Catch Up Day

Well I hope everyone enjoyed their snow days; I know I personally loved being able to sleep in, and for the first time this year I got all caught up with my correcting. Today I had to throw several things at you due to the snow days and my AP training yesterday. First you are going to write one of the poem essays that you worked on in class yesterday to turn in tomorrow. You also got a MC packet to do over break and then you have to finish The Awakening as well with the questions.
We then went over the Singer essays from last week and I can't stress enough the importance of always supporting your claims. No matter what type of essay it is you have to include specific examples whether it's from the text or outside sources.
Finally we ended with going over your next set of vocab words. Sorry there was no fantastic vocab video for this set.
One more day!!

Vocab and Awakening

Today was the vocab test and judging by some of the scores make sure that you are continually studying your words. After the test we talked about the novel. We will have the formal discussion on Tuesday for the first part of the book but I wanted to be able to explain some stuff. Of course I only got through a small portion of what I wanted to point out so I'm going to attach the rest of my notes.
Upcoming: Finish the through chapter 30 for Monday.


Awakening Notes
Leonce 40; Edna 28; Robert 26

Edna:
First intro. of Edna is as “his wife” who he looks at like “a valuable piece of personal property which has suffered some damage” (24)
Edna’s crying—sparked by Leonce p. 27 can’t figure out why she is upset—acknowledges Leonce as kind and devoted
Edna first stands up to Leonce after swimming
Pursues Robert “she leaned over and kissed him” p. 130

Leonce:
Leonce feeling “uncomfortable…eternal rights of women…” p.88
Stops receiving people p. 73 worried about what people will think
Leonce’s reaction to Edna moving out “what people would say” “thinking of his financial integrity” p. 116
Leonce’s parenting—provides bonbons, wakes them at night

Mother-woman—“idolized children, worshiped husbands, effaced themselves as individuals” p.29 beauty, kindness (Adele)

Artist—“courageous soul that dares and defies” p. 86 ugly, rude, alone (Reisz—“extremely disagreeable and unpleasant” p.106)

Children
Birth every two years
Birth control, catholics
“Never sacrifice self for children” give up life but not self p. 69
Adele birth scene p. 133—scandolous for the time; impact on Edna

Minorities—almost invisible
Quadroons—cares for children, servants, black girl p. 43
Mariequita—Spanish, exotic, sexual “saucy, making eyes at Robert and mouths at Beauelet”
Mexicans p.64 “treacherous, unscrupulous and revengeful”
Darkies

Birds— parrot in a cage (exotic, uncommon) speaking a “language which nobody understood” (22), mother-woman p.29, song p. 47 pigeon house p. 108

Takes place in New Orleans fairly “open” society—
“freedom of expression”
very different from Edna’s Mississippi plantation and Kentucky upbringing
Runs away from her father’s prayers p. 38
No affection from sisters, lost her mother young
“coerced his wife into her grave” p. 94

Sea—seductive, awakens Edna, learning to swim “wanted to swim far out, where no woman had swum before” p. 49

Narrator opinion shift—end of chapter six “how few of us ever emerge” p. 35

Music—moves Edna p.47, brings tears and pictures (birds, solitude)

Insanity—“Mr. Pontellier to wonder if his wife were not growing a little unbalanced mentally” p. 79

Alcee views her as a “sleek animal waking up in the sun” animal = sexual

Dinner scene p. 109 (Remember what I said about eating scenes)

Timed Write

Started the day with briefly going over the debate and of course announcing the most important part... who won.
The rest of the hour was spent doing a timed write. It was your first argumentative one so I hope it went okay. A lot of people prefer this type of essay over the analysis.
Upcoming: Make sure you know your vocabulary words and finish the Awakening questions. If you don't get all the way to chapter 27 it will be okay but you should at least be close. Please make sure you ask me if you have questions or are getting confused.

Hi Jared!
Did you know my dog's name is Moose?

And the winner is...

Wow, what a day we had! Well if nothing else you all have to admit that AP English is at least memorable. Before I announce the winners I want to say how impressed I am with all of you. I know the debate raises tensions and is just slightly uncomfortable but I think getting out of your comfort zone is necessary some times. Maybe next time we'll have a few more people step up to the hot seat.

Normally I give a recap of the main arguments for each side but since there were three different debates this year I'll just give the winners.

Per. 2
The Keep side won by a very small margin mostly due to stronger organization, good questions, and clear sources

Per. 4/5
The Ban side won mostly during the questioning round; the keep had a better range of arguments but had trouble handling some of the questions

Per. 9
The Keep side won because they came across as far more prepared and handled the questions effectively without getting flustered

I Want a Wife

We started the class by going over the Adonais poem from yesterday. Make sure that you are studying your vocab. Then we spent the rest of the hour looking at a great piece of Feminist satire from Judy Syfers. Parts of the essay are a little antiquated but the interesting part is how much of essay is still applicable. The questions are due Thursday and I would suggest asking your parents what they think about the division of gender roles. How far have we really come?
Tomorrow is the Great Huck Debate and I can't wait to see how they go.
Remember we have to start as soon as the bell rings so make sure you are ready to go.
Upcoming: Awakening 1-27 and reading guide due Friday

Comma Rules

Today we briefly went over the five basic rules for using commas. We will do some practice later this week but make sure you look over the rules. They are now fair game on any vocab tests we have.
Recap:
1. Intro. phrases and clauses
2. Ind. clauses and conjunctions
3. Lists
4. Appositives
5. Quotations

After the comma notes you had a short poem to work with and some questions to practice your vocab words with. The poem is due tomorrow.
Upcoming:
Vocab test and Awakening 1-27 due Friday

Little known fact my dog's name is Moose!

