December 13, 2013: What's Happening in English

Focus: What do we need to do make our presentations excellent?

1. Warm-up: Taking a survey to help out one of our groups

2. Taking a moment to think about...

a. Your originality
b. Your Works Cited page: Try out easybib.com!
c. The rubric

3. Working, working, working on your final projects (due first thing on Monday)

4. Establishing the presentation order

HW:
Presentations start first thing Monday. Technological glitches will NOT be accepted as an excuse for not being ready, nor will absences.  Be present.  Be ready.

December 12, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Focus: What can we actually do to counteract a culture of violence?

1. Warm-up: So what are you actually going to do about it?

3. Do something to counteract this violence, to help the healing, to be part of the solution.  Consider what you learn about this healing process through A Long Way Gone.  

Presentations should be 5-10 minutes in duration.

2. Working, working, working on your projects

3. Returning vocabulary quizzes and tests

HW:
Projects are due Monday.  I strongly suggest allowing yourself some time tomorrow and over the weekend to practice, practice, practice, and practice some more.  Preparation leads to confidence.

December 11, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Focus: How can we organize our presentation in a compelling way?

1. Warm-up: Thinking about how we use digital media in a presentation

Critique the following aspects of my presentations:

• How I open
• My use of digital media
• My professionalism and preparation
• My delivery (voice, eye contact, posture, etc.)

Presentation A

Presentation B

2. Working on the research and digital media aspects of your presentation

3. Taking on the most daunting challenge: What are you actually going to do to counteract this violence?

HW:
Decide what you need to do with your project tonight to stay on task and finish on time.

December 10, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Focus: How are we immersed in a culture of violence, and how can we counteract it?

Announcements: 

If I still need to check off your late annotations for A Long Way Gone, please have them out on your desk for the duration of class today.

If you missed Friday's vocabulary test, please make it up during an off hour or after school by the end of the on Wednesday.  Give yourself 30-45 minutes to take the test.

1. Warm-up: Revisiting a difficult timeline with a slightly different focus: How did this moment change things for our culture?  How did it change the way people look at each other? How did it change the way we act?

2. Working on the research aspect of our projects (see green packet)

Please keep a list of sources consulted as you will eventually need a Works Cited page.

HW:
Decide what you need to finish tonight in order to keep yourself on a good schedule for finishing your project by Monday, December 16.

December 9, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Focus: Is Ishmael a hero?

Announcements: 

If you missed Friday's vocabulary test, you need to make it up by this Wednesday at the latest.

Also, if you did not have your annotations on Friday, you may use a late pass (if you have one) to show me your annotations today or tomorrow.

1. Warm-up: Thinking about Ishmael as a potential hero...

"A hero is a man who does what he can."

--Romain Rolland, Nobel Prize winner

Step 1: Type/copy the quotation above into your notes on Ishmael Beah's interviews. Then spend about five minutes brainstorming what you think it means. Feel free to ask questions, make connections to heroes from books/films/history, make inferences, etc.

Step 2: Apply this quotation to A Long Way Gone. Does Ishmael fit this description of a hero? Why or why not? Please bring at least one good quotation from the book or from one of his interviews to support your thinking.

2. Discussing the ending of A Long Way Gone: The final fishbowl

1st Hour Fishbowl
3rd Hour Fishbowl
6th Hour Fishbowl

3. Wrapping up all of our discussions: The most important take-away from reading A Long Way Gone is... (please post your response on today's fishbowl blog).

HW:

Finalize your topic for the final project; bring your green packet to class tomorrow.

December 6, 2013: What's Happening in A.P. Literature?

Focus: Have we mastered the 110 SAT vocabulary words of 1st semester?

Two Announcements:

If you have your final project topic, please let me know today or e-mail me over the weekend.

If you have any revisions/make-up work to give me, please do so by 3:00 pm today.


1. Warm-up: Taking 5-10 minutes to quiz each other or study quietly (or ask questions)

2. Assessing your mastery of vocabulary: The SAT Vocabulary Test, Lists 1-10

3. Independent reading or A Long Way Gone reading


HW:
1. Finish reading and annotating A Long Way Gone for our final fishbowl discussion on Monday!

2. Decide upon your final project topic if you have not already done so.

December 5, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Focus: How do you regain your humanity after being a long way gone from it?

1. Warm-up: Viewing two interviews with Ishmael Beah

Please start a new document called "Ishmael Beah."

As you watch these two interviews, please take notes in response to the following questions:

What does it take to turn a child into a child soldier?

To what extent do you think Beah has healed from his experience? Explain your thinking. What has helped him heal?

CBS News
Jon Stewart


2. Fishbowl #6: Discussing Chapters 18 and 19 in A Long Way Gone

1st Hour Fishbowl
3rd Hour Fishbowl
6th Hour Fishbowl

HW:
1. Study for tomorrow's SAT vocabulary test on Lists 1-10.
2. Bring your independent reading book to class tomorrow. Bring A Long Way Gone and your annotations to class tomorrow so I can take a look at them.
3. Keep thinking about possible topics for your final project.
4. Finish reading and annotating A Long Way Gone by Monday.

December 4, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Focus: How can we augment our vocabularies?

1. Warm-up: Relaxing with a crossword puzzle

2. Circle story time!  Reviewing SAT Lists 1-10

• You must use the word correctly in the sentence; see your packet for sample sentences.

• Don't pass your story until directed to do so.

• You may not write sentences that may offend or insult anyone in the room.

• Your first sentence (finish it on your own, no vocab. word needed just yet):                           When Ms. Leclaire walked into our class today...

HW:
1. Read and annotate Chapters 18 and 19 in A Long Way Gone for tomorrow's fishbowl discussion.

2. Study for Friday's SAT vocabulary test over lists 1-10.

3. Remember that all make-up work is due this Friday, Dec 6.

4. Continue thinking about final projects for this class; decide on a topic by the end of the week and let me know what it is.

December 3, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Focus: How do the patterns start to shift in Chapters 15-17? Is there a moment you could identify as a turning point?  How so?

1. Warm-up: Introducing and starting to form your final projects

2. Discussing Chapters 15-17 of A Long Way Gone: Fishbowl #5

1st Hour Fishbowl
3rd Hour Fishbowl
6th Hour Fishbowl

3. Wrapping up the conversation

HW:
1. Bring your SAT List 10 flashcards and ALL of your vocabulary lists for a cumulative review tomorrow.

2. Read and annotate Chapters 18 and 19 of A Long Way Gone for Thursday's fishbowl discussion.  Remember to bring your books to class every single day so that I can take a good look at your annotations.

