Thursday 12.21.17: Homework

Block E:

Write a 3-2-1 response on what we’ve read thus far
in “On the Rainy River.”(3 observations, 2 questions, and 1 opinion).

Block A:

Choice piece (inspired by Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind) due by 7am Friday!

Blocks F and B:

Creative Writing

Here's a link to Andrew Stanton's TED talk that we watched today. (The talk begins with an inappropriate joke, so feel free to fast-forward to the 1:15 mark)

Tuesday 12.19.17

B block:
Respond to the questions on the story "Notes" for tomorrow.

C Block:
1. Study for tomorrow's vocabulary quiz.
2. Write a one-pager on the film Moonrise Kingdom for tomorrow. Here are some things to consider:

Block E:
1. Fill out the pie chart on "The Things They Carried" story. Be sure to include specific quotes and story details in your response.

Block F:
Respond to the story "In the Field" using the handout I gave you in class today. Refer to the text as you write your response.

Monday 12.18.17: Homework

Block E:
"The Things I Carry" personal essay is due tomorrow. Please bring a printed copy with you to class to turn in.

Block F:
Complete the reading record and questions for "Notes" tonight.

Block A:
Find and read a film review on Eternal Sunshine. Cite the source, and pull 3-5 sentences out of the review that resonate with you. Be ready to write about what you found tomorrow.

In addition, you should begin to brainstorm ideas for this week's Choice piece, which will be inspired by the film and our discussion of story structure. Your choice piece will be due on Thursday.

Friday 12.15.17: Homework

Block F:
Finish reading "Speaking of Courage" for Monday.

Block A:
Take some time this weekend to write down your questions, observations, and connections from what we've watched thus far in Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. So far, does it seem that a spotless mind brings eternal sunshine?

Block B:
Finish reading "Speaking of Courage."
If you did not finish your "star" chart on the interview, "The Man I Killed," and "Ambush," do so this weekend as well!

Block C:
Study for Wednesday's vocabulary quiz.
We'll finish the film Moonrise Kingdom on Tuesday.

Thursday 12.14.17: Homework

Block A:
Update your notes from the part of the film we watched today. What do you notice thus far about story structure? Be specific and pay attention to the details!

Block B:
Revise your "Things I Carry" essay using the new mentor text by Tyler G. as inspiration (HERE's a copy). Consider adding more detail and voice to your piece. 

Block C:
Your revised Room Comparative essay is due to TURNITIN.COM by tomorrow. If you need help signing in to our class on Turnitin, see yesterday's post.

Block E:
Complete your own version of "The Things I Carry" essay and upload it to the Google classroom by Tuesday. If you need some inspiration, check out THIS student's version of the essay.

Wednesday 12.13.17: Homework

Block C:
Please upload your Room Comparative essay revisions to TURNITIN.com.

The class ID code to join is: 16959289              The password is Englishrocks

Block E:
Study for your vocabulary quiz tomorrow! Really, it's tomorrow.

Block F:
Complete the "Star" organizer using important language, ideas, and motifs found in "The Man I Killed," "Ambush," and the interview we watched with Tim O'Brien and Nate Fick. If you want to watch any part of the interview again, you can do so BELOW:

Also, be sure to print out your revised copy of "The Things I Carry" personal essay due on Friday.

Monday 12.11.17:Homework

Block A:
Find a book or a movie that you know well and come prepared to dissect it's structure.

Block B:
Work on your "Things I Carry" essay revision due Friday 12.15

Block C:
Work on your Room Comparative Essay revision due on Friday 12.15.

Friday 12.8.17: Homework

Block B:
This weekend, read "The Man I Killed" and make a reading record of your observations and important quotes and details.

Block C:
Write a thoughtful and specific reflection on "The Body" presentations. Bring it with you on Monday, along with your orange notecard to turn in for credit.

Also, continue working on your Comparative essay revision on Room. It's due on Friday 12.15.

Block E:
Be sure that your Big Fish analytical paragraph is complete and uploaded to the Google classroom.
We will begin our new text next week.

Study for Tuesday's vocabulary quiz!

Block F:
Work on your "Things I Carry" revision due on Friday 12/15/17

Thursday 12.7.17: Homework

Block E:
Complete your analytical paragraph on Big Fish by the end of the day Friday! Use lots of good examples from the text to support your claim.
Also, read and annotate the personal essay titled "The Things I Carry" for tomorrow.

Block F:
Study for tomorrow's vocabulary quiz and begin revising your "Things I Carry" personal essay.

Block A:
Upload your Choice piece to the Google classroom and bring me your paperwork if you've submitted your work to the Scholastic Awards. I will need to mail the forms and payment by the end of the day on Friday!

Wednesday 12.6.17: Homework

Ooops! Sorry folks...I forgot to update the blog after the crazy half day! Here's Wednesday's homework:

Block A:
Your choice piece and/or entry for the Scholastic Art and Writing Competition are due by the end of the block on Thursday. You'll have writing time on Thursday to finish/print/etc.

Block B:
Study for Friday's vocabulary quiz!

Block C:
1. Read and annotate the scholarly article by Arthur Biddle. You will respond to his argument on Friday's quiz.
2. Also, study your vocabulary words for Friday's quiz.
3. Write a reflection on "The Body" presentations, due on Monday.

Tuesday 12.5.17: Homework

Block C:
Study your new vocabulary words for Friday's quiz.
Begin revising your Room Comparative essay due on 12/15.
We'll finish presentations tomorrow!

Block E:
Complete the handout titled "Responding to Big Fish." You do NOT need to write the paragraph--just write planning notes so you'll be ready to write in class.

Study your new vocabulary words for the quiz on Tuesday 12/12.

Block F:
Read "Stockings" and "Church" through the lens of your chosen MOTIF. Create a reading record for both stories to record your observations and important quotes or language

Study your new vocabulary words for Friday's quiz!

Monday 12.4.17: Homework

Block E:
Update your notes on Big Fish for tomorrow. I'll check them while we finish the film.

Block F:
Write a one-page, thoughtful reflection on "Sweetheart of the Song Tra-Bong" for tomorrow. Use evidence from your Venn diagrams in your response.

Block A:
Choice piece due on Thursday this week.
All paperwork for the Scholastic Art and Writing Contest is due by Thursday as well!

Block B:
Read and create a reading record for the stories "Church" and "Stockings."
Remember, this time you are reading through the lens of your chosen MOTIF. What do you notice?

Friday 12.1.17: Homework

Block A:
1. Write a letter of feedback to your classmate. Use the guidelines on the hand-out I gave you last week. Be specific, positive, and constructive!

2. Next week, we will work on refining submissions for the Scholastic Art and Writing competition. Use the weekend to select some pieces of writing (or art) that you might like to submit. You can learn more by looking at the website: The Scholastic Art and Writing Competition. The deadline for submissions is DECEMBER 14th!


Block B:
Finish reading the last few pages of "The Sweetheart of the Song Tra-Bong" and complete the Venn Diagram packet and written response on the back. We will debrief the story together on Monday. I will be checking your work, so be sure to bring it with you!

Block C:
Continue to prepare for your presentations! We have just a few more to go!

Thursday 11.30.17: Homework

Block B:
Read the first part of "Sweetheart of the Song Tra-Bong" (to the page break at the bottom of page 92) and complete the first Venn diagram in the packet I gave you in class. Use lots of good detail and description from the novel as you fill out the diagram.

Block C:
Continue to prepare for your presentation. Write a clear one-pager and select a rich passage to present. Be sure to take note of the moves that King makes as a writer in the passage you select--focus on LANGUAGE!

Block E:
Update your Big Fish notes for the segment we watched today in class. We'll resume the film on Monday and you will eventually do some writing about the film.

