It's the last week of 2015!
This week, we'll finish the Rhetorical Historical Term paper, continue reading The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and continue with Argument.
MONDAY: Journal warm-up. Collect Grapes projects from wall, turn in Grapes book to class. Rough draft peer editing in rounds. Argument notes - types of evidence/article - I Know Why the Caged Bird Cannot Read by Francine Prose.
Due: Full rough draft of paper.
Homework: Work on drafts, upload starred rough draft with starred/marked paragraph for teacher notes to Turnitin.com by Wednesday night, December 16 at 10:00 p.m.
Finish reading "I Know Why the Caged Bird Cannot Read by Francine Prose." What kind of evidence does she use? Is this an effective argument, in your view?
WEDNESDAY: Discuss "I Know Why the Caged Bird Cannot Read". Notes: satire vs. parody, examples. Periodic sentences.
Homework: Work on drafts, upload starred rough draft with starred/marked paragraph
for teacher notes to Turnitin.com by Wednesday night, December 16 at
10:00 p.m.
FRIDAY: (minimum day, 35 minutes) Metonymy and synechdoche. Check-in term papers. Discuss reading/Learnerator multiple choice practice over break.
Homework:
1. Please upload the Rhetorical Historical Term Paper by Sunday, December 20 at 11:59 p.m. to Turnitin.com with visuals, the text of the paper, and Works Cited all included.
2. Learnerator, please complete the following: (see sign up on the right hand navigation bar if you need instructions)
Under the sections "Rhetoric" and "Author's Meaning and Purpose" complete "Was the World Made for Man" by Mark Twain.
3. Please read Huckleberry Finn through Chapter 11 and be ready to discuss the book's style and content after break.
4. If you're up for it, the homework for January 6 is a short "Huckleberry Finn Raft Project". You can get a jump on that if you have time over the break.
Thanks for a wonderful 2015. I hope you have a fabulous (and well-deserved) Winter Break.
I look forward to seeing you next year!
Monday, December 14, 2015
Friday, December 4, 2015
December 7-11
We continue with our Rhetorical Historical term papers this week, begin our Argument Unit, and reading The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.
TUESDAY: Journal warm-up. Discuss Huckleberry Finn and the controversy over the "n" word. Check-in for Step 6 - write 2 body paragraphs - of the term paper. Intro to argument unit, define claim, discuss types of claims, evidence. Discuss Atlantic article with SOAPS. Read and annotate the article "Letter to Jerry Seinfeld from a Politically Correct College Student" in class and discuss how the argument is crafted. Discuss current climate on college campuses.
Due: Read the article from The Atlantic "The Coddling of the American Mind" and be ready to discuss the authors' claim and how they support their argument (evidence, examples).
Rough draft of 2 body paragraphs of the term paper.
Homework:
Study for current events quiz.
++Note: You'll leave journals in class at the end of the period on Thursday.
THURSDAY: Journal warm-up. Current events quiz - last quiz of 2015. Huckleberry Finn reading out loud in class. Go over writing body paragraphs and the conclusion of the paper. Go to computer lab for last portion of class to work on Rhetorical Historical term paper. Leave journals in class container for points.
Homework:
1. Finish writing a rough draft of the body paragraphs - step 7 - approximately 2-3 more for a total of 4-5 body paragraphs, 6 sources minimum, and conclusion (Step 8). Please come to class with a full draft for Monday.
2. Read the rest of chapters 1-3 of Huckleberry Finn (pages 1-14 - just get a feel for it). Come with answers to the following questions on a separate sheet of paper:
TUESDAY: Journal warm-up. Discuss Huckleberry Finn and the controversy over the "n" word. Check-in for Step 6 - write 2 body paragraphs - of the term paper. Intro to argument unit, define claim, discuss types of claims, evidence. Discuss Atlantic article with SOAPS. Read and annotate the article "Letter to Jerry Seinfeld from a Politically Correct College Student" in class and discuss how the argument is crafted. Discuss current climate on college campuses.
Due: Read the article from The Atlantic "The Coddling of the American Mind" and be ready to discuss the authors' claim and how they support their argument (evidence, examples).
Rough draft of 2 body paragraphs of the term paper.
Homework:
Study for current events quiz.
++Note: You'll leave journals in class at the end of the period on Thursday.
THURSDAY: Journal warm-up. Current events quiz - last quiz of 2015. Huckleberry Finn reading out loud in class. Go over writing body paragraphs and the conclusion of the paper. Go to computer lab for last portion of class to work on Rhetorical Historical term paper. Leave journals in class container for points.
Homework:
1. Finish writing a rough draft of the body paragraphs - step 7 - approximately 2-3 more for a total of 4-5 body paragraphs, 6 sources minimum, and conclusion (Step 8). Please come to class with a full draft for Monday.
2. Read the rest of chapters 1-3 of Huckleberry Finn (pages 1-14 - just get a feel for it). Come with answers to the following questions on a separate sheet of paper:
- How does Huck show his age?
- How does he relate to the African American character Jim in these earliest chapters?
- How is the novel NOT politically correct? Does this make it a little painful to read?
Sunday, November 29, 2015
November 30 - December 4
This week, it's December!
Online classes are becoming more and more ubiquitous (vocab word this week), but there are certain things that can only be done in a classroom with peers. This week, I look forward to a lively Socratic Seminar involving the themes of The Grapes of Wrath. The purpose is to explore ideas and make connections to events outside of the book. I believe the ideas we explore could be good fodder for your SAT, ACT and of course AP exams later this year.
MONDAY/TUESDAY: Journal warm-up. Thesis check-in for term paper. Discuss Step 5 of the term paper - the components of the intro paragraph (hook, basic information, thesis). Socratic Seminar exploring ideas on the Discussion Questions handout.
Due: The Grapes of Wrath Discussion Questions handout filled out. Rough draft (1-4 sentences) thesis statement ready to share.
Homework: Study for vocab quiz on Friday. Complete rough draft of intro paragraph for Friday.
WEDNESDAY: Junior conferences take up most of the period. Return Grapes of Wrath, pick up Huckleberry Finn. Literary analysis terms: metonymy and synechdoche.
