking here for page 2
Homework: Students need to familiarize themselves with all of the terms on the grammar "white pages" and finish reading chapters 8-11 in To Kill a Mockingbird, to get prepared for the test on Monday, October 31st. (Please note, this test has been moved to Monday. It was originally scheduled for Friday, October 28th.)
AHSGE Reading Review
We continued our propaganda lesson that we began yesterday, watching several different examples of WW II propaganda and modern-day propaganda.
For a copy of any of the notes and documents related to this lesson, please see the blog post for Tuesday, October 25th. We will have a propaganda quiz on Friday.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Tuesday, October 25th
Pre-AP English
In today's class we talked about several things. First, in our grammar starter, we discussed figurative language such as metaphors, similes, and hyperbole. Then, we went over notes about Harper Lee and how her early life influenced the events of To Kill a Mockingbird. Finally, we ended the class by conducting a close-reading on chapter 8 of TKAM.
The prezi presentation about Harper Lee can be found by clicking here.
Homework: Review the "white pages" and begin memorizing the terms found on them. (I should have an electronic copy of these posted on the blog this week. All students should have a hard copy of them as well.) Begin reading further in TKAM. Students will have a quiz on chapters 8-11 on Friday.
AHSGE Reading Review
Today we started the class by taking a test on main ideas, supporting details, and summaries. Then, we began our unit on propaganda, a student-favorite. For the rest of the week, we will be reviewing and referring to the notes that we start today. The notes, partially filled in, can be found below. The PowerPoint presentations that we will be using to fill in the rest of the notes can also be found below.
We will have a test on propaganda on Friday of this week.
Propadanda Notes click here
Propaganda PPT click here
Fact vs opinion PPT click here
Fallacy wkst click here
In today's class we talked about several things. First, in our grammar starter, we discussed figurative language such as metaphors, similes, and hyperbole. Then, we went over notes about Harper Lee and how her early life influenced the events of To Kill a Mockingbird. Finally, we ended the class by conducting a close-reading on chapter 8 of TKAM.
The prezi presentation about Harper Lee can be found by clicking here.
Homework: Review the "white pages" and begin memorizing the terms found on them. (I should have an electronic copy of these posted on the blog this week. All students should have a hard copy of them as well.) Begin reading further in TKAM. Students will have a quiz on chapters 8-11 on Friday.
AHSGE Reading Review
Today we started the class by taking a test on main ideas, supporting details, and summaries. Then, we began our unit on propaganda, a student-favorite. For the rest of the week, we will be reviewing and referring to the notes that we start today. The notes, partially filled in, can be found below. The PowerPoint presentations that we will be using to fill in the rest of the notes can also be found below.
We will have a test on propaganda on Friday of this week.
Propadanda Notes click here
Propaganda PPT click here
Fact vs opinion PPT click here
Fallacy wkst click here
Monday, October 24, 2011
Monday, October 24th
Pre-AP
After a very busy homecoming week last week, in which we began our journey into To Kill a Mockingbird, we started off our day with a quiz on the first seven chapters of the book. After the quiz, we began a review of several grammatical concepts that most of the students learned in middle school. Each student should have a copy of the "grammar white pages" that the class received today.
Homework: Review the "white pages" and begin memorizing the terms found on them. Begin reading further in TKAM. Students will have a quiz on chapters 8-11 on Friday.
AHSGE Reading Review
Today we are discussing predictions and generalizations and practicing the concept through several different mediums.
A copy of the prediction and generalization notes can be found by clicking here.
Tomorrow, the class will have a quiz on main ideas, supporting details, and adequate summary.
After a very busy homecoming week last week, in which we began our journey into To Kill a Mockingbird, we started off our day with a quiz on the first seven chapters of the book. After the quiz, we began a review of several grammatical concepts that most of the students learned in middle school. Each student should have a copy of the "grammar white pages" that the class received today.
Homework: Review the "white pages" and begin memorizing the terms found on them. Begin reading further in TKAM. Students will have a quiz on chapters 8-11 on Friday.
AHSGE Reading Review
Today we are discussing predictions and generalizations and practicing the concept through several different mediums.
A copy of the prediction and generalization notes can be found by clicking here.
Tomorrow, the class will have a quiz on main ideas, supporting details, and adequate summary.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Tuesday, October 18th
Pre-AP
We finished our discussion today about the central themes and issues related to To Kill a Mockingbird. We also started taking notes on the background of TKAM. Our discussion today revolved around the case of the Scottsboro Boys, a court case around which much of the story of TKAM is based.
Our prezi notes for the case can be found by clicking here.
AHSGE Reading Review
Today we discussed main ideas and how to identify them when they are directly stated and when they are implied.
A copy of the notes for finding main ideas can be downloaded by clicking here.
We finished our discussion today about the central themes and issues related to To Kill a Mockingbird. We also started taking notes on the background of TKAM. Our discussion today revolved around the case of the Scottsboro Boys, a court case around which much of the story of TKAM is based.
Our prezi notes for the case can be found by clicking here.
AHSGE Reading Review
Today we discussed main ideas and how to identify them when they are directly stated and when they are implied.
A copy of the notes for finding main ideas can be downloaded by clicking here.
Monday, October 17th
Pre-AP
In our pre-AP class today, we began talking about the central themes and issues of To Kill a Mockingbird. The class went through several statements that reveal the themes and issues dealt with in the book, and helped students see that what they will read about is very relevant to many issues going on today.
Students also received their unit test, midterm, and research paper grades.
Homework: Student must have chapters 1-7 of TKAM read by Thursday.
AHSGE Reading Review
We started a new class today by having a discussion about the state of education in Alabama. We then watched a documentary about the Lakota Sioux tribe in South Dakota, and the difficulties that they have to overcome every day in order to receive an education and break the poverty cycle that is so prevelant there.
We learned that there is no excuse for someone who wants to receive an education in our area not to get one.
In our pre-AP class today, we began talking about the central themes and issues of To Kill a Mockingbird. The class went through several statements that reveal the themes and issues dealt with in the book, and helped students see that what they will read about is very relevant to many issues going on today.
Students also received their unit test, midterm, and research paper grades.
Homework: Student must have chapters 1-7 of TKAM read by Thursday.
AHSGE Reading Review
We started a new class today by having a discussion about the state of education in Alabama. We then watched a documentary about the Lakota Sioux tribe in South Dakota, and the difficulties that they have to overcome every day in order to receive an education and break the poverty cycle that is so prevelant there.
We learned that there is no excuse for someone who wants to receive an education in our area not to get one.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Thursday, October 13th and Friday, October 14th
Pre-AP
It's midterm time! On Thursday, fourth block is taking the mid-term. On Friday, first block will take the mid-term.
