Wednesday, December 2, 2009

AGENDA 12/2

Handling counterarguments:

1) Refute - to disagree entirely
2) Concede - to yield or admit a point, but maintain your ground
3) Qualify - to limit and describe the circumstances under which each side is true

Blank counterargument graphic organizer and sample graphic organizer and counterargument paragraph

HW: Source packets due BETWEEN 11/19 and 12/3 - 20 sources (including 7 special sources) with each one annotated 4+ times (questions, comments, reactions, connections, etc.) except for the interview/video source, which follows the guidelines for experience sources.
Begin work on MLA Format Working Bibliography for your 20 sources, due between 11/25 and 12/9. You will lose one point for each error in formatting, so please be thorough - you can use KnightCite or another bibliography generator, but be sure to check the results against the resources at a site like DianaHacker.com to make sure that it formats everything correctly.

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

AGENDA 12/1

Grammer Practice: Review of Pronoun Consistency and Ambiguity
Essentials of a synthesis body paragraph graphic organizer - use it if it helps you
Sample synthesis body paragraph

HW: Source packets due BETWEEN 11/19 and 12/3 - 20 sources (including 7 special sources) with each one annotated 4+ times (questions, comments, reactions, connections, etc.) except for the interview/video source, which follows the guidelines for experience sources.
Begin work on MLA Format Working Bibliography for your 20 sources, due between 11/25 and 12/9. You will lose one point for each error in formatting, so please be thorough - you can use KnightCite or another bibliography generator, but be sure to check the results against the resources at a site like DianaHacker.com to make sure that it formats everything correctly.

Monday, November 30, 2009

AGENDA 11/30

Formulating a Thesis for Researched Argument Papers
Generating a Complex Thesis Statement - use this if it helps you
Types of Hooks and Introductions for Researched Argument Papers

HW: Source packets due BETWEEN 11/19 and 12/3 - 20 sources (including 7 special sources) with each one annotated 4+ times (questions, comments, reactions, connections, etc.) except for the interview/video source, which follows the guidelines for experience sources.
Begin work on MLA Format Working Bibliography for your 20 sources, due between 11/25 and 12/9. You will lose one point for each error in formatting, so please be thorough - you can use KnightCite or another bibliography generator, but be sure to check the results against the resources at a site like DianaHacker.com to make sure that it formats everything correctly.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

AGENDA 11/25

Happy Thanksgiving! Community Celebration day!

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

AGENDA 11/24

Timed Essay: Rhetorical Analysis
"The Death of Benny Paret"

Monday, November 23, 2009

AGENDA 11/23

Rhetorical Analysis essay preparation - Review sample essay in class and discuss.

Sample introductory and body paragraph for the Stewart prompt

HW: Timed essay tomorrow - bring blue or black ink pens and notebook paper!
Source packets due BETWEEN 11/19 and 12/3 - 20 sources (including 7 special sources) with each one annotated 4+ times (questions, comments, reactions, connections, etc.) except for the interview/video source, which follows the guidelines for experience sources.
Begin work on MLA Format Working Bibliography for your 20 sources, due between 11/25 and 12/9. You will lose one point for each error in formatting, so please be thorough - you can use KnightCite or another bibliography generator, but be sure to check the results against the resources at a site like DianaHacker.com to make sure that it formats everything correctly.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

AGENDA 11/19

Computer Lab - T110 - Work Day!

Continue to compile sources for your source packet - 20 total, including 7 special sources. Remember to include 4+ annotations on each source (not just highlighting! You must write comments, questions, connections, reactions, or thoughts!) except for the experience source, which requires a reflection. Due between 11/19 and 12/3.

Begin work on MLA Format Working Bibliography for your 20 sources, due between 11/25 and 12/9. You will lose one point for each error in formatting, so please be thorough - you can use KnightCite or another bibliography generator, but be sure to check the results against the resources at a site like DianaHacker.com to make sure that it formats everything correctly.

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

AGENDA 11/18

MLA Bibliography Activity - Why do bibliographies matter?

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Our heroes at KnightCite have done it--they've updated and patched their code so that all of the new MLA guidelines can be incorporated. Hooray!!! (NOTE: Ultimately, you are still responsible for making sure that every citation is correct according to MLA 7th Edition (2009) Format. Still, three cheers for our friends at KnightCite!!!

Jigsaw activity, part I: get into assigned groups and create a citation for your bibliography according to the type of handout you receive. Then, create two multiple-choice questions to assess other groups on your type of information using the Bibliography Pre-Test as a model:
1) create two accurate, correct citations using your citation type (print, web, or "other")
2) create one "standard" multiple-choice question - According to the citation above, which of the following is true?
3) create one "EXCEPT" multiple-choice question - According to the citation above, all of the following are true EXCEPT
4) provide the answer key

RESOURCE FOR MLA 2009 WORKS CITED LISTS AND BIBLIOGRAPHIES: Documenting Sources at DianaHacker.com

This is a VERY comprehensive index of MLA 2009 Format. Enjoy!