THURSDAY/FRIDAY: Journal warm-up. Vocabulary quiz. Check-in intro paragraphs for the term paper. Begin writing body paragraphs. Intro Huckleberry Finn.
Due: Step 5: Intro paragraph rough draft.
Homework: Write 2 body paragraphs of the term paper for Tuesday (Step 6).
Read the article from The Atlantic found here: "The Coddling of the American Mind" and come to class prepared to discuss the current climate and national conversation on Tuesday. Look at how the authors make their argument - what is their claim and what type of evidence do they provide? The comments section of the article has a lively debate as well. (This article is very critical of the current college climate - during class on Tuesday we will read and discuss a letter to Jerry Seinfeld from a SDSU student that defends banning certain types of speech from campus.)
Online classes are becoming more and more ubiquitous (vocab word this week), but there are certain things that can only be done in a classroom with peers. This week, I look forward to a lively Socratic Seminar involving the themes of The Grapes of Wrath. The purpose is to explore ideas and make connections to events outside of the book. I believe the ideas we explore could be good fodder for your SAT, ACT and of course AP exams later this year.
MONDAY/TUESDAY: Journal warm-up. Thesis check-in for term paper. Discuss Step 5 of the term paper - the components of the intro paragraph (hook, basic information, thesis). Socratic Seminar exploring ideas on the Discussion Questions handout.
Due: The Grapes of Wrath Discussion Questions handout filled out. Rough draft (1-4 sentences) thesis statement ready to share.
Homework: Study for vocab quiz on Friday. Complete rough draft of intro paragraph for Friday.
WEDNESDAY: Junior conferences take up most of the period. Return Grapes of Wrath, pick up Huckleberry Finn. Literary analysis terms: metonymy and synechdoche.
THURSDAY/FRIDAY: Journal warm-up. Vocabulary quiz. Check-in intro paragraphs for the term paper. Begin writing body paragraphs. Intro Huckleberry Finn.
Due: Step 5: Intro paragraph rough draft.
Homework: Write 2 body paragraphs of the term paper for Tuesday (Step 6).
Read the article from The Atlantic found here: "The Coddling of the American Mind" and come to class prepared to discuss the current climate and national conversation on Tuesday. Look at how the authors make their argument - what is their claim and what type of evidence do they provide? The comments section of the article has a lively debate as well. (This article is very critical of the current college climate - during class on Tuesday we will read and discuss a letter to Jerry Seinfeld from a SDSU student that defends banning certain types of speech from campus.)
Friday, November 20, 2015
November 24th/Thanksgiving Week
You've worked hard over the last 12 weeks and we've just completed the longest novel we'll read this year (Grapes of Wrath). Due to the Thanksgiving holiday and block scheduling, we'll meet once this week, on Tuesday and we will NOT have a quiz (vocab quiz next week on December 4).
TUESDAY: Journal warm-up. Discuss the controversial ending of Grapes of Wrath: was it fitting and effective, or too unsettling? Watch the last part of the 1940 movie as well as a student adaptation. Source packet check-in. Thesis overview for term paper: write a rough draft of your thesis and share it out loud. Carson essay review and class exercise improving a sample paragraph.
Due: Source packet due with all 8 sources with SOAPS + Tone and annotations, MLA formatted bibliography, and other requirements. The Grapes of Wrath finished.
Homework: Polish the thesis of the term paper and make sure it's accessible via Internet (either in Google Docs, your e-mail, or some other online provider). Answer the Grapes of Wrath discussion questions and be ready to discuss in a large roundtable on Monday, November 30. Read and review all of the Carson essay samples against the College Board essay scoring chart.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Enjoy the holiday break, and get plenty of rest! I am thankful to have such a wonderful group of students and the opportunity to work with you. It's been a great year so far, thank you!
TUESDAY: Journal warm-up. Discuss the controversial ending of Grapes of Wrath: was it fitting and effective, or too unsettling? Watch the last part of the 1940 movie as well as a student adaptation. Source packet check-in. Thesis overview for term paper: write a rough draft of your thesis and share it out loud. Carson essay review and class exercise improving a sample paragraph.
Due: Source packet due with all 8 sources with SOAPS + Tone and annotations, MLA formatted bibliography, and other requirements. The Grapes of Wrath finished.
Homework: Polish the thesis of the term paper and make sure it's accessible via Internet (either in Google Docs, your e-mail, or some other online provider). Answer the Grapes of Wrath discussion questions and be ready to discuss in a large roundtable on Monday, November 30. Read and review all of the Carson essay samples against the College Board essay scoring chart.
Enjoy the holiday break, and get plenty of rest! I am thankful to have such a wonderful group of students and the opportunity to work with you. It's been a great year so far, thank you!
Monday, November 16, 2015
November 16-20
This week, we'll work on researching sources for the term paper and finish The Grapes of Wrath.
MONDAY: Journal warm-up. Collect research proposals. Healthy kids survey. Begin work on Source Packet - instructions and research time on laptops.
Due: The rest of The Grapes of Wrath, Chapter 26. Research proposal.
Homework: Locate, print and annotate/SOAPS for 3 sources for term paper.
WEDNESDAY: Journal warm-up. Term paper check-in. Research time for additional sources for the term paper. Current event discussion about Syrian refugees and the rhetoric associated with the issue.
Due: First three sources annotated/SOAPS for the term paper.
Homework: Study for current events quiz, continue work on term paper source packet.
FRIDAY: Journal warm-up. Current events quiz. Read and discuss portions of Chapter 28-29 of The Grapes of Wrath. Go over results of last in-class essay and view College Board and Mogilefsky essay samples. Term paper check-in and work time.
Due: n/a
Homework: Finish the Source Packet requirements and bring all 8 to class for Tuesday. Finish The Grapes of Wrath, Chapter 30 (the rest of the book) for Tuesday, November 24 and be prepared to discuss the ending.
MONDAY: Journal warm-up. Collect research proposals. Healthy kids survey. Begin work on Source Packet - instructions and research time on laptops.
Due: The rest of The Grapes of Wrath, Chapter 26. Research proposal.
Homework: Locate, print and annotate/SOAPS for 3 sources for term paper.