Gender Stereotypes

Finally got your next novel today and then we started our introduction to women's rights. We talked about some sensitive stuff so please just try to keep an open mind while we are reading the novel. It will be a challenge for most people but just because something is difficult doesn't mean it's not good. I hope our discussion today made you a little more aware of the influences around you. This weekend pay attention to what you watch.
Please make sure you start reading the novel this weekend. Don't make it harder on yourself by trying to crunch it all in during the week.
Upcoming: 1-27 due next Friday along with the questions
Vocab test next Friday too

Hi Peder!

Return of The Crucible

The 1994 MC tests were returned today and in general I think people are doing okay on them. Remember at this point you just need to be scoring at around half. I think we'll have one more take home one and then we'll start the timed ones in class. I also returned the papers to those who had them done on time. Please come and see me if you are having trouble with the writing. I know writing is difficult and it takes time and practice to get better at it.
Upcoming: Huck letters and topic sentence sheet due this Friday
Vocab test next Friday

Poetry is creepy

Today we looked at a fairly disturbing poem and did some more practice with analysis. We covered most of the poem in class but then you had some questions to answer on your own. Please make sure you read through the sample analysis as well so you have an idea about what a written poetry analysis entails.
Upcoming: Debate on Thursday!
Vocab test next Friday

Hi Sergio

Work Day

Today was an easy day as you just had the hour to either work with your debate group or work on your letter. Remember the main goal of this assignment is to be persuasive so make sure you use some good techniques and look at both sides of the issue. Also please use the work days when you get them. It's hard for me to justify not doing a lesson when I see several of you just hanging out during the hour or even worse disappearing (Reid).
I'm slowly going through your Crucible papers and should have a better idea of when they'll be done after the mini break this week.
Upcoming: Finish analyzing the Bird and Toad poems for Wednesday and MC due Monday.

Hi Lia!

Poetry Vocab

Today you got your next set of vocab words which deals with poetry terms. If you missed the list or the fantastic video click on the blog title.
After the vocab we briefly talked about how to analyze poetry and we did a practice one with Sandra Cisneros. Remember the main tip with poetry is just to not let it scare you. You can always find something to say about it if you don't let yourself get frustrated.
Upcoming: Practice analysis of poems due Wednesday
MC due 11/29

Vocab Test 3

Today you took your third vocab test and hopefully it was easy points for people. I also collected the Crucible books and papers so if you forgot your book please bring it on Monday. After the test we talked briefly about the outline from the Ben Franklin piece and I will give you a change to rewrite it if you choose. We ended the class talking about the final project for Huck Finn which will be the fabulous debate or the letter to the school board. I always look forward to the debate day.
Enjoy your weekend free of English homework because it rarely happens. Read a good book!

Huck Finnish

The reading of Huck was supposed to be finished for today and then we took a quick reading check quiz. I know they are tough but I need to be sure that people are completing the reading carefully. After the quiz I did some brief commentary on the novel and passed out the discussion questions for tomorrow.
Upcoming: Vocab test and Crucible Final paper due Friday

Return of Benny

Today we looked at a few more interesting pieces from Franklin. We started the hour off with a multiple-choice sample about Franklin talking to his Gout--very weird I know. The selections are already corrected and I would say anything above an 8 is a good score for this point in the year. After the quiz we talked about the Whistle and then started an outline for the convenient essay. Make sure you talk with your partner to have it polished up for tomorrow.
Upcoming: Finish Huck Finn for tomorrow. Yes there will be a quiz so make sure you read! Vocab and final draft due this Friday.

Counselor Day

Sorry folks I realize I've been a bit remiss on updating this. Today in class the counselors just came in an talked about credits and applying for college.
So sadly there was no actual English lesson today but there was homework so all was not lost.
Remember for tonight to read the two pieces from Franklin and make some comments on them. No naked papers!
Upcoming: Crucible final draft due Friday and vocab test the same day.
Finish Huck for Wednesday. Most likely a quiz again so make sure you finish the reading.

The War Prayer

Today we did a little practice with satire and read Twain's "The War Prayer." Satire is sometimes tricky to pick up on so remember to look for the four main elements: irony, humor, exaggeration, and social commentary.
Still no new homework so make sure you are progressing on your Crucible papers. I'm not known for my easy grading of papers so put some time and effort into it.
Upcoming: Huck 1-22 due tomorrow
Crucible paper due next Thursday

Okefenokee Swamp Essay

Today was the first official timed write. It was an analysis essay so hopefully everyone felt okay about it since we've had several practice versions. It's really been pretty light on the homework lately so I hope you are taking advantage of it to work on your paper and enjoy reading Huck Finn.
Upcoming: First half of Huck chapters 1-22 due this Friday

Quote Blending Practice

I'm back! Good to see that someone is checking this as the late voucher has been claimed.
Today in class we practiced making claims and supporting them with blended quotes. Remember when you use quotes to always have a reason for using them. You want to stay away from just using them to tell the plot. They should also be incorporated within your own writing and it's okay to use just parts of them.
We then briefly started a rough outline for the Crucible paper. Please make sure that you start doing your research now.
There is a sample of a good paper online if you click on the blog title.
Upcoming: Vocab test and MC due Friday
Read 1-22 of Huck Finn for next Friday 11/5

Crucible Finish

Today we finished reading The Crucible. I hope everyone enjoyed it. Tomorrow we will have our class discussion on it and look at some of the underlying themes. Don't forget to read the Jordan articles. I think you'll be shocked by some of the disturbing comparisons.
Upcoming: Vocab test 10/29 and Coke essays due tomorrow.