3. All make-up work is due this Friday, Dec. 6.

4. Start studying for Friday's cumulative vocabulary test over SAT Lists 1-10.

December 2, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Focus: What patterns are emerging in A Long Way Gone?

1. Warm-up: Close reading of Chapter 1 and quick recap of Chapters 2-17

Open a new document and call it "Patterns in A Long Way Gone"

On a surface level, this chapter is about...
On a deeper level, this chapter is about...

Circle up: Read aloud the two statements you have finished for your particular chapter.

Listeners: Write down any repeated words or any words that strike you as particularly important.  

Conclusions: What patterns are you noticing?  What's staying the same? What's evolving? What's devolving?

2. Fishbowl discussion: Chapters 15-17

1st Hour Fishbowl
3rd Hour Fishbowl
6th Hour Fishbowl

HW: 
1. Remember that this Friday is the deadline for all missed and make-up work (including vocab quizzes, missed fishbowl discussions, etc.).

2. Cumulative vocabulary test this Friday on Chapters 1-10. On Wednesday, please bring to class your Chapter 10 flashcards so that I can give you credit. Bring ALL VOCABULARY to class Wednesday for a cumulative review.

3. Start reading and annotating Chapters 18 and 19 to prepare for Thursday's fishbowl discussion; bring A Long Way Gone to class each day so that I can check everyone's annotations this week.

4. Show up for your conference if you signed up for one; if you were supposed to conference with me on Thursday or Friday before break, please come see me to reschedule.

November 21, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Dear students,

There aren't many things that could take me away from you.  Having a baby is one of them.  Watching that baby almost die is another.  The past two days have been terrifying, but Henry is hanging in there.  We will be at Children's Hospital for at least few more days.  I will keep you posted.

In the meantime, please keep working hard and being respectful of the substitute and of each other.  E-mail me if you need help or have questions.

Much love,
Ms. Leclaire

P.S. The substitute will give you the details of the warm-up activity, but please spend at least half of the class doing the fishbowl discussion that was planned for today.  Here are the links:

1st Hour Fishbowl
3rd Hour Fishbowl
6th Hour Fishbowl

HW:
1. Please bring your independent reading book to class tomorrow.

2. Study for tomorrow's vocabulary quiz over List 10.  The quiz will look a little different; you will be given ten of the words, and you will simply be asked to give a definition and a sentence for each.

November 20, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Focus: How can we use our creative talents to learn new vocabulary?

1. Warm-up: Celebrating the best of the blog from yesterday's discussion

2. Reviewing List 10 SAT vocabulary: Circle story time

The rules:

• You must use the word correctly in the sentence; see your packet for sample sentences.
• Don't pass your story until directed to do so.
• You may not write sentences that may offend or insult anyone in the room.

3. Reading A Long Way Gone and checking on annotations

HW:
1. Read and annotate Chapters 11-16 to prepare for tomorrow's fishbowl

2. Start studying for Friday's SAT List 10 vocabulary quiz.

3. Remember to come to your conference.

November 19, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Focus: What does it take to have a strong discussion of A Long Way Gone?

1. Warm-up: Sharing my thoughts about your letters and where to go from here

2. Revisiting your fishbowls of the past and clarifying the grading process

Here's an A-quality discussion on the outer circle:  http://leclaireenglish10firsthour.blogspot.com/2013/09/fishbowl-4-chapters-17-and-18-of-kite.html

Here's a high B-quality comment:
After Amir's meeting with Rahim Kahn will Hassan and Amir see each other again and forgive each each other for what happened

Here's a C/D-quality discussion: http://leclaireenglish10firsthour.blogspot.com/2013/09/practice-fishbowl-chapters-2-6-of-kite.html

D's and F's are largely reserved for people who detract from the conversation or who don't participate fully (for example, you make one comment at the very beginning and one at the very end).

If you use incorrect grammar, I detract a letter grade from what you would have received.  For example, if the content of your comments was A-quality, but you chose not to capitalize, you would receive a B.

What questions do you have about leadership and discusser grades?

3. Passing around the conference sign-up

4. Fishbowl discussion #3: A Long Way Gone, Chapters 7-10

1st Hour Fishbowl
3rd Hour Fishbowl
6th Hour Fishbowl

5. Going around the circle to share feedback, thoughts, and questions from today

HW:
1. Finish your List 10 SAT vocabulary cards and bring them to class tomorrow for review.  

2. Bring your copy of A Long Way Gone; you will be given a little reading time tomorrow (and I'd also like to check your annotations).

3. For Thursday, read and annotate Chapters 11, 12, 13 and 14 to prepare for our fishbowl discussion of A Long Way Gone.

November 18, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Focus: What have you been up to these past two months?

1. Warm-up: Sharing the past two months of my life with you

2. Sharing the past two months of your lives with me (via letter writing)

3. Signing up for conferences:

If you have an overall C, D, or F in this class as of today, you MUST sign up for a conference.

If you earned a C, D, or F on your comparative essay, you MUST sign up for a conference.

If you have an issues with class that cannot be resolved easily through an e-mail or a quick conversation before class, please sign up for a conference.

4. Small groups: Teaching Ms. Leclaire what you've learned about...

The Kite Runner

A Long Way Gone

How to write an essay

How to read analytically and annotate

How to run an excellent fishbowl discussion

HW:
1. Read and annotate Chapters 7, 8, 9 and 10 for tomorrow's fishbowl.  I'm excited to see the fishbowl experts you have become.  

2. Complete your SAT List 10 flashcards for Wednesday and bring them to class for some review activities.

3. Remember to come to your conference if you signed up for one. Because our time left together this semester is so limited, there will not be time to reschedule missed conferences.

4. All make-up work, revisions, and grade changes are due December 6th. NO changes to your already-posted grades will be made after this date.

November 15, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

1. Study 15 vocabulary lesson nine words for five minutes.
2. Take the vocabulary quiz.
3. When you finish the quiz, you have three choices:

• Read your independent study book
• Read and annotate A Long Way Gone (Chapters 7, 8, 9, and 10 are due Tuesday.)
• Finish the Hand project and turn in your packet of this week's work.

You must remain quietly in your seats today. No noise.

HW--Fish Bowl #3 is next Tuesday. Read and annotate Chapters 7, 8, 9, 10.

November 14, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

1.Fishbowl #2, Chapters 3, 4, 5, 6.
2. Last 15 minutes of class: Finish the Hand project and type your two poems. Packet of this week's work is due at the end of the hour. (2 poems +Hand Project+Dream Reflections+Purple Packet of Poems=30 pts.)