Block F:
Read the second part of "Sweetheart of the Song Tra-Bong" (to the page break at the bottom of page 99) and complete the second Venn diagram in the packet I gave you in class. Use lots of good detail and description from the novel as you fill out the diagram.

Wednesday 11.29.17: Homework

Block E:
Study for tomorrow's vocabulary quiz

Block F:
Study for tomorrow's vocabulary quiz.
Finish the first part of the story "The Sweetheart

Block A:
Finish your Choice piece (flash fiction) for Friday. Bring a printed copy to class with you!

Tuesday 11.28.17: Homework

Block F:
Study for your vocabulary quiz on Thursday!

Block A:
Work on your choice piece due on Friday. Remember, you can model your work off of any of the "inspiration" pieces of flash fiction that we have looked at this week, including Paris Je T'Aime, "Happy Endings" by Margaret Atwood, etc.

Block B:
Study for Thursday's vocabulary quiz!

Block C:
Prepare for your presentation by writing a thoughtful one-pager (one full page, double spaced), selecting a rich passage, and PRACTICING your presentation.

Monday 11.27.17: Homework

Block A:
Begin planning your Choice piece due Friday inspired by Paris Je T'Aime

Block B:
Finish reading "How to Tell a True War Story" and complete your reading record notes on the story.
Study your new vocabulary words

Block C:
Prepare for your presentation this week!

Block E:
Study your new vocabulary words.

Wednesday 11.22.17: Happy Thanksgiving!

Block E:
Read your IR book and enjoy the holiday! Listen for stories all around you!

Block F: 
Read your IR book and enjoy the holiday! Listen for stories all around you!

Tuesday 11.21.17: Homework

Block A:
Over the holiday weekend, complete at least 2 Daily Diary entries to take note of the world around you.

Block B:
Finish reading "Friends" and complete your reading record (Cornell notes if you used this as your format) for both "Enemies" and "Friends."

Block  C:
Prepare for your presentations starting when we return. Write your one pager and print it out before you arrive on the day of your presentation. If you want to listen to a few more models from the Harry Potter and the Sacred Text podcast, do so HERE.  Use the framework listed in the slide below for your presentation.

Monday 11.20.17: Homework

Block B:
Read your IR book. We'll resume our reading of The Things They Carried tomorrow.

Block C:
A lot of you were out of class today due to the Accuplacer test. Plan to take the vocabulary quiz tomorrow in class if you missed it today. I'll spend part of the block explaining how to write your one pager and how to prepare for your presentation.

If you want to listen to the podcast where some people use motifs to close read sections of Harry Potter, go to this site. Fast-forward to the 7:00 minute mark and take a listen. You'll follow a similar format for your own close reading.

Block E:
Finish your Motif essay by 8pm tonight and upload it to the Google classroom.
Read your IR book.

Block F:
Construct a “reading record” for both of the stories we heard today: "Enemies" and "Friends."

Friday 11.17.17: Homework

Block E:
Work on your essay this weekend. You will have class time on Monday to finish it up.
Also, study for Wednesday's vocabulary quiz. If you did not get the new words this week, stop by to pick them up!

Block F: 
Good work on your "Rainy River" maps today!
Study for Monday's vocabulary quiz.

Block A:
Write your letter of feedback for your partner. Bring it to class, printed, on Tuesday!

Thursday 11.16.17: Homework

Block F:
Continue working on your "On the Rainy River" story map. You'll have some time in class tomorrow to finish it.
Keep studying your new vocabulary! The quiz is on Monday.

Block A:
Be sure to print out your choice piece for SHARING day tomorrow. We will start WORKSHOPPING!

Block B:
Continue working on your "On the Rainy River" story map. You'll have some time in class after Monday's vocab quiz to finish it.
Keep studying your new vocabulary! The quiz is on Monday.

Block C:
Study for Monday's vocabulary quiz. Continue working on your passage analysis for your presentation. I'll do some modeling and we will talk about motifs on Monday. Presentations will start on Monday after the break!

Wednesday 11.16.17: Homework

Block A: 
Read "How to Become a Writer" tonight. You'll work on your choice piece tomorrow.

Block B:
Read the first half of "On the Rainy River" for tomorrow (to page 44). You'll have class time tomorrow to finish it.

Block C: 
Reread your assigned chapters in "The Body"  so that you'll be ready to start putting your presentation together in class tomorrow.

Block E:
Use the graphic organizer to write your first paragraph for your essay.

Tuesday 11.14.17: Homework

Block C:
Read over the assignment for student presentations that I gave you today. Find a partner that you would like to work with, and make some notes about sections of the book that you might want to explore more carefully. We'll get organized tomorrow.

Block E:
Narrow down the list of motifs and choose one that you would like to write about. Look for evidence in both the novel and the film to support your motif. We'll start the essay process tomorrow.

Block F:
Read "On the Rainy River" for Thursday. You may use sticky notes (at least 4) to mark interesting moments or lines in the story, or you may do Cornell notes for the story instead. Be ready to discuss the story and do some work to create a visual when you arrive to class.

Also, remember that your final revision for your theme essay is due on Thursday!

Monday 11.11.17: Homework

Block E:
In your composition book or on the page of notes you took, write a reflection about what you heard today in the first Spider Web discussion. What ideas resonated with you? Be specific.


Block F:
Today we finished reading "The Things They Carried." Make a PIE CHART that captures your thinking about what the story tells us about what soldiers carry. Be sure to use language (quotes) from the story to support your response.

Block A:
Finish your Mermaid story by 8pm tonight. Then, start to brainstorm some ideas for your CHOICE piece due this FRIDAY!

Block B:
Finish reading the story "The Things They Carried." We left off on page 22 at the page break. If you want to listen to the last few minutes of the audio version, you can do so HERE Fast-forward to minute 42:08 and you should pick up where we left off.
Then, make your PIE CHART that captures your thinking about what the story tells us about what soldiers carry. Be sure to use language (quotes) from the story to support your response.

Thursday 11.9.17: Homework

Block A:
Continue to work on your "Mermaid" story-retold from another perspective. You'll have time to write in class on Monday, and it will be due at the end of the block.

Block B:
Keep working on  your essay revisions! The final draft will be due on Thursday of next week!
Also, start to fill out the character chart for the section we've read of "The Things They Carried." Use specific details from the text!

Block C:
Finish reading and annotating "The Body" for class on Tuesday. You should be ready to take a short, in-class assessment on your understanding of the novella on Tuesday.

Homework for Wednesday 11.8.17

Block B:
Keep working on  your essay revisions! The final draft will be due on Thursday of next week!

Block C:
Keep reading along with the schedule for "The Body." Bring your questions and observations to class tomorrow.

Block E:
If you did not finish your Reading Response on Smoke Signals this afternoon, finish it over the weekend and turn it in by Monday.
Also, study for Monday's vocabulary quiz!

Block F:
Keep working on  your essay revisions! The final draft will be due on Thursday of next week!
Also, start to fill out the character chart for the section we've read of "The Things They Carried." Use specific details from the text!

Tuesday 11/8/17: Homework

Block E:
Study your new vocabulary! Quiz is on Monday.

Block F:
Finish your "Things I Carry" essay by tonight at 7pm.
Work on your essay revisions. 
Study for your vocab. quiz tomorrow

Block A:
Brainstorm ideas for alternate perspectives from which to write from "Mermaid Fever."

Monday 11.6.17: Homework

Block F:
Work on:
1. "The Things I Carried" personal essay, (use the mentor text and your journal notes) DUE on Wednesday.
2. Your analytical essay revisions.
3. New vocabulary (quiz on Wednesday!)

Block A: 
On Friday, we watched a performance of the play "Sure Thing" by David Ives. You can re-watch it HERE if you were absent.

Today we read and annotated the story "Mermaid Fever." Below is the slide from class to help you prepare for tomorrow's activity.

