Friday 12/20: Homework and Happy Holidays!

All Classes: 

Over break, enjoy some quality time reading your independent reading books!  

(I will check your reading logs when we return). 

Thursday 12/19: Homework

Block A:
Today we started watching Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. Pretty confusing, eh? Wait until we finish it tomorrow! You will be amazed at how the pieces of the story come together! Bring your notes and observations to class tomorrow--and arrive promptly because we will need every minute!

Block B:
I didn't even get to say good-bye to you today--we were rudely interrupted by the fire drill! Tonight, please finish reading Chapter 10 and answer the questions on the Reading Road Map handout.

Block C:
Good job getting your Frederick Douglass Reading Spectacular projects finished! I forgot that I won't see you until NEXT YEAR, so I will take this opportunity to wish you a fabulous, restful, and fun-filled holiday break!

Wednesday 12/18: Homework

Block B:
Tonight, I would like you to finish reading and annotating Chapter 9. You should revisit your map and retrace Deo's steps as you make your annotations. I have Sydney's map as a model for you to follow below. I will recheck your maps tomorrow.

In addition, please write a one paragraph response to this question: Why does Kidder divide the novel in this way? What purpose does this structure serve?

Block C and E: 
Your Frederick Douglass work is due either tomorrow (C) or Friday (E). Please be sure to bring the following to class with you--printed and ready to go:

1. Your annotated copy of the text
2. Your three neatly written or typed responses to Chapter 7, 9, and 10.

You will be writing an in-class response in class tomorrow or Friday.

Block F: 
Your reading and writing work on "The Body" is due by Friday. You must turn in your 4 response (typed or neatly handwritten and proofread, along with the rubric) either before or after the Senior breakfast. You may put your work on my desk in F202, or in my mailbox. Late work will not be accepted after the break.

Tuesday 12/17/13: homework

Block E: 

Continue to work on completing the items on the list of reading and writing tasks that you have due by this Friday on Frederick Douglass. 

Block F: 

Continue to work on completing the items on the list of reading and writing tasks that you have due on Stephen King's "The Body" by this Friday. 

Block A:

Write your own version of a story modeled after Margaret Atwood's story titled "Happy Endings."

Bring your printed copy to class tomorrow. 

Monday 12/16: Homework

Block F: 
Today we worked in F101 on the reading and writing tasks you are responsible for completing by this Friday. Once your phones were comfortable on the front desk, you worked well. Tomorrow we will be continue the process in G101. Your job tonight is to continue moving through the chapters, reading and annotating so that you are ready to write your responses carefully.

Phones resting, students working.

Block A: 

Tonight please read Margaret Atwood's short story titled "Happy Endings." Please use the story structure as a model to write your own version--a "choose your own adventure" format that has multiple conclusion options. Your version will be due (TYPED) on Thursday. Please print before you arrive!

Block B:

Please read Chapter 9 (up until the page break on page 130). Use the map of Burundi/Rwanda that I gave you in class to map and annotate the events in the chapter. Bring your work (on the back of your Chapter 7 yellow mind map) to class on Wednesday. We will finish Chapter 9 together.

Block C: 

Continue to work on completing the items on the Frederick Douglass reading and writing checklist of assignments that are due on Thursday 12/19. Bring your questions to class with you 

Friday 12/13/13: homework

Block A: 

Make a wish list for the types of projects and writing you would still like to work on in the time remaining this semester. Be specific! Bring your lists to class on Monday. 

Block B: 

Read and annotate Chapter 8 this weekend. We will be talking about your mind maps on Monday

Block C: 

Continue to work on completing the items on your Frederick Douglass Reading Spectacular checklist . You will have work time on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday next week. See the assignment below for dates and information: 

Block E: 

Continue to work on completing the items on your Frederick Douglass Reading Spectacular checklist . You will have work time on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday next week. Below are the notes from the discussion we had yesterday on Douglass's purposes for writing the Narrative. 

Thursday 12/12/13

Block C and E: 

We will be working on the Frederick Douglass Reading schedule that you received today. Your goal is to move at your own pace during class time and at home to complete the assignments by the end of next week. 

Block F: 

Today you received the reading and writing assignments that you will be working on at your own pace over the next few days. Your job is to complete both the reading (up through Chapter 17) and the writing activities that will be due by Friday 12/20. 

Wednesday 12/11/13: homework

Sorry to be posting so late! We had long workshops today and I nearly forgot! Have no fear, the homework is here! 

Block A: Bring your dialogue projects to class on Friday. We will be using the mobile lab to finish them up! 

Block B:

Read chapter 7 in Strength in What Remains for Friday. Also, finish this week's AoW fr Friday too! 

Block C and E:

Read and annotate Chapter 7 in The Narrative. 

Block F: 

Read and annotate Chapter 5 in "The Body" for Thursday. 

Monday 12/9/13

Block A:
Today we took a break from the Dialogue projects (due to a computer shortage!) to talk about our favorite words. Tonight, your job is to take a look at the list of "Cool Words" that I gave you and select one that you would like to adopt. Use the instructions on the handout I gave you in class and do some research about what your chosen word means. Bring your word and your research to class tomorrow so that you can create an awesome story about your word. You have some choices about the genre you will select tomorrow.

In the meantime, continue to work on your Dialogue from Film projects--we will be wrapping up the project on Friday when we have the lab back again.

Block B: 
We worked on bringing some vocabulary words to life using some creative writing approaches today. We will hear from the rest of the groups tomorrow. For tonight, please be sure that you are caught up through Chapter 6 in Strength--as we will be developing questions on the text in class tomorrow.

Block C:
Today we talked about some of Frederick Douglass's purposes for writing the Narrative. We know that he took great risks in telling his story during this time. Some of the purposes you identified in class today were:

• to make sure outsiders knew what was happening to slaves
• to show misconceptions about slavery
• to show how poorly slaves were treated
• to show the daily life of slaves
• to use his knowledge to give voice to all slaves

 Tonight, please identify TWO purposes that you see and complete the front side of the sheet that I gave you in class today. Use evidence from the text to support your ideas.