WEDNESDAY: Journal warm-up. Term paper check-in. Research time for additional sources for the term paper. Current event discussion about Syrian refugees and the rhetoric associated with the issue.
Due: First three sources annotated/SOAPS for the term paper.
Homework: Study for current events quiz, continue work on term paper source packet.
FRIDAY: Journal warm-up. Current events quiz. Read and discuss portions of Chapter 28-29 of The Grapes of Wrath. Go over results of last in-class essay and view College Board and Mogilefsky essay samples. Term paper check-in and work time.
Due: n/a
Homework: Finish the Source Packet requirements and bring all 8 to class for Tuesday. Finish The Grapes of Wrath, Chapter 30 (the rest of the book) for Tuesday, November 24 and be prepared to discuss the ending.
Sunday, November 8, 2015
November 9-13
Welcome! This is a big week for our class; we'll write our third rhetorical analysis essay (our second in-class rhetorical analysis essay) and begin work on the term paper. The term paper allows for student choice in the topic, gives practice in analyzing "real-world" examples of rhetoric, and will hone your research and term paper-writing skills.
MONDAY: Journal warm-up. Introduce Rhetorical Historical fall term paper and provide handout with general description. Review rhetorical analysis essay steps. In-class rhetorical analysis essay.
Due: The Grapes of Wrath, Chapters 24-25.
Homework:
Come to class on Wednesday with three choices of topics for the Rhetorical Historical term paper in order of preference. We'll be selecting them and no more than two students can have the same topic.
Study for the vocabulary quiz on Thursday.
WEDNESDAY: Veteran's Day - no school.
THURSDAY: Journal warm-up. Vocabulary quiz. Rhetorical Historical term paper topic selection and overview. Table reading of completed student papers. Step 2 Proposal handout. Grapes of Wrath reading scenes/discussion in class.
Due: Bring three term paper topic choices in order of preference.
Homework: Finish Grapes, Chapter 26 from page 528 to the end of the chapter. Please type up Step Two: Research Proposal for Monday, November 16.
MONDAY: Journal warm-up. Introduce Rhetorical Historical fall term paper and provide handout with general description. Review rhetorical analysis essay steps. In-class rhetorical analysis essay.
Due: The Grapes of Wrath, Chapters 24-25.
Homework:
Come to class on Wednesday with three choices of topics for the Rhetorical Historical term paper in order of preference. We'll be selecting them and no more than two students can have the same topic.
Study for the vocabulary quiz on Thursday.
WEDNESDAY: Veteran's Day - no school.
THURSDAY: Journal warm-up. Vocabulary quiz. Rhetorical Historical term paper topic selection and overview. Table reading of completed student papers. Step 2 Proposal handout. Grapes of Wrath reading scenes/discussion in class.
Due: Bring three term paper topic choices in order of preference.
Homework: Finish Grapes, Chapter 26 from page 528 to the end of the chapter. Please type up Step Two: Research Proposal for Monday, November 16.
Monday, November 2, 2015
November 2-6
It's November! We'll write another rhetorical analysis essay, continue with The Grapes of Wrath, preview NOISES OFF, and analyze the rhetoric surrounding the Black Lives Matter movement and its critics.
TUESDAY: Journal warm-up. Overview of 2nd quarter. Finish asyndeton/polysyndeton activity. Green essay rewrite exercise due; review in class. Begin rhetorical analysis paragraph on Steinbeck prompt from The Grapes of Wrath.
Due:
Green essay paragraph rewrite: please bring the old paragraph and the new one (handwritten neatly is fine).
Grapes Chapters 21-22.
Homework:
Study for current events quiz covering TheWeek.com e-mails from Sunday, November 1 - Wednesday, November 4. NOTE: There will be two Grapes reading questions on this week's quiz.
Read Grapes Chapter 23 (short).
Finish Grapes of Wrath rhetorical analysis paragraph for Thursday.
THURSDAY: Journal warm-up. NOISES OFF preview from 1-1:30 p.m. Current events quiz. Grapes of Wrath reading scenes in class. The rhetoric surrounding the Black Lives Matter movement - discussion.
Due: Grapes, Chapter 23 and The Grapes of Wrath rhetorical analysis paragraph.
Homework: Read Grapes, Chapter 24 and 25. Look over your rhetorical analysis essay notes over the weekend and we'll write another in-class essay on Monday.
TUESDAY: Journal warm-up. Overview of 2nd quarter. Finish asyndeton/polysyndeton activity. Green essay rewrite exercise due; review in class. Begin rhetorical analysis paragraph on Steinbeck prompt from The Grapes of Wrath.
Due:
Green essay paragraph rewrite: please bring the old paragraph and the new one (handwritten neatly is fine).
Grapes Chapters 21-22.
Homework:
Study for current events quiz covering TheWeek.com e-mails from Sunday, November 1 - Wednesday, November 4. NOTE: There will be two Grapes reading questions on this week's quiz.
Read Grapes Chapter 23 (short).
Finish Grapes of Wrath rhetorical analysis paragraph for Thursday.
THURSDAY: Journal warm-up. NOISES OFF preview from 1-1:30 p.m. Current events quiz. Grapes of Wrath reading scenes in class. The rhetoric surrounding the Black Lives Matter movement - discussion.
Due: Grapes, Chapter 23 and The Grapes of Wrath rhetorical analysis paragraph.
Homework: Read Grapes, Chapter 24 and 25. Look over your rhetorical analysis essay notes over the weekend and we'll write another in-class essay on Monday.
Sunday, October 25, 2015
October 26 - 30
Welcome! Please check Aeries this week; Friday is the last day of the
quarter and progress reports will be sent out. If you're missing any work,
please turn it in for at least partial credit.
This week, we'll continue with The Grapes of Wrath, add rhetorical analysis terms to our notes, and go over the results of the last in-class essay.
MONDAY: Journal warm-up. Go over multiple choice answers. Discuss Grapes, Chapter 18, and music inspired by the book and the era. Literary term: paradox. Read "Shooting an Elephant" and analyze its rhetorical effects.
Due: Chapter 18 read. Multiple choice questions answered to the best of your ability.