Block B:

Work on:
1. "The Things I Carried" personal essay, (use the mentor text and your journal notes) DUE on Wednesday.
2. Your analytical essay revisions.
3. New vocabulary (quiz on Wednesday!)

Block C:
Read and annotate "The Body." Our reading schedule is listed below:

Friday 11.3.17: Homework

Block A:
Read your independent reading book and think of clever ways that you can write your own version of "Sure Thing" in class on Monday.

Block B:
Write your own version of "The Things I Carry" personal essay. Follow the model as a guide.
Also, study your new vocabulary words.

Block C:
Read and annotate Chapters 1-4 in "The Body" for Monday.

Block E:
Complete pages 2 and 3 in your Smoke Signals packet. Add at least 4 new observations to your motif map.

Wednesday 11.1.17: Homework

Block E:
Bring your yellow Motif Map to class tomorrow. We will be watching another section of the film Smoke Signals.

Block F:
You had a good Spider Web discussion today! Good work! We will be heading into our next novel in the next few days, so get ready! We'll also revise your essays too.
In the meantime, read your independent reading book at home.

Block A:
Your dialogue story/scenario is due in our google classroom tomorrow. Finish it up and upload it!

Tuesday 10.31.17: Homework

Block A:
Work on your dialogue project, inspired by one of the scenarios or texts we looked at this week. Your completed project will be due on Friday.

Block B:
Write a Reading  Response on the film Big Fish and upload it to our google classroom by tomorrow. We'll have a spider web discussion to debrief the film.

Block C:
Work on your comparative essay and your 12 key moment activity for Room. A full essay draft is due on Friday in the Google classroom. You'll have writing time on Thursday, and I'm around after school on Wednesday if you need help.

Monday 10.30.17: Homework

Block B:
Read your independent reading book. We will finish Big Fish tomorrow.

Block  C:
Be prepared to start writing your Comparative essay tomorrow. We'll spend a few minutes looking at the form of the mentor text and then you'll be on your way! You will have a draft due on Wednesday.

Block E:
Read your independent reading book. We will start a new film tomorrow.

Block F:
Write a 3 paragraph reading response to Big Fish, due in Google classroom on Wednesday!

Friday 10.27.17: Homework

Block E:
Study for your vocabulary quiz on Monday!

Block F:
Study for your vocabulary quiz on Monday!

Block A: 
Read over the assignment sheet with all the scenario options. We'll start writing one of them on Monday!

Thursday 10.26.17: Homework

Block F:
Go to our Google classroom and write a response on the first part of Big Fish. Follow the prompts and upload your response when you are finished.

Block A:
Revise or embellish your snail dialogue from today's class. Bring it to class to share tomorrow!

Block B:
Study for your vocabulary quiz on Monday! See the google classroom for links to our Nearpod collaboration.

Block C:
Read over the Comparative essay assignment that I handed out today. Read and mark up the model attached to the assignment, and start considering how ideas for your response. We'll begin the process on Monday.

Also, study for Monday's vocabulary quiz!

Wednesday 10.25.17: Homework

Block E:
Today in class we watched a brief interview with Sherman Alexie. If you were absent, you should watch it here:

Take note of the connections between Alexie's life and that of his fictional character, Arnold.

We also worked on the second side of Arnold's "highlight" chart. You should finish up both sides of the chart and be ready to turn it in for credit on FRIDAY.

Study for the test on True Diary on Friday.

Tuesday 10.24.17: Homework

Block F:
Study your new vocabulary and complete the SAT practice questions. Be sure to consider what each question is asking and be ready to explain your choices.

Block A:

1. Read the excerpts from “On Writing” by Stephen King (especially chapter 4)

2. Fatten up your 4 line dialogue from today’s class. Use beats and tags to make it colorful and clear! 

Block B:
Write a reading response on Google classroom for Part 1 of Big Fish. Upload your work before the start of class.
Also, study your new vocabulary words!

Block C:
Go to Goodreads.com and start looking for a new independent reading book to start later this week!

Monday 10.23.17: Homework

Block A:
Find a good example of a passage of dialogue that you really enjoy. Type it up and upload it to the google classroom, along with an explanation of why you like it.

Block B:
Study your new vocabulary words and complete the practice SAT passage questions for tomorrow. Be ready to share your reasons for each choice you made.

Block C:
Write a reflection on  today's  Socratic seminars. You'll find the  prompts in our google classroom. Upload your reflection by tomorrow.

Block E:
Finish your green 'highlights' sheet for the second half of the book True Diary. Begin to prepare for Friday's test on the novel.
Study your new vocabulary words.

Friday 10.20.17: Homework

Block C:
Prepare for our Socratic seminars on Room by reading and annotating the two poems I gave you on Friday. Mark up the poems and consider the questions that we will explore.


Block E:
Study your new vocabulary words and be sure you are caught up with reading in True Diary. We will have a test on the novel next week, so start to prepare!

Block F:
Work on finding examples of your vocabulary words in the wild! See the instructions in our google classroom. Upload your work to the classroom by the start of class on Tuesday.

Thursday 10.19.17

Block E:
Complete both sides of the handout titled "Responding to  True Diary." Use details from the final chapter in your response.

Block F:
Read your independent reading book tonight. We''ll resume Big Fish tomorrow.

Block A:
Work on finishing your 4-part character project, due at the end of class on Monday.

Block B:
Find a real-world example of each of your new vocabulary words this weekend. Use the handout to guide you, and upload your work to the Google classroom for Monday at the start of class (8:45 am). All of the instructions and the vocabulary word list are in the Google classroom for your reference.

Tuesday 10.17.17: Homework

Block B:
Read your independent reading book tonight!

Block C:
Visit our google classroom and complete the "Collaborative Vocabulary Quiz" reflection assignment by Wednesday.
Finish reading Room by Wednesday! We will do some mind mapping on Wednesday.

Block E:

Read to page 213 in True Diary and complete  2 new sticky notes for this section.

Block F:
Read your independent reading book tonight!

Monday 10.16.17: Homework

Block E:
Study for tomorrow's weekly check-in. Be sure that you are up-to-date with the reading in True Diary. We will do a quick vocabulary activity at the start of class to get ready.

Block F:
Finish your theme essays and upload it to our Google classroom by the start of class tomorrow.
Study for your vocabulary quiz too!

Block A:
Continue to work on your character projects! Parts 1-3 should be finished by the end of the block on Wednesday! We will have the mobile lab in class on Wednesday.

Friday 10.13.17: Homework

Block F:
Work on your essay, due in Google classroom on Tuesday!
Study for your vocabulary quiz, also on Tuesday.

Block A:
Using the character chart you filled out, write a detailed description of your character in about 250 words. Incorporate sensory details to bring your character to life. Save your work in a Google document, as you will build each part of this project and put it all together at the end.

Block B:
Work on your essay, due in Google classroom on Tuesday!
Study for your vocabulary quiz, also on Tuesday.

Block C:
Complete the individual component for this week's group vocabulary quiz. See the instructions in our Google classroom. Upload your response to the Google classroom by 8:40 am on Tuesday 10/17.

Finish reading Room by Wednesday 10/18. We will have some discussion about the ending and begin mapping the connections between all of the introductory texts.

Thursday 10.12.17

Block A:
Read over the pink 4-part character assignment sheet to generate ideas. We will finish the film tomorrow (promise!) and begin developing your character.

Block B:
Keep working on your essay due next Tuesday!
Study your new vocabulary words

Block C:
Finish your reflection on today's one-pager discussion. See the prompts in yesterday's post to guide your response.
Also, finish reading Room!

Block E:
Read pages 179-196 in True Diary for Monday and fill out two sticky notes with a question, comment, or observation for two moments in the chapter.
Also, study your new vocabulary words. The quiz is on Tuesday!