Friday December 6: Homework

Block B:
For those of you who were selected to share your one-pagers today, thank you! You are getting the hang of this activity, and I think the discussion we had generated a lot of interesting observations. I've attached the notes below. This weekend, please read Chapters 5 and 6, taking note on the area you have selected to focus on in the reading. For example, after hearing Tristan question why Deo has not yet revealed his history of what he saw before he fled the country, I started to consider the choices that Tracy Kidder is making in STRUCTURING the novel. My focus this weekend will be to consider the chronology of the story as it is revealed by Kidder. What will you look at? Bring your notes, observations, and questions to class on Monday.

Block C and E:

• Read and annotate Chapter 2 in The Narrative. Mark up the text with your questions, observations, and connections. Also, find 3 new vocabulary words and look up the definitions!
• Read your independent reading book too.

Block F: 

• Read and annotate Chapters 1-4 in "The Body."Mark up the text, taking note of the setting and characters. Fill in your character chart as well. 

Thursday 12/5/13

Block e:

For tonight, please read and annotate Chapter 1 of The Narrative. I will be checking your annotations. Make notes on the observations, questions, and connections you develop. 

Block F:

For tonight, please refer to the article we read by Lenore Skenazy in class today to formulate an argument. Follow the template provided to you and write a polished, well-supported and grammatically sound response of about 250 words. Bring it to class and have it ready at the start of the block! 

Block A:

Continue to work on your dialogue projects and bring your draft with you to class, printed and ready to go, on Monday. We will be workshopping! Send your drafts to the copy center before the class block and pick them up on your way. 

Wednesday 12/4/13: Homework

Block F:

Finish your free write on your childhood adventure. Be prepared to discuss tomorrow. 

Turn in your Room essay to turnout in.com.  Our class code is: 7353857 and the password is ILOVEENGLISH. 

Block A:

Continue working on your dialogue projects. We will have the mobile lab tomorrow, so bring your movie clips and scripts tomorrow.

Block B:

Revisit your Article of the Week work, taking in the feedback you received today. I will collect your work on Friday. 

Work on the "Signposts" organizer and use your observations to develop a one-pager due on Friday. Bring your one-pager (printed and ready to share at the start of the class) on Friday! 

Block C: 

Wow! What an awesome, sticker-worthy discussion we had today!  I was so impressed with all the connections you made between the texts we have been studying. You rock! I took a picture so you could remember and revisit your ideas. Behold! 

For Friday, please read and ANNOTATE Chapter 1 of Douglass' Narrative. 

Tuesday 12/3/13: homework

Block A:

Bring your screenplay and film clip with you to class tomorrow to work on transforming your scene from film to prose! We will be using the mobile lab in class tomorrow to write the revision.

Block B:

Article of the Week due tomorrow.

Read and annotate Chapter 4 in Strength.

Block C:

Revisit the documentary on Frederick Douglass here and work on improving the quality of the notes that you took in class. If you received less than a 7/8, you should be prepared to resubmit your notes. 

Block E: 

Review your notes on the documentary on Frederick Douglass that we watched before break. We will be starting the text tomorrow. 

Monday 12/2/13: Homework

Welcome Back! Here's what you should be doing tonight!

Block C and E:

• Finish your in-class writing response to the question we explored today: Do we have too much stuff?
• Keep in mind the two video clips we watched in class. Your response should reflect some careful thinking and it should consider any counter arguments as well.
• Read your independent reading book at home for 15 minutes too.

Block F:

• Finish the in-class writing response to the question we explored today: Do we have too much stuff? Consider the two video clips we watched in class as you compose your response. Think deeply and carefully and connect your ideas to your SCHEMA (prior knowledge). Follow the format that we set up in class:

In my view, ________________________________ because_______________________________. More specifically, I believe that ______________________________. For example, _________________. Although __________might object, I maintain that ___________________. Therfore, I conclude that _________________________________;.

• In addition, you should be working to finish your Room essays due at the start of class on Wednesday. Extra help is available after school on Tuesday!

Homework 11/26/13 Tuesday

Block F:

• Work on your Room essays due on  Wednesday after the holiday break.

Block A:

• Find a scene from a film that you want to develop into a chapter. See yesterday's post for the website to use to locate a screenplay. Fill out page #3 of the organizer I gave you in class today and bring your response and a printed copy of the screenplay scene with you on Monday.

Block B:

• New AoW due on Wednesday after break
• Read Chapter 4 of Strength in What Remains. Note your questions, observations and connections as you read.

Block C and E:

• Today (or yesterday) we watched a documentary on Frederick Douglass. If you were not here, please watch the film over the long weekend and take notes on what you see. You can watch the film here. 

Monday 11/25: Homework

Block A:

Tonight I want you to take a look at the two websites I showed you in class today. The first one features a really great writing opportunity, especially if you hope to one day publish your work. Check out:

Stage of Life

Next, as part of a dialogue project that we will be starting tomorrow, I would like you to spend some time at this fabulous screenplay warehouse. Search through the zillions of scripts on file here, and see if you can find one of your favorites. Remember, the goal is to find a screenplay for a film that you love and a film that you have access to, as you will need to watch the scene in order to complete this project. Narrow down your film selection and find a scene that you think contains particularly great dialogue. Bring in your ideas, and I will show you some models tomorrow! It will be AWESOME!

Block B:

1. Your AoW on teens and e-cigarettes is due tomorrow. Please be sure to follow ALL of the directions!

2. Read and annotate Chapter 3 in Strength. Focus your reading of the language Deo uses to describe the SETTING.

Block C:

 A great MANY of you did not complete the assignment on "The Yellow Wallpaper" that was due today. Because we will not meet again until after the holiday, it would behoove you to turn in your missing work before Wednesday, as I will not be accepting the "Yellow Wallpaper" responses after the holiday break. 

• Please continue to read your independent reading book and have a great holiday. 

Friday 11/22/12: Homework

Block B:

• Over the weekend, please read Chapter 2 in Strength in What Remains. Make notes of your observations, questions and connections and bring your notes with you to class. 
• Read your independent reading book as well!

Block C and E:

Check out this woman,
"creeping about behind that pattern.
..I don't like it one bit!"