HW--Study for Vocabulary Lesson 9 Quiz, tomorrow. Remember: There are 15 words on the list!

Read and annotate Chapters 7, 8, 9, and 10 for Fish Bowl #3 on Tuesday, 11/19. (Please note the new due date.)
Bring your independent reading book to class tomorrow.

First Period Fish Bowl Blog
Third Period Fish Bowl Blog
Sixth Period Fish Bowl Blog

November 13, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Shortened Class Period! But we have much to accomplish...

Today's Focus:

• Making personal connections to A Long Way Gone
• Using poetry to understand the book's themes
• Developing an appreciation of the book's motifs

1. The "Dirty Hand" poem is in your purple packet. Please find it.
2. Assignment: Dirty Hand Clean Hand Project. (Finish it in class today.)
3. If you finish the project, take out a computer. Type and print your two poems from Monday.
4. Staple this week's work together and attach the grading rubric to the top.

Place your annotations and your vocabulary lesson 9 index cards on the desk so Mrs. M. can give you credit.

HW: Read and annotate Chapters 3, 4, 5, and 6 for tomorrow. Prepare for Fish Bowl #7.

November 12, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

1. Dream assignment--15 minutes of writing and thinking.
2. Fishbowl #1--Chapters 1 and 2 of A Long Way Gone

Please link to our class blog:
First Hour Fish Bowl Blog
Third Hour Fish Bowl Blog
Sixth Hour Fish Bowl Blog

HW
Due tomorrow: 10 flash cards, Vocabulary Lesson 9
Read and annotate Chapters 3, 4, 5, and 6 (5 annotations/chapter). Fishbowl #2 is Thursday, November 14.

November 11, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

1. Meet Vocabulary Lesson 9 Words
2. Reminders--Fishbowl Tomorrow. Let's review the responsibilities for Leaders, Discussers, and Outer Circle.

Today's focus: Using poetry to explore A Long Way Gone and your own life.

3. "Fifteen": Read and analyze the poem together. How might Ishmael Beah from A Long Way Gone write a poem about his 10th year? Reflect back on your past life and--imitating this poem--write about a time when you felt your own inexperience and immaturity. (An alternate assignment--write an imitation of the poem from the perspective of Ishmael. Be sure to select a specific year of his life to write about.)

4. The sun poem. Read and analyze this poem together in small groups (or by yourself). Think about the sun motif in A Long Way Gone. How does the sun appear in this book--as a beautiful force of nature or as a destructive one? What does it symbolize in the book? Write a poem about another natural object that Ishmael Beah is interested in--the moon, stars, dirt, trees, rivers. Imitate the style and pattern of this poem.

On Wednesday, we will write about "The Dirty Hand," a poem about guilt. You will have a chance to revise all poems before handing them in for credit.

HW--Make flashcards for Vocabulary Lesson 9 words. Due Wednesday.
Read and make 5 annotations for Chapter 1 and five annotations for Chapter 2. These are due tomorrow.
Prepare for Fishbowl #1 tomorrow.

November 8, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

1. Study vocabulary list #8 for 5 minutes.
2. Choose a role for your annotations: psychologist, sociologist, outdoors-man/woman, DJ, photographer, astronomer, or storyteller.
3. Sign up for The A Long Way Gone fishbowls: once as a leader and once as a discusser.
4. Take the vocabulary quiz.
5. When you finish the quiz, you may read your independent study book or A Long Way Gone. No talking, please.

Homework:
Read and annotate Chapters 1 and 2. Due Tuesday. If you are a leader or discusser for Fishbowl #1, be prepared to participate in the inner circle next Tuesday.

November 7, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Please sit in your assigned seats today. 

Synthesis Essay is Due. Take a few minutes to read the final draft to be sure it is complete and perfect. If you spot an error, correct it with your pen or pencil.

• Staple the grading rubric to the top of your essay and hand it in.

• Also hand in your peer-edited rough drafts, stapled together. Be sure your peer editor wrote his/her name on top of the paper.

Today's focus--preparing to read and analyze A Long Way Gone.

1. Explanation of the assignment, Journal with a Purpose.

2. We will read the opening of the book together and answer these questions: Why does Beah begin the book as he does?  What effect does this opening create? What questions does it make you ask?


3. Let's read Chapter 1 and annotate it together...

4. Sign up for Fishbowls. You must be a leader once and a discusser once.

Homework:
Due Monday, 11/11: Read and annotate Chapters 1 and 2. Fishbowl #1 is Monday, November 11. Leaders must prepare chapter summaries and questions, just as you did for Kite Runner. Discussers: Be ready to analyze the book!

For each chapter, write five annotations about your chosen motif and questions for fishbowl. That's 10 annotations total.

You may:

• Write directly in your book if you own the book
• Write your comments on sticky-notes
• Write two-column journal entries with the quote on one side and the comment/analysis on the other.

Study for Vocabulary Lesson 8 quiz tomorrow.

November 6, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

1. Complete the web quest for A Long Way Gone.

2. Vocabulary practice: Use this week's ten words in your response to Web Quest question #22. Show that you understand each word's meaning--and also show that you have gained some understanding about Sierra Leone.

Place you index cards on the desk so Mrs. Makovsky can give you credit for them.

HW

• The synthesis essay is due tomorrow, 11/7. No late papers will be accepted. Attach the grading rubric to the top of your final essay.
• The peer-edited rough drafts are also due tomorrow. Staple the two of them together.
• Vocabulary quiz #8 is Friday.

Tomorrow: We begin reading A Long Way Gone in class, so bring your book. You will also sign up for Fishbowls tomorrow.

November 5, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

1. Exchange papers with your peer editor and edit body paragraph 2, using the same rubric you used for body paragraph one. Write your comments directly onto the rough draft.

As you peer-edit, Mrs. Makovsky will give you points for completing the second half of your rough draft.

Staple both of your rough drafts together. The peer editor will get points for editing, and the writer will get points for completing the essay. Turn in the peer-edited essays on Thursday.

A Long Way Gone--Web Quest
2. Write your name inside the book, A Long Way Gone.
3. Background information on A Long Way Gone: Answer all questions on the handout. Work individually, not in groups. The purpose of this assignment is to research information that will increase your understanding of the book. Due at the end of the hour.

HW
Create index cards for Vocabulary Lesson 8--Due Wednesday
Continue perfecting your essay. It's due Thursday, 11/7. No late papers accepted.