Story Time

A very short class today so we just had story time on how The Crucible still applies today and then we just barely started Act 3.
Tomorrow I hope to have your essays back to you.
Upcoming: Vocab Test 10/29

Act 2

We finished Act 2 today and then just discussed the commentary sections from Monday's assignment. I'm keeping this short until I know someone is actually reading it.
Upcoming: Vocab Test 10/29

Scarlet Letter

The first half of class we did a team MC with a passage from the Scarlet Letter. It wasn't officially timed but I did rush you through the questions a little to give you the feel for it. Most groups got a passing score so that is good to see.
After the MC we read about ten pages of Act 2. We should be able to finish up Act 2 tomorrow and then have our first real discussion on Wednesday.
Upcoming: Vocab Test 10/29

First Timed Write (Kind of)

Today in class you wrote your first timed essay. I provided you with a little help by giving you the text ahead of time and by going over the prompt briefly with you. Of course I gave you a huge advantage at the end when I said you could revise it over the weekend.
Surprisingly I saw several people "finish" their essays in about twenty minutes. Remember these are difficult essays and you should be using all the time that you have. If you finish early use the time to go back and revise your writing.

Upcoming: Act 1 guide due Monday along with revised Flamingo essay.

Movie Day

Today was an easy day. We started with watching Act 1 of The Crucible and then we started reading Act 2.
The only homework is to read the text for question 1 and mark the text.
Upcoming: Act 1 reading guide due Monday and essay rewrite due Monday.

Vocab 2

Today was new vocab day! Started the day watching the vocab video for list two. If you missed the words click on the blog title for the list. After the vocab we just read Act 1 of the play.
Upcoming: Act 1 W.S. due Monday
Writing articles due Wednesday as in tomorrow.

Added bonus to see if anyone actually reads this I will give a late voucher to the first person to come up to me and mention this post.

Hurston Essay

Today we spent most of the day going over the Hurston essays you wrote. In general, it was a good round of first essays. If you missed the notes you can click on the title to get the electronic version. The homework for tonight is to read the two articles on writing I passed out. You need to come to class on Wednesday ready to discuss the articles and should have one question/comment for each article. You can also find each article at the above link.
Upcoming: Wow not much this week--enjoy!

Acting Day 1

Today we briefly discussed the homework from yesterday and hopefully I clarified any questions you had. I will collect the assignment tomorrow so you have a chance to fix any mistakes you had.
We then finished up the background notes on The Crucible and then got to start act 1.
So far we only read a few pages but the acting has been passable. Remember it is more than okay to over-act a little! If you were gone we only read up to page 14.
Upcoming: Vocab test on Friday and MC due Monday

Purtian Intro.

Today we had our intro. on Puritan values. We started by looking at the sermon "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God." While we are reading The Crucible please keep in mind the values/beliefs that Puritans had. There is a lot going on in this play but so much will be lost if you try to look at it solely from a contemporary perspective. The homework for tomorrow is to read the Miller and McCarthy articles and answer the corresponding questions.
Upcoming: Vocab Test Friday and MC due Monday

Indian Ed.

Today we looked at the Sherman Alexie piece and practiced writing some thesis statements and body paragraphs. Click on the title for a copy of the outline. Almost every group had a passing thesis and body--now just remember to include the same things when you are writing on your own. Today we wrapped up our Native American unit and tomorrow we become Puritans!
Remember to read your sermon seriously and make a list of values and devices.
Upcoming: MC due next Monday and vocab test this Friday.

Thesis Writing

Today we spent some time going over what makes a good thesis statement and then we discussed the Hurston prompt. The notes from today are linked to the blog title. Hopefully, you all took some notes on p.o.v and diction to get you a good start on the essay. Make sure you answer the prompt clearly and with support.
We ended class with a lovely Harry Potter vocab video. If you would like to watch it again it is of course on-line.

Return of Summer Assignment

Okay, I hope everyone is satisfied with their summer assignment grades. I know my expectations are high but they have to be in order to make you all phenomenal writers. Today we went over some notes on writing the longer essays and you got your first AP practice essay to do. We will talk about the essays in class this week but please come and see me if you need help getting started. If you missed the notes today you can magically click on the blog title and it will take you to them.

Upcoming: AP Essay due Friday
Vocab Test next Friday

Happy Friday

Today we worked with different textual perspectives. Remember to keep in mind that audience and purpose are heavily influenced by style and language of the writer.
Upcoming: Tone Sheet for Monday
Vocab Test 1 Oct. 1st

Best Friend Day

Today we worked with analyzing a speech using your rhetorical diagrams. Hopefully the analyzing is starting to become more clear. No homework tonight so enjoy it while you have it.
Upcoming:
Vocab Test 10/1
Tone Sheet for Monday

Analyzing Cheat Sheet

Okay, so it's only the second week and I already forgot to post for an entire week.
If you actually read this please just remind me to post. Today we had a first vocab video. Your first vocab test will include those twenty words plus the four modes of discourse we talked about last week. I will let you know when the exact date of the vocab test will be but plan on about three weeks.
We also went over some of the most common patterns used in literature. Hopefully it will help you look for more interesting ideas in the novels we read. We ran out of time to talk about the "Drunk of Legend" piece so we'll cover that tomorrow. Please make sure to mark up the text with things you find interesting.
HW: Analyze and find the thesis.

Open Essay Review

Only two days to go! Today we went over the different essays types for each test and then focused on the open essay. We went through each of the novels we've read but if you need more review you could use Sparknotes. I would also suggest looking over any papers you've written on the novels. Tomorrow we will take about half the class to do a final review and then you'll have some work time/relax. In general I really feel you are just about as prepared as you possibly can be so just get some sleep and come ready to do well. As an extra motivation I will gladly buy dinner for anyone who gets a 5!
Good luck on calc. tomorrow for those of you taking it.