We finished "The Yellow Wallpaper" today! I was so happy to be a part of such an enthusiastic discussion. You did a nice job reading closely and thinking analytically. Over the weekend, I would like you to consider the story, as well as the other non-fiction texts we looked at in class, including "Why I Wrote 'The Yellow Wallpaper,'" as well as the article about Mitchell's "Rest Cure." Please write a three paragraph response, using the following recipe:

• Your first paragraph is a summary of the short story.
• Your second paragraph is a reaction to the story.  “I think...” “I wonder...” “I notice...”
• Your third paragraph explores connections to the story.  What in your schema  (background knowledge) relates to the story?

Block F:

Today you worked independently to develop your ideas and support the essay you will be writing over the next week or so. This weekend, continue to map out your ideas and develop your argument. When we return to class on Tuesday, I will be giving you some writing guidelines and we will be drafting your responses.

Thursday 11/21: Homework

Block E:
Great discussion today folks! You all  made lots of great observations!

• Finish reading and annotating "The Yellow Wallpaper" for tomorrow. We will do some in-class writing about the story.

Block F:

• Work on your mind maps/outlines/organizers for your essay plan. Bring your work tomorrow as I will be giving you a grade for the progress you have made thus far. 

Block A:

Thanks to Emma, Marcos, and Nadia for performing "Sure Thing" for us in class today! Excellent job!

• This weekend, write your own version!  Using the play as a model to capture another dialogue that is perpetually restarted until the desired results are achieved.  

Wednesday 11/20: homework

Block f: 

Begin your work on your mind map. Gather evidence for the essay you will be writing next week. 

We will be having a Socratic seminar tomorrow. 

Block A: 

Tonight, please read the one act play I distributed today. We will be acting it out in class tomorrow! 

We will also be working with the mobile lab to finish the dialogue you wrote with your partner tomorrow as well. 

Block B:

1. Finish reading Chapter 1 in Strength in What Remains.

2. AoW due on Tuesday. 

3. Read your independent reading book.

Block C:

Great discussion today! 

Finish reading and annotating "The Yellow Wallpaper" for class on Friday. 

Tuesday November 19: Homework

Block A:
Today we worked on adding beats and tags into the dialogue we've been writing with a partner. Tomorrow we will finish the scenes in class. Tonight, as part of our effort to hear good dialogue, I'd like you to eavesdrop on a conversation between two people you do not know. Put yourself in a place where you can listen to your surroundings and record what you hear from real people. Sit at a booth at a coffee shop or a restaurant, hang out on your front porch and listen to people walking by, drop into a barber shop and listen. You get the idea!

Block B:
1. Bring in any used novels that you would like to donate to our reading library.
2. Complete the Article of the Week reading response that we started in class today.
3. Study your vocabulary words for tomorrow's quiz. Use the Vocabulary.com site I showed you in class to help prepare! You can find our list here.

Block C 
1. Today we started reading the short story titled  "The Yellow Wallpaper." Please read and annotate from the section we starred on page 648 to the page break (stars) on 650 for our next class.

Block E: 

1. Read "The Yellow Wallpaper" pages 649 (stars) to 650 (stars) for our next class.

Monday November 18: Homework

Block C and E:

Today you explored a thematic connection you made in an in-class essay! Hooray! I will be taking a look at how you did and we will be talking about your responses tomorrow.

Tonight, please read your independent reading book and be sure to bring your True Diary text back to class tomorrow.

Block F:

For Wednesday, prepare your notes on the end of Room for our final Socratic seminar--we will focus on what the novel teaches us about the process of growing up. I will ask you to consider the elements of a bildungsroman, so be prepared to examine the criteria we've noted about the genre. I will also ask you to consider the other texts we've read thus far this semester in your discussion, so prepare in advance.

Friday November 15: Homework

Block E: 
Complete your Theme Triangles for the in-class essay you will write on Monday. Be sure to find lots of good support (quotes, examples) from the three texts you will be writing about. Bring your triangle organizers to class on Monday!

Read your independent reading book as well.

Block F:
Finish reading  Room  over the weekend. Be sure to annotate and gather notes and quotes as you read.

Block A:
 Read "The Secret to Not Getting Stuck" this weekend. Examine sections with dialogue and annotate the text as you read. We will do an activity on Tuesday when we return to class.

Block B: 
Work on the 5 AoWs I gave you to read this week. Be sure to follow the directions on the instruction sheet and mark up each text as you determine its central argument.

Read your independent reading book as well.

Thursday November 15th: Homework

Block A:

• Read and annotate the packet on dialogue that I gave you in class today. Be prepared for a reading check in class tomorrow. 

Block B:

• Work on the 5 AoW articles that I assigned in class today. Follow the steps for completing the work on the sheet of instructions. All reading and annotations are due on Tuesday.
• Continue to work on the Vocabulary stories we started writing in groups today--you will have some additional time to finish them in class tomorrow.
• Read your independent reading book.

Block C:

• Work on completing your Theme Triangles this weekend. Your charts should have lots of evidence and examples that you can use for support when you write your theme essays in class on Monday. Be sure to cite the sources and page numbers of the texts you use. Bring your completed triangles to class with you on Monday!!

Wednesday 11/13: Homework

Block B:

• Study vocabulary words for our activity tomorrow. 
• Read your independent reading book and find an example of a subordinating conjunction.

Block C: 

• Work on your theme triangles at home tonight. Develop a third connection and find evidence to support your ideas. 

Block E:

• Develop a theme for your triangle project which we will start when we meet next. 
• Read your independent reading book. 

Block F: 

• Prepare your notes and quotes for our Socratic seminar on Friday. 
• Keep reading Room. Remember our goal is to finish the novel by Monday. 

Tuesday November 12: Homework

Block E: 

Today we learned what the difference is between a THEME and a TOPIC. 

1. Read and ANNOTATE the chapter from I am Malala. 
2. Check out this news story about Malala and be ready to talk about it tomorrow. 
3. Use your notes to develop a THEME that you see between the work of Alexie and the work of Malala. Remember, a theme is not just a word--it is a sentence that captures the central message of a text. 

Block F:

You posed some great questions about the novel today. Our goal is to finish the book by Monday. We will have a Socratic Seminar tomorrow on the section of the text you read over the long weekend. Be sure to bring your notes and annotations to class tomorrow.