Wednesday 10.11.17: Homework

Block C:
Begin to reflect on what your heard today from your classmates. Use the following questions to guide you. We will continue the process tomorrow, so you will have more to add to your reflection by the end of tomorrow's class:

1. What idea surprised you or made you think differently about the film? Explain.
2. What connections did you or a classmate make between the film and other texts?
3. Reflect on the one-pager process. What worked well? What adjustments would you suggest?

Keep reading Room! You will need to finish the book by Wednesday 10/18.

Block E:
If you were not prepared for class today, be sure that you are ready tomorrow. You will need to bring your completed "Highlights" chart to class, as well as be up-to-date with the reading for tomorrow. You should be up to page 177.

Block F:
Keep working on your essay. Print out a working draft and bring it with you to class on Friday. We will finish the "charette" protocol and you will have some time to write. Your final draft will be due in the google classroom on Tuesday 10/17/17!

Friday 10.6.17: Homework

Block E:
Work on your "Highlight film" on True Diary. Remember that you are selecting the 8 most important moments from the text thus far (to page 177). Each square on your chart needs  to include your description of the moment, along with a relevant quotation from that part of the story. You can earn extra credit by including a visual in a few of the boxes to accompany your "highlight."

Block F:
Work on writing your theme essay due in the Google classroom on Thursday 10/12.
Study your new vocabulary words.

Block A:
Read and annotate the work of nonfiction titled "The Imposter."

Block B:
Work on writing your theme essay due in the Google classroom on Thursday 10/12.
Study your new vocabulary words.

Thursday 10.5.17: Homework

Block A:
Write a one page character sketch on the subject of your "field" observation earlier this week. Use the model we listened to by David Sedaris to guide you and upload your finished sketch to the Google classroom.

Block B:
Work on planning your essay. We'll have time in the lab tomorrow to work as well.
Read your independent reading book tonight as well!

Block C:
Write a one-pager on Pleasantville, using the guidelines on the handout and the planning sheet as you prepare to write. Print it out before you arrive to class on Wednesday 10/11.
Keep reading Room!

Smoke Signals Transcript

Here's a link to the transcript of the film: It is not an official screenplay, but it is a start!

Wednesday 10.4.17: Homework

Block B and F:

Continue to work on your essay planning and theme development. If you want to revisit the video clip I showed you in class on theme, you can watch it below. We watched the first few minutes, but feel free to watch the whole clip if you find it helpful.

Block C:

Study for tomorrow's vocabulary quiz.
Keep reading Room! The next section "After" is due on Thursday 10/12.

Block E:

Read True Diary to page 177 for Friday.

Tuesday 10.3.17: Homework

Block E:
Study for tomorrow's vocabulary quiz. Be sure you are up-to-date in True Diary

Block F:
Work on your essay plan and bring your ideas to class tomorrow. We'll start the writing process.
Study for the vocabulary quiz tomorrow as well.

Block A:
Go out into the world and find someone to study. Pay close attention to detail as you make your observations. You will write a character sketch with your notes in class on Thursday!

Monday 10/2/17

Block F and Block B:

Start mapping your ideas for your analytical essay. Choose the text you want to examine and begin to collect your ideas on your mind map. 

Also, study for Wednesday's vocabulary quiz.

Block A:

Work on filling out your character development chart. 

Block C:

Prepare for the discussion on Room by writing a readers response. Use the guidelines on the handout I gave you in class today. 

Study vocabulary! Quiz on Thursday. 

Friday 9.29.17: Homework

Block A:
Take a look at the character development chart that I gave you in class today. Start brainstorming possible character ideas and get started on the chart. You do not need to complete the whole thing! Bring your ideas to class on Monday.

Block B:
Write a solid CER paragraph on one of Alexie's poems. Make a clear claim about what the poem is SAYING, and HOW Alexie says it. Use the notes you took in class today to help you!

Block C:
Work on reading Room reading due on Wednesday. Study your new vocabulary words.

Block E:
Read to page 157 in True Diary. Be ready for a possible reading quiz!
Also, study your new vocabulary words! Quiz is on Wednesday

Thursday 9.28.17: Homework

Block C:
Work on finishing your personal narrative draft. Please print it out before you arrive to class tomorrow, and remember to bring your green assignment sheet and checklist.
Keep reading Room!

Block E:
Read True Diary to page 133 for tonight.

Block F:
Use your  notes from today's discussion and presentations to write a CER paragraph on one of the two poems we've studied. Make a claim about one of the poem's big ideas, and use details and language from the poem to support HOW Alexie develops that idea.

Wednesday 9.27:17: Homework

Block A:

Read, annotate, and respond in a reading response (goat sheet) the first chapter of the novel The Art of Racing in the Rain.

Block B:

Read your independent reading book. 

Tuesday 9.26.17: Homework

Block B:
Write a reflection on today’s Spider Web discussion. What did you hear and how did it go? Review the discussion rubric and assess yourself on your performance as an individual and as a class.

Block C:
Continue working on your "private geography" map and vignette. Remember, the vignette is an exercise in descriptive writing to get your started in the process of SHOWING, not TELLING. Upload your vignette to the google classroom, and remember that your first draft of your personal narrative is due on Friday. The vignette and the personal narrative do NOT need to be on the same topic, but they CAN be if it works for your writing purpose.

Block E:

Read and mark up the poem “Reservation Mathematics” for our next class. Read True Diary  to page 113.

Block F:
Read your IR book and bring your notes on "Influences" and "Genetics" to our next class. We'll finish our group discussions and presentations then. 

9.25.17: Homework

Block E:
Read through page 103 in True Diary for tonight. If you would like to use the audio book to help you while you read, see the blog post below this one.
Study your new vocabulary words (as well as last week's words!) for tomorrow's quiz.

Block F:
Study for tomorrow's weekly check-in. Be sure to be prepared for some writing practice on the poems we are studying as well.

Block A:
Finish your "Encyclopedia" project and print it out before you arrive to class on Wednesday!

True Diary Audio Book!

Here's a link to the audio book version of True Diary.

Friday 9.22.17: Homework

Block F:
Read, annotate, and make observations on both of the  poems  by Sherman Alexie that I handed out to you on Friday.
Study for the vocabulary quiz on Tuesday.

Block A:
Work on your Encyclopedia project due on Wednesday.

Block B:
For Tuesday, study for the vocabulary quiz and prepare for the Spider Web discussion that we will have on Tuesday.
For Wednesday, read, annotate, and make observations on both of the  poems  by Sherman Alexie that I handed out to you on Friday.

Block C:
Work  on your "private geography" map and your vignette inspired by a person, place, or event from your map. Both will be due on Thursday.

Study for Tuesday's vocabulary quiz!

Thursday 9.21.17: Homework

Block A:
Continue working on your "Encyclopedia" and don't forget your Daily Diary entries!

Block B:
Add some new observations from what we watched today in Smoke Signals. You should have several observations for each of the story elements. Also, study your new vocabulary words. You have a quiz on Tuesday!

Block C:
Read and annotate the packet of college essays from John Hopkins University. Come to class ready to discuss your observations. We'll begin brainstorming some ideas for your own essay tomorrow. Also, study your new vocabulary words. You have a quiz on Tuesday!

Block E:
Finish working on your "split identity" sheet that we started in class today. Be thoughtful and thorough. Also, study your new vocabulary words. You have a quiz on Tuesday!

Wednesday 9.20.17: Homework

Block C:
In class today, Mrs. DiFonzo gave a presentation to prepare you for applying to college. We'll be working on developing a personal essay later this week. To prepare, please read and annotate your (tiny, sorry!) copies of excerpts from Sandra Cisneros' collection of vignettes titled The House on Mango Street. We'll talk about how this format could work for your own personal essay writing.