November 4, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Begin preparing for A Long Way Gone: Slides of Famous Scenes of Violence in America  Free-Writing Assignment

1. How to write a concluding paragraph.
2. Write your conclusion (15 minutes).
3. Print the entire rough draft--all four paragraphs.
4. Exchange papers with your peer editor and edit body paragraph 2, using the same rubric you used for body paragraph one. Write your comments directly onto the rough draft. As you peer-edit, Mrs. Makovsky will give you points for completing the second half of your rough draft.

Staple both of your rough drafts together. The peer editor will get points for editing, and the writer will get points for completing the essay. Turn in the peer-edited essays on Thursday.

HW--Polish and perfect your synthesis essay. It is due Thursday. No late papers will be accepted.
Look for these common errors:

• Italicize the title of a book or a movie.
• Check your capitalization.
• Remove Mrs. Leclaire's bad words (see yesterday's blog for the link)

November 1, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

1. Hand in your Kite Runner book:

• Remove all sticky notes
• Put your name on the inside front cover, and put the book on my desk.

2. Study Vocabulary List 7 for 5 minutes.

3. Take vocabulary test #7

4. After you finish the test, you have a choice:

• Write your second body paragraph. If you choose to do this, you must not talk to anyone. You may type, but not talk. When you finish the paragraph, read your independent study book.

OR

• Read your independent study book.

Note: The final, perfect draft of the synthesis essay is due Thursday, November 7. No late papers will be accepted.

HW--Read your independent study book for at least 30 minutes this weekend. If you have fallen behind with the synthesis essay, use the weekend to catch up. Next week we begin reading A Long Way Gone. 

October 31, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

1. Editing suggestions from Mrs. Leclaire: Last Chance Dance
Fix your rough draft.

2. 1st and 3rd period: Peer-editing.

Procedure:

• Exchange papers with one person whose feedback you value. Write "Peer-edited by" and sign your name on the top of the other person's paper.
• Read the introduction and body paragraph carefully. Write comments about the following:
• Is the opening sentence an effective eye-catcher? 
• Is the background information adequate? 
• Is the thesis the last sentence of the paragraph? Is it clear, specific,provable, and debatable? Explain.
• Use the half-slip of paper for your comments about body paragraph 1. Staple it to the paper you are editing.
• You will receive 10 points for peer-editing someone else's essay. You will be graded on how thorough, specific, and helpful your comments are.

After reading your peer-editor's comments, get a computer and revise the introduction and first body paragraph to make it stronger. Then, write body paragraph 2. 

HW--Study for vocabulary lesson 7 quiz tomorrow

Bring your reading book for independent reading.

Bring Kite Runner to hand it in.

October 30, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Hand in the introduction and body paragraph 1. (20 points for completion of the assignment.)
I'm handing back your We Don't Need Another Hero paragraphs. Here is how to insert quotes.
Vocabulary Practice--15 minutes in small groups (4 or 5 in a group)

Procedure:

• Select a word from this week's list and use it in the first sentence of a spooky Halloween story. Hand your paper to the student to the right of you. That student will select a second word from the list and use it in the next sentence to the story. You will do the same for the story that is now on your desk, this time using a different word from the list. Keep handing the stories to the right, and continue adding sentences until all 10 words have been used and the story is complete. You must use the words correctly; and you must show that you understand their meaning. 
• Select the best story from your group. Put everyone's name on it, and hand it in. On Halloween--tomorrow--I'll read each group's top story to the class. (Do I even need to remind you? Please make the stories appropriate for the classroom!!)

After 15 minutes, return to your desks. We will then peer-edit the rough drafts. 

Procedure:

• Exchange papers with one person whose feedback you value. Write "Peer-edited by" and sign your name on the top of the other person's paper.
• Read the introduction and body paragraph carefully. Write comments about the following:
• Is the opening sentence an effective eye-catcher? 
• Is the background information adequate? 
• Is the thesis the last sentence of the paragraph? Is it clear, specific,provable, and debatable? Explain.
• Use the half-slip of paper for your comments about body paragraph 1. Staple it to the paper you are editing.
• You will receive 10 points for peer-editing someone else's essay. You will be graded on how thorough, specific, and helpful your comments are.

HW--Study for Vocabulary Quiz Lesson 7 on Friday

Bring your Kite Runner to class tomorrow to turn it in!!

October 29, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Please sit at your assigned desk. We will move the desks into a circle facing the wall after attendance.

1. Write body paragraph #1. Here are directions. Here's a sample. Here's a graphic organizer.
2. Print the introduction and body paragraph 1. Hand it in at the end of the hour. (20 points)

Please do the following as you type:

•      Double-space
•      Put a proper heading at the top of your essay. (Mrs. Makovsky will explain...)

3. If you finish early, create index cards for vocabulary lesson 7. These are due tomorrow.

Put computers and desks away neatly!

HW--Index cards for lesson 7 are due tomorrow.

October 28, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Please sit in your assigned seats for attendance and learning. You may change seats when it's time to write.

1. Thesis revisions. Here is a power point that explains, what is a thesis.
2. Purple sheet: What goes into the introductory paragraph? (Click here for this handout)
3. What goes into the first body paragraph? Here is a sample paragraph from one of Mrs. Leclaire's former students. Let's discuss it.

Writing time. 

1. If necessary, revise your thesis on the yellow handout, turn it in again, and I will give you feedback and points.
2. Take out a computer and write your introductory paragraph.
3. Check your grades and also read the comments I shared with you on Google.docs--the movie versus book lists.
4. Begin writing your first body paragraph.

Homework:

Vocabulary List #7--Index cards are due Wednesday.
Introductory paragraph is due Tuesday (tomorrow)

October 25, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

1. Hand in the Brainstorming and Thesis Worksheet from yesterday (if you haven't already done so.)
2. Study your lesson 6 words for 5 minutes.
3. Take the Vocabulary Lesson 6 quiz.
4. As soon as you finish the test, take out your independent reading book. Enjoy 30 peaceful minutes of reading.

HW--Read your independent study book for at least 30 minutes.

On Monday, we will revise the thesis statements, write the introductory paragraph, and begin writing body paragraph #1. Bring your Kite Runner book and your hero chart to class.

Remember to be in class on time next week. Set the alarm early enough to get everything accomplished before heading to school.

Have an enjoyable weekend!

October 24, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

We need to talk about tardies. Let's review Mrs. Leclaire's tardy policy. Beginning on Monday, I will strictly enforce this policy. If you are not in your assigned seat when the bell rings, you will be marked tardy.

We need to talk about class atmosphere. A few reminders about manners

• A friendly "Good morning" is a lovely way to begin the day.
• When Mrs. Makovsky is talking (or when anyone else in the class is talking), please listen.
• When Mrs. Makovsky is talking, please stay in your seat until she is finished.