HW: Due FRIDAY, 11/20: Read Malcolm X's "Learning to Read" and select two quotations that are worth discussing. Continue to consider the questions posed for the Ch. 7 seminar and look for connections between the two pieces.

Due MONDAY - Rhetorical Terms #3: Free Choice (choose any text except those from previous English classes)
Source packets due BETWEEN 11/19 and 12/3 - 20 sources (including 7 special sources) with each one annotated 4+ times (questions, comments, reactions, connections, etc.) except for the interview/video source, which follows the guidelines for experience sources.

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

AGENDA 11/17

Seminar - Ch. 7

Second seminar round on Friday - Prepare by reading the Malcolm X piece "Learning to Read" and select two quotations that are worth discussing. Continue to consider the questions posed for today's seminar and look for connections between the two pieces.

HW: Due Monday - Rhetorical Terms #3: Free Choice (choose any text except those from previous English classes)
Source packets due between 11/19 and 12/3 - 20 sources (including 7 special sources) with each one annotated 4+ times (questions, comments, reactions, connections, etc.) except for the interview/video source, which follows the guidelines for experience sources.

Monday, November 16, 2009

AGENDA 11/16

Introduce new vocabulary from The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, chapters 1-10
Vocabulary practice sheet from Logic Unit - complete by Wednesday!
Seminar preparation for tomorrow's seminar on Ch 7 of The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass
Thank you cards for our amazing chaperones whom we adore so very much! :-)


HW: Source packets! Compile and annotate 20 sources by Thursday (2 week window begins--last day to submit is 12/3, but we'll be forging ahead with the paper in the meanwhile...so try to get it in soon!). Please complete the seminar prep for tomorrow's class, and Logic vocabulary practice sheet for Wednesday.

Friday, November 13, 2009

AGENDA 11/13

Computer lab - source packets!

HW: Continue to work on source packets. Due next Wednesday.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

AGENDA 11/12

Computer lab - source packets!

HW: Continue to work on source packets. Due next Wednesday.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

AGENDA 11/10

FIELD TRIP TO UCLA - Find at least two print sources related to your research topic! Happy hunting!

Monday, November 9, 2009

AGENDA 11/9

Prepare for UCLA trip tomorrow. Turn in rhetorical terms entries from Ch. 2 of The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass.

Friday, November 6, 2009

AGENDA 11/6

Grammar warm-up: Pronoun Ambiguity #2

Turn in Rhetorical Terms Entry #1: Steinbeck's "Americans and the Land" in class and to Turnitin.com if you haven't already (last day!).

HW: Read Chapters 3, 4, and 5 of The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass. Get field trip forms signed. Rhetorical Terms Entry #2: from Ch. 2 excerpt of The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass due Monday (typed copy in class and e-copy to Turnitin.com).

Thursday, November 5, 2009

AGENDA 11/5

UCLA's "Road to Research" Pre-Test: Find Module

Video on searching for UCLA Library materials
Link to UCLA Library Catalog to find call numbers
Lab pre-handout: complete with call numbers before our field trip!

HW: Rhetorical Terms entry #2 from Ch. 2 of The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass due on Monday to Turnitin.com and hard copy in class. Continue to find and/or print out your 20 sources for your source packet, due 11/17. BRING SIGNED FIELD TRIP FORMS TOMORROW!

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

AGENDA 11/4

Computer Lab: Search Proquest Database for articles related to your research topic!
Visit the Samohi Library webpage to get started: http://www.samohi.smmusd.org/library/index.htm

PASS OUT FIELD TRIP FORMS FOR TUESDAY'S TRIP TO UCLA LIBRARY

HW: Rhetorical Terms entry #2 from Ch. 2 of The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass due on Monday to Turnitin.com and hard copy in class. Continue to find and/or print out your 20 sources for your source packet, due 11/17.

Friday, October 30, 2009

AGENDA 10/30

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Trip to textbook room to get The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, An American Slave
Grammar Practice: Pronoun Consistency/Shifts in Pronoun Person #2
View and Discuss two clips from Morgan Spurlock's film Super Size Me
Clip 1: 1st graders and hasty generalizations
Clip 2: Fast Food Direct Media Advertising Budget Comparison and appeals to pathos

HW: Read The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, An American Slave, Chapters 1 and 2, and be prepared to discuss

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

AGENDA 10/21

Finish presenting Fallacies PPT

HW: Post current event replies for 10/12 by 11:59PM PST tonight! Rhetorical Terms Entry #1 (typed copy and electronic copy to Turnitin.com) on Steinbeck's "Americans and the Land" due Friday. Suggested terms include: simile, metaphor, analogy.

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

AGENDA 10/20

"What Goes Around" Health Assembly

HW: First rhetorical terms entry on Steinbeck's "Americans and the Land," McGraw-Hill Reader, p. 667, due on Friday, 10/23. Submit a typed copy in class and an electronic copy to Turnitin.com.

Get a nonfiction independent reading book (preferably connected to a topic you'd like to study for your fall research paper) and be 1/5 of the way through it by Monday, 10/26. Bring the book on Monday, 10/26.

Reply to current event postings for 10/12 by 11:59PM tomorrow (10/21).