Review Day

Today we went over how to find literary criticism and then reviewed some AP test tips and vocab. There should be enough articles for all the groups but please see me if you need help.

Work Day

Okay, I totally forgot about this for about two weeks, but I'll try to get back on track again. Today was a group work day and I hope all the groups are doing okay. You really should be finished or nearly finished with your books by this weekend. Don't frustrate your group members. You should plan on focusing about 2/3 of your presentation on plot since the other students haven't read your book. Also, don't feel you have to make a movie if you don't want to. I've had great presentations in the past that included acting it out in class, a puppet show, picture slide show, even a talk show format. Please let me know if you are having any group problems or concerns and I'll do what I can to fix it.
Enjoy the perfect weather on your early release day. I'm stuck interviewing until 4:30 :(

Final Vocab List

Looks like I've forgotten to post again the last few days. Today was another short period so we didn't do much other than watch our last fantastic Quack video and finalize the group books. I will keep this short since I'm going to try and get some deadlines arranged for you.
Remember extra credit for going to see The Awakening at the Gremlin. Just bring in your ticket stub and write a one page review.

Tortilla Commentary

Hola, today you took a reading check test. It was a little difficult but I wanted to make sure everyone read carefully. I will also curve it so if you read your grade should be fine.
After the test I gave some of my commentary on the book. Of course I didn't get very far but the main things talked about were the different symbols.
I will attach my scattered notes but I'm not sure how much sense they will make without explanation. I will go over more stuff if it doesn't get brought up in the discussion.
Remember for the discussion tomorrow come with your one sentence on what you think Boyle's purpose was?
Hasta manana!

Extra Credit

Today we reviewed the synthesis essay and finished going over the answers for the MC. Remember for all AP essays you need to read the prompt carefully and make sure you fully answer it. If you are not getting a passing score please come and see me for extra help. The MC is just tough and the best advice I can give for that is to practice, practice practice.
I also passed out an analysis essay that works perfectly with The Tortilla Curtain that will be due Thursday. I apologize to per. 4/5 because I forgot to pass it out so you only have one day to do it.
On the positive side there is an extra credit opportunity for next quarter. The Awakening is showing at the Gremlin (creepy I know). If you click on the blog title it will take you to the theater website to get info.
Happy viewing!

Welcome Back

I hope everyone had a nice break. That week of sleeping in sure felt great and I think we only have about 65 days left!
Today was another work day on the debate. I also moved the debate back so it will be next Monday. I realize this is a difficult issue to argue so I want to make sure you have time to solidify your argument. Tomorrow we will review the rest of the MC test and the synthesis essay.
Upcoming: Discussion Thursday
Analysis essay Thursday

Sunny Weather Lazyville

Today was the vocab test and then we went over part of the MC from Wednesday. Also, just a note to make sure that you don't start slipping in the homework department. I know it's nice out which makes it feel like school should be winding down but it's still early and we have a lot to cover. Reading 20 pages a night should not be a huge burden. Your only homework over spring break is to finish the novel so please make sure you do.
Upcoming: Debate on Tuesday and discussion on Thursday

Enjoy your break!

Debate Prep

Today was a work day for the debate. Remember groups that are presenting need to come up with some type of proposal to defend. Make sure you think about all the complications of the issue. Employers, employees, wages, worker rights, etc.
Judges you get some relaxing time but make sure you take good notes during the discussion so you have specific things to write about.
Tomorrow Vocab test and synthesis essay due.

Interesting fact: The reason fire halls originally had twisty stairs and poles was because horses were stabled down below with the water wagons and would walk up the regular stairs and mess up the housing area. The pole was installed to make it faster to get down than running down the windy staircase.

2001 AP Test

Sorry, I forgot to post again.
Today was just the timed MC. Hope to have the scores back to you before Friday but no guarantees. Yesterday we talked about immigration a little bit and did some prep work for the debate. Tomorrow we will go up to the library and you can start to plan your proposals.
Upcoming: Friday vocab test and synthesis essay
Make sure you are keeping up with the reading as well. You should be finished with part one by Friday. Bring any questions you have so far.

Still Silent Meister

Thanks for being patient and helpful with my voice. Hopefully a weekend of no speaking will make it return. I apologize that I haven't been able to give some final commentary on Native Son or the intro. for your new novel. Please bring any issues that you feel haven't been resolved for Native Son and I'll try to talk about it Monday. I'll attach my notes as well.
Upcoming: Vocab Test and reading due 3/26

Fate Notes
Social Satire—exaggerate the negative to show the consequences (Modest Proposal)
Contrast to first half—everything is black around him in jail “black floor” “black bars”
Bigger tortured—dragged away, fingernails torn off, swollen tongue p. 320
Newspaper portrayal p. 322
Portrayal of Jan—very sympathetic, understanding, forgiving p. 332
Inequality in the Black Belt p. 377—housing shortage, pay more, only educate for trade jobs
Use of Bessie’s body as evidence p. 382
Crazy jail mate—writing a book about how coloreds live, drove him crazy p. 397-98
Buckley’s irony—“A man commits two of the most horrible murders in the history of American civilization” p. 434
Reasons to incite the public p. 449
Jail actually better than home life p. 471
Title—what does native son mean?
Wright’s purpose and connection with communism

Silent Meister

Well it kind of drove me crazy not being able to speak but luckily the plan for the day didn't require much of it. Hopefully I'll be back to normal tomorrow so I can wrap-up Native Son. Today in class you took a practice Language test on Spark Notes. If you were gone just do it at home and tell me your score. In general scores were low but it is harder to take the test on the computer vs. paper and pencil. Don't get worried we still have over a month left and the writing portion counts for 55% of your score and that's what I feel is more crucial to work on. The multiple-choice is just ridiculously hard.
Upcoming: Essay rewrites with original copy due tomorrow.
Vocab test next Friday.