FOCUS--WRITE AN ESSAY IN WHICH YOU DEFINE WHAT TRULY MAKES A HERO. USE THE KITE RUNNER, A HEROIC STORY OR FILM OF YOUR CHOICE, AND JOSEPH CAMPBELL'S HERO'S JOURNEY TRAITS TO MAKE YOUR ARGUMENT.

1. Take out your hero chart. We will use that to write a thesis for the synthesis essay.
2. Overview of the Multiple Paragraph Essay format
3. Handout: Brainstorming and Thesis Work-space. Complete the worksheet and write your thesis.
4. Get a computer and write your introductory paragraph. (Introductory Paragraph handout)
5. After the introduction, write the topic sentences for each of your body paragraphs.

Here is a sample of a good introductory paragraph from one of last year's students.

What is a thesis? A specific, provable, debatable assertion (not a statement of the obvious)

Assertion: something you state as true

Specific: Your assertion involves a highly focused statement. It needs to be specific enough to prove in a few pages.

Provable: Your assertion can be supported by numerous examples from the text, and at the same time, not flatly contradicted by other examples in the text.

Debatable: Your assertion provokes viable, intelligent arguments on the opposite side and it's not a statement of the obvious. The best thesis digs beneath the obvious stereotypes and observations to something deeper.

Homework: Study for tomorrow's Vocabulary Lesson 6 quiz. Bring your independent study book to class.

October 23, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

1. 15 minute Vocabulary Review
2. Complete the hero chart, this time adding details on the right side of the page. Put the name of the movie or book you have chosen to write about at the top of page one. (If you have lost your hero chart, click here and print another one.) Turn in the chart at the end of the period.

HW--If possible, view the movie that you have chosen to compare to Kite Runner so that its words and images are vivid in your mind. If you chose a book, please find a copy of it and bring it to class tomorrow.

Tomorrow we will begin the writing process for the synthesis essay. You will need to have The Kite Runner for details and quotations.

October 22, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Please get a computer and sit in your assigned seat.

Today's focus--How to insert direct quotations into an analytic paragraph: Last Chance Dance (Slides 1, 2, and 3)

Assignment
Listen toTina Turner's song, "We Don't Need Another Hero." As you listen, pay close attention to the lyrics.

Handout--"We Don't Need Another Hero"--(Here is a link to the assignment.)

Why doesn't the speaker in this song need a hero?

Answer this question in one fully developed paragraph. Include a topic sentence that clearly answers the question. Support the topic sentence with at least three direct quotes from the song. Introduce and analyze each quote carefully, explaining how it supports your idea.

The paragraph is due at the end of the hour. Print it and place it on Mrs. Makovsky's desk.



HW

1. Create index cards for Vocabulary Lesson 6. Due tomorrow.
2. Think of a movie or a book about a hero that you will compare to a hero in The Kite Runner. Tomorrow, we will complete the hero chart and begin brainstorming the synthesis essay.

October 21, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

1. Meet the Lesson 6 vocabulary words.
2. Finish viewing The Kite Runner film. Complete your T-chart with 5 more entries and send the document to Mrs. Leclaire's gmail address: (kleclaire@lps.k12.co.us)
3. Discuss the Spaceman Spiff paragraphs.

HW

• Create index cards for Vocabulary Lesson 6 words. Due Wednesday.
• Think about a movie or a book about a hero who resembles a hero from The Kite Runner. On Wednesday, we will complete the hero chart, drawing comparisons between your choice of a film or book and The Kite Runner

Overview of the Week:
Tuesday--Learn how to insert quotations. Write a practice paragraph that includes 3 quotations.
Wednesday--Index cards due. Quick vocabulary review. Brainstorm your topic and complete the hero chart.
Thusday--Write your thesis and topic sentences for the synthesis essay.
Friday--Quiz on Vocabulary Lesson 6. Read independent study book.

October 16, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Shortened Period Today!

Continue viewing the Kite Runner film. Today, we won't take the time to use the computers. Enjoy the film, but please think about how it differs from the book.

Next week:
Vocabulary Lesson 6 (a new packet of words!)
Synthesis essay--Comparing a hero from Kite Runner to a hero from another book or film. We will do most of the essay in class, moving carefully through the writing process. You will be given points for completing each stage of the process. The final essay will be a major grade in this class.

HW
Read for at least 30 minutes in your independent study novel.

Enjoy your long weekend!

October 15, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

1. Open yesterday's Kite Runner Film document and continue to note differences between the book and the movie. Pay attention to directorial choices--physical characteristics, deleted scenes, added scenes, casting, etc. Write 5 more entries today and be sure to briefly analyze each one.
2. Check your grades on Infinite Campus and be sure you've made up missing work.
3. PSAT exam tomorrow. If you are taking it, be sure to get a good night's sleep!

HW--Read your independent reading book for 30 minutes.

October 14, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Today's focus: Viewing the film version of The Kite Runner and taking notes about the differences between the movie and the novel in preparation for a writing assignment about the film.

Take out a computer and open Google Docs.

• Make yourself a two-column chart.
• On the left side, make a list of directorial choices that might be significant. What do I mean by directorial choices, you ask? Look for ways the film differs from the novel, such as...
• physical characteristics
• deleted scenes
• added scenes
• casting
• On the right side, analyze why you think these choices have been made and how they affect your interpretation of the story.

(Reminder: Please shut down computers properly and return them to the correct slot in the cart.)

HW
Read your independent study book for 30 minutes.

October 11, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

1. Study vocabulary words for 5 minutes.
2. Clear your desks and take out a pencil. Knock down the vocabulary exam and show it who's the boss.
3. As soon as you finish the exam, enjoy your independent reading book.
4. Please place your Kite Runner annotations on top of your desk so Mrs. Makovsky can give you credit.

HW Spend 30 minutes this weekend reading your independent reading book.

October 10, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

1. Take out your Journey of the Hero chart. Fill in the last two pages, thinking about what happens to Amir in the last chapters of the book. I will collect these charts tomorrow and give you credit for completing them. If you have lost the chart, click here and print another one.
2. Fish Bowl #8--our last one for this novel

HW
Study Vocabulary Lessons 1-5 for tomorrow's mastery test
Be sure you have annotated Kite Runner. Tomorrow I will check annotations for chapters 22-25
Bring your independent study book tomorrow. We will read in class.