On the day that each block is not taking the midterm, we will be assigning the book To Kill a Mockingbird to each student so that the students can go ahead and begin reading the book over the weekend.
AHSGE Reading Review
On Thursday, October 13th, the class will be taking the final exam for the term.
On Friday, October 14th, we will be wrapping up everything we did in the class.
It's midterm time! On Thursday, fourth block is taking the mid-term. On Friday, first block will take the mid-term.
On the day that each block is not taking the midterm, we will be assigning the book To Kill a Mockingbird to each student so that the students can go ahead and begin reading the book over the weekend.
AHSGE Reading Review
On Thursday, October 13th, the class will be taking the final exam for the term.
On Friday, October 14th, we will be wrapping up everything we did in the class.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Wednesday, October 12th
Pre-AP
We spent most of our day today reviewing for this week's midterms.
For the rest of the class period, we began reading through the short story "The Most Dangerous Game" to find examples of the grammatical phrases and sound devices that will be on the midterm.1
For a copy of the midterm study guide, click here.
1st block's midterm will be on Friday, October 14th.
4th block's midterm will be on Thursday, October 13th.
AHSGE Reading Review
In part of today's class, we finished Stand and Deliver and took a quiz on the movie's plot.
We finished out the class by going over a study guide for tomorrow's midterm.
For a copy of this study guide, click here.
We spent most of our day today reviewing for this week's midterms.
For the rest of the class period, we began reading through the short story "The Most Dangerous Game" to find examples of the grammatical phrases and sound devices that will be on the midterm.1
For a copy of the midterm study guide, click here.
1st block's midterm will be on Friday, October 14th.
4th block's midterm will be on Thursday, October 13th.
AHSGE Reading Review
In part of today's class, we finished Stand and Deliver and took a quiz on the movie's plot.
We finished out the class by going over a study guide for tomorrow's midterm.
For a copy of this study guide, click here.
Friday, October 7, 2011
Friday, October 7th
I hope everyone has a fantastic Fall Break!!
Don't forget to look over all your notes to prepare for midterms next week!
The midterm schedule is...
Thursday, October 13th-- 3rd and 4th block
Friday, October 14th-- 1st and 2nd block
Please email me (jlray@tcss.net) if you have any questions!
Don't forget to look over all your notes to prepare for midterms next week!
The midterm schedule is...
Thursday, October 13th-- 3rd and 4th block
Friday, October 14th-- 1st and 2nd block
Please email me (jlray@tcss.net) if you have any questions!
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Thursday, October 6th
Pre-AP
Today we took the unit test on The Odyssey, which also included everything else we've covered in this unit, including grammar, words of the day, and classical god identification.
Homework: Students should begin reviewing over all of their notes to prepare for the midterm. For 1st block, the midterm will be on Friday, October 14th. For 4th block it will be on Thursday, October 13th.
You can download a copy of the study guide by clicking here.
AHSGE Reading Review
We continued our discussion on education in America today. First, we took a quiz on Freedom Writers, then we began watching Stand and Deliver.
Today we took the unit test on The Odyssey, which also included everything else we've covered in this unit, including grammar, words of the day, and classical god identification.
Homework: Students should begin reviewing over all of their notes to prepare for the midterm. For 1st block, the midterm will be on Friday, October 14th. For 4th block it will be on Thursday, October 13th.
You can download a copy of the study guide by clicking here.
AHSGE Reading Review
We continued our discussion on education in America today. First, we took a quiz on Freedom Writers, then we began watching Stand and Deliver.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Wednesday, October 5th
Pre-AP
While reading through a story or poem, advanced readers will be able to identify three different levels of meaning in the story. The first level is surface-level reading or reading for facts and details. The second level is analytical reading or reading for linguistic or symbolic meaning. The final level is thematic reading, where the reader tries to connect what he or she finds in the text to a larger, universal truth or piece of knowledge.
We analyzed parts of The Odyssey this way in class today, in preparation for the unit test, which is tomorrow. We also reviewed the meaning of different kinds of sound devices and phrases that authors can use to achieve certain literary purposes.
Homework: Students should re-read The Odyssey and study all notes, previous quizzes, and words of the day in preparation for tomorrow's test.
AHSGE Reading Review
We finished Freedom Writers today and took a quiz on the movie's plot. We then had a discussion on the movie's portrayal of America's educational philosophy, and discussed whether or not this is true in our present situation.
While reading through a story or poem, advanced readers will be able to identify three different levels of meaning in the story. The first level is surface-level reading or reading for facts and details. The second level is analytical reading or reading for linguistic or symbolic meaning. The final level is thematic reading, where the reader tries to connect what he or she finds in the text to a larger, universal truth or piece of knowledge.
We analyzed parts of The Odyssey this way in class today, in preparation for the unit test, which is tomorrow. We also reviewed the meaning of different kinds of sound devices and phrases that authors can use to achieve certain literary purposes.
Homework: Students should re-read The Odyssey and study all notes, previous quizzes, and words of the day in preparation for tomorrow's test.
AHSGE Reading Review
We finished Freedom Writers today and took a quiz on the movie's plot. We then had a discussion on the movie's portrayal of America's educational philosophy, and discussed whether or not this is true in our present situation.
Tuesday, October 4th
Pre-AP
Today we took the quiz on Part 4 of The Odyssey. After the quiz, we went over the answers to the Word of the Day quiz and the part 3 quiz from last week. By tomorrow, students should have all previous quizzes so that they can study for the unit test on The Odyssey which will take place on Thursday.
Homework: Students should re-read The Odyssey and study all notes, previous quizzes, and words of the day to prepare for the unit test.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we began watching a movie entitled Freedom Writers. We are continuing an emphasis on education in America, discussing whether or not the American Dream, accessible through education, is available to everyone equally.
Today we took the quiz on Part 4 of The Odyssey. After the quiz, we went over the answers to the Word of the Day quiz and the part 3 quiz from last week. By tomorrow, students should have all previous quizzes so that they can study for the unit test on The Odyssey which will take place on Thursday.
Homework: Students should re-read The Odyssey and study all notes, previous quizzes, and words of the day to prepare for the unit test.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we began watching a movie entitled Freedom Writers. We are continuing an emphasis on education in America, discussing whether or not the American Dream, accessible through education, is available to everyone equally.
Monday, October 3rd
Pre-AP
Welcome to Fall Break week! In today's class, we finished up our close-reading of The Odyssey by reading through part 4 with an emphasis on Penelope's unusual role as a heroine and the symbolism that Homer uses to portray the wastefulness of death and the longevity of true love.
Homework: Students should re-read through Part 4 of The Odyssey in preparation for the part 4 quiz tomorrow.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we learned about college readiness. After exploring the website of different colleges, students went to the library's computer labs and explored the website of a college of their choice, writing down that college's admission requirements.