Get out and enjoy another warm spring day!

Fate Discussion

Today was the final student-led discussion for Native Son. I will give my commentary on Friday. Overall, I thought the discussions went well. I still think we could get more people involved and there were certain questions that were beaten to a bloody pulp. Make sure that you bring your registration forms in tomorrow.
Upcoming: Thursday MC test on the computer
Friday rewritten open essays due

Interesting fact: All U.S. presidents have worn glasses (some not in public) except for Obama. Breaking down yet another barrier!

Native Essay

Okay I know everyone was disgruntled about the timed write today but look on the bright side: 1. You need more writing practice for the test, 2. At least you don't have to write a long paper for the novel 3. You have a chance to rewrite it and make it better.
Upcoming: Not much this week so enjoy.
Edit someone's paper for tomorrow.
Have your registration form filled out for Wednesday.

Interesting fact: Apples are more effective at waking you up in the morning than caffeine.

Battle of the Classes

Started off the hour with a brief class evaluation. I hope you all know that I'm open to feedback at any time. Just do it in a polite manner. I want the class to be as beneficial as possible and if something isn't working I need to know.
After that we had the class battle and per. 9 had a chance for revenge. Today's battle ended with per. 9 winning. They got all the answers correct.
Remember to get your registration forms filled out by Wednesday and decide which AP tests you are going to take.
Upcoming: Finish Fate and quote journals for Monday.

Interesting Fact: In relation to our essay prompt--Kobe Bryant makes more money from Nike annually than all of the Nike factory workers in Malaysia combined!

Argument essay redo

Today we looked at the essays you wrote yesterday and you had a chance to outline and comment on other people's papers. I also showed you some sample essays from the real test and we talked about what you need for a strong essay.
Tonight you have a chance to rewrite your essay using the feedback you got. If you want to rewrite have it ready for tomorrow.
Upcoming: Read "Fate" and have quote journals done for Monday.
Vocab test 3/26 and we register next Wednesday so have your forms filled out!

Interesting fact: Airborne particles from the toilet can travel up to six feet when flushed. Where do you keep your toothbrush...gross?

Timed Write-Argument style

Timed write today so there isn't anything super exciting to report.
I think I'll start up my interesting fact of the day. The word woman is actually an abbreviation. Any guesses what it stands for????
Tomorrow we will be working with the essays you wrote today hence the lack of names.

Upcoming: Finish "Fate" for Monday with quote journals
Vocab test 3/26

Super singers have fun in NY!

What's in a 9???

We started the class with an advertisement for a scholarship from Ms. McCurdy. I know I complain about field trips but the chance at $18,000 seems pretty worthwhile. If you are interested make sure you stop in and see her.
The rest of the hour you looked at various essays that received a score of 9 and made a list of things they all did well. I will then compile your lists and make a copy for you. Hopefully the list will help you with how to push yourself into the higher range.
Upcoming: Finish Fate for Monday and the quote journals.
Timed write tomorrow--sorry

Vocab Day

Today you got new vocab words. I'm sorry 4/5 but you just picked the wrong movie to watch. I think you might even be missing a few words so check out the website or remind me in class to go over the list.
I also passed back the speech analysis essays. Remember for any type of analysis you should always be connecting devices with meaning or impact.
After that we closed out the hour with a very intense game of white-board vocab (I know it needs a better name).
Remember to keep reading "Fate" there is a good chance there will be a reading check quiz.
Upcoming: Fate and quote journals due 3/15
Vocab test TBA

Welcome Earl!

Today was the vocab test the first part of the hour and then I had a chance to give some commentary on Native Son. I really try to control myself but of course I end up talking too much and only get through a small portion of what I have to say. I'll attach my notes and then set aside a full class period to talk once you finish the novel. Please write down any questions you have and bring them up during discussions or ask me.
Upcoming: Finish Fate for 3/15
Enjoy the warm weekend!

Flight Notes
Issue of power—what gives Bigger strength?
Bigger’s willingness to kill again?
Treatment of Bigger—think he’s unintelligent, called boy
Stereotypes of communism
Newspapers—256-57, 280-83
Dehumanizing—it 272
Society—fairness 288-89
Is Bigger insane?
How do physical surroundings reflect Bigger’s situation—snow, storm,
Bigger’s Dream p. 189
Class vs. Race—which is more of a hindrance?
Stereotypes: Bigger as ignorant, violent, poor home life, whites, women, men, communists
Contrasts: different settings—Bigger’s apartment vs. the Dalton’s home. In addition to the spacial issues you also have the contrasting animals. (Watch for a parallel rat scene at the end of “Flight”)
Media: how the media is portrayed and how does the media portrays various groups—whites, blacks, communists. Newspapers—256-57, 280-83
Issue of power—what gives Bigger strength? Bigger’s willingness to kill again?
Blindness—more than just literal. Aside from her blindness what else is unique about Mrs. Dalton.
Questions:
Several instances are made about the communists in a negative light. Where is this information coming from? Bigger is fairly uneducated, yet even he has a low opinion of them.
How are stereotypes being played on, embellished, corrupted? Does it seem strange that a black author would make such an unlikeable black protagonist? What would be the possible reasons behind this? Along with this, what is the purpose behind the graphic violence. Wright isn’t just disturbed so why is it such a main focus? Hint: What is your reaction to it?
Is Bigger justified? I am in no way trying to say brutal violence is acceptable but try to get inside Bigger’s head. Is he medically insane? If so, was he born crazy or was he created? (This might also tie in with the title). Is he smart?