Tonight, I'd like you to read the two blog entries listed below. They are from an author and blogger named Allie Brosh. She has been living with depression and she has a very compelling way of exploring the challenges that people face. Read the two blog entries and write a  SPA paragraph to answer the following question for homework:

Adventures in Depression from Hyperbole and a Half

Depression Part 2 from Hyperbole and a Half

How do Allie Brosh's blog entries help us to understand Ma's perspective? 

Use details from both the novel and the blog to support your ideas. 

Block A: 

Make an entry in your Smash Book tonight. Choose a topic and find an artifact to attach. 

Thursday 11/7/13: Homework

Block F: 
Over the long weekend, please read Room through page 280 (the "After" section). Please use whatever reading organizer that works best for you to keep track of important quotations, observations and developments. I will be collecting your reading notes for credit towards the next Socratic Seminar we have. Use the following question to guide your reading:

How does the world shift for Ma, and how does it shift for Jack once they leave Room?

Block A: 

• Read and annotate the short story "The Puppies" over the weekend and complete a reading response for Tuesday. 
• Prepare for our Reader's Theater exercise on Tuesday! Hooray!

Block B:

You survived your first round of one-pagers! You all did a great job preparing for class today and for those of your who were called to read, nice work! 

• This weekend, please write a 2 paragraph reflection on today's class. Write the first paragraph on some specific ideas that resonated with you. Be specific about what you heard. I've included the notes from the board to help you with this part. Write the second paragraph about the process we followed today--the preparation, the app of opportunity, the listening, and your participation.
• Also, take some time to study the first 20 vocabulary words we've learned. We will be playing a few more games before your next assessment. 

Block C:

• Today we learned the difference between a topic and a theme. Your job this weekend is to develop a theme that is evident in both Malala's story and the work of Sherman Alexie. Use the notes from class to develop your theme.
• Read  and annotate the chapter from I am Malala. Use the chapter to inform your decisions around the theme you develop. 

Wednesday 11/6/13: homework

Block A: 

Tomorrow we will be writing scenarios from multiple perspectives. Tonight, think about what kind of story you want to tell tomorrow. Bring your ideas to class.

Block B:

Bring your completed one pager on "Hell-Heaven" to class. Have it printed and ready at the start of class. If you do not have a printer, email a copy to the copy center ahead of time at copy.center@hudson.k12.ma.us

Block C: 

Today we watched a remarkable story about Malala. You can watch it again here if you would like.

Tonight, please fill out the organizer I gave you in class today, as we will be starting your theme triangle projects tomorrow.

Block E:

 Today we watched a remarkable story about Malala. You can watch it again here if you would like.

Tonight, please fill out the organizer I gave you in class today, as we will be starting your theme triangle projects when you return to class. 

Tuesday November 5,2013: Homework

Block C:
Here are the notes from today's discussion:

• We will be starting our final projects tomorrow. Please bring your Big Ideas chart to class.
• Read your independent reading book and log your progress.

Block E:

Here are the notes from class today:

• We will be starting our final projects tomorrow. Please bring your Big Ideas chart to class.
• Read your independent reading book and log your progress.

Block F:

• We had two lively Socratic seminars today on the first two sections of Room. Tonight, please write a 1-2 paragraph reflection on what you heard in class today. What did you hear? What resonated with you? How did you feel about the activity? Evaluate your level of participation.

Monday November 4 2013: Homework

Block E:

• Type a Reading Response (follow the recipe) on Smoke Signals. Print and bring to class on Tuesday.
• Read your independent reading book.

Block F:

• Finish reading Room (up to page 174) for tomorrow. Fill in your SignPost maps prior to our Socratic seminar on the first two sections tomorrow.

Block A:

• Read "How to Be a Writer" for class on Wednesday. Write a Readers Response and print it out before class on Wednesday.

Block B: 

• Final Drafts due at the start of class on Wednesday. Print your essay before you arrive to class and attach the rubric to your work. Save your work to your Google Drive so that you can submit to TURNITIN.com on Wednesday. Our class ID is 7245115. The password is ILOVEENGLISH.
• Prepare your notes on "Hell-Heaven." We will be writing a one-pager in class on Wednesday.

Friday November 1st: Homework

Block A Creative Writing

• Prepare for sharing day on Monday. 
• Read your independent reading book

Block B Honors English 11

• Finish reading and annotating "Hell-Heaven." Complete the Reading Notes handout for class on Monday.
• Revise your Alexie essay. Final drafts due on Wednesday. We will be using Turnitin.com--I'll give you the password to join the class on Monday.
• Study the first 20 vocabulary words--we will do some activities this week before your assessment to ensure that you've mastered all of them!

Block C English 11

• Write a Reading Response on Smoke Signals using the "recipe" on the yellow handout. Type it, print it, and bring it to class on Tuesday. 

Thursday 10.31: Halloween Homework!

Happy Halloween! 

Block B: 

Re-read and re-annotate the first 6 pages of "Hell-Heaven" for class tomorrow. Be prepared to write about what you've read. Remember, the idea is to read SLOWLY and CAREFULLY!

Also, finish your vocabulary story for tomorrow! We will share some of them in class.

Block C:

We watched the first 20 minutes of Smoke Signals today. Tonight, I'd like you to record at least 3 observations and connections on the "text-rendering chart" that I gave you in class. 

Block E:

We watched Smoke Signals in class today. Tonight, please add to the chart that we have been using in class. Connect the big ideas that you have noted in other texts by Alexie to those presented thus far in film. 

Block F: 

Tonight, finish reading UnLying (the second section) of Room. For Tuesday, finish through "Dying" so that we can discuss! 

Wednesday 10.30: Homework

Block E: English 11

We finished Alexie's novel, and we will be starting to watch the film Smoke Signals in class tomorrow. 

Read your independent reading book at home tonight. 

Block F: English 12

Read to page 90 in Room tonight. Add at least 3 sticky notes on passages that you would like to explore in class discussion tomorrow. Be prepared for a reading quiz too. 

By the way, here is the website I showed you in class yesterday. Check it out!

Block A: Creative Writing

Today we started to a retelling of the story "Mermaid Fever" from a new and different point of view. Continue to work on your revision and bring your final draft (printed BEFORE the start of class) with you on Friday. Remember, Friday is SHARING DAY! Be prepared to go PUBLIC!