Block E:
Today in class we started by taking an entry ticket quiz. Most of you did very well! We finished watching the documentary Children of the Plains, which you can watch if you were out by hitting the link here.
For tonight, study your new vocabulary words and be sure that you are up-to-date in True Diary (you should have read to page 81).

Block F:
Tonight, I'd like you to make some connections between the two texts we've been studying: "Death by Landscape" and Smoke Signals. Clearly, the texts contain two very different story lines. However, despite these differences, they share many of the same story ELEMENTS. Consider one of the elements that you have been tracing on your OBSERVATION sheets, and explore in a paragraph or two HOW each author uses the element to enhance the story and make meaning.

Tuesday 9.19.17: Homework

Block E:
Write sentences for your new vocabulary words. Add your new words to your quizlet. Start studying!

Block F:
Write sentences for your new vocabulary words. Add your new words to your quizlet. Start studying!

Block A:
Work on your Encyclopedia project due on Wednesday 9.27. Follow the directions on the blue handout I gave you today. Have fun!

Block B:
Write sentences for your new vocabulary words. Add your new words to your quizlet. Study for next week's quiz!

Monday 9.18.17: Homework

Block A:
We did not make it to the lab today, but we will begin writing your own version of an "Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life."
If you want to learn more about either Amy Krouse Rosenthal or David Sedaris, you can check out their websites here and here. 
For tonight, be sure to write an entry in your Daily Diary.

Block B:
Fill out the observation sheet based on what we've watched of the film Smoke Signals. 

Block C:
For tonight, finish watching the film adaptation of "St. Lucy's" HERE. Then, write a 1-2 paragraph response. Analyze the impact of the filmmaker’s choices in rendering this adaptation of the short story.

Friday 9.15.17: Homework

We made it through our first week! Woot! Don't forget! SUMMER READING DAY IS MONDAY! Finish up those summer reading books if you haven't done so already!

Here's what's up for the weekend:
Block B:
Read your independent reading book this weekend. We will be moving on to our next text when we meet again.

Block C:
Read through to page 100 in Room (section 2) for Monday.

Block E:
Research the terms on the handout I gave you in class today on Little Big Horn, The Battle of Wounded Knee, and "Miss Rosie" by Lucille Clifton.

Block F:
Read your independent reading book this weekend.
Fill out the handout on your observations from the start of Smoke Signals.

Thursday 9.14.17: Homework

Blocks B, C, E, and F! Tomorrow is DAY 4! Study for your weekly check-in! Study both your vocabulary words and class content! 

Block B:
Review your notes on "Death by Landscape" and study for the vocabulary quiz tomorrow.

Block C:
Review your notes on "St. Lucy's" and study for the vocabulary quiz tomorrow.

Block E:
Read to page 66 in True Diary for Friday and study for the vocabulary quiz.

Block F:
Review your notes on "Death by Landscape" and study for the vocabulary quiz tomorrow.

Block A:
Keep up with your Daily Diary!
Read, annotate, and write a reading response on "Turbulence" by David Sedaris Use the goat sheet as a guide!

Wednesday 9.13.17: Homework

Block F:
Study for Friday's vocabulary quiz and review your notes and observations on "Death by Landscape." We will resume our study of the story tomorrow.

Block A:
Bring your printed copy of your "Why Write" project to class tomorrow for sharing. Also, be sure to read and annotate the excerpts from "The Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life."
Don't forget about your DAILY DIARY!

Block B:
Study for Friday's vocabulary quiz and review your notes and observations on "Death by Landscape." We will resume our study of the story when we next meet.

Block C:
Study for Friday's weekly check-in and review your annotations from our first set of readings. We will continue our study of "St. Lucy's" when we meet next.

Tuesday 9.12.17: Homework

Block A:
Work on your "Why Write" project. You have five vignettes due at the end of class tomorrow. We will be working in the lab again on Wednesday!

Block B:
Do a second reading of "Death by Landscape" and make note of observations on the handout I gave you in class today in the different categories listed (characters, setting, turning points, etc.) Pay close attention to the language in the text, and come to class ready to discuss.

Also, continue to study for this week's vocabulary quiz (Friday)
Block C:
1. Read and annotate the short story titled "St. Lucy's School for Girls Raised by Wolves." You will have about 20 minutes of reading time in class to either finish the story or read further in Room). 
2. Study for this week's vocabulary quiz on Friday.

As per Maia's request, here's a link to the quick video compilation we watched today in class!

Block E:
Read True Diary to page 53 for Thursday. In your composition book, complete a dual-sided entries for each chapter. Follow the set up we established  together in class today.

Monday 9.11.17

Block C:
Keep reading Room! Follow the reading schedule.
Study for the vocabulary quiz on Friday.

Block E:
Read at least 15 pages of your new independent reading book.
Study for the vocabulary quiz on Friday.

Block F:
Complete the organizer for "Death by Landscape." Use specific details from the text in your response.
Also, study for this week's vocabulary quiz on Friday.

Friday 9.8: 17: Homework

Block E:
Read the first 2 chapters of True Diary. Keep track of your questions, comments, and observations in your composition notebook while you read.

Also, make a Quizlet for your new vocabulary words.

Block F:
Read and annotate the story titled "Death by Landscape" by Margaret Atwood. Take note of your questions, comments, and observations while you read.
Also, make a Quizlet for your new vocabulary words

Block A:
Work on your "Why Write" collection, due on Wednesday 9.13.
Read your new independent reading book too.

Block B:
Read and annotate the story titled "Death by Landscape" by Margaret Atwood. Take note of your questions, comments, and observations while you read.
Also, make a Quizlet for your new vocabulary words

Thursday 9.7.17: Homework

Block A:

Start reading your new independent reading book. Bring it to class tomorrow (and everyday). We will be talking about what makes a good story tomorrow.

Block B:
Make a quizlet for your new vocabulary words tonight. Start learning them! Also, read your new independent reading book tonight and remember to bring it with you to class everyday.

Block C:
Upload your "On Turning 18" poem to our Google classroom if you did not yet submit a paper copy today.

Start studying your new vocabulary words. We'll review when we next meet.

Begin reading Room. Here's your reading schedule:

Due on  Wed. 9/13: “Presents” page 3-56

Due on Mon. 9/18: “Unlying” page 59-110

Due on Wed. 10/4 “Dying” page 113-174

Due on Thurs. 10/12: “After” page 177-280

Due on Wed. 10/18: “Living” page 283-361

Tuesday 9/5/17: Homework

Here's what's up for homework tonight:

Block E English 11:
Finish watching THIS video that we started in class. Then, fill out the front and the back of the worksheet we started and bring it with you to our next class.

Also, be sure to get your contact form signed and your supplies for class!

Block F HEN  11:
Use the notes and observations you made today on the photo you studied in class today to TELL the STORY of what is going on in the photo. Refer to the details in the photo, but feel free to use your imagination as well. You should try to fill a page.

Block A Creative Writing:
Ok, TONIGHT, please read "Why Write" by Paul Auster and complete a Reading Response (use the GOAT sheet for instructions) on your reading. We will EMULATE Auster's story when we next meet.

Welcome Back!

Welcome to our class blog! class! This site should help you keep track of the work and due dates in class. Check it daily to ensure that you are prepared for class!


First order of business:
Go to THIS SITE to take a survey for today's activity.

Wednesday 6.7.17: Homework

Block D:
Read and annotate Chapter 9 in Gatsby! We watch the film tomorrow!
Review the calendar for upcoming assignments, and be sure to  study for the big 100 vocabulary test!

Block F: 
Refer to your class calendar for upcoming assignments and due dates! Study for the vocabulary test!