Return of AP analysis essay

We started off today looking at my discussion circle drawings. Hopefully the visual helps some people actually "see" their discussion role. Remember talking a lot isn't necessarily the way to get the best score. You want insightful comments and awareness of others.
The rest of the hour was spent working on an AP essay in groups. We did it step by step so you could see where the mistakes typically happen. Remember focused and clear is the best way to go.
Tomorrow is the "Flight" discussion. Make sure you finish the reading!
Upcoming: Vocab test Friday
"Fate" for 3/15

Speech Discussion Day

Today half the class was spent discussing in small groups and the other half was quiet work time. I thought the discussions went well. It's always easier to talk in smaller groups. Remember conferences tonight!
Upcoming: Flight discussion on Thursday and vocab test on Friday

For Monday we will be focusing on vocab. We'll be getting a new set and reviewing the old ones.

Work Day

Today was mostly a work day on the speeches with your partner. I also assigned the speech groups so everyone should be reading a total of three speeches for Tuesday. I also had a few announcements. First, registration is coming up soon. If you are getting a C or better I would suggest CIS or AP World Lit. However, more importantly I would like to encourage you to think about Broadcast and Yearbook as your electives. I need some creative reliable people.

Upcoming: Speeches on Tuesday
Flight for Thursday
Vocab test for Friday

Have a good weekend and good luck Tri-Mers

AP Practice

Tough day, you took a practice AP lit. test with the full AP scoring. I hope to have them scored and back to you by Monday so we can go over them. The good news you only have a few left! The test you today was actually the real one I took my senior year. Yikes I'm starting to feel old.
I hope everyone is keeping up with the reading of "Flight" (notice quotation marks since it's a chapter title).
Tomorrow you will have work time with your partner on the speech and you'll find out what speeches will be in your groups.
Upcoming: Speech analysis and discussion 3/2
Flight discussion 3/4
Vocab test 3/5

Remember conferences are on Tuesday too. Bring your parents! Down with Mrs. Thao!

Double Blog

I forgot to post yesterday so you get a double dose today.
Yesterday was the class discussion on Fear. It was very tough to keep myself silent but I managed for most of the class. I thought the discussions leaders did well. For some groups I think the talking could have been spaced out more. I know it's hard to get some people to talk but there were definitely times where a quite person had their hand raised and was passed up by someone who spoke a lot. There were also some questions that actually got over-analyzed. Remember it is okay to move on if everyone just keeps saying the same things.

Today we went over the open essays you just got back and some writing tips. They are on the website if you would like another look or if you were to lazy to take notes as I was speaking. The main things I'd like to see people work on are organization and sentence clarity. Finally we started the speech analysis assignment (aren't you glad you don't have to write a speech!). You will have a work day on Friday with your partner so make sure you bring your speech.

Upcoming: Tomorrow timed MC
Tuesday Speech analysis and discussions
Thursday finish Flight and discussion

Vocab Day!

Today you got another round of vocab words with a wonderful student made video.
The vocab test will be in two weeks on the 5th.
You then had a short reading check test and we briefly talked about Native Son.
I didn't want to take away from the discussion tomorrow so I will post my notes here since I didn't discuss them in class.

Upcoming: Flight for next Thursday
Timed MC this Thursday

Native Son: Fear Notes
Contrast Bigger’s home p. 1 to Dalton’s home
Treatment of Bigger from his mother—manhood, “why I birthed you”
Living behind a wall p. 9
Activities of Bigger’s friends—rob blacks, “play white” 18,
Flight imagery—plane 17, pigeon 22
Bigger’s behavior when in presence of whites—54
Irony of Dalton being member of NAACP
Why such graphic violence?
Purpose of media— Portrayal of Communists, whites, blacks
Is it okay for black authors/characters to use the N-word?
Structure—start and end with violence
Use of color and blindness
Key Passages:
Mary 23, Bigger 20
Contrast Bigger’s home p. 1 to Dalton’s home
Treatment of Bigger from his mother—manhood, “why I birthed you”
Living behind a wall p. 9
Activities of Bigger’s friends—rob blacks, “play white” 18,
Flight imagery—plane 17, pigeon 22
Bigger’s behavior when in presence of whites—54
What is the “fear” that is so prominent in this chapter? What does he mean when he says “living behind a wall” (9).
Both Jan and Mary attempt to befriend Bigger, yet it only seems to make Bigger more angry. What is Wright trying to say with this?

Vocab Test 582

Today was almost entirely devoted to the vocab test with some reading and chat time.
Hopefully the test went well for everyone. Only three more sets of words to go!
Remember to "Feat" for Monday.
Upcoming: Discussion on Tuesday
MC test on Thursday (February is almost done)

Split lessons part two

Today the classes were split again due to longer presentations in 4/5.
4/5 read yesterday's blog
Per. 9 you all got to practice your thesis writing and BSing skills--a very rare treat. Tomorrow will be the in-class essay due to the field trip fun.
The essay will be an open one. If you are going to be gone please make up the essay either Wednesday or Thursday after school.
Upcoming: Vocab test on Friday
Fear reading due Monday
Discussion on Tuesday

Catch-up

Today was a mixed day for both classes. In 4/5 we just finished up the presentations and you got your next novel. Yes I know it's huge but give it a chance.
In per. 9 we went over some introductory material on the book and I passed out the assignment sheets.
Upcoming: Friday vocab test
Monday finish Fear and the discussion will be on Wednesday

Work Day part 2

Today was another work day so nothing exciting to report--except the fact that I have two new followers!
Projects seem to be going okay. I look forward to seeing the presentations tomorrow. Please make sure you practice a little bit and if you're nervous curl your toes it relieves the tension in your shoulders and facial muscles.
Upcoming: Can you believe it nothing?