Tuesday October 29: Homework

Block F: English 12

Read to page 74 (stop at the second page break). Add additional quotes to the chart that we made in class today, and be prepared for a reading quiz at the start of the class. 

Block A: Creative Writing

We had a pretty awesome discussion/Socratic seminar today about "Mermaid Fever." I heard lots of voices--you all made some excellent insights and connections. Good work!

For tonight, please write a 1 paragraph reflection on what you heard today. Try to be as specific as you can about what resonated with you during the discussion.

Block B: Honors English 11

We had a very compelling conversation today about the Washington Redskins controversy. There are a lot of different opinions out there and it was good to hear you articulate the different sides of the argument. 

For Thursday, please read the first 6 pages of the short story "Hell-Heaven" by Jhumpa Lahiri. In case you walked out of the room before you grabbed one, you can read and print out the story here. Please ANNOTATE the story carefully, taking note of your questions, observations, and connections. We will discuss the first section on Thursday, so please arrive to class prepared. 

Block C: English 11

We finished the novel! Review your notes and the drawing we did today in class about the symbolism that Alexie uses at the end of the novel. Be prepared to demonstrate your understanding (quiz!) on today's discussion before we begin the film Smoke Signals on Thursday. 

Monday 10.28: Homework

Block A:

• Bring your TYPED Reader Response on "Mermaid Fever" to class tomorrow. We will discuss the elements of the story and focus on point of view.

Block B:

• Post a comment on the "Whatcha Reading?" section of this blog. Be specific (include the title and author and a quick remark about your recommendation.
• Bring your response on the Redskins mascot issue to class tomorrow. We will discuss the evidence you used.
• Read your independent reading book.

Block C:

• Read and annotate the last chapter of True Diary. I will be checking annotations and you will be writing about the chapter at the start of class, so please arrive prepared!
• Read your independent reading book

Block E: 

• Read and annotate the last chapter of True Diary. I will be checking annotations and you will be writing about the chapter at the start of class, so please arrive prepared!
• Read your independent reading book.

Friday 10.25.13: Homework and Go SOX!

Block C English 11

1. Read to page 218 in True Diary, taking note of the BIG IDEAS that we listed on the board below. As you find evidence of any of the ideas listed, jot it down on a sticky note so you can add it to the organizer we will be making in class on Monday. 

Block E English 11

1. Read to page 218 in True Diary and add at least 4 quotes/specific details from your reading to your Big Ideas Map. 

Block F English 12

1. Read up to page 56 (the end of the first section) of Room. Take notes or use sticky notes as you read, so you will be ready to have a discuss on the novel on Tuesday when you return to class. 

Whatcha Reading?

Hey all you readers out there! Do you have a book that you have read recently that you would like to recommend to your friends? Take a minute and post a comment here if you have a great book to share! 

Thursday 10.24.13: homework

Block E: 

1. Read to page 196 in True Diary. Add at least 4 notes to the bubble sheets we started today.

Block F

1. Today we took a quiz on the class notes from yesterday. Students who were absent today should plan to take the quiz at the start of class on Friday. 
2. We began a reading chart in class to accompany our study of room. Here's what it looks like: 

3. You should be adding to it as you read each night, noting questions, observations, and significant quotes. 

4. For tonight, please read up to the page break on page 31. 

Block A: 

Read and annotate "Mermaid Fever" and write a Reader Response for Monday. In case you need another copy of the story, you can read it here.

Block B: 

Today we did some persuasive writing practice. Using the "formula" I gave you, please finish your response on the Washington Redskins controversy, using the evidence in the article we read in class.

In case you need it, here is the formula (from "They Say, I Say: The Moves that Matter in Academic Writing" by Gerald Graffiti and Cathy Birkenstein)

Wednesday 10.23.13: Homework

Block F Senior English

• Review your notes from today's class for a quiz on the material tomorrow.
• Read the first 14 pages of Room for Thursday. Take note of the writing style and the narrative voice.

Block A Creative Writing

• For Monday, read Mermaid Fever and write a Reader's Response. Be prepared for a discussion on point of view.

Blending Quotes into your writing

Here's a great little video that teaches how to blend quotes into your writing:

Tuesday October 22, 2013: Homework

Block A

Your character projects are due today! We are going to create Twitter Bios for them today in class. According to the New York Times, Twitter Bios are a "new postmodern art form." We will use words that we find in magazines to string together an unusual "found" bio to serve as an introduction to your project. Tonight, look for words that could work to describe your character. Look for images as well. Tomorrow, we will assemble all of the pieces and you will submit it all for credit! 

Block B

Today you turned in a rough draft of your Alexie essay. Hooray! I will be looking them over this afternoon and will have some feedback for you on Thursday. 

Tonight, read your independent reading book and write a quick journal response in your composition book to explore the following prompt:

• I think...
• I notice...
• I wonder...

Block C

For Friday, read up to page 196 in True Diary. Locate three "signposts" in the reading and chart them on your bright yellow Signpost map. 

Monday 10/21/13

Hello Folks! I'm out today, and that means that you will have an assignment to work on in my absence. Please follow the plan that I have left with the substitute today. All work assigned will be due at the end of the block--no exceptions!

Friday 10/18:13

Block E: English 11

• "Article of the Week" assignment on Sherman Alexie due on Thursday. Pace yourself and do one part at a time.
• Read your independent reading book and log your progress.

Block F: English 12

• Use this weekend to work on your college essays/applications. Do some research based on the career interests you have after completing the survey with Mr. Darlington. We will be beginning our new novel early next week, and the reading homework will begin to increase, so please plan accordingly.
• Read your independent reading book and log your progress.

Block A: Creative Writing

• Complete your 4-part Character Project--all parts will be due, TYPED and PRINTED prior to your arrival to class on Tuesday. You will need to print before you arrive to the classroom, so plan your time accordingly. You may print at the library or email the copy center at: copy.center@hudson.k12.ma.us.

Thursday 10/17: Homework

Block F/English 

Block A/Creative Writing

• Read and mark up the first chapter of Ellen Foster.  Take note of the balance between narration and action.
• Re-read the handout on how to write a scene. Brainstorm some ways that you can create a subtle, but significant change in your character.

Block B/Honors English 11

• Work on building your essay and locating and blending evidence. 
• Rough draft is due on Tuesday 10/22!
• Read your independent reading book too.