Thursday 6/1/17: Homework

Block D and F:
Make sure you've finished Chapter 7 by our next class meeting! We will begin to finish the remaining two chapters of the text.

Block A:
Read and take notes on "The Lives of the Dead" for Monday.

Wednesday 5.31.17: Homework

Block F:
Be sure you finished reading Chapter 7 in Gatsby.

Block A:
Due tomorrow: "The Ghost Soldiers."
Vocabulary quiz

Block B:
Due Friday: "The Ghost Soldiers"
Vocabulary quiz

Friday 5.26.17: Homework

Block D:
Begin Chapter 7 and read and annotate to the bottom of page 130 for our next class meeting. If you are going to Six Flags, you will need to finish the chapter before you return to our next class!

Block D:
Finish Chapter 7 for Wednesday 5/31. Annotate and read carefully.

Thursday 5.25.17

Block A and B:
Keep to your reading schedule, and keep taking good notes. Start studying for the vocabulary final as well!

Block F:
Finish reading and annotating Chapter 6 in Gatsby. Complete your reading road map as well. We will begin Chapter 7 tomorrow, so get ready!

Friday 5.12.17: Homework

Block A and B:
Follow the reading schedule and calendar of assignments! We'll finish the story maps on Monday and then have discussion on the stories due on Monday.

Block C:
Finish your film essays and upload them to TURNITIN.COM by Monday.
Finish your book club book for our final activity.

Block D:
Study your vocabulary words and read your independent reading book. We'll finish Chapter 3 in Gatsby when we meet next.

Wednesday 5/10/17: Homework

Block F:
Review your notes and annotations from today's reading. We will finish Chapter 3 tomorrow. Be sure to be ready for tomorrow's quick quiz!
Also, study your vocabulary words for the quiz next week.

Block A:
Follow the reading schedule! Take careful notes as you read!

Block B:
Follow the reading schedule! You have the following due on Friday:
1. "On the Rainy River"
2. "Enemies"
3. "Friends"

Also, be sure to do the following by Friday:
1. Revise your essay and upload it to TURNITIN.COM by 5 pm on Friday.
2. Bring your first draft to class.
3. Bring your reading notes from SiWR to turn in for credit.
4. Bring your SiWR book to class for collection.

The Great Gatsby AudioBook!

If you would like to listen to the novel, use THIS SITE. Don't forget to annotate your text as you listen!

Tuesday 5.9.17: Homework

Block A:
1. Study for the vocabulary quiz tomorrow.
2. Revise your comparative essay and upload it by tomorrow to Turnitin.com. You do not need to print your revision, but please bring your first draft to class tomorrow to submit.
3. Follow the reading calendar for TTTC.

Block B:
1. Work on your essay revisions. Reread the mentor texts for help with opening your essay in a compelling way. Be sure to add details and language from both texts. See me for help if you need it! Revisions are due to TURNITIN.com by Friday. You do not need to print your revision, but please bring your first draft to class tomorrow to submit.
3. Follow the reading calendar for TTTC.

Block C:
Keep working on the list of assignments! You are almost there!

Block D:
Annotate the two excerpts of character descriptions I gave you on Daisy and Myrtle. Pay attention to details and word choice. Be prepared to write about what you noticed!

Monday 5/8/17: Homework

Block B:
Follow your reading calendar, and be sure to take careful notes on each story as you read.
Study for tomorrow's vocabulary quiz!

Block C:
Continue working on all the things! We'll have work time tomorrow.

Block D:
Study your new vocabulary words. We'll finish Chapter 2 tomorrow.

Block F:
Finish reading Chapter 2 in Gatsby. Take  note of the items I asked you to look for while you read!

If you want to listen to the audiobook, you can do so HERE. 

Friday 5.5.17: Homework

Good Luck on the SATs this weekend!!

Block D:
Finish reading and annotating Chapter 1 in Gatsby. Work on adding details to your Star Organizer as well.
Study your new vocabulary words.

Block F:
Read, annotate, and analyze the language on the descriptions of Daisy and Myrtle. Pay attention to the contrasts and similarities, as well the details that Fitzgerald uses to reveal character. Bring your observations to class on Monday, and plan to write about what you noticed!

Blocks A & B:
Follow the reading schedule on the class calendar: You should read "The Things They Carried" and "Spin" and "Love" for our next class meeting.
If you would like to listen to an audio version of the first story in the collection, check out Brian Cranston's version here. 

Study for your next vocabulary quiz as well!

Thursday 5.4.17: Homework

Block F:
Create your character chart using the language and details from the book. For each character, include:

1. description (using specific language from the text...this means QUOTES!)
2. Relationship to other characters and background
3. Important quotes or speech that reveals attitudes/beliefs.

Block A &B:
You have a new calendar of assignments. Follow it! A blockers-you'll get your copy of The Things They Carried tomorrow.

Block C:
Study for Monday's vocabulary quiz. Work on your film essay and your "Stranger in the Photo" essay.

Wednesday 5/3/17: Homework

Block A &B: 
Work on your drafts of your comparative essay due in class tomorrow. Please print out a copy before you arrive to class to turn in to me.

If you are looking for some additional mentor texts, check out the following examples from the New York Times Sunday Book Review:

Review 1: Starts with an extended metaphor.


Review 2: Starts with an example.


Block C:
Refer to the calendar of events and assignments. If you are writing a one-pager on Captain Fantastic, you should have it uploaded by Friday at 5 pm. If you are presenting on Captain Fantastic, you should be prepared to go tomorrow.

Block D:
Review your annotations from today's reading. You should expect a short quiz in class on Friday.

Tuesday 5/2/17: Homework

Block C:
Continue to work on all the things! Check your calendar for upcoming deadlines!

Block D:
Study for your vocabulary quiz tomorrow!
Review your notes from today's reading.

Block F:
Add details and language from the novel to the Star Organizer for Nick Carraway's character.
Study for your vocabulary quiz on Thursday 5/4.

Blocks A and B:
Study for the vocabulary quiz tomorrow! And, continue to work on your essays due on Thursday (draft).

Friday 4.28.17: Homework

Block A and B:
Study your new vocabulary words for the quiz on Wednesday and work on your essay (draft due on Thursday!)

Block C:
You should complete a one-pager on The Breakfast Club by Monday if you are writing one for this film.
Continue to work on both of the essays due in a couple of weeks. Check  the calendar for deadlines.
We'll be starting our final film on Tuesday. Also, study your final list of vocabulary words!

Block D: 
Study your new vocabulary words for next week's quiz (on Wednesday). Review your annotations in your Gatsby books for Tuesday.

Thursday 4/27/17: Homework

Block B:
Study your new vocabulary words. The quiz will be next Wednesday.
Begin working on your new essay project. Feel free to swing by to chat or to refer to the copies of The Arrival as you get started.

Block C:
Work on your "Stranger in the Photo is Me" essay.
If you have not yet completed a one-pager on the films we've watched thus far, you need to do one on The Breakfast Club. Remember, you have two days to complete this task once we've finished the film, so your one-pager is due by Monday morning at the latest.

Block D:
Study your new vocabulary words. We will begin reading Gatsby tomorrow! Get ready.

Block F: 
Study your new vocabulary words and review your annotations from today's class reading. I will likely ask you to tell me more about Nick Carraway's family when we return.

Wednesday 4.26.17: Homework

Block D:
Review your notes from today's class discussion on the 1920s.

Block F:
Fill out your Star Organizer on the details we learned about Nick Carraway.

Block A:
Work on your comparative essay.

Tuesday 4.25.17: Homework

Block F:
Review your notes about the 1920s for tomorrow's class.

Block A: 
Read over the essay assignment and mentor texts for the assignment on Strength in What Remains.

Block B:
Begin working on your essay assignment.

Block C:
Continue working on your essay projects and one-pagers and all the things!