Welcome to Fall Break week! In today's class, we finished up our close-reading of The Odyssey by reading through part 4 with an emphasis on Penelope's unusual role as a heroine and the symbolism that Homer uses to portray the wastefulness of death and the longevity of true love.
Homework: Students should re-read through Part 4 of The Odyssey in preparation for the part 4 quiz tomorrow.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we learned about college readiness. After exploring the website of different colleges, students went to the library's computer labs and explored the website of a college of their choice, writing down that college's admission requirements.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Friday, September 30
In today's class we took the third, successive quiz on The Odyssey. Students were measured on their understanding of the plot as well as their analysis of the symbols that Homer uses in the poem. They were also tested on their knowledge of heroic convention.
To further embed these heroic ideals, after students finished the test we watched a few minutes of Disney's Pinocchio as talked about the fact that, although it is not usually considered an epic, that by the epic conventions we discussed in class, it is a classical epic story.
Homework: Students should read through Part 4 of The Odyssey (page 1009-1018 in the textbook) and be prepared for the fourth quiz on this poem on Tuesday, October 4th.
AHSGE Reading Review
It's interview day! Ryan Saxby, manager of the Tuscaloosa area Chick-Fil-A stores; Rick Harbin, an accountant; Preston Robertson, an insurance adjuster; and Leah Tollison, a teacher here at Hillcrest, are all coming into class to interview our students. Students have been working on resumes all week, and are coming to class today ready to be hired! (Theoretically of course :) )
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Thursday, September 29
Pre-AP
In today's class, we took our word of the day quiz, covering all words of the day that we have discussed in class thusfar. Afterwards, we also completed a close reading of part three of The Odyssey. Within that reading, we discussed how hospitality played a major role in the lives and everyday-behavior of the ancients, and how it drove some of the action in the story. We also discussed the heroic light in which Homer casts Penelope. All of this discussion and reading is in preparation for tomorrow's quiz on this part of The Odyssey.
Homework: Re-read and review part three of The Odyssey (pages 995-1006) in preparation for tomorrow's test.
AHSGE Reading Review
We finished watching Waiting for Superman today and had a class discussion about tenure laws and graduation examinations.
Homework: Students need to finish their typed, professional resumes and bring a copy with them to class tomorrow. Students also must "dress up" for their mock-interviews tomorrow. For guys, at least wear a polo-type shirt tucked into dress pants with dress shoes. For girls, either a dress skirt or dress pants need to be worn along with closed-toed shoes and a dress shirt or blouse.
In today's class, we took our word of the day quiz, covering all words of the day that we have discussed in class thusfar. Afterwards, we also completed a close reading of part three of The Odyssey. Within that reading, we discussed how hospitality played a major role in the lives and everyday-behavior of the ancients, and how it drove some of the action in the story. We also discussed the heroic light in which Homer casts Penelope. All of this discussion and reading is in preparation for tomorrow's quiz on this part of The Odyssey.
Homework: Re-read and review part three of The Odyssey (pages 995-1006) in preparation for tomorrow's test.
AHSGE Reading Review
We finished watching Waiting for Superman today and had a class discussion about tenure laws and graduation examinations.
Homework: Students need to finish their typed, professional resumes and bring a copy with them to class tomorrow. Students also must "dress up" for their mock-interviews tomorrow. For guys, at least wear a polo-type shirt tucked into dress pants with dress shoes. For girls, either a dress skirt or dress pants need to be worn along with closed-toed shoes and a dress shirt or blouse.
Wednesday, September 28
Pre-AP
In today's class we split our time between learning about pronoun-antecedent agreement and The Odyssey: Part 2. Using our annotation skills from yesterday, we discussed how to annotate fiction and went through the second part of The Odyssey together to make sure that we understand both annotation and The Odyssey itself.
Homework: Read through The Odyssey: Part 3 in preparation for the test on Friday. Also, students should study all of their words of the day in preparation for the word of the day test Thursday.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we reviewed about resumes and interview skills. We also started watching a documentary about education in America called Waiting for Superman. Students were encouraged to express their opinions about the content of the movie, as much as they saw.
Homework: Students should finish their professional resumes in preparation for the mock interviews that we will have in class on Friday.
In today's class we split our time between learning about pronoun-antecedent agreement and The Odyssey: Part 2. Using our annotation skills from yesterday, we discussed how to annotate fiction and went through the second part of The Odyssey together to make sure that we understand both annotation and The Odyssey itself.
Homework: Read through The Odyssey: Part 3 in preparation for the test on Friday. Also, students should study all of their words of the day in preparation for the word of the day test Thursday.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we reviewed about resumes and interview skills. We also started watching a documentary about education in America called Waiting for Superman. Students were encouraged to express their opinions about the content of the movie, as much as they saw.
Homework: Students should finish their professional resumes in preparation for the mock interviews that we will have in class on Friday.
Tuesday, September 27th
Pre-AP
In today's class, we discussed annotation and how it is different in fiction and non-fiction works. We then got some practice at annotating non-fiction by reading through the article on "Heroes in Children's Literature" found in yesterday's hero packet.
Homework: Students need to finish "Heroes" article and finish annotating it. Student also need to study for the WOD quiz on Thursday and The Odyssey: Part 3 quiz on Friday.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we discussed resumes and interview skills, and what it takes to make yourself stand out in the application process.
Homework: Students must create and type a professional resume, and come to class on Friday dressed professionally, with a copy of their resume, ready for mock interviews.
In today's class, we discussed annotation and how it is different in fiction and non-fiction works. We then got some practice at annotating non-fiction by reading through the article on "Heroes in Children's Literature" found in yesterday's hero packet.
Homework: Students need to finish "Heroes" article and finish annotating it. Student also need to study for the WOD quiz on Thursday and The Odyssey: Part 3 quiz on Friday.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we discussed resumes and interview skills, and what it takes to make yourself stand out in the application process.
Homework: Students must create and type a professional resume, and come to class on Friday dressed professionally, with a copy of their resume, ready for mock interviews.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Monday, September 26
It's a heroic Monday in English!!
Within our study of Homer's The Odyssey, we are learning about what makes a hero a hero, and what makes an epic an epic. These "heroic conventions" and "epic conventions" are still widely used in media even today, and as we discuss the topics in class we point out these connections so that students will understand that these ideas are relevant to their everyday lives.
Students in fourth block also finished up their research paper presentations today.
Students need to start preparing now for the Word of the Day quiz which will be on Thursday, and The Odyssey: Part 3 quiz which will be on Friday. Students need to have part 3 of The Odyssey (page 995-1006 in their textbook) read by Thursday.