Homework: Read Grapes, Chapter 19 and Chapter 20 up to the scene where Jim Casy interacts with the police officer (page 357 in the library edition).
WEDNESDAY: Review in-class essay results, along with actual student responses and scoring.
Due: Grapes reading through Chapter 20 up to the scene where Jim Casy interacts with the police officer (page 357 in library edition).
Homework: For Friday: Study for vocabulary quiz. Finish Chapter 20. For Tuesday: Rewrite one paragraph from the Green essay for Tuesday. Be ready to share.
FRIDAY: Vocab quiz. Go over conclusions - what to include, what not to include. (Click here for Conclusions PPT with helpful hints.) Asyndeton and polysyndeton definitions, group exercises (click here for asyndeton and polysyndeton definitions).
Due: Grapes, Chapter 20.
Homework: Read Chapters 21-22 of Grapes, finish rewrite of paragraph for Green essay. Look over rhetorical analysis essay writing notes.
This week, we'll continue with The Grapes of Wrath, add rhetorical analysis terms to our notes, and go over the results of the last in-class essay.
MONDAY: Journal warm-up. Go over multiple choice answers. Discuss Grapes, Chapter 18, and music inspired by the book and the era. Literary term: paradox. Read "Shooting an Elephant" and analyze its rhetorical effects.
Due: Chapter 18 read. Multiple choice questions answered to the best of your ability.
Homework: Read Grapes, Chapter 19 and Chapter 20 up to the scene where Jim Casy interacts with the police officer (page 357 in the library edition).
WEDNESDAY: Review in-class essay results, along with actual student responses and scoring.
Due: Grapes reading through Chapter 20 up to the scene where Jim Casy interacts with the police officer (page 357 in library edition).
Homework: For Friday: Study for vocabulary quiz. Finish Chapter 20. For Tuesday: Rewrite one paragraph from the Green essay for Tuesday. Be ready to share.
FRIDAY: Vocab quiz. Go over conclusions - what to include, what not to include. (Click here for Conclusions PPT with helpful hints.) Asyndeton and polysyndeton definitions, group exercises (click here for asyndeton and polysyndeton definitions).
Due: Grapes, Chapter 20.
Homework: Read Chapters 21-22 of Grapes, finish rewrite of paragraph for Green essay. Look over rhetorical analysis essay writing notes.
Sunday, October 18, 2015
October 19-23
This week we'll write our first in-class rhetorical analysis essay, timed at 1 hour. We'll continue to write take-home and in-class essays as we move through the semester and get better and better each time. The goal is "your best first draft" per the College Board, and by the time the exam comes around in May you'll be well prepared.
We'll also read Chapter 18 of The Grapes of Wrath, and head into the heart of the novel. There are several interesting accompanying current events articles with Chapters 18-20 that we'll look at over the next couple of weeks, including opposing views about the "Black Lives Matter" movement and how best to deal with homelessness in Los Angeles.
TUESDAY: Journal warm-up. Review the steps to write a good rhetorical analysis essay, share outlines, collect outlines. Write a rhetorical analysis essay, timed, 1 hour. Debrief.
Due: 2 outlines: 1 for JFK's inauguration address and 1 for the Florence Kelley prompt.
Homework: Study for current events quiz.
THURSDAY: Journal warm-up. Current events quiz. Review JFK outlines. Discuss the multiple choice section of the exam. Vote on class nominations for known actors for Grapes of Wrath. Begin reading The Grapes of Wrath, Chapter 18. Read opposing articles about what Los Angeles should do about homelessness and tiny houses, analyze each argument, City Council-style discussion.
Due: n/a
Homework: Finish reading Grapes, Chapter 18. Note the rhetorical devices/appeals Steinbeck uses in these chapters to achieve his purpose and be ready to discuss on Monday. Which issues that Steinbeck highlights are still relevant today?
Multiple choice practice: read two passages (there were 5 on the 2014 exam) and answer the questions that follow each passage. Please bring in your answers for Monday.
We'll also read Chapter 18 of The Grapes of Wrath, and head into the heart of the novel. There are several interesting accompanying current events articles with Chapters 18-20 that we'll look at over the next couple of weeks, including opposing views about the "Black Lives Matter" movement and how best to deal with homelessness in Los Angeles.
TUESDAY: Journal warm-up. Review the steps to write a good rhetorical analysis essay, share outlines, collect outlines. Write a rhetorical analysis essay, timed, 1 hour. Debrief.
Due: 2 outlines: 1 for JFK's inauguration address and 1 for the Florence Kelley prompt.
Homework: Study for current events quiz.
THURSDAY: Journal warm-up. Current events quiz. Review JFK outlines. Discuss the multiple choice section of the exam. Vote on class nominations for known actors for Grapes of Wrath. Begin reading The Grapes of Wrath, Chapter 18. Read opposing articles about what Los Angeles should do about homelessness and tiny houses, analyze each argument, City Council-style discussion.
Due: n/a
Homework: Finish reading Grapes, Chapter 18. Note the rhetorical devices/appeals Steinbeck uses in these chapters to achieve his purpose and be ready to discuss on Monday. Which issues that Steinbeck highlights are still relevant today?
Multiple choice practice: read two passages (there were 5 on the 2014 exam) and answer the questions that follow each passage. Please bring in your answers for Monday.
Sunday, October 11, 2015
October 12-16
This week we'll continue on Route 66 with the Joads in The Grapes of Wrath and will read new materials for more advanced rhetorical analysis practice. You'll receive feedback for the first rhetorical essay, and we'll gear up for the next one, an in-class essay.
MONDAY: Journal warm-up. Go over old Glossary Assignment, pass back papers. Cumulative sentence exercise. Groucho Marx's letter to Warner Brothers, more information about thesis statements, and Christopher Morley's "On Laziness."
UPDATE: click here to access articles for today's class and enter "1000" for the passcode. We read through page 9 of the scan, "Writing a Close Analysis Essay" and "On Laziness".
Due: Grapes, Chapter 13 read, Final draft of Marriage Proposal Rhetorical Analysis Essay to Turnitin.com, any remaining nomination forms for known actors for Grapes of Wrath characters.
