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.