We will also be discussing annotation in class this week, so in addition to their normal materials, students also need to bring a highlighter and a pack of post-it notes with them to class every day starting on Tuesday.
For a copy of the "Hero Packet" that we're using in class, click here.
AHSGE Reading Review
Today we finish up our comparison and contrast of quest stories.
Tomorrow we will begin learning job interview skills and how to write a resume. Students need to make every effort not to miss any days of class this week, as the work for this assignment will be done largely in class.
Friday, September 23, 2011
Friday, September 23
Today is test day! In class, we took a quiz on all of our words of the day that we have had up to this point in class, as well as the second part of The Odyssey. After students finished the quiz, we discussed epic conventions, e.g. the parts of an epic that make it truly epic! We discussed how an epic poem's story arc differs from the normal Freytag story arc in subtle ways. We also discussed how the epic story is still alive and well today in many modern books and movies.
AHSGE Reading Review
We're on a quest! Or at least, we're reading and watching stories that are about quests. We continued the past few days' emphasis on comparing and contrasting several different quest stories.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Thursday, September 22
1st block: In today's class, we started to discuss The Odyssey's role as being one of the most important epic poems ever written. We discussed the different components of epic poetry and talked about various epic conventions, which we still see in modern media today in movies and books such as Lord of the Rings, The Chronicles of Narnia, and the Harry Potter series. We also discussed the epic hero and compiled a list as a class of the characteristics of a hero. We then put several examples to the test and determined whether or not they were heroes based on our criteria.
4th block: We continued our research paper presentations today and should finish them tomorrow.
Homework: Finish reading The Odyssey Part 2. Study the story and all of the Words of the Day to be ready for the quiz which we will take tomorrow. Students should also finish their phrase poetry from the "Phrase Toolbox" packet that they received in class.
AHSGE Reading Review
We continued our comparison and contrast of Le Morte d'Arthur and The Princess Bride.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
So far this week, here's what we have done...
Monday
Pre-AP: We started out our week by turning in the research papers on which we have been working. 1st block turned theirs in today. 4th block spent time peer-editing the rough drafts. Then, we discussed the different kind of sound devices which poets use to enrich their craft, including alliteration, assonance, consonance, rythm, meter, and rhyme. We also discussed several different types of phrasing, including prepositional phrases, appositive phrases, infinitives, gerunds, participial phrases, and nominative absolutes. In tonight's homework, students use these types of phrases to create poems about a topic of their choice.
Homework: 1st block- prepare presentations; work on sound device packet.
4th block- finish research papers
AHSGE Reading Review: Today we went over several test-taking strategies to continue our preparation for the graduation exam. The reading portion of the exam, for which this class helps to prepare the students, will be taken on Wednesday.
Tuesday
Pre-AP: In Tuesdsay's class, 1st block began giving their presentations. 4th block turned in their research papers and covered the grammar material that the first block covered yesterday.
Homework: 1st block: finish phrase poetry
4th block: prepare presentations; work on sound device packet
AHSGE Reading Review: There was an all-out reading blitz today! Using O. Henry's short story entitled "The Gift of the Magi," the class went through all of the graduation exam's standards in reading. Tomorrow, the students will be taking the reading portion of the graduation exam.
Wednesday
Pre-AP: In today's class, 1st block finished their presentations. We also introduced the question which is at the forefront of the Odyssey: "What role does fate play in our lives?" Considering our class's essential question, we also posed this idea: "Does the Greek's understanding of fate contain an element of prejudice as it is defined for this class?" (Prejudice- thinking about someone or acting a certain way toward someone based on factors that person cannot control.) 4th block began their presentations today.
Homework: 1st block: Finish phrase poetry; read The Odyssey, Part 2; study for WOD and The Odyssey
test
4th block: Finish sound device packet and phrase poetry; read The Odyssey, Part 2; study for
WOD and The Odyssey test
AHSGE Reading Review: Today's class was positively medieval. We discussed Sir Thomas Mallory's Le Morte d'Arthur, focusing on the plot and action of the story. Then, we began watching The Princess Bride, in an effort to compare and constrast the two stories.
Monday
Pre-AP: We started out our week by turning in the research papers on which we have been working. 1st block turned theirs in today. 4th block spent time peer-editing the rough drafts. Then, we discussed the different kind of sound devices which poets use to enrich their craft, including alliteration, assonance, consonance, rythm, meter, and rhyme. We also discussed several different types of phrasing, including prepositional phrases, appositive phrases, infinitives, gerunds, participial phrases, and nominative absolutes. In tonight's homework, students use these types of phrases to create poems about a topic of their choice.
Homework: 1st block- prepare presentations; work on sound device packet.
4th block- finish research papers
AHSGE Reading Review: Today we went over several test-taking strategies to continue our preparation for the graduation exam. The reading portion of the exam, for which this class helps to prepare the students, will be taken on Wednesday.
Tuesday
Pre-AP: In Tuesdsay's class, 1st block began giving their presentations. 4th block turned in their research papers and covered the grammar material that the first block covered yesterday.
Homework: 1st block: finish phrase poetry
4th block: prepare presentations; work on sound device packet
AHSGE Reading Review: There was an all-out reading blitz today! Using O. Henry's short story entitled "The Gift of the Magi," the class went through all of the graduation exam's standards in reading. Tomorrow, the students will be taking the reading portion of the graduation exam.
Wednesday
Pre-AP: In today's class, 1st block finished their presentations. We also introduced the question which is at the forefront of the Odyssey: "What role does fate play in our lives?" Considering our class's essential question, we also posed this idea: "Does the Greek's understanding of fate contain an element of prejudice as it is defined for this class?" (Prejudice- thinking about someone or acting a certain way toward someone based on factors that person cannot control.) 4th block began their presentations today.
Homework: 1st block: Finish phrase poetry; read The Odyssey, Part 2; study for WOD and The Odyssey
test
4th block: Finish sound device packet and phrase poetry; read The Odyssey, Part 2; study for
WOD and The Odyssey test
AHSGE Reading Review: Today's class was positively medieval. We discussed Sir Thomas Mallory's Le Morte d'Arthur, focusing on the plot and action of the story. Then, we began watching The Princess Bride, in an effort to compare and constrast the two stories.
Friday, September 16, 2011
Pre-AP
This week is research paper week! (The students' favorite week of the year, right?) The entire week will be devoted to learning the research process, studying how to correctly format a research paper and all of the pieces leading up to the paper, and, finally, writing the paper itself. Here is a schedule of the week's activities...