Homework: Read Chapters 15 and 16 in Grapes of Wrath. If applicable, add to Glossary Assignment and turn in on Friday.
WEDNESDAY: (PSAT test - all juniors will take the PSAT on Wednesday morning at 7:45 a.m. until 11:20 a.m. Periods 1-3 will be shortened to 50 minutes). Journal warm-up. Watch clips from the Democratic Debate, then analyze the rhetorical strategies the candidates used as a class.
Due:
Homework: Study for Vocab quiz, read The Grapes of Wrath, Chapter 17 for Friday.
FRIDAY: Journal warm-up. Vocab quiz. Go over rhetorical analysis essay steps. Read Grapes Chapter 14 out loud in class; identify and discuss the effect of rhetorical appeals in the chapter. Prepare for in-class rhetorical analysis essay on Tuesday, October 20. View CBS video providing a context for JFK's inaugural address; watch part of his speech from YouTube, and then read and annotate the transcript.
Due: Grapes, Chapter 17 read
Homework:
1. Read the transcript of JFK's speech and annotate it. Create an outline (outline only!) that would address the question: How does President Kennedy use rhetorical appeals and devices to achieve his purpose?
2. Read the actual Florence Kelley essay prompt handed out in class, read and annotate the passage, then write an outline that would address the prompt.
3. Keep up with e-mails from TheWeek.com. There will be a current events quiz next week on Thursday covering the e-mails from this Sunday through this Wednesday (I'll post them on this website as well.)
NOTE: You're preparing for an in-class essay next Tuesday (we'll review for 30 minutes before the essay next week). Comments and scores on the final marriage proposal prompt are up in Turnitin.com.
MONDAY: Journal warm-up. Go over old Glossary Assignment, pass back papers. Cumulative sentence exercise. Groucho Marx's letter to Warner Brothers, more information about thesis statements, and Christopher Morley's "On Laziness."
UPDATE: click here to access articles for today's class and enter "1000" for the passcode. We read through page 9 of the scan, "Writing a Close Analysis Essay" and "On Laziness".
Due: Grapes, Chapter 13 read, Final draft of Marriage Proposal Rhetorical Analysis Essay to Turnitin.com, any remaining nomination forms for known actors for Grapes of Wrath characters.
Homework: Read Chapters 15 and 16 in Grapes of Wrath. If applicable, add to Glossary Assignment and turn in on Friday.
WEDNESDAY: (PSAT test - all juniors will take the PSAT on Wednesday morning at 7:45 a.m. until 11:20 a.m. Periods 1-3 will be shortened to 50 minutes). Journal warm-up. Watch clips from the Democratic Debate, then analyze the rhetorical strategies the candidates used as a class.
Due:
Homework: Study for Vocab quiz, read The Grapes of Wrath, Chapter 17 for Friday.
FRIDAY: Journal warm-up. Vocab quiz. Go over rhetorical analysis essay steps. Read Grapes Chapter 14 out loud in class; identify and discuss the effect of rhetorical appeals in the chapter. Prepare for in-class rhetorical analysis essay on Tuesday, October 20. View CBS video providing a context for JFK's inaugural address; watch part of his speech from YouTube, and then read and annotate the transcript.
Due: Grapes, Chapter 17 read
Homework:
1. Read the transcript of JFK's speech and annotate it. Create an outline (outline only!) that would address the question: How does President Kennedy use rhetorical appeals and devices to achieve his purpose?
2. Read the actual Florence Kelley essay prompt handed out in class, read and annotate the passage, then write an outline that would address the prompt.
3. Keep up with e-mails from TheWeek.com. There will be a current events quiz next week on Thursday covering the e-mails from this Sunday through this Wednesday (I'll post them on this website as well.)
NOTE: You're preparing for an in-class essay next Tuesday (we'll review for 30 minutes before the essay next week). Comments and scores on the final marriage proposal prompt are up in Turnitin.com.
Monday, October 5, 2015
October 5 - 9
This week, we'll continue annotating, planning and writing out drafts of an essay responding to the Marriage Proposal rhetorical analysis prompt. The class will be writing many rhetorical analysis essays, both timed in-class and take-home style. We'll also continue with The Grapes of Wrath and journey with the Joads along Route 66.
Please note that all juniors will be taking the PSAT on Wednesday, October 14 (next week). The schedule will follow shortly on the PVHS website and I'll notify the class as soon as I have more information.
TUESDAY: receive PSAT practice book, receive graded papers and quizzes. Journal warm-up. Look at current drafts and write outlines for Marriage Proposal prompt, receive feedback. Go through Rhetorical Analysis Essay Steps. Read through previous rhetorical essay responses and note what worked.
Due: draft of Marriage Proposal essay to Turnitin.com by Monday evening, October 5 at 11:00 p.m.
Homework: Continue to work on draft, study for current events quiz.
THURSDAY: PSAT set-up. Journal warm-up. Current events quiz covering "The 10 Things You Need to Know" e-mail article from Sunday, October 4 through Wednesday, October 7. Begin reading Grapes of Wrath, Chapter 13 in class and acting it out. Individual or small group activity: play director and cast known actors for an imaginary remake of Grapes of Wrath using textual evidence, logos, ethos and pathos.
Due: Tone Vocabulary worksheet, please leave journals in class for participation points.
Homework:
1. Using the feedback from Turnitin.com and in class, please finish a final draft of the Marriage Proposal essay and upload it to Turnitin.com by Sunday evening, October 11 at 11:00 p.m.
2. Please finish Grapes Chapter 13.
Please note that all juniors will be taking the PSAT on Wednesday, October 14 (next week). The schedule will follow shortly on the PVHS website and I'll notify the class as soon as I have more information.
TUESDAY: receive PSAT practice book, receive graded papers and quizzes. Journal warm-up. Look at current drafts and write outlines for Marriage Proposal prompt, receive feedback. Go through Rhetorical Analysis Essay Steps. Read through previous rhetorical essay responses and note what worked.
Due: draft of Marriage Proposal essay to Turnitin.com by Monday evening, October 5 at 11:00 p.m.
Homework: Continue to work on draft, study for current events quiz.