Block C/English 11

• Article of the Week assignment due on Tuesday!

Block A/Creative Writing

Today we finished the film Stranger than Fiction. If you did not do so already, please complete a Reading Response for the film and bring it to class (TYPED and saved on your Google Account) tomorrow.

Next, I gave you an excerpt from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to read. Using three different colored highlighters, mark up the text noting the difference between narrative, action, and dialogue. Bring your colorful work to class tomorrow!

Block B/Honors English 11

Today we worked on thesis statements--which are a bit tricky as you are trying to write about both the WHAT and the HOW (the theme and the strategies Alexie explores).  If you are looking for help, try using this organizer, which provides some good vocabulary for you to use in your thesis.

Here are some important dates that you will need to remember:

Rough Draft due on Tuesday 10/22

Final draft due on 10/28 (submitted in paper form and via Turnitin.com

Finally, if you were planning to use any of the interview we watched with Sherman Alexie, feel free to view it here. Depending on your topic, you may find some relevant comments that you can incorporate as evidence. .

Block C/English 11

• Read up to page 151 in True Diary. 
• Read your independent reading book at least 15 minutes. 

Block E/English 11

• Read up to page 151 in True Diary. 
• Read your independent reading book at least 15 minutes. 

Tuesday 10/15: Homework

Block C English 11

Today we revisited of the chapters in True Diary that we have read recently. We will resume our discussion tomorrow. Here are the notes from the board today:

Block C--here is your homework for tonight:

1. If you haven't done so already, please complete the SPA paragraph assignment on "Reservation Mathematics" and bring your TYPED response to class tomorrow.

2. Here is the link to the interview with Sherman Alexie that we started to watch in class. Please watch the first 20 minutes or so of the interview (especially the part where he discusses his father's alcoholism--you may stop the video when he talks about Pendelton blankets...) As you watch the video, jot down 3 big ideas/connections you made while listening. 

3. Read your independent reading book and log your progress.

Block E/English 11

Tonight, your job is to do the following:

Our notes from today's class:

1.  Here is the link to the interview with Sherman Alexie that we started to watch in class. Please watch the first 20 minutes or so of the interview (especially the part where he discusses his father's alcoholism--you may stop the video when he talks about Pendelton blankets...) As you watch the video, jot down 3 big ideas/connections you made while listening. 

2. Read your independent reading book and log your progress. 

Block F/English 12

Tonight, using your notes from today's presentations, prepare your ideas for class on Thursday when you will respond to the following prompt in an in-class write:

What does the film Pleasantville have in common with the story "St. Lucy's School for Girls Raised by Wolves"? 

Friday 10/11: Homework

Block  E/ English 11

• This weekend, complete the assignment on "Reservation Mathematics." Bring your TYPED SPA paragraph to class on Tuesday.
• Read your independent reading book and log your progress.

Block F/English 12

• Continue to work on your college essays/applications/future plans. 
• Read your independent reading book and log your progress
• Pleasantville presentations begin on Tuesday, so prepare your notes to share with the class.

Block A/Creative Writing

• Even though we only have a few minutes of the film left to watch, please use the yellow Reading Response sheet (with the goat on it) to write a reaction to Stranger than Fiction. TYPE, PRINT, and bring it to class on Wednesday for our discussion. We will finish the film and then see what you have to say about it!

Block B/Honors English 11

• Continue to work on your Alexie essays. Refine your thesis and build your evidence. We will be working in the lab on Tuesday, so be sure to save your work in your Google Docs.
• Read your independent reading book and log your progress.

Thursday 10/10:Homework

Block A:
Today we started to watch the film Stranger than Fiction. We will continue the film tomorrow and over the weekend, I would like you to complete a Reading Response (the goat sheet) due on Tuesday.

Block B: Today we started to work on the final project for our Alexie unit. See the notes below. 

Tonight, your goal is to try to develop a theme out of a topic that you would like to write about. Remember, a theme differs from a topic, because a theme tells us what a writer has to say about a topic. Remember, authors don't always say things directly; sometimes they convey an idea indirectly using strategies like metaphor or irony. A theme is not a word, but rather a statement (written in a complete sentence) that explains what an author is trying to convey.  A work can have more than one theme.

For example, I may choose to explore the topic of empathy.  

A theme I may be able to support would look something like this:  

• A lack of human empathy results in isolation.

Or, I may choose to explore the topic of family.

My theme may be something along the lines of: 

• Families can overcome adversity by sticking together. 

Finally, to repeat Shane's example, in writing about the topic of basketball: 

• Basketball is a way for Indians to fight both an external war with the "whites" and an internal war found within themselves.

Block C:

For Tuesday(!) please complete the assignment on "Reservation Mathematics" that I gave you on the handout at the end of class. Use your notes from class to respond to each step of the assignment. Bring your TYPED SPA paragraph to class on Tuesday. 

Wednesday 10/9: Homework

Block B:

Today we worked on building textual support into your spiffy mind maps. Tonight, please focus on three of your strongest topic areas and do some brainstorming about each one. 

Your essay prompt for this project is:

     Identify a major theme that Sherman Alexie illuminates through his writing, and explain what strategies he uses to develop this theme.

In other words, what is Alexie saying about a particular topic, and how is he saying it? In class, I modeled some brainstorming strategies that will help you to discover a theme. We will work more on this in class tomorrow. To help you out, I've attached my notes from the few minutes I had at the end of class to start my brainstorm: 

My topic: Living in between two worlds

My ideas/observations:  It seems from many of the texts that it is really challenging to balance two different and often contentious parts of one's identity. 

• My own "Wounded Knee and Little Big Horn"--(Res. Mathematics)--the idea that Indians are both the victors and the ones who have been defeated in historical battles.
• Battles reminds me of the fighting in various texts--both inner and outer fighting. Victor and Thomas fight--Rowdy and Arnold fight. There are "rules to fisticuffs" in True Diary  Narrator uses his "white thumb and his Indian fingers to make fists, furious" (reservation math)
• Abuse--fathers abuse kids--fighting is generational. 
• Seems that living in two worlds produces a lot of violence and anger--expressed outwardly and directed inwardly--self-loathing. Arnold (True Diary) feels like an "UFO". 