Monday
Take quiz on The Odyysey: Part 1 and Mythology notes from last week (1st block)
Begin talking about research process and library orientation
Tuesday
Continue research in the library
Take quiz on The Odyysey: Part 1 and Mythology notes from last week (4th block)
Wednesday
Go over research packets and talk about title page, bibliography, notes, and outlines
Continue to research in the library
Research Paper Outline due
Thursday
Review research process and packet
Continue research in the library and write rough draft
Friday
Rough Draft of research paper due
Discuss bibliographies written in the correct MLA format
Peer-edit of rough drafts
Go to library to begin typing final draft of research paper
RESEARCH PAPERS ARE DUE ON MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2011!! Along with the research paper, students are also responsible for turning in their rough draft (with revisions), their peer-edits (completed), their correct outlines, and their note pages that are correctly formatted (at least three; one for each source).
Presentations of the papers will begin on Tuesday, September 20th.
AHSGE Reading Review
The graduation exam is next week! So, this week we are going to review the "Reading Review Greatest Hits." According to the data from last year's graduation exam, there are certain AHSGE standards that are missed more than any other. We are going to have an intensive review of these standards this week, in hopes that all of the students will pass the grad exam in reading this time around! Therefore, the Hunger Games quizzes this week will be different than normal. This week's quizzes will also feature questions from our discussion of the AHSGE standards, to ensure student comprehension of the material.
Monday
Hunger Games Reading and Quiz
Summarizing Practice
How to Find Main Ideas
Tuesday
Hunger Games Reading and Quiz
Identifying Propaganda (Student write own piece of propaganda)
Recognizing Logical Fallacies
Wednesday
Hunger Games Reading and Quiz
Making Predictions
Using Organizational Patterns in writing
Thursday
Hunger Games Reading and Quiz
AHSGE practice on USA TestPrep in Library
Friday
Hunger Games Reading and Quiz
Practice Exam for Reading Comprehension (will count as test grade)
Again, if you have any questions about specific days, please do not hesitate to email me or call me at the school (205.342.2800) to make an appointment to meet.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Friday, September 9th
Pre-AP
Today we continued our discussion of Greek and Roman Mythology and began a powerpoint set of notes on Homer and the background of The Odyssey. We also began reading through the story itself.
The first Odyssey quiz will be on Monday, September 12th.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class we reviewed all of the concepts we learned about this week and played a game to help increase retention of the concepts covered.
Today we continued our discussion of Greek and Roman Mythology and began a powerpoint set of notes on Homer and the background of The Odyssey. We also began reading through the story itself.
The first Odyssey quiz will be on Monday, September 12th.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class we reviewed all of the concepts we learned about this week and played a game to help increase retention of the concepts covered.
Thursday, September 8th
We began our time together today talking about how myth has made its way into our modern-day story cannon in the form of ghost stories. We read through work from Kathryn Tucker Windham and discussed how the oral tradition of passing story from generation to generation is still alive and well even in our society.
We also began our study of Greek and Roman Mythology to prepare ourselves to start reading The Odyssey. The first quiz on The Odyssey will be on Monday, September 12th.
AHSGE Reading Review
Today's class will focus on learning about organizational patterns and functional literacy and will attempt to give students a basic understanding of how to use functional literature to procure employment and stay active in our society.
Wednesday, September 7th
Pre-AP
The students had a chance to try their own hands at Native American myth today. The class broke into groups and studied different Cherokee myths about the origin of many parts of our world. Then students gathered around a virtual campfire and each re-told the tales that they had learned.
AHSGE Reading Review
Students studied the important skill of being able to place events in sequence. To practice this, students watched a video clip that contained a complex timeline, and put the events in the order in which they occurred. This assignment was taken for a grade.
The students had a chance to try their own hands at Native American myth today. The class broke into groups and studied different Cherokee myths about the origin of many parts of our world. Then students gathered around a virtual campfire and each re-told the tales that they had learned.
AHSGE Reading Review
Students studied the important skill of being able to place events in sequence. To practice this, students watched a video clip that contained a complex timeline, and put the events in the order in which they occurred. This assignment was taken for a grade.
Tuesday, September 6th
Pre-AP
Folklore and myth make up a vital part of our contemporary literary canon, and it is especially pervasive in a sub-genre of folklore known as Native American myth. In today's class, we began by talking about Native American myth and students were exposed to the legend of Ut'lun'ta, and ancient Cherokee myth about a woman who roams the forest.
AHSGE Reading Review
Today's lesson was on figurative language. The class broke into groups and read through several different Native American myths, in which they were to find examples of figurative language. The students also retold the stories as a group to the class.
Folklore and myth make up a vital part of our contemporary literary canon, and it is especially pervasive in a sub-genre of folklore known as Native American myth. In today's class, we began by talking about Native American myth and students were exposed to the legend of Ut'lun'ta, and ancient Cherokee myth about a woman who roams the forest.
AHSGE Reading Review
Today's lesson was on figurative language. The class broke into groups and read through several different Native American myths, in which they were to find examples of figurative language. The students also retold the stories as a group to the class.
Friday, September 2nd
Pre-AP
In today's class, we reviewed and discussed the poetry that we began in yesterday's class, focusing on the information that the students found about the poets and authors in the library.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we covered reference material and how to use it for functional literacy.
In today's class, we reviewed and discussed the poetry that we began in yesterday's class, focusing on the information that the students found about the poets and authors in the library.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we covered reference material and how to use it for functional literacy.
Thursday, September 1st
Pre-Ap
In today's class we continued our study of Romeo and Juliet by looking at other literature and poetry that was affected by the play's strong themes of love and loss. We studied works by Amy Lowell ("The Taxi"), Par Lagerkvist ("The Princess and All the Kingdom"), Robert Graves ("Count the Beats"), and Alfred, Lord Tennyson (In Memoriam). Students researched these writers in the library and began an assignment where they would make a movie poster based on one of the works. That poster is due on Tuesday, September 6th.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we finished watching the movie Simon Birch and discussed the correlations between it and Romeo and Juliet. Students filled out a graphic organizer enumerating the differences between the two works. To ensure comprehension of the subject, students took a quiz on comparing and contrasting.
In today's class we continued our study of Romeo and Juliet by looking at other literature and poetry that was affected by the play's strong themes of love and loss. We studied works by Amy Lowell ("The Taxi"), Par Lagerkvist ("The Princess and All the Kingdom"), Robert Graves ("Count the Beats"), and Alfred, Lord Tennyson (In Memoriam). Students researched these writers in the library and began an assignment where they would make a movie poster based on one of the works. That poster is due on Tuesday, September 6th.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we finished watching the movie Simon Birch and discussed the correlations between it and Romeo and Juliet. Students filled out a graphic organizer enumerating the differences between the two works. To ensure comprehension of the subject, students took a quiz on comparing and contrasting.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Wednesday, August 31st
Pre-AP
In today's class, we took a quiz on propaganda and had a short discussion about how it affects our everyday lives. We also continued our comparison of Simon Birch to Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. The Word of the Day quiz will be tomorrow.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we review propaganda's place in today's society and took a short quiz on the subject. We also continued our previous comparison between Simon Birch and Romeo and Juliet.