THURSDAY: PSAT set-up. Journal warm-up. Current events quiz covering "The 10 Things You Need to Know" e-mail article from Sunday, October 4 through Wednesday, October 7. Begin reading Grapes of Wrath, Chapter 13 in class and acting it out. Individual or small group activity: play director and cast known actors for an imaginary remake of Grapes of Wrath using textual evidence, logos, ethos and pathos.
Due: Tone Vocabulary worksheet, please leave journals in class for participation points.
Homework:
1. Using the feedback from Turnitin.com and in class, please finish a final draft of the Marriage Proposal essay and upload it to Turnitin.com by Sunday evening, October 11 at 11:00 p.m.
2. Please finish Grapes Chapter 13.
Sunday, September 27, 2015
September 28 - October 2
We've been learning rhetorical analysis terms and practicing rhetorical analysis for different types of passages. This week, we'll focus on close reading and analysis of text and developing a thesis statement and writing a close analysis essay.
MONDAY: Journal warm-up, share. Finish Apollo 11 review, turn in. Go over practice prompt and view class examples of annotating/identifying rhetorical devices. Read actual exam responses and the score them, comparing with actual scores. (Tone Vocabulary check-off). Hyperbole, allusion notes.
Due: Tone Vocabulary, annotated Maria Stewart prompt with rhetorical devices noted, and Grapes through Chapter 12.
Homework: Read and annotate Steinbeck's "Starvation Under the Orange Trees" article and Peikoff's "Health Care is Not a Right." Which has the better argument? Which do you personally agree with?
WEDNESDAY: Journal warm-up, share. From articles you read for homework, discuss and debate which is the more persuasive article and whether or not the government should provide health care.
Notes: and video - irony.
Due: "Starvation Under the Orange Trees" and "Health Care is Not a Right" articles read and annotated.
Homework: Read Virginia Woolf "Death of the Moth" passage and outline an essay response for practice in class only (we won't be writing this one out in full).
Study for Vocab quiz - Left hand column on "Tone Vocabulary" handout.
FRIDAY: Journal warm-up, share. Vocab quiz over first column of "Tone Vocabulary" sheet. Go over Death of the Moth example. Thesis statements - 3 main types. Receive Rhetorical Analysis Essay Checklist and PSTD FIRST mnemonic sheet for use with analyzing passages.
Due: Please have "Death of the Moth" read and annotated for today's class. CORRECTION: I'll collect journals next Thursday for points. With the move to the computer lab, I forgot to announce it.
Homework: Read and annotate Marriage Proposal prompt. Upload an outline and rough draft by Monday night, October 5 at 11:00 p.m. to Turnitin.com.
MONDAY: Journal warm-up, share. Finish Apollo 11 review, turn in. Go over practice prompt and view class examples of annotating/identifying rhetorical devices. Read actual exam responses and the score them, comparing with actual scores. (Tone Vocabulary check-off). Hyperbole, allusion notes.
Due: Tone Vocabulary, annotated Maria Stewart prompt with rhetorical devices noted, and Grapes through Chapter 12.
Homework: Read and annotate Steinbeck's "Starvation Under the Orange Trees" article and Peikoff's "Health Care is Not a Right." Which has the better argument? Which do you personally agree with?
WEDNESDAY: Journal warm-up, share. From articles you read for homework, discuss and debate which is the more persuasive article and whether or not the government should provide health care.
Notes: and video - irony.
Due: "Starvation Under the Orange Trees" and "Health Care is Not a Right" articles read and annotated.
Homework: Read Virginia Woolf "Death of the Moth" passage and outline an essay response for practice in class only (we won't be writing this one out in full).
Study for Vocab quiz - Left hand column on "Tone Vocabulary" handout.
FRIDAY: Journal warm-up, share. Vocab quiz over first column of "Tone Vocabulary" sheet. Go over Death of the Moth example. Thesis statements - 3 main types. Receive Rhetorical Analysis Essay Checklist and PSTD FIRST mnemonic sheet for use with analyzing passages.
Due: Please have "Death of the Moth" read and annotated for today's class. CORRECTION: I'll collect journals next Thursday for points. With the move to the computer lab, I forgot to announce it.
Homework: Read and annotate Marriage Proposal prompt. Upload an outline and rough draft by Monday night, October 5 at 11:00 p.m. to Turnitin.com.
Tuesday, September 22, 2015
September 21-24
It's "Back to School Night" this week, so please mark your family
calendar and ask parents and guardians to come to your classes this
Thursday night, September 24. We'll have a minimum day on Friday
afterwards. Our class will continue with rhetorical analysis and discuss tone, diction, and genre and practice analyzing articles relating to the Apollo 11 space launch. We'll also begin analyzing rhetorical analysis prompts and outlining responses.
TUESDAY: Journal warm-up, share. Collect "AP Setting the Stage" projects. Discuss Grapes of Wrath Chapters 9-10. Discuss and begin Apollo 11 assignment in class, and perform SOAPS and rhetorical analysis on first article together. Notes about tone - how to describe it and how it affects a speech or written passage. Tone exercises.
Due:
Grapes of Wrath "AP Setting the Stage" projects.
The Grapes of Wrath through chapter 10.
Homework:
Study for Current Events Quiz 2 on Thursday which will cover "The 10 Things You Need to Know Today" e-mails from Sunday, September 20 - Wednesday, September 23, (4 days). There will be one reading question from Grapes Chapters 9-10 as well.
Finish Apollo 11 assignment for Thursday.
THURSDAY: Journal warm-up, share. Current events quiz (with one question from Grapes reading). Go through Apollo 11 assignment. Receive "Tone Vocabulary" assignment and list for next week. Notes about diction vs. syntax. Watch a reenactment of the "Speech to the Troops at Tilbury" originally delivered by Queen Elizabeth I and discuss tone, rhetorical appeals, and diction.
Due: Apollo 11 assignment.
Homework:
Complete "Tone Vocabulary" assignment
Read Grapes Chapters 11-12 for Monday.
Read and annotate rhetorical analysis prompt for Monday.
TUESDAY: Journal warm-up, share. Collect "AP Setting the Stage" projects. Discuss Grapes of Wrath Chapters 9-10. Discuss and begin Apollo 11 assignment in class, and perform SOAPS and rhetorical analysis on first article together. Notes about tone - how to describe it and how it affects a speech or written passage. Tone exercises.