Gatsby Work Day

Oops I forgot to post yesterday and I was doing so well. Anyway yesterday was the discussion day for Gatsby. The discussions went well but I'd still like to see more people get involved--if you are a talker try to elicit responses from the more quiet people. It also helps to refer to specific passages. By the way what is going on page 115??
Today we had a work day in the library for the Gatsby presentations. Remember to keep in mind that each group should have a specific claim they are proving to the class.
Upcoming: Presentations Thursday
Tuesday we start our next novel and it is intense!
Posted by Kristin Marie Meister

Vocab Test 1.1

Today was the first vocab test of the new quarter. It seems like it went okay, but I guess grades will tell. After the test I tried to cram in the new set of vocab words with the original Quack vocab video. I will play the review on Monday quickly before the discussion but remember the words are also on the website.
The Awakening papers were also due today and at least some came in. Please try to get the procrastination under control.
Upcoming: Monday finish Gatsby and discussion
Thursday and Friday Gatsby presentations

I also have to give some neglected acknowledgment to Leif who provided 4/5 with an Oscar worthy interpretation of sentence types. Per. 9 you missed out but I'm sure if you ask politely he would reenact it for you.

Open Essay

Today we finally covered the last of the different types of essays on the AP test. The open essay requires you to discuss a novel of your choosing on a predetermined topic. The key with this essay is to stay focused on the question and avoid plot summary. Also remember to include the title in your thesis so they know which book you are writing about.
Upcoming: Vocab test and Awakening paper due Friday
Gatsby reading due Monday

Gatsby Part 1

Today we mostly talked about the first half of Gatsby. While reading get in the habit of taking notes so you have things to refer back to. You should be engaging with the text. Since it drives me crazy to keep my mouth shut, I'll use this as my outlet.
Some things to consider

Nick as narrator—how reliable is he? He makes a big deal out of saying how honest and nonjudgmental he is but I think the narrator doth protest too much. He definitely makes judgments about Tom, Daisy, and Jordan. Speaking of Jordan why is she such a liar?

Not to mention did anyone catch the Nick is a bit of a player?? (p. 59)

Pay careful attention to the descriptions of people.
Description of Tom—very masculine, physical, cruel
Jordan--very masculine as well but then George Wilson is very feminine--what's going on here?

Daisy's bizarre mothering skills. Why turn your head away and weep at the sight of a girl?

Don't be like the elitist and neglect the Valley of Ashes. There is a lot going on here some hints—desolate, biblical, industrial, lower class p. 24

Watch for parallel scenes. Fitzy is a genius when it comes to this. We already talked about Tom's violence with both Daisy and Myrtle but there are others. Look at the different settings we have between ch. 1 and 2 along with Myrtle's treatment of Tom.

Okay, I'll stop now but upcoming pay careful attention to everything surrounding Gatsby and Daisy's meeting...

Upcoming: Awakening Paper and Vocab due Friday
Finish Gatsby for Monday

1996 MC

Today was a lovely two hour block and we completed the first half of the year. Just think you are half way done with AP English!
The first half was devoted to the AP test. From the scores I've corrected so far I think most people are doing quite well for January. After the test we had some entertaining satires. Nice work to Sean, Asha, and Virginia for really nailing satire--it should be biting and funny.
We ended the class with very briefly talking about the synthesis essay and then some down time.
Upcoming: Finish the first half of Gatsby along with the sheet.
Awakening papers due Friday

Writing Workshop

Today we worked on the supposed outlines for The Awakening paper. I'm sorry I wasn't able to get to everyone--I even started before the bell. However, I have to say that I'm pretty disappointed in the amount of effort I saw today. Writing is a process and it is very difficult for me to help you improve if you are unwilling to put in the time and effort up front.
Upcoming: Awakening Paper! 2/5

Aladdin Completion

Today we finished up Aladdin and then discussed it with the various theories. I'll attach my notes on it to help you out. We also had some time to review sentence types again.
Upcoming: Awakening workshop on Monday


Gender
Al assumes Jasmine is helpless (jumping over roofs)
Jasmine uses sexuality to distract Jafar
Jasmine needs a husband to take care of her
Frees the doves from the cage


Historical
Prostitutes
Laws—cut off hand for stealing
American accents
Jafar—British accent


Psychoanalytic
Al feels inadequate
Jasmine is “trapped”

Marxist
Jasmine doesn’t even know what money is
Jasmine must marry a prince
Sultan is an idiot
Aladdin’s personality changes when he becomes a prince

Narratology
Al the hero—orphan, something special “diamond in the rough”
Colors—good light/bad dark
Trickster—Abu
Mentor—Geni
Villain—Jafar

Did anyone notice I got a random comment from a stranger? Awesome!

Aladdin Day Two

Another easy day. We continued watching Aladdin and passed back the poetry projects. Remember the key with analyzing poetry is to connect the everything back with meaning. Why did the poet choose to use certain techniques? How does it add to the purpose?
Upcoming: Awakening work day Monday
Synthesis due Friday

Aladdin

What a nice easy day for all of you! Today we started picking apart Disney. We are watching Aladdin and analyzing it using the various literary theories. Hopefully, with a new perspective on the movie some new things are popping out to you.
I also passed out a sheet that gives some tips for writing titles, intros. and conclusions.
Remember that you should be working on your Awakening paper and the synthesis essay is due this Friday.