In today's class, we took a quiz on propaganda and had a short discussion about how it affects our everyday lives. We also continued our comparison of Simon Birch to Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. The Word of the Day quiz will be tomorrow.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we review propaganda's place in today's society and took a short quiz on the subject. We also continued our previous comparison between Simon Birch and Romeo and Juliet.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Tuesday, August 30th
As we have finished our study of Romeo and Juliet, we are now turning our attention to the fact that the themes that are found in the play (love, sacrifice, fate, etc.) are still extremely prevalent in our media today. This week we will be sampling several different types of media to prove this, including short stories, poems, and the movie Simon Birch.
Tomorrow, the Pre-AP classes will be taking a propaganda quiz, and on Thursday we will take our weekly "Word of the Day" quiz. So make sure not to let these sneak up on you!
AHSGE- Reading Review
In today's class, as well as tomorrow's, we will be going back over the topic of comparing and contrasting two different works. In order to do this, we will read through parts of Romeo and Juliet, ensuring that students understand the basic tenants of plot, setting, and characters in the play, and we will then move on to Simon Birch, a movie that has some striking similarities to Shakespeare's great work.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Monday, August 29th
Today's class was very enlightening. As we continued and finished our discussion of propaganda, students saw how many of the strategies employed in WWII propaganda are still used today to try and influence our opinions and actions.
We also completed an exercise is narrative composition, as we read and then emulated a short-story version of the play Romeo and Juliet. Students were given the assignment to write their own short-story version of the play, which had to be five paragraphs long (one paragraph for each act), and is due tomorrow (Tuesday, August 30th).
(4th block also took the Shakespeare test that they missed on Friday due to the in-school fashion show.)
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's predictive class, we discussed predictions and generalizations and how we can use both of these concepts to keep us engrossed in even the dullest of stories. We also discussed how authors and movie-makers use our natural abilities to predict to get us interested in their stories or movies.
To end the class, students took a quiz that measured their ability to predict and generalize.
Friday, August 26, 2011
Friday, August 26th
Pre-AP
We've been building up to today's class for a while. Today, first block took the Romeo and Juliet and Shakespeare Test and then had a discussion about propaganda and how it affects our everyday lives. Fourth block had the propagand discussion (an EXCELLENT discussion I might add) and will take the test on Monday, due to an in-school fashion show.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we review the importance of following directions. We also discussed cause and effect, and watched a video of a rube golderberg machince to prove the importance of cause and effect. To end the class, we played the "week in review" game, in which we read several passages and answered questions correlated with the AHSGE standards.
We've been building up to today's class for a while. Today, first block took the Romeo and Juliet and Shakespeare Test and then had a discussion about propaganda and how it affects our everyday lives. Fourth block had the propagand discussion (an EXCELLENT discussion I might add) and will take the test on Monday, due to an in-school fashion show.
AHSGE Reading Review
In today's class, we review the importance of following directions. We also discussed cause and effect, and watched a video of a rube golderberg machince to prove the importance of cause and effect. To end the class, we played the "week in review" game, in which we read several passages and answered questions correlated with the AHSGE standards.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Thursday, August 25th
Pre-AP
After taking this week's "Word of the Day" quiz, we moved on to talking about several strategies that students can use to help them study for comprehensive tests. In lieu of our comprehensive test on Shakespeare and Romeo and Juliet that we will be taking tomorrow, we also discussed how to write and effective essay with an on-target thesis.
AHSGE Reading Review
Today we finished watching August Rush and took the aforementioned quiz. However, in the quiz's instructions, was a statement that read, "If you will just answer number seven as "a" and then put your head down on your desk, you will receive full credit for this assignment." This was an illustration to prove that the majority of the time we miss direction-answers is simply because we do not read the directions fully. Case-in-point, only three people in the class read through the directions and followed them correctly. When it was revealed to the class what the true nature of the assignment was, the point about following directions was driven home.
After taking this week's "Word of the Day" quiz, we moved on to talking about several strategies that students can use to help them study for comprehensive tests. In lieu of our comprehensive test on Shakespeare and Romeo and Juliet that we will be taking tomorrow, we also discussed how to write and effective essay with an on-target thesis.
AHSGE Reading Review
Today we finished watching August Rush and took the aforementioned quiz. However, in the quiz's instructions, was a statement that read, "If you will just answer number seven as "a" and then put your head down on your desk, you will receive full credit for this assignment." This was an illustration to prove that the majority of the time we miss direction-answers is simply because we do not read the directions fully. Case-in-point, only three people in the class read through the directions and followed them correctly. When it was revealed to the class what the true nature of the assignment was, the point about following directions was driven home.
Wednesday, August 24th
Pre-AP
We started out the day by taking the quiz on Romeo and Juliet Act V. After we finished up the quiz, we also talking about summarizing in the narrative form, and what it means to summarize well. To illustrate the point, we watched a short clip from Disney's Remember the Titans and summarized it together.
AHSGE Reading Review
Today we reviewed the figurative language that we discussed yesterday, ensuring that everyone in the class understood the concepts. Then we moved on to following directions.
To illustrate the point, we began watching August Rush, a movie about an orphaned boy trying to find his parents. I instructed students to take notes while watching the movie, telling them that we would have a quiz on it at the next class meeting.
We started out the day by taking the quiz on Romeo and Juliet Act V. After we finished up the quiz, we also talking about summarizing in the narrative form, and what it means to summarize well. To illustrate the point, we watched a short clip from Disney's Remember the Titans and summarized it together.
AHSGE Reading Review
Today we reviewed the figurative language that we discussed yesterday, ensuring that everyone in the class understood the concepts. Then we moved on to following directions.
To illustrate the point, we began watching August Rush, a movie about an orphaned boy trying to find his parents. I instructed students to take notes while watching the movie, telling them that we would have a quiz on it at the next class meeting.
Tuesday, August 23rd
Pre-AP
In today's class we began a discussion of tone and mood and how it is used to help us visualize what we read. Specifically, we discussed how Shakespeare used specific words and setting to help set the ominous tone of Romeo and Juliet.
In addition to this, we also discussed several dramatic terms that help us to understand the play even more deeply. (Special thanks to Robin Ball for creating this powerpoint.)
Tone Handout
Shakespeare Drama PowerPoint
AHSGE Reading Review
Today we discussed and practiced figurative language. Specifically, we talked about five different kinds of figurative language: simile, metaphor, hyperbole, personification, and idiom. We wrote our own examples of each and then practiced reading through short stories to identify the figurative language found therein.