Fishbowl #8, Period 1
Fishbowl #8, Period 3
Fishbowl #8, Period 6

October 9, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Vocabulary review day!
1. Spend 5 minutes reviewing your flashcards
2. Practice one round of Apples to Apples
3. Compete. (Every 5 rounds, I'll announce a winner. Mrs. Makovsky will serve as the judge)

A few words about expectations for today's game

• Maintain the standards of the classroom--no inappropriate or off-color comments, no bullying
• Put the desks in order before leaving class
• Above all--the goal is to learn vocabulary in preparation for Friday's mastery exam

Homework--

Read and annotate chapters 24 and 25. Prepare for Fishbowl #8 tomorrow (Thursday)

Study for Friday's vocabulary test, lists 1-5

October 8, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

What stage of the hero's journey do these clips represent?
Simba versus Scar
Batman versus The Joker

How well does Amir fulfill this stage of the hero's journey? Add details about Amir's journey to your hero chart.

HW--Prepare for the final fishbowl on Thursday--Chapters 24-the end
Study your vocabulary words--lessons 1-5

Fishbowl #7, Chapters 22-23, Period 1
Fishbowl #7, Chapters 22-23, Period 3
Fishbowl #7. Chapters 22-23, Period 6

October 7, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Focus: Writing A Paragraph about a Hero; Incorporating Quotes and Details

1. Calvin and Hobbes cartoon strip. Click here for cartoons that feature Calvin as Spaceman Spiff.
2. Read and study the cartoons. Notice significant details.
3. Take out your hero chart and think about the following question:

Even though he is just a figment of Calvin's imagination, does
Spaceman Spiff display the characteristics of a hero?

For each characteristic, give a quote or a detail from a cartoon that proves your point.

Characteristic______________________________________________________________________

Quote that proves this:_______________________________________________________________

Characteristic______________________________________________________________________

Quote that proves this:_______________________________________________________________

Characteristic______________________________________________________________________

Quote that proves this:_______________________________________________________________

Characteristic______________________________________________________________________

Quote that proves this:_______________________________________________________________

Write a paragraph that answers the above question.

• Begin with a topic sentence that states your idea about Spaceman Spiff as a hero.
• Develop your topic sentence idea by discussing at least three characteristics of the hero and using specific details and quotations from the cartoons as support for your ideas. Be sure to explain how each quote or details proves your point.
• Conclude your paragraph with a punch.

Print the paragraph and hand it in at the end of the hour.

HW--Study Lessons 1-5 for a Mastery Exam on Friday.
Read and Annotate Chapters 22-23 and prepae for tomorrow's Fish Bowl #6.

October 4, 2013: What's happening in English 10?

1. Grades. If you have issues, please write me a note.
2. Study for Vocabulary Quiz #5 (5 minutes)
3. Take Vocabulary Quiz #5 (read directions carefully)
4. Show Mrs. Makovsky your annotations for chapters 19, 20, and 21.
5. Show Mrs. M. your index cards if you haven't done so.
6. Relax with your independent reading book.

Shhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!

Have a safe and fun Homecoming weekend. Take care of each other!!

HW--Read and annotate Chapters 22-23, and prepare for Tuesday's Fish Bowl #7.

October 3, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

1. Mrs. Makovsky's 10 minutes--Chapters 19-20

2. Your 10 minutes--Finish Henry's letter or story and turn it in

3. Fish Bowl #6, Chapter 21 of The Kite Runner

HOMEWORK:

• Study for Vocabulary Lesson 5 quiz and bring your independent reading book to class.
• Read Chapters 22 and 23 for Tuesday and prepare for Fish Bowl #7.

Reminders for Today's Fish Bowl Discussion:

• Everyone should have his or her Kite Runner book and annotations out. This applies to both the outer and inner circles. 
• Reference the text frequently, reading passages aloud and giving people time to find the right page numbers.  
• All participants in the outer circle should include at least one quotation in their blogs to receive full credit. 
• Outer circle participants must participate on the blog throughout the entire discussion; you should not disappear for large periods of time.
• If you haven't read, you should not participate in fishbowl. Instead, use this time to read and post on the blog tonight for homework.
• Group Leaders: Please turn in your syllabus.

Period 1 Fish Bowl Blog

Period 3 Fish Bowl Blog

Period 6 Fish Bowl Blog

October 2, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

(Late Start Day)

1. Review class policies (stay in seat until bell rings, put computers away properly, no talking when teacher or another student is talking, no bullying, no drinks in classroom, no cell phones or music during class)
2. Discuss yesterday's blog: What went well? What didn't? Mrs. M's 10 minutes about Chapters 19-20.
3. Review Lesson 5 Words (See below*)
4. Index Cards check

Homework: Read and annotate Chapter 21 and prepare for Fish Bowl #6 tomorrow. Study Lesson 5 words for Friday's quiz.

Makeup--If you were absent or didn't participate in yesterday's outer circle:

• You must make up the blog by posting an extended response on that blog that includes at least one quotation from the assigned chapters.  This also applies if you took a day to read instead of participating on the outer circle.  Let Mrs. Makovsky know if you post an extended response so it can be graded.

*Vocabulary Lesson 5 Review: It's a BOY!!!!!

Write something for Henry Leclaire, Mrs. Leclaire’s brand new baby boy. Use the 10 vocabulary words from Lesson 5, and show Henry that you understand each word's meaning.

To make Henry happy, use bright colors, bold pictures, and clear sentences.

Suggestions (Choose one or come up with your own):

1. Tell a story that Henry might enjoy. You could make him the hero. Or you could make Mrs.Leclaire the hero. Base your story on a real memory of Mrs. LeClaire, or jump into a world of fantasy. Make the story appealing to a small child. Illustrate it!
2. Write a letter that welcomes Henry to the world. Add colorful designs or pictures to brighten the page.
3. Create a comic strip that teaches Henry a lesson or makes him smile.
4. Write a nursery rhyme or poem that tells Henry how wonderful life is or how special his mother is. (Or maybe Henry would prefer a rap)
5. Create a top-ten list of reasons that Henry is lucky to have Mrs. Leclaire as his mother. Or a top-ten list of reasons why it's good to be a boy.

Mrs. Makovsky will give you credit for these writing and will take them to Henry next week.

Have fun!