Due:
Grapes of Wrath "AP Setting the Stage" projects.
The Grapes of Wrath through chapter 10.
Homework:
Study for Current Events Quiz 2 on Thursday which will cover "The 10 Things You Need to Know Today" e-mails from Sunday, September 20 - Wednesday, September 23, (4 days). There will be one reading question from Grapes Chapters 9-10 as well.
Finish Apollo 11 assignment for Thursday.
THURSDAY: Journal warm-up, share. Current events quiz (with one question from Grapes reading). Go through Apollo 11 assignment. Receive "Tone Vocabulary" assignment and list for next week. Notes about diction vs. syntax. Watch a reenactment of the "Speech to the Troops at Tilbury" originally delivered by Queen Elizabeth I and discuss tone, rhetorical appeals, and diction.
Due: Apollo 11 assignment.
Homework:
Complete "Tone Vocabulary" assignment
Read Grapes Chapters 11-12 for Monday.
Read and annotate rhetorical analysis prompt for Monday.
Sunday, September 13, 2015
September 13-17
Welcome to our third week already! I'm looking forward to slightly
cooler temperatures and continuing to delve into the world of rhetorical analysis with more terms and more practice on an even wider variety of sources (speeches, visuals, the Republican debate, and actual AP prompts).
MONDAY: Journal warm-up. Share answers to Glossary assignment. Add more rhetorical terms to notes (from Grapes of Wrath and other sources - personification, diction, connotation, denotation). Read a variety of other passages in class, perform SOAPS analysis and identify rhetorical devices.
Due: Grapes Chapter 6 read, Glossary Assignment
Homework: Read Grapes of Wrath Chapters 7-8
WEDNESDAY: Journal warm-up. The Grapes of Wrath: discuss how a work of fiction can make an impact on society, and Steinbeck's Nobel Prize speech. Discussion: are some books dangerous, and if so, should they be banned? Four corner debate.
Due: Grapes, Chapters 7-8
Homework: Study for vocab quiz, begin assignments for Tuesday.
For Tuesday, 9/22 - Grapes of Wrath Chapters 9-10, "Setting the Stage" assignment.
FRIDAY: Journal warm-up. Vocab quiz. OPTICS analysis of visual texts. Watch short video clips of the Republican Debate from Wednesday, September 16 and analyze the effectiveness of the rhetorical strategies we observe.
Due: n/a
Homework: For Tuesday, 9/22:
MONDAY: Journal warm-up. Share answers to Glossary assignment. Add more rhetorical terms to notes (from Grapes of Wrath and other sources - personification, diction, connotation, denotation). Read a variety of other passages in class, perform SOAPS analysis and identify rhetorical devices.
Due: Grapes Chapter 6 read, Glossary Assignment
Homework: Read Grapes of Wrath Chapters 7-8
WEDNESDAY: Journal warm-up. The Grapes of Wrath: discuss how a work of fiction can make an impact on society, and Steinbeck's Nobel Prize speech. Discussion: are some books dangerous, and if so, should they be banned? Four corner debate.
Due: Grapes, Chapters 7-8
Homework: Study for vocab quiz, begin assignments for Tuesday.
For Tuesday, 9/22 - Grapes of Wrath Chapters 9-10, "Setting the Stage" assignment.
FRIDAY: Journal warm-up. Vocab quiz. OPTICS analysis of visual texts. Watch short video clips of the Republican Debate from Wednesday, September 16 and analyze the effectiveness of the rhetorical strategies we observe.
Due: n/a
Homework: For Tuesday, 9/22:
- Grapes of Wrath Chapters 9-10
- "Setting the Stage" assignment
- Read current events e-mails, "The 10 Things You Need to Know Today"; next week's quiz will cover e-mails from Sunday, 9/20 -Wednesday, 9/23.
Monday, September 7, 2015
September 8 - 11
I hope everyone enjoyed the three-day weekend! This week, we'll continue the introduction to rhetorical analysis by reviewing the basics we learned last week and adding ethos, logos, and pathos, along with a few other terms. We'll meet more members of the Joad family in The Grapes of Wrath and take our first current events quiz.
MONDAY: Labor Day, no school.
TUESDAY: Journal warm-up. Discuss Chapter One questions worksheet from The Grapes of Wrath. Look at Steinbeck's purpose and the structure and dialect of The Grapes of Wrath. Dialect exercise.
Rhetorical analysis review. Logos, ethos, and pathos notes and examples, class exercises.
Due: Chapters 1-4 of The Grapes of Wrath, Chapter One questions answered.
Homework: Study for current events quiz on Thursday - current events information will be taken from the "10 Things You Need to Know Today" e-mails from Sunday through Wednesday morning. Read Chapter 5 from Grapes of Wrath and come to class with an example of logos, ethos, or pathos to share.
THURSDAY: Journal warm-up. First current events quiz covering "The 10 Things You Need to Know Today" e-mail summaries from TheWeek.com from Sunday, September 6 through Wednesday, September 9th.
Review ethos, logos, pathos and share class examples. Add more rhetorical terms with examples. Introduce rhetorical glossary assignment.
Discuss Syrian refugee crisis and perform SOAPS analysis on two articles with differing opinions about what the USA should do, if anything.
Receive vocab/grammar list for the following week's quiz next Friday.
Due: Chapter 5 of The Grapes of Wrath. Sample of ethos, logos, pathos.
Homework: Glossary assignment for Monday - be ready to share before turning in. Read Chapter 6 of The Grapes of Wrath for Monday.
MONDAY: Labor Day, no school.
TUESDAY: Journal warm-up. Discuss Chapter One questions worksheet from The Grapes of Wrath. Look at Steinbeck's purpose and the structure and dialect of The Grapes of Wrath. Dialect exercise.
Rhetorical analysis review. Logos, ethos, and pathos notes and examples, class exercises.
Due: Chapters 1-4 of The Grapes of Wrath, Chapter One questions answered.