In today's class we began a discussion of tone and mood and how it is used to help us visualize what we read. Specifically, we discussed how Shakespeare used specific words and setting to help set the ominous tone of Romeo and Juliet.
In addition to this, we also discussed several dramatic terms that help us to understand the play even more deeply. (Special thanks to Robin Ball for creating this powerpoint.)
Tone Handout
Shakespeare Drama PowerPoint
AHSGE Reading Review
Today we discussed and practiced figurative language. Specifically, we talked about five different kinds of figurative language: simile, metaphor, hyperbole, personification, and idiom. We wrote our own examples of each and then practiced reading through short stories to identify the figurative language found therein.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Monday, August 22nd
Pre-AP English (9th)
In today's class we started our time together by taking a quiz on Romeo and Juliet Act IV. After the quiz we discussed different forms of note-taking and necessary good note-taking is to prepare for exams and essays.
Finally, we practiced our new note-taking skills by going through a powerpoint that discussed life as it was lived in Shakespeare's day (1500s). We finished our time in class by writing in our journals.
AHSGE Reading Review
Today's topic was authorial purpose and logical fallacy. We discussed the three types of purposes for writing (information, entertainment, and persuasion). Stemming off of persuasion, we discussed logical fallacy and how authors can use it to convince us that their point of view is the only valid point of view.
To reinforce this point, we talked through several moral dilemmas and saw how the people who pose those questions try to make the reader believer there are only two options in each situation, which is a logical fallacy. We finished our time together by working some extra practice on this topic.
In today's class we started our time together by taking a quiz on Romeo and Juliet Act IV. After the quiz we discussed different forms of note-taking and necessary good note-taking is to prepare for exams and essays.
Finally, we practiced our new note-taking skills by going through a powerpoint that discussed life as it was lived in Shakespeare's day (1500s). We finished our time in class by writing in our journals.
AHSGE Reading Review
Today's topic was authorial purpose and logical fallacy. We discussed the three types of purposes for writing (information, entertainment, and persuasion). Stemming off of persuasion, we discussed logical fallacy and how authors can use it to convince us that their point of view is the only valid point of view.
To reinforce this point, we talked through several moral dilemmas and saw how the people who pose those questions try to make the reader believer there are only two options in each situation, which is a logical fallacy. We finished our time together by working some extra practice on this topic.
Friday, August 19th
Pre-AP English (9th)
Several connections were made in class today. After taking the Romeo and Juliet Act III Quiz, we discussed lingual etymology and watched several examples of works in which the authors created words and phrases to suit his or her needs. These works included Romeo and Juliet by Shakespeare, "Jabberwoky" by Lewis Carroll, and Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien. Students were also given an extra credit opportunity to create an original poetic piece. The poem must have at least 10 lines, must rhyme, and must contain at least four made up words (that make sense within the context of the poem). Students have until Friday, August 26th to turn in the poem.
In addition to making etymological connections, we also made imagery connections by discussing selections from Romeo and Juliet Act III and watching those scenes from the 1996 remake of Romeo and Juliet starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes. We discussed how different our picture of a story can be than when it is portrayed in film.
AHSGE Reading Review
Today's class saw the continuation of our discussion on propaganda and fact vs. opinion. After review the different types of propaganda that advertisers and governments use to persuade people, we also discussed fact vs. opinion and the pivotal role it plays in propaganda's effectiveness.
After our final discussion on this topic, we took a propaganda / fact vs. opinion test.
Several connections were made in class today. After taking the Romeo and Juliet Act III Quiz, we discussed lingual etymology and watched several examples of works in which the authors created words and phrases to suit his or her needs. These works included Romeo and Juliet by Shakespeare, "Jabberwoky" by Lewis Carroll, and Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien. Students were also given an extra credit opportunity to create an original poetic piece. The poem must have at least 10 lines, must rhyme, and must contain at least four made up words (that make sense within the context of the poem). Students have until Friday, August 26th to turn in the poem.
In addition to making etymological connections, we also made imagery connections by discussing selections from Romeo and Juliet Act III and watching those scenes from the 1996 remake of Romeo and Juliet starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes. We discussed how different our picture of a story can be than when it is portrayed in film.
AHSGE Reading Review
Today's class saw the continuation of our discussion on propaganda and fact vs. opinion. After review the different types of propaganda that advertisers and governments use to persuade people, we also discussed fact vs. opinion and the pivotal role it plays in propaganda's effectiveness.
After our final discussion on this topic, we took a propaganda / fact vs. opinion test.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Thursday, August 18th
Pre-AP
Today we took a trip to the library to get acclimatized to one of our greatest literary resources here at Hillcrest. Students learned about book classification and even had the chance to check out a book of their own. This is important because starting today, we will have time in class every day to read. Students can read a book for pleasure or can take the time to catch up on class reading.
We also took our first "Word of the Day" quiz. We will have a "Word of the Day" quiz every Thursday at the beginning of class.
Students need to be prepared for the Romeo and Juliet Act III quiz which will be on Friday, August 19th.
AHSGE Reading Review
The Reading Review class also took a trip to the library. Most of the students in this class are already familiar with the Hillcrest Media Center, but we went for an orientation to ensure everyone's familiarity.
We also continued our reading of The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins.
Finally, we finished our discussion of propaganda and learned how to distinguish fact fom opinion, a skill necessary for recognizing propaganda.
Students need to be prepared for the propaganda quiz that we will have in class on Friday, August 19th.
Today we took a trip to the library to get acclimatized to one of our greatest literary resources here at Hillcrest. Students learned about book classification and even had the chance to check out a book of their own. This is important because starting today, we will have time in class every day to read. Students can read a book for pleasure or can take the time to catch up on class reading.
We also took our first "Word of the Day" quiz. We will have a "Word of the Day" quiz every Thursday at the beginning of class.
Students need to be prepared for the Romeo and Juliet Act III quiz which will be on Friday, August 19th.
AHSGE Reading Review
The Reading Review class also took a trip to the library. Most of the students in this class are already familiar with the Hillcrest Media Center, but we went for an orientation to ensure everyone's familiarity.
We also continued our reading of The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins.
Finally, we finished our discussion of propaganda and learned how to distinguish fact fom opinion, a skill necessary for recognizing propaganda.
Students need to be prepared for the propaganda quiz that we will have in class on Friday, August 19th.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Wednesday, August 17
Pre-AP
Today we focused on one of our summer reading assignments, The Secret Life of Bees. After taking a quiz on the book's main plot points, we then broke into groups to discuss whether or not we enjoyed SLB or The Hunger Games more. The class divided into the two different camps, and used the elements of a persuasive essay (which we discussed in class) to come up with a creative presentation proclaiming why their book was the best. Secret Life of Bees won out, as the group avowing its grandeur created a poem saying why it was better than The Hunger Games.