Vocab and lit. theory fun

Today you got new vocab presented by a lovely vocab video from last years students. The vocab test will be February 5th (the same day The Awakening paper is due).
After the video I did a brief introduction to lit. theory. I had to go fast so please make sure you read over the sheet more carefully. Your next major assignment will be working with those theories so make sure you understand them.
You also got your assignment for the week which is a synthesis essay due this Friday.
Upcoming: Awakening workshop 1/25

Happy Birthday Steve

Today was pretty non-eventful as most of the hour was dedicated to taking the vocab test. Hopefully everyone did well. Remember if you are still confused by sentence types let me know. We will also do another practice sheet next week.
Upcoming: Synthesis essay next Friday and extra credit if you choose.

Awakening Discussion

Today was The Awakening discussion with groups selected by me. This time I split the classes up into the talkers and the shy ones. Let me know what you thought of doing it this way. It definitely seemed to go better for one group but it was opposite in each class so I don't know what that means.
One thing that wasn't touched on very much is the actual reason why Edna killed herself. The other issue that was agreed on by most people was that Edna was selfish. I assume this mostly had to do with her children so I then wonder is it better to have a bad mother or no mother???
Upcoming: Vocab test and poetry tomorrow
Way upcoming: Awakening Paper 2/5

Awakening Extravaganza

Today was me just blurting out info. about The Awakening. There is so much in this book that it's hard to contain myself to just one class period (I'm nerdy I know). I also handed out the assignment sheet for the final paper. Remember if you get stuck on an idea come in and talk to me. Tomorrow will be the class discussion of the book.
Upcoming: Friday poetry and vocab test

Awakening Notes
Leonce 40; Edna 28; Robert 26

Edna:
First intro. of Edna is as “his wife” who he looks at like “a valuable piece of personal property which has suffered some damage” (24)
Edna’s crying—sparked by Leonce p. 27 can’t figure out why she is upset—acknowledges Leonce as kind and devoted
Edna first stands up to Leonce after swimming
Pursues Robert “she leaned over and kissed him” p. 130

Leonce:
Leonce feeling “uncomfortable…eternal rights of women…” p.88
Stops receiving people p. 73 worried about what people will think
Leonce’s reaction to Edna moving out “what people would say” “thinking of his financial integrity” p. 116
Leonce’s parenting—provides bonbons, wakes them at night

Mother-woman—“idolized children, worshiped husbands, effaced themselves as individuals” p.29 beauty, kindness (Adele)

Artist—“courageous soul that dares and defies” p. 86 ugly, rude, alone (Reisz—“extremely disagreeable and unpleasant” p.106)

Children
Birth every two years
Birth control, catholics
“Never sacrifice self for children” give up life but not self p. 69
Adele birth scene p. 133—scandolous for the time; impact on Edna

Minorities—almost invisible
Quadroons—cares for children, servants, black girl p. 43
Mariequita—Spanish, exotic, sexual “saucy, making eyes at Robert and mouths at Beauelet”
Mexicans p.64 “treacherous, unscrupulous and revengeful”
Darkies

Birds— parrot in a cage (exotic, uncommon) speaking a “language which nobody understood” (22), mother-woman p.29, song p. 47 pigeon house p. 108

Takes place in New Orleans fairly “open” society—
“freedom of expression”
very different from Edna’s Mississippi plantation and Kentucky upbringing
Runs away from her father’s prayers p. 38
No affection from sisters, lost her mother young
“coerced his wife into her grave” p. 94

Sea—seductive, awakens Edna, learning to swim “wanted to swim far out, where no woman had swum before” p. 49

Narrator opinion shift—end of chapter six “how few of us ever emerge” p. 35

Music—moves Edna p.47, brings tears and pictures (birds, solitude)

Insanity—“Mr. Pontellier to wonder if his wife were not growing a little unbalanced mentally” p. 79

Alcee views her as a “sleek animal waking up in the sun” animal = sexual

Dinner scene p. 109 (Remember what I said about eating scenes)

Sentence Types

Three days in a row--I can't believe it!
Today we went over the practice sheet on sentence types and it looked like most people were getting it. If you are still confused stop in and talk to me. It usually only takes about 10 mins. to catch on.
The second half of class we spent talking about the synthesis essay and working on an outline in groups.
Tomorrow we (and I mean me) will talk about The Awakening. Please make sure you finish the reading as I will spoil the ending and a lot of other things tomorrow.
Upcoming: Discussion on Thursday
Poetry and Vocab on Friday

Synthesis

Today we went over the first timed poetry write. The main concern was making sure that you understand what the meaning of the poem is and then showing how the devices develop that theme.
After the poetry we looked at our next type of essay--The Synthesis one. We ran out of time so tomorrow we will continue working on the sample as a class.
Remember to do the sentence types for tomorrow as I'll go over the answers in class.
Upcoming: Finish The Awakening for Wednesday
Poetry analysis and vocab test Friday

New Year's Resolution

Okay, Justin I would just like it to be known that I'm writing this on a Saturday thus showing my determination to keep this updated.
On Friday we did a brief review of the new vocab words and surprised a lot of people. I also gave you a sheet to practice the sentence types. We'll probably go over the answers on Tuesday but if you need more practice there are more samples with answers on the website. http://www.comosr.spps.org/Sentence_Types.html
After that we read a fabulous piece of satire by Judy Syfers "I Want a Wife." You then discussed how the argument was developed in groups with some guided questions.
Finally I gave you an extra credit option: write your own I Want a ... and read it to the class. Remember to mimic her style and make it a satire.
Upcoming: Awakening questions for Monday and finish novel by Wednesday
Friday Vocab test and poetry analysis due