Homework: Study for current events quiz on Thursday - current events information will be taken from the "10 Things You Need to Know Today" e-mails from Sunday through Wednesday morning. Read Chapter 5 from Grapes of Wrath and come to class with an example of logos, ethos, or pathos to share.
THURSDAY: Journal warm-up. First current events quiz covering "The 10 Things You Need to Know Today" e-mail summaries from TheWeek.com from Sunday, September 6 through Wednesday, September 9th.
Review ethos, logos, pathos and share class examples. Add more rhetorical terms with examples. Introduce rhetorical glossary assignment.
Discuss Syrian refugee crisis and perform SOAPS analysis on two articles with differing opinions about what the USA should do, if anything.
Receive vocab/grammar list for the following week's quiz next Friday.
Due: Chapter 5 of The Grapes of Wrath. Sample of ethos, logos, pathos.
Homework: Glossary assignment for Monday - be ready to share before turning in. Read Chapter 6 of The Grapes of Wrath for Monday.
Monday, August 31, 2015
First Week! August 31-September 4
Welcome to the first week of school! This week, we'll get to know
each other and discuss our goals for the year, including the SAT, ACT, SBAC, and, of course, the get an overview of the AP exam you'll take on May 11, 2016. We'll
also get familiar with routines and procedures in the class, and warm up
for an engaging, productive year ahead.
MONDAY: (minimum day - all classes, 35 minutes per class) Find seats, welcome and introduction, journals passed out and started, share. Receive syllabus, begin work on Interest Inventory Worksheet. DUE: First journal entry, completed in class. HW (Homework): Completed Interest Inventory Worksheet for next class. Read syllabus and ask parents/guardians to read it, sign it and return it by Thursday.
TUESDAY: Journal, share. Interest Inventory Worksheet activity. Overview of SAT changes, details about AP Language and Composition exam in May. Discuss syllabus, including upcoming units, procedures and routines. Instructions for summer homework assignment upload (please upload Scarlet Letter homework to Turnitin.com, see column to the right for codes). Writing activity - write a letter to yourself as a freshman. DUE: Interest Inventory Worksheet. HW: For Thursday, finish letter assignment, bring signed syllabus to class. By Saturday, please sign up for TheWeek.com's daily "Top 10" current events e-mail subscription. (See sidebar for step-by-step instructions.)
THURSDAY: Journal, share. Turn in letter. Sign up instructions for TheWeek.com free current events newsletter. Gallery Walk/Grapes of Wrath introduction. Pick up a copy of The Grapes of Wrath for next week. (Students should consider buying their own copy so they can mark it while reading.) Notes: Intro to rhetoric - definition. Aristotle's rhetorical triangle. Intro to SOAPS (mnemonic). DUE: letter, signed syllabus.
Homework:
MONDAY: (minimum day - all classes, 35 minutes per class) Find seats, welcome and introduction, journals passed out and started, share. Receive syllabus, begin work on Interest Inventory Worksheet. DUE: First journal entry, completed in class. HW (Homework): Completed Interest Inventory Worksheet for next class. Read syllabus and ask parents/guardians to read it, sign it and return it by Thursday.
TUESDAY: Journal, share. Interest Inventory Worksheet activity. Overview of SAT changes, details about AP Language and Composition exam in May. Discuss syllabus, including upcoming units, procedures and routines. Instructions for summer homework assignment upload (please upload Scarlet Letter homework to Turnitin.com, see column to the right for codes). Writing activity - write a letter to yourself as a freshman. DUE: Interest Inventory Worksheet. HW: For Thursday, finish letter assignment, bring signed syllabus to class. By Saturday, please sign up for TheWeek.com's daily "Top 10" current events e-mail subscription. (See sidebar for step-by-step instructions.)
THURSDAY: Journal, share. Turn in letter. Sign up instructions for TheWeek.com free current events newsletter. Gallery Walk/Grapes of Wrath introduction. Pick up a copy of The Grapes of Wrath for next week. (Students should consider buying their own copy so they can mark it while reading.) Notes: Intro to rhetoric - definition. Aristotle's rhetorical triangle. Intro to SOAPS (mnemonic). DUE: letter, signed syllabus.
Homework:
- Get supplies for class (notebook with tabs per syllabus),
- read Chapters 1-4 of The Grapes of Wrath and answer questions for chapter 1. Be ready to discuss your first impressions.
- Consider buying your own copy of The Grapes of Wrath for annotation.
- By Saturday, please sign up for TheWeek.com's daily "Top 10" current events e-mail subscription. (See sidebar for step-by-step instructions.) There will be a quiz next week on Thursday covering the e-mails from Sunday through Wednesday's daily e-mail (4 total).
Wednesday, August 26, 2015
Welcome!
I'm
Ms. Mogilefsky (also known as Ms. M). I'm excited to work with you
this year as we work hard to prep for the AP Language and Composition exam and explore a variety of well-known books, short stories,
nonfiction articles and essays that are an important part of the
conversation about the nature of American life, past and present.
In this highly interactive class, we will read American literature, as well as a wide range of nonfiction pieces – essays, memoirs, letters, speeches, articles about current events, literary criticism, and even scientific passages. You'll also read books and articles of your choice as you work on research-based pieces, independent reading, current events assignments, debates, and other activities. Themes from classic texts will be read and discussed alongside related current events, and you'll have a lot of opportunities to express yourselves verbally and in writing.
I know junior year can be stressful: SATs, ACTs, extracurriculars, SBAC testing, and of course the AP exam on Wednesday, May 11, 2016. All of the activities we'll work on will help you succeed and I look forward to a productive and enjoyable year with you!
In this highly interactive class, we will read American literature, as well as a wide range of nonfiction pieces – essays, memoirs, letters, speeches, articles about current events, literary criticism, and even scientific passages. You'll also read books and articles of your choice as you work on research-based pieces, independent reading, current events assignments, debates, and other activities. Themes from classic texts will be read and discussed alongside related current events, and you'll have a lot of opportunities to express yourselves verbally and in writing.
I know junior year can be stressful: SATs, ACTs, extracurriculars, SBAC testing, and of course the AP exam on Wednesday, May 11, 2016. All of the activities we'll work on will help you succeed and I look forward to a productive and enjoyable year with you!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)