October 1, 2013: What's Happening in English 10

1. First hour's responses to the clip of The Matrix. Go here for some strong responses.
2. The Taliban's impact on Afghanistan: View this clip and make at least 5 connections to what Amir sees and learns about the Taliban in Kite Runner.
3. Reminders for Today's Fish Bowl Discussion:

• Everyone should have his or her Kite Runner book and annotations out. This applies to both the outer and inner circles. 
• Reference the text frequently, reading passages aloud and giving people time to find the right page numbers.  
• All participants in the outer circle should include at least one quotation in their blogs to receive full credit. 
• Outer circle participants must participate on the blog throughout the entire discussion; you should not disappear for large periods of time.
• If you haven't read, you should not participate in fishbowl. Instead, use this time to read and post on the blog tonight for homework.
• Group Leaders: Please turn in your syllabus.

Period 1 Fish Bowl 

Period 3 Fish Bowl
Period 6 Fish Bowl

Homework:

• Index cards for Lesson 5 are due tomorrow
• Read and annotate Chapter 21 for Thursday and prepare for Fish Bowl #6

 

September 30, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

1. Meet Mrs. Makovsky
2. Meet Vocabulary Lesson 5 words
3. An important step in the hero's journey--The red or the blue pill from The Matrix.
4. Directions for viewing this clip. Go here and then to slides 31 and 32. Go here for The Hero's Journey chart.

Homework:

• Prepare for tomorrow's Fish Bowl, Chapters 19 and 20.
• Read and annotate Chapter 21 for Thursday's Fish Bowl. Group leaders meet and prepare a syllabus.
• Create flash cards for Lesson 5 vocabulary words. Due Wednesday

Reminders for tomorrow's Leaders:

• You will turn in a typed syllabus that includes a detailed summary and around 12-20 thought-provoking discussion questions on the assigned reading.Your questions should be organized by topic. (Worth 30 points)
• You will be graded on your preparation, analysis, participation, facilitation, and leadership.

Reminders for tomorrow's Discussers:

• Read and annotate the chapters carefully. You will need to participate insightfully at least 5 times.

Reminders for tomorro's Outer Circle:

• Read and annotate the chapters carefully. Be prepared to participate through writing or speaking.

September 27, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Focus: How well do we know the List 4 vocabulary words?

1. Warm-up: Reviewing List 4 vocabulary words independently or with a partner (5 min)

2. Taking the List 4 SAT vocabulary quiz

3. Relaxing into your independent reading books (or The Kite Runner if you are behind)

HW:
1. Spend at least 30 minutes with your independent reading book.
2. Start reading Chapters 19 and 20 for Tuesday's fishbowl discussion; leaders should start preparing their syllabus.  Please remember that next week is Homecoming Week and may be especially busy for some of you; this weekend would be a good time to get ahead in The Kite Runner so you don't have to worry about it next week.

September 26, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Focus: What shifts are happening in The Kite Runner? Why are they important to novel as a whole?
1. Present "Wanted" signs to the class.

2. Warm-up: Making inferences on the Taliban based on quotations spoken by them; please brainstorm your thoughts on each in your notes on Google drive before discussing as a class.

Click HERE for the slides; the instructions and quotations start on slide #20.

3. Fishbowl #4: Discussing Chapters 17 and 18 in The Kite Runner

1st Hour Fishbowl Blog

3rd Hour Fishbowl Blog

6th Hour Fishbowl Blog

3. Wrapping up discussion with take-aways and questions that respond to today's focus question

HW:
1. Study for tomorrow's List 4 SAT vocabulary quiz.
2. Bring your independent reading book to class tomorrow.

September 25, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Focus: How can we augment our vocabulary while simultaneously considering criminality in The Kite Runner?

Please have out your vocabulary flashcards to be checked.

1. Warm-up: Talking through the List 4 definitions and doodling small images/symbols for each

2. Creating "Wanted" signs that combine vocabulary with The Kite Runner

By yourself, create an old-fashioned "Wanted" sign that incorporates the following:

• The criminal who is "Wanted" on this sign should be a person, place, or concept for The Kite Runner that you feel lies at the heart of the novel's central conflicts.  For example, the criminal could be a certain character, but it could also be something more abstract, like cowardice.

• Throughout the sign, you must incorporate at least SEVEN SAT words, and at least FIVE of them must be from List 4. Please use your packet to make sure you are using the words correctly. Underline them on your sign.

• Your sign should include the following elements as well:
• An image and physical description of the criminal
• What felonious acts this criminal has committed
• What the criminal is armed with
• What you should do if you see this criminal
• What the reward is if you catch this criminal

3. Sharing your signs and starting Chapter 17 together, pausing to share questions, reactions, interpretations, and other annotations

HW:
1. Finish Chapters 17 and 18 for Thursday's fishbowl; leaders and discussers should be prepared.
2. Start studying for Friday's vocabulary quiz over List 4.
3. Bring your independent reading book to class on Friday.

September 24, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Focus: Do I need to make up work for this class? What Level 2 and Level 3 questions do I have regarding The Kite Runner so far?

1. Warm-up: Since this Friday marks the end of the first six weeks, I would like you to take a moment to look carefully at your grades for this class, keeping in mind the following:

• All make-up work, late work, and redos/retakes must be completed by this Friday for credit.  This includes missed fishbowl blogs, retakes on vocabulary quizzes, Kite Runner annotations, vocabulary flashcards, and any other work collected over the past six weeks.

• Remember that if you missed an outer circle day on the fishbowl, you must make up the blog by posting an extended response on that blog that includes at least one quotation from the assigned chapters.  This also applies if you took a day to read instead of participating on the outer circle.  Let Mrs. Boldman know if you post an extended response so it can be graded.

• If you are planning to make up any grades, please speak with Mrs. Boldman right now to develop a plan to ensure it gets taken care of by this Friday.

• If your grades in this class are fine, then use this time to work on your List 4 SAT flashcards.

2. Fishbowl #3: Chapters 14, 15, and 16 in The Kite Runner

1st Hour Fishbowl Blog

3rd Hour Fishbowl Blog

6th Hour Fishbowl Blog


3. Wrapping up fishbowl with take-aways and questions

HW:
1. Finish your List 4 SAT flashcards by tomorrow (Wednesday) and bring them to class.

2. Start reading and annotating Chapters 17 and 18 for Thursday's fishbowl discussion; leaders should start preparing the syllabus.

3. Remember that this Friday marks the end of the first 6 week period.  All make-up work, late work, and redos/retakes must be completed by this Friday for credit.

September 23, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Focus: What larger patterns are you starting to find in The Kite Runner, and why are they important?

1. Warm-up: Brainstorming motifs from The Kite Runner together on the board, then drawing them together to form good discussion questions.  Each of you should post your best one on today's blog and then pick one to reply to.

For example, let's say that one of the motifs on the board is violence, and that another is redemption. 
 
You could ask a question like this: Is violence a way of achieving redemption? 
 