As you can see from my notes, this type of brainstorming is messy and disorganized, but essential to developing a clear and supportable THEME. Take your time and see what you learn!

Block C: 

Today we did some writing in class to examine and analyze Alexie's language in True Diary. Tonight, I would like you to review the notes from our discussion and make some connections between Alexie's language and the experiences that Morgan Spurlock recounts on "30 Days." How do both "stories" connect? Think about what we talked about when we studied Big Fish.

Block E: 

Today we did some in class writing to examine and analyze Alexie's language in True Diary. Then, we started to look closely at Alexie's poem "Reservation Mathematics" as part of our author study. Tonight, I would like you to fill in the bubble sheet that we started in class, paying close attention to the language of the poem as you make your observations.

Block F:

Today we used our time together to plan for your future. Scary and exciting stuff! Tonight, please write a one-page reflection on how it went today. Use these questions to start your reflections:

• What did you do with your time? 
• What help do you need?
•  What will you do next to prepare? 
• How are you feeling about the process, and about the future in general?

Tuesday 10/8: Homework

Block e:
Tonight, please research the three terms on the handout I gave you in class today ( the Battle of Little Big Horn, the Battle of Wounded Knee, and the poem "Miss Rosie" by Lucille Clifton)

Block F:

Tonight, please continue to work on the handout we starting in class today. We will resume group project work on Friday. Tomorrow we will begin our "Get your Life Together" future planning meeting in the lab. Please bring your college essay work, applications, and anything else you might need for tomorrow.

Block A:
Today we continued to work on character monologues in the lab. If you have not finished yours, please do so tonight.

Monday 10/7: Homework

Block F:
Today we had a visit from the guidance counselors to learn about ways to write the college essay. We will be working in the lab later this week on your essays, so start thinking about what you may want to say.
Tomorrow, you have a reading response on Pleasantville due. Please TYPE it and be ready to share your responses in class.

Block A:
Today we worked on writing monologues. I gave you a two-sided article to read on how to write monologues. Please read and annotate tonight, and we will discuss briefly before we begin working in the lab. Please meet in E210 tomorrow.


Block B:
Today we started our first mind maps of the year to trace what we know and understand about the work of Sherman Alexie. Already, you are off to a good start and all of you have maps that are unique to your brains! For tonight, continue to add to your map and trace what you know. Try to refer to the texts using language and quotes to support the connections you are making.


Block C:
Tonight, please make sure that you have added a good deal of detail and textual references to your green "Signposts" map for our discussion on Wednesday. Be sure you have read up to page 129--we may have a reading quiz on Wednesday, so be ready!

Friday 10/4: Homework

Block A:

Today we talked about monologues--and what they can reveal about the characters who speak them. Next week we will be going to the lab to create monologues for the new characters you've developed. This weekend, your job is to make a list of TEN ideas/topics about which your character may have something to say. Bring your list to the lab on Monday (and a laptop, if you'd like). 

Block B:

Today we had an academic conversation on Smoke Signals. See the notes of our conversation below: 

Tonight, write a quick reflection on our discussion in your composition book. What resonated with you? 

Remember to read your independent reading book at least 15 minutes each night too. 

Block C:

Today we watched Morgan Spurlock's documentary TV show titled 30 Days: Life on an Indian Reservation (if you were out, the show is available on Netflix streaming). We have about 10 minutes of the show to finish on Monday, but for the weekend I would like you to write about what you have seen thus far. Please complete a 3-2-1:

• 3 Observations 
• 2 Questions
• 1 opinion

Don't forget to read your book at least 15 minutes each night too!

Block E:

Today we watched Morgan Spurlock's documentary TV show titled 30 Days: Life on an Indian Reservation (if you were out, the show is available on Netflix streaming). For the weekend, I would like you to write about what you have seen thus far. Please complete a 3-2-1:

• 3 Observations 
• 2 Questions
• 1 opinion

Don't forget to read your book at least 15 minutes each night too!

Thursday 10/3: Homework

Block C:
Today we started noting our reading observations on the big green  "Signposts" map. Tonight, I would like you to look back through the chapters of True Diary that we have read thus far (you should be up to page 129) and record some additional observations on your map. You should have something for each category (an A-ha moment, a Word to the Wiser, etc)

Don't forget to read your independent reading book too--at least 15 minutes!


Block E:
Today we started noting our reading observations on the big green  "Signposts" map. Tonight, I would like you to look back through the chapters of True Diary that we have read thus far (you should be up to page 129) and record some additional observations on your map. You should have something for each category (an A-ha moment, a Word to the Wiser, etc)

Don't forget to read your independent reading book too--at least 15 minutes!

Block F:
In class today, we finished the film Pleasantville. I'm looking forward to your enthusiastic participation when we have a discussion about the film when we meet next. Over the weekend, while the ideas are fresh in your mind, please complete the  "Recipe for Reading Response" assignment that I distributed in class today. Be thoughtful, specific, and on time. Please sure TYPE your response and print it out prior to class on Tuesday. Remember, the guidance counselors will join us in class on Monday to talk with us about how to write you college application essays.

Wednesday 10/3: Homework

Block E: 
For tonight, please read up to page 117 in True Diary . 
Choose 2  prompts on the red "reading skills sheet"  and respond to each in a well-written and thoughtful paragraph.
Don't forget to read your independent reading book too.

Block F:
Today we watched Pleasantville-- we have a bit more to go. However, you are likely noticing a great deal. Tonight, use the prompts on the red "reading skills" sheet to think about the big ideas in the film. Please choose TWO of the prompts from the sheet and write a thoughtful response (paragraph) for each prompt.
Don't forget to read your independent reading book too.

Block A:
 Today we worked on Part 2 of your character projects. Tonight, find an artifact that your new character would have in his/her possession. Add it to your Smash book and write an entry in your character's voice.
Don't forget to read your independent reading book too.

Block B:
Today we finished Smoke Signals. Use the yellow "Recipe for Reading Responses" to respond to the film. Please type your response, print it, and save it to your google account.
Don't forget to read your independent reading book too.