Monday 4/24/17: Homework

Block A:
In your journal, answer the following question thoughtfully:
Should Deo have written his story as a memoir? Why or why not?

Block B:
Read and annotate the assignment for Strength that we will discuss in class tomorrow. Bring your questions and your books.

Block C:
Begin working on your "Stranger in the Photo is Me" essay, as well as your film project. We will start The Breakfast Club tomorrow.

Block D:
Consider 3 items that should go in a metaphorical time capsule that will capture the essence of life in 2017. Be prepared to defend your choices on Wednesday.

Study for your vocabulary quiz on Wednesday as well.

Thursday 4.13.17: Homework

Block C:
Work on writing a one-pager if you haven't done one yet. We'll resume our film unit when we return.

Block D:
Write a thoughtful and thorough reflection on today's Socratic seminar on Serial. Bring it to class on Monday when we return.
Study for Monday's vocabulary quiz too!

Block F:
Study for the vocabulary quiz on the Tuesday after break!

Have a great week! 

Wednesday 4.12.17: Homework

Block F:
Write a clear, detailed, and thoughtful reflection on today's Socratic seminar. Use specific details about ideas that you heard, and be prepared to turn it in tomorrow.

Blocks A and B:
Finish reading the novel The Strength in What Remains over break, Take careful notes using whichever strategy works best for you. You do not need to read the Epilogue---we will read it together when we return.

Blocks A and B:
Read Chapter 17 for our next class meeting. Also, study for tomorrow's vocabulary quiz.

Block C:
If you are presenting tomorrow, prepare! We will finish Room and then begin the presentation.

Block D:
Read and respond to the two articles on Serial. Prepare for the Socratic seminar by writing out notes and ideas for the questions I provided to you. We will have the discussion on Thursday.

Monday 4.10.17: Homework

Block B:
Follow the reading schedule for SiWR and study new vocabulary for this week's quiz.

Block C:
We will resume our study of the film Room tomorrow. Follow our class calendar for upcoming assignments and events.

Block D:
Study your new vocabulary words for the quiz when we return from break. We will finish the Serial podcast episode #2 tomorrow.

Block F:
For Wednesday, read the New York Times article on Adnan's retrial. Write a one page reaction on  a separate piece of lined paper.
Also, prepare your responses for the questions we'll discuss in Wednesday's Socratic seminar discussion.

Hamlet Google Form!

Please take a few minutes to respond to the questions on the Google form regarding our Hamlet performance

Your Cell Phone is Dangerous!

Check out this fascinating report that aired on last night's 60 Minutes

Thursday 4/6/17: Homework

Block B:
1. Read Chapter 15 for Monday. We'll have time to complete the small group conversations and presentations on Monday as well.
2. Study for your vocabulary quiz on Wednesday. We'll review the words together on Monday.

Block C:
1. Study your vocabulary words for the quiz on Monday.
2. If you've chosen to write a one-pager on Moonlight, upload it to Turnitin.com by Monday evening.
3. Please upload your Creative nonfiction essay to Turnitin.com by the end of the weekend.

Tuesday 4/4/17: Homework

Blocks A and B:
Continue reading SiWR. See the reading schedule in this week's earlier post.

Block C:
Bring your notes and thoughts to class Thursday. We will finish watching Moonlight and explore elements of the film together.

Block D:
Read your independent reading book tonight.

Monday 4/3/17: Homework

Block C:
Continue reading your book club book. We'll resume our study of Moonlight tomorrow!

Block D:
Study for your vocabulary quiz tomorrow and bring your journal for writing practice!

Block F:
Study for your vocabulary quiz on Wednesday and bring your journal for writing practice!

Reading Schedule for Strength in What Remains: Blocks A and B

Block A:

Ch. 13                       due Tues. 4/4
Ch. 14 &15              due Fri. 4/7
Ch. 16                      due Tues. 4/11
Ch. 17                      due Wed. 4/12
Ch. 18 & epilogue   due Mon.. 4/24

Block B:
Ch. 13                       due Tues. 4/4
Ch. 14                       due Wed. 4/5
Ch. 15                       due Mon. 4/10
Ch. 16                       due Tues. 4/11
Ch. 17                       due Wed. 4/12
Ch. 18 & epilogue    due Mon. 4/24

Thursday 3.30.17:Homework

Block A and B:
Read and take notes on Chapter 11 in SIWR.
Continue working on your essay revisions due in Turn it in by Friday afternoon for A block and Monday afternoon for B block.

Block C:
Today we chose to study the following films in our film unit:

Room

Captain Fantastic

The Breakfast Club

Tonight, consider which of the three you would most like to study. We will arrange groups on Monday when we start the unit. Review the assignment packet as you head into the weekend so that you are clear on the expectations for the work. 

Block D:

Study your vocabulary words for the quiz on Tuesday.

Complete the handout titled "Somebody is Lying" on Serial for Monday. 

Tuesday 3.28.17: Homework

Block D and F:
Review your notes from today's portion of the Serial Podcast.
Study your new vocabulary words.

Block A:
Continue to revise your Gatsby essay due on Friday in Turnitin.com by 6pm
Finish reading and responding to the prompts on the worksheet on Chapter 10 for Friday.

Monday 3.27.17: Homework

Block F:
Write sentences for your new vocabulary words.

Block A: 
Finish annotating your map of Chapter 9. We will be starting the second section of SIWR tomorrow.

Block B:
Finish reading Chapter 9 as you annotate the map we started in class today.

Block C:
Work on revising your creative nonfiction essay due on Thursday. Use the feedback that you received  today from your classmates as you revise.

Friday 3/24/17: Homework

Block A:
Finish reading and mapping Chapter 9 in SIWR. Use the handout and map to help you.
Begin work on your Gatsby essay revision due on Friday 3/31/17.

Block B:
Begin reading and mapping Chapter 9 in SIWR (stop at page 126). Complete the front page of the handout and trace Deo's journey thus far on the map.

Block C:
Finish your draft of your creative nonfiction essay. Take a look at the model I gave you in class today, and bring a hard copy of your essay to class on Monday for peer-review.

Block D:
Study your new vocabulary words and read your independent reading book.

Thursday 3/23/17: Homework

Block F:
Read at least 10 pages of your independent reading book over the weekend and be prepared to discuss it when you return.

Wednesday 3.22.17: Homework

Block C:
Continue to work on your creative nonfiction essay--draft is due on Tuesday!

Block D:
1. Write a 1 paragraph response to "20 Minutes at Rucker Park." Consider how you feel about TJ, as well as the narrator, Flinder Boyd?
2. Respond to one of the comments included in the packet after the story. Do you agree, or disagree with the comment? Why?
3. Write sentences for your new vocabulary words!

Tuesday 3/21/17: Homework

Block A:
Read Chapter 9 in Strength until the page break on page 126 for Friday. Take Cornell notes as you read.


Block B:

Read Chapter 8 in Strength and complete Cornell notes as you read.

Guiding question: What is the news from Burundi? Does Deo learn any more about the fate of his family?

Monday 3/20/17: Homework

Block C:
Write a one page project proposal about the creative nonfiction essay you hope to write. Explore your ideas, questions, and connections to the question posed.

Block D: 
Read your independent reading book and be sure to complete your visual project if you didn't submit it today. You will lose points for each day it is late.

Block F:
Write a 1 paragraph response to the story "20 Minutes at Rucker Park." Then write a response to one of the comments included at the end of the story. Do you agree with the comments? Or do you feel differently about the story?  Explain.
Also, be sure to complete your visual project if you didn't submit it today. You will lose points for each day it is late

Friday 3/17/17: Homework

Block F: 
Complete your visual project and statement of purpose. Both are due on Monday 3/20!

Block A:Read Chapter 8 in Strength and complete Cornell notes as you read.