Or, you could ask something like this: Can Amir ever find redemption for the violence he allowed to happen to Hassan?
 
Again, once you've posted your question on the blog, please reply to someone else's question.

2. Returning to the hero's journey: Look over the first page of the Joseph Campbell's hero's journey chart given in class today.  With a partner, fill out as much of the first page as you can for The Kite Runner:

• Think "outside the box" a little.  For example, there may not be any actual dragon battles in The Kite Runner, but there are battles with monster-like people and ideas.
• Be as specific as possible, citing quotations or at least page numbers whenever possible.
• Stay in the middle column (the column on the right will be used later).
• Don't worry if every single step doesn't apply; you can leave a couple of boxes blank if they don't work.

3. Starting Chapter 14 together, if time allows

HW:
1. Finish reading and annotating Chapters 14, 15, and 16 in The Kite Runner.
2. Leaders and discussers need to be prepared for tomorrow's fishbowl discussion.

September 20, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Focus: How your are vocabulary skills?

1. Warm-up: Quizzing each other on the List 3 SAT words (5 minutes)

2. Taking the List 3 SAT vocabulary quiz

3. Relaxing into your independent reading book OR catching up with Kite Runner reading (you should be through Chapter 13 by Monday)

4. Grading each other's fill-in-the-blank sections of today's vocab. quiz, if time

HW:
1. Spend 30 minutes with your independent reading book

2. Read and annotate Chapter 13 of The Kite Runner by Monday.

September 19, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Focus: How can student-led discussion lead us to a better understanding of The Kite Runner, Chapters 9 and 10?

1. Warm-up: Building up your background knowledge to better understand The Kite Runner

a. As a class, brainstorm which words, people, historical events, terms, etc. have come in The Kite Runner that you don't quite understand.

b. With your membership grid groups, select the two or three topics that you'd most like to know about, and take a little time to research them.  Discuss how the research helps you understand what's happening in The Kite Runner (be sure to write down research and responses in your grids).

2. Participating in Fishbowl #2: Chapters 11 and 12

1st Hour Fishbowl Blog

3rd Hour Fishbowl Blog

6th Hour Fishbowl Blog


3. Wrapping up a discussion with a whip-around: What are your take-aways and questions?

HW:
1. Study for tomorrow's List 3 SAT vocabulary quiz (keep bringing your flashcards and annotations to class to be checked off).

2. Bring your independent reading book to class tomorrow.

3. Start reading and annotating Chapter 13 for Monday.

September 18, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Focus: How can student-led discussion lead us to a better understanding of The Kite Runner, Chapters 9 and 10?

1. Warm-up: Reviewing List 3 SAT vocabulary

2. Recapping Fishbowl expectations:

1. Everyone should have his or her Kite Runner book and annotations out.  This applies to both the outer and inner circles.

2. Reference the text frequently, reading passages aloud and giving people time to find the right page numbers.  

3. Leaders can and should jump into the discussion as well.

4. All participants in the outer circle should include at least one quotation in their blogs to receive full credit.

5. Outer circle participants must participate on the blog throughout the entire discussion; you should not disappear for large periods of time.

6. If you haven't read, you should not participate in fishbowl.  Instead, use this time to read and post on the blog tonight for homework.


3. Participating in Fishbowl #1: Chapters 9 and 10

1st Hour Fishbowl Blog
3rd Hour Fishbowl Blog
6th Hour Fishbowl Blog

4. Wrapping up the discussion with a "whip-around" (go around the circles and state what went well and/or what we need to improve upon and/or one take away from today's discussion you have regarding The Kite Runner)

HW:
1. Prepare for tomorrow's fishbowl by reading and annotating Chapters 11 and 12.

2. Start studying for Friday's SAT vocabulary quiz over List 3.

3. Keep bringing your annotations and flashcards to class so that they can be checked off.

September 17, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Focus: What information do we need to prepare for this year and beyond?

1. Meeting in the Forum for important information regarding this year and your schedules for next year

2. Reviewing expectations for fishbowl leaders; discussing a sample syllabus (handout given in class)

3. Taking time to become PSAT and ACT scholars by perusing the websites below, signing up for the SAT question of the day, and trying out the surveys:

PSAT/SAT  (try clicking on the "PSAT/NMSQT" and "My College Quickstart" when you get there)

PLAN/ACT

HW:
1. Finish reading and annotating Chapters 9 and 10 to prepare for tomorrow's first official fishbowl discussion! Leaders of Fishbowl #1: Make sure you FOLLOW THE SAMPLE SYLLABUS, creating one syllabus together and creating copies for each member of your group as well as a copy for your teacher. These should be ready to go as you walk into class.

2. Finish your List 3 SAT vocabulary flashcards and bring them to class tomorrow.

3. Friday: List 3 SAT vocabulary quiz and independent reading

September 16, 2013: What's Happening in English 10?

Focus: What is the hero's journey, and how can it help us deepen our understanding of The Kite Runner? 

1. Thinking about the purpose of Chapter 7 in The Kite Runner (see Friday's activity)

2. Warm-up: Figuring out the first step of the hero's journey

What is the hero's journey?

• Some critics believe that there exists a “collective unconscious,” or inner thoughts, feelings, instincts, and memories that reside in the unconsciousness of all people.

• The hero’s journey ties into this, as heroes across all times and cultures share certain traits and experiences.

3. Viewing two examples of the first step of the hero's journey:

Finding Nemo

Batman Begins

As you watch, please respond to the following questions in your notes:

• What do these clips have in common?

• What heroic patterns do they reveal?
  
  

• How do these moments affect the main characters?

Discuss your findings as a class.

3. Discussing in your membership grid groups:

1. Which characters appear to be following this heroic pattern in The Kite Runner? How so?
2. How has the separation (physical or emotional) affected these characters’ self-perception, behavior, and motivation?  Please include at least one specific passage from the novel to support your response.
   
   
3. Be sure to write down the brilliant ideas your group members are offering!  You do need to read passages aloud, but you don’t need to rewrite all the passages (just discuss them and include page numbers in your grids).

HW:

1. Please meet in the Forum tomorrow for important information about this year and scheduling for next year.

2. Continue reading and annotating Chapters 9 and 10 to prepare for Wednesday's fishbowl discussion. Leaders of Fishbowl #1: Make sure you FOLLOW THE SAMPLE SYLLABUS, creating one syllabus together and creating copies for each member of your group as well as a copy for your teacher. These should be ready to go as you walk into class.

3. Start making List 3 SAT vocabulary flashcards; these are due Wednesday.