Make up work: notes
AHSGE Reading Review
Propaganda was the main topic of today's lesson. We learned about what propaganda is and how it influences our every day lives. We also learned that in order to distinguish propaganda we must be able to tell the difference between fact and fiction and recognize how each can influence our views on certain things.
Make up work: notes, Hunger Games Quiz #4
Today we focused on one of our summer reading assignments, The Secret Life of Bees. After taking a quiz on the book's main plot points, we then broke into groups to discuss whether or not we enjoyed SLB or The Hunger Games more. The class divided into the two different camps, and used the elements of a persuasive essay (which we discussed in class) to come up with a creative presentation proclaiming why their book was the best. Secret Life of Bees won out, as the group avowing its grandeur created a poem saying why it was better than The Hunger Games.
Make up work: notes
AHSGE Reading Review
Propaganda was the main topic of today's lesson. We learned about what propaganda is and how it influences our every day lives. We also learned that in order to distinguish propaganda we must be able to tell the difference between fact and fiction and recognize how each can influence our views on certain things.
Make up work: notes, Hunger Games Quiz #4
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
First week of class
The first week of class certainly proved to be hectic, chaotic, and very educational! In first and fourth block (Pre-AP) we started the year with Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare's penultimate play about love conquering all. We also started work on our writing, as students completed and turned in preliminary essays on Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games. The reading review class wasted no time in our preparations for the Alabama High School Graduation Exam, as we covered main ideas, supporting details, summarizing, and lots of other topics as well. Below, you will find each day's assignments and quizzes for the day.
Please remember, if you miss a day of class, then per board policy, you have TWO days to get a copy of the assignment you missed and turn it back into me for a grade. Otherwise, it will be counted as a zero.
Without further ado...
Thursday, August 11 Pre-AP
-- Begin discussing Shakespearean England and Shakespeare's life (Life of Shakespeare PowerPoint- click to download) (click here for notes handout)
-- Compared themes and archetypal figures from Romeo and Juliet and The Hunger Games
Thursday, August 11 AHSGE Reading Review
-- Read through the first selection of The Hunger Games
-- Discussed main ideas and found main ideas across different mediums
-- Main idea quiz
Friday, August 12 Pre-AP
-- Romeo and Juliet Act I Quiz
-- Played Family Feud to review Shakespeare notes
-- Began discussing Act I of Romeo and Juliet with an emphasis on tone and mood (click here for handout)
Friday, August 12 AHSGE Reading Review
-- Read Hunger Games selection and took Hunger Games Quiz #1
-- Learning centers: we studied Context Clues, Figurative Language, Sequence of Events, and Comparing and Contrasting
-- Played review game covering all four of these topics
Monday, August 15th Pre-AP
-- Turned in The Hunger Games essay on "Prejudice in The Hunger Games"
-- Finish class discussion of Romeo and Juliet Act I
-- began writing in our journals
Monday, August 15th AHSGE Reading Review
-- Read Hunger Games selection and took Hunger Games Quiz #2
-- Discussion of Summarizing
-- Practicing summarizing across various mediums
-- Summarizing quiz
Tuesday, August 16th Pre-AP
-- Romeo and Juliet Act II Quiz
-- Balcony Scene rewrite
-- Journal writing
Tuesday, August 16th, AHSGE Reading Review
-- Read Hunger Games selection and took Hunger Games Quiz #3
-- Make prediction about The Hunger Games (What will happen to Prim after the reaping?)
-- Review of summarizing
-- Summarizing practice
-- Summarizing quiz
That's a lot of information in a short space, so please make sure to email me if you have any questions about an assignment.
Until tomorrow...
Please remember, if you miss a day of class, then per board policy, you have TWO days to get a copy of the assignment you missed and turn it back into me for a grade. Otherwise, it will be counted as a zero.
Without further ado...
Thursday, August 11 Pre-AP
-- Begin discussing Shakespearean England and Shakespeare's life (Life of Shakespeare PowerPoint- click to download) (click here for notes handout)
-- Compared themes and archetypal figures from Romeo and Juliet and The Hunger Games
Thursday, August 11 AHSGE Reading Review
-- Read through the first selection of The Hunger Games
-- Discussed main ideas and found main ideas across different mediums
-- Main idea quiz
Friday, August 12 Pre-AP
-- Romeo and Juliet Act I Quiz
-- Played Family Feud to review Shakespeare notes
-- Began discussing Act I of Romeo and Juliet with an emphasis on tone and mood (click here for handout)
Friday, August 12 AHSGE Reading Review
-- Read Hunger Games selection and took Hunger Games Quiz #1
-- Learning centers: we studied Context Clues, Figurative Language, Sequence of Events, and Comparing and Contrasting
-- Played review game covering all four of these topics
Monday, August 15th Pre-AP
-- Turned in The Hunger Games essay on "Prejudice in The Hunger Games"
-- Finish class discussion of Romeo and Juliet Act I
-- began writing in our journals
Monday, August 15th AHSGE Reading Review
-- Read Hunger Games selection and took Hunger Games Quiz #2
-- Discussion of Summarizing
-- Practicing summarizing across various mediums
-- Summarizing quiz
Tuesday, August 16th Pre-AP
-- Romeo and Juliet Act II Quiz
-- Balcony Scene rewrite
-- Journal writing
Tuesday, August 16th, AHSGE Reading Review
-- Read Hunger Games selection and took Hunger Games Quiz #3
-- Make prediction about The Hunger Games (What will happen to Prim after the reaping?)
-- Review of summarizing
-- Summarizing practice
-- Summarizing quiz
That's a lot of information in a short space, so please make sure to email me if you have any questions about an assignment.
Until tomorrow...
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Welcome to a new year!
Welcome to a new year at Hillcrest High School! I know that all of the new changes and new faces can be very daunting and confusing, but rest assured that this is going to be a great year!
On this class blog, you'll be able to find all of the assignments that we are doing in class, along with copies of powerpoints and extras that may be able to help you on a test or two. So make sure to bookmark this page and check it often! And as always, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call or email me.
Stuff for August 10th...
Pre-AP Syllabus
Creating your own character
Five paragraph essay template
Thanks!
On this class blog, you'll be able to find all of the assignments that we are doing in class, along with copies of powerpoints and extras that may be able to help you on a test or two. So make sure to bookmark this page and check it often! And as always, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call or email me.
Stuff for August 10th...
Pre-AP Syllabus
Creating your own character
Five paragraph essay template
Thanks!
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