Guiding question: What is the news from Burundi? Does Deo learn any more about the fate of his family?

Block B:
Read Chapter 7 in Strength and complete Cornell notes as you read.
Guiding question: What are some of Deo's early childhood experiences?

Be on the look out for Deo's experiences with the following:

• school in Burundi
• eucalyptus branches
• malaria and Clovis
• first realization of ethnic tension
• high school and medical school
• "Ten Commandments"

Thursday 3.16: Homework

Block A:
Finish reading Chapter 7 in Strength tonight. Write Cornell notes as you read.
Study for tomorrow's weekly check-in.

Block B:
Finish reading Chapter 7 in Strength tonight. Write Cornell notes as you read.
Study for tomorrow's weekly check-in.

Block C:
Finish reading and marking up the model essay from Creative Nonfiction. Take note of the variety of ways the author builds her essay using scenes. What is each scene about, and what is included?

Block D:
Finish your visual project this weekend! Both your project and your Statement of Purpose are due on Monday 3/20/17!

Friday 3.10.17: Homework

Block A:
For your assigned chapter, do the following work to prepare for our discussion:
1. Devise a name for the chapter
2. Locate 4 important moments/topics we should explore
3. Find one important line or quotation that we should look at more closely.
4. Pose one question about the chapter.


Block B:
Read Chapter 4 and complete Cornell notes as you read.

Block C:
1. Work on developing an idea for your essay.
2. Find a new book club book by early next week.
3. Read the synopsis of Hamlet for Monday's performance.

Block D:
Work on your visual project. We'll be writing the statement of purpose early next week!

Thursday 3.9.17: Homework

Block C:
See the blog post below and begin researching options for your creative nonfiction essay inspired by Frankenstein. There are a million options, so look carefully and think deeply.

Block D and F:
Continue working to create your visual project due on March 20th. We'll spend some time early next week to complete the written portion of the assignment.
We will resume "20 Minutes at Rucker Park" when we meet next. Please bring your copy of the story with you to class. 

Frankenstein Creative Nonfiction essay resources

Learning Network New York Times

Slate Magazine's Future Tense section

An amazing collection of articles to use a mentor texts!

Tuesday 3.7.17: Homework

Block A:
Review your notes from the film and Chapters 1-2 in Strength. We'll discuss both tomorrow when we finish the film.

Block B:
Write a 1-2 paragraph response on the film thus far. Explore your observations, questions and connections.

Block C:
Finish your "Hindsight is 20/20" response due in Google classroom by 9pm Wednesday 3.7.17

Block D:
Continue to work on your visual project. Use the timeline in yesterday's post to guide your work schedule. You should be moving to the CREATION stage in the next day or so.

Visual Project timeline for F Block

Step 1: Select stories that you'd like to work with from the collection we've studied. Go back and reread/map/select quotes/gather ideas. 3/6, 3/8

Step 2: Based on your notes and ideas, develop an idea for a visual concept. 3/9

Step 3: Assemble materials and create. 3/9-3/13

Step 4: Begin writing statement 3/14-3/15

Step 5: Edit/proofread 3/16

Step 6: Project due 3/20!

Visual Project Timeline for D Block

Step 1: Select stories that you'd like to work with from the collection we've studied. Go back and reread/map/select quotes/gather ideas. 3/6

Step 2: Based on your notes and ideas, develop an idea for a visual concept. 3/7

Step 3: Assemble materials and create. 3/8-3/13

Step 4: Begin writing statement 3/14-3/15

Step 5: Edit/proofread 3/16

Step 6: Project due 3/20!

Friday 3.3.17; Homework

Block D and F:
Begin planning your visual project. Work on mapping your ideas and reviewing details in each of the stories we read. Think carefully about the ways that stories save the characters and people we've met.

Block A:
Write a 1-2 paragraph reaction to what we've watched of Hotel Rwanda. Include your observations, questions, and connections.

Thursday 3.2.17: Homework

Block F:
Read your independent reading book.

Block A and B:
Read Chapter 2 in Strength and take Cornell notes as you read. I'll check your notes at the start of next class.

Block C:
Finish Frankenstein and begin work on your "Hindsight is 20/20" assignment due in the Google classroom on Wednesday 3/8 at 9pm.

Tuesday 2.28.17: Homework

Block F:
Study for Thursday's vocabulary quiz.

Block A and B:
Read Chapter 1 in Strength in What Remains. Complete your Cornell note for the chapter, tracing your observations, questions and connections.

Friday 2.17.17: Homework

Block B:
Finish your essays by 8 pm on Friday 2/17!
Bring all of your prep work (precis, notes, etc) to class next week for your process grade.

Block C:
Read through Chapter 20 in Frankenstein for Monday.
Study your new vocabulary words.

Block D:
Finish reading "Lives of the Dead" for Monday.

Block F:
Read your independent reading book, and complete your reflection on Restrepo if you did not already do so.

Thursday 2.16.17: Homework

Block D and F:
Tonight, get organized to complete the final reflection question of the week. Consider the connections you've noted between the film Restrepo and the novel The Things They Carried. Prepare some notes and when we meet tomorrow, we will finish reading the novel and you will write your response.

Block A:
Finish your synthesis essay due on Friday night at 8pm. Be sure to upload your essay and MLA Works Cited page to the Google classroom.

Wednesday 2.15.17:Homework

Block F:

Read and annotate the two excerpts from Sebastian Junger's War. Then, answer the second bulleted question on the reflection sheet in a thorough and thoughtful paragraph.

Block A and B:
Continue to work on  your They Say/I Say synthesis essay on Gatsby due on Friday 2.17.17

Block C:
Be prepared for our class discussions on the novel Frankenstein through Chapter 17. Pace yourself to finish the novel over the break.

Hudson High Writing Guide

Go to this link to access the Writing Guide!

Also, here is the link to the e-book version of Gatsby for your citation!
Here's the format you will use to cite an e-book using MLA version 8:

Author’s last name, First name. “Title of the chapter or section.” Title of the e-book, translated by or edited by First name Last name, vol. number, Publisher, Year of publication, page number(s). Title of the web site or database, URL.

Tuesday 2.14.17: Homework

Block C:
Read and annotate Chapter 15-17 in Frankenstein for Wednesday.

Block D:
Study for your vocabulary quiz on Thursday.
Finish reading the two excerpts from Sebastian Junger's War for next class.

Block F:
Study for your vocabulary quiz on Wednesday 2/15.
Finish watching the remaining 10 minutes of the film Restrepo here. Then, respond to the first question on the Restrepo reflection handout that I gave you today.

Friday 2.10.17: Homework

Blocks A and B:
Work on your synthesis essays! Use the handouts I gave you to help you to structure your argument.
Also, study for Tuesday's vocabulary quiz!

Block C:
1. Finish your chart on Victor's fluctuating emotions in Chapters 1-10.
2. Read and annotate Chapters 11-14. Remember, the Creature begins to retell the story of his "childhood" after he was abandoned by Victor. Take note of what he has been up to, the people he has met, and the manner in which he has been learning about the world around him.

Block D:
Today we finished the film Restrepo, (almost...5 minutes to go). We'll discuss the ending and the connections you've made next week.
Study your vocabulary words for next week's quiz (Tuesday 2/14).

Wednesday 2.8.17: Homework

Block B:
Work on planning your essay response. Dig into the text and the criticism and think deeply about your topic. We'll begin to organize your response when we meet next.

Block C:
Read through Chapter 10 in Frankenstein for our next meeting. Also, study for the vocabulary quiz that we'll have when we meet next. Book club is postponed until Monday 2/13.

Block D and F:
Study your vocabulary and review your notes from Restrepo. We'll resume the film when we meet next.
If you were absent today, you can view the film here. (We are about 33 minutes into the film)