Tuesday 10/1: Homework

Block A:
Today in class we talked a lot about ways we can develop characters who are not cliche. Our job is to create interesting and original characters who are believable, but not necessarily predictable. Although we planned to get into the lab today, our discussion ran over and that means that we will start up our Four Part Character Project tomorrow. Tonight, your job is to make sure you are prepared! I gave you a character organizer earlier in the week. Some of you wanted to start over, and some of you may just want to make a few changes. Tomorrow we will be working on Part 2 of the project in class, so come ready to start. We will have the mobile labs in class.

Block B
Today we did some reading at the start of class--many of you are making excellent progress in our independent reading program! Keep up the good work.
We have a new vocabulary word: VENERABLE. Your job is to add this word into your vocabulary swap story tonight.
In addition, please be sure to TYPE and PRINT your analytical response to "Why We Play Basketball." Be ready to turn it in at the start of the block tomorrow.
We will resume Smoke Signals at the beginning of the block tomorrow. If you have been out, the film is available on Netflix streaming. We left off today at the part where Victor and Thomas meet Susy Song.

Block C:
We had our first group vocabulary challenge today, and everyone did really well! Remember to continue to review your words each night, as you will be responsible for them all!
In class we explored the idea that Arnold is living in between two very different worlds, and he is often feeling torn between the two. We examined how Ellen Forney uses JUXTAPOSITION in the illustration of Arnold on page 57. Then, we used Arnold's self-portrait as a model for our own self-portraits that demonstrate different facets of our identity. Please finish these illustrations for Thursday. Don't forget that the annotations that accompany the drawing are very important!

Monday 9/30: Homework

Block B:
 Work on one page response on "Why We Play Basketball" due Wednesday--extra help available on Tuesday after school!
Your ideas from today are:

Passion x5

Tenacity (being tenacious)

Poverty

Determination x4

Remembering x3

Empowerment

Willpower

Survival

Desire

War

Underdogs

Redemption

Memories

 Start your vocabulary story using first 2 words.

Block C:

HW: Read up to page 114 for. tonight

Locate 3 significant lines and mark with sticky notes. Study your vocabulary words for tomorrow's challenge. 

Read your independent reading book at home. 

Block E:

Read up to page 67-98 for Wednesday. Complete a "Diving into the Text" handout on what you read. 

Block F: 

Using the handout in class, keep track of your observations on the film tonight. bring your work to class on Wednesday. report directly to the mini theater on Wednesday.

Friday 9/27: Homework

Block E: 

1. Read "How to Fight Monsters" in True Diary
2. Create a self portrait using Arnold's as a model (see page 57). Be sure to annotate your portrait like Arnold does to his.
3. Make a list of rules from an aspect of the culture you live in.

Block F: 
Today we had a good discussion on "St. Lucy's." See the notes attached .

 

This weekend, please choose one topic from our discussion that you would like to expand. Use the prompt starter below to write a one page response. Use textual evidence to support your ideas. Type your response and save it to your Google account. As we discussed, here's a good way to start...

Thursday 9/26: Homework

Block F: Today you spent a lot of class time responding to the text we are studying  ("St. Lucy's"). I will be looking over your work tonight and we will have a lively academic conversation tomorrow. In the meantime, use tonight to read your independent reading book and record your progress in your log.


Block A:
We won't have class tomorrow due to the pep rally. 
For Tuesday, please use the goat sheet to complete a Reading Response on David Sedaris' short story "Turbulance."

Block B:
We were missing a lot of students in class today--they were literally taking a hike! For those of you who were out, we spent some time talking about Alexie's poetry. We focused on "Why We Play Basketball." I've attached the annotations from class below. We started a writing assignment that will be due next week. If you were out today, please swing by and pick up a handout to get started.

Block C:

Read to page 98 in True Diary. Complete a "Diving into the Text" organizer.

Wednesday 9/25: Homework

Block A:

Continue to work on your character organizer for class tomorrow

Block B:

1. Read and annotate "Why We Play Basketball" and complete the bubble sheets for discussion tomorrow.
2. Read your independent reading book and log.

Block C:

Read p. 32-54 in True Diary for Thursday. Locate 3 significant quotes and mark them with a sticky note. Be prepared to share in discussion tomorrow.

         

Block E:

Read p. 32-66 in True Diary for Friday. Draw a self-portrait using Arnold's as a model (see page 57). Think about 2 sides of your personal identity.

Read your independent reading book at home for at least 15 minutes a night.

Tuesday 9/24: Homework

Block C:

Read pages 15-31 in True Diary

In your  journal,  write a 3-2-1 based on what you read in True Diary 

• 3 sentence summary
•  2 questions
•  1 significant quote

Don't forget to read in your independent reading book as well!

Block E:

Read pages 15-31 in True Diary

In your  journal,  write a 3-2-1 based on what you read in True Diary 

• 3 sentence summary
•  2 questions
•  1 significant quote

Don't forget to read in your independent reading book as well!

Block F:
For Thursday, finish reading "St. Lucy's School for Girls Raised by Wolves."
In your journal, write a 3-2-1 based on what your read:

• 3 sentence summary
•  2 questions
•  1 significant quote

Monday 9/23: Homework

Block E: 
Today we started a discussion on the role of storytelling in the film Big Fish. We will revisit these question tomorrow so do some thinking tonight. Here are the notes thus far:

For tonight, Block E needs to read the first 13 pages (2 chapters) of True Diary. Write a response in your composition book that includes three paragraphs staring with:
     I think....
     I notice....
     I wonder....


Block F: 
Today we started a new story called "St. Lucy's School for Girls Raised by Wolves." Tonight you should read and ANNOTATE up to 227 for tomorrow. Keep in mind our initial texts and how this story may be expanding the ideas we've explored already. Here are the notes from today:

Block A:
With the help of Ricky Gervais, we learned the importance of "writing what we know." You had a colleague read your work and you may have some edits you want to make. Decide which of the 5 pieces you wrote you'd like to turn in...we will revise on Wednesday and you will submit the best piece.
Tonight, use the "Character Development Sheet" to invent a character for this week's focus. Bring the COMPLETED work with you on Wednesday.

Block B: 

Read and annotate "Reservation Mathematics" on your own tonight. Be sure to look up the historical significance of Little Big Horn and Wounded Knee...these are crucial allusions that you will need to know to understand the poem!
Read your book for 15 minutes
Make sure you really know your first 10 vocab words before Wednesday. There will be a challenge!