Monday, October 19, 2009

AGENDA 10/19

Grammar Practice: Pronoun Consistency #1 (Shifts in Pronoun Person)
Review of English pronoun use and appropriate pronoun use

Introduce and begin presenting Fallacies PPT

HW: First rhetorical terms entry on Steinbeck's "Americans and the Land," McGraw-Hill Reader, p. 667, due on Friday, 10/23. Submit a typed copy in class and an electronic copy to Turnitin.com.

Get a nonfiction independent reading book (preferably connected to a topic you'd like to study for your fall research paper) and be 1/5 of the way through it by Monday, 10/26. Bring the book on Monday, 10/26.

Reply to current event postings for 10/12 by 11:59PM on Wednesday (10/21).

Thursday, October 15, 2009

AGENDA 10/15

Ethos, Logos, and Pathos PowerPoint

HW: First rhetorical terms entry on Steinbeck's "Americans and the Land," McGraw-Hill Reader, p. 667, due on Friday, 10/23. Submit a typed copy in class and an electronic copy to Turnitin.com.

Get a nonfiction independent reading book (preferably connected to a topic you'd like to study for your fall research paper) and be 1/5 of the way through it by Monday, 10/26. Bring the book on Monday, 10/26.

Reply to current event postings for 10/12 by 11:59PM next Wednesday (10/21).

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

AGENDA 10/14

Finish introducing Rhetorical Terms Project
Sample Rhetorical Terms Entry Score of A
Sample Rhetorical Terms Entry Score of C
Scoring Commentary on Sample Rhetorical Terms Entries

HW: First rhetorical terms entry on Steinbeck's "Americans and the Land," McGraw-Hill Reader, p. 667, due on Friday, 10/23. Submit a typed copy in class and an electronic copy to Turnitin.com.

Get a nonfiction independent reading book (preferably connected to a topic you'd like to study for your fall research paper) and be 1/5 of the way through it by Monday, 10/26. Bring the book on Monday, 10/26.

Reply to current event postings for 10/5 by 11:59PM tonight. Reply to current event postings for 10/12 by 11:59PM next Wednesday (10/21).

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

AGENDA 10/13

Grammar practice: Semicolon Use #3

Vocabulary Quiz

HW: Post your reply to the 10/5 current event articles on Turnitin.com if you haven't already--due by 11:59PM PST on Wednesday. Get a nonfiction independent reading book, and read the first 1/5 by Friday, 10/23.

Monday, October 12, 2009

AGENDA 10/12

Library - browse independent reading books
For independent reading books, select any nonfiction book that interests you--preferably something that might connect to your fall researched argument paper

List of possible topics for fall researched argument paper

HW: Study for tomorrow's vocabulary quiz over The Grapes of Wrath vocabulary words. Post your reply to the 10/5 current event posts if you haven't already--due by 11:59PM on Wednesday!

Friday, October 9, 2009

AGENDA 9/9

Grammar Practice: Semicolons #2
Link to handout for semicolon use
Continue to discuss "In the Fire" by Roger Angell, specifically catalogue and the diction of battle
Introduce Rhetorical Terms Project
Analyze Sample Rhetorical Terms Entry Score of A
Analyze Sample Rhetorical Terms Entry Score of C
Scoring Commentary on Sample Rhetorical Terms Entries


HW: Study for vocabulary quiz on Tuesday 10/13
Reply to current event on Turnitin.com by 11:59PM PST Wednesday, 10/14
Check calendar within Turnitin.com to see which students must post new current events by Monday, 10/12, 11:59PM PST

Thursday, October 8, 2009

AGENDA 9/8

Finish discussing OPTIC and Dorothea Lange's photograph "Migrant Mother"
Read and discuss "In the Fire" by Roger Angell, discussing in groups of 4 or 5:

1) What are Angell's main points about the catcher?
2) What parts of this piece are especially well-written, unusual, or memorable?
3) What rhetorical techniques does Angell employ in this text?
Specifically, what patterns in word choice do you notice?

HW: Study for vocabulary quiz on Tuesday. Reply to current event postings on Turnitin.com if you weren't one of this week's posters. Submit 2nd draft of GW paper if you haven't already.

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

AGENDA 9/7

Vocabulary warm-up for The Grapes of Wrath vocabulary list (quiz next Tuesday!)
Continue to discuss Dorothea Lange's "Migrant Mother" using OPTIC strategy

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

AGENDA 10/6

Grammar Practice: Semicolons #1
OPTIC Analysis of Dorothea Lange's "Migrant Mother"

HW: 2nd Draft of GW intercalary chapter essay due tomorrow for my comments. Study vocabulary - quiz next Tuesday.

Monday, October 5, 2009

AGENDA 10/5

Revise GW papers - color-mark to ensure body paragraphs and thesis statements are complete. 2nd draft due Wednesday to pust for comments.

HW: Revise GW papers for Wednesday.

Friday, October 2, 2009

AGENDA 10/2

Grammar Quiz - Verbs
Begin peer revision on GW papers

Thursday, October 1, 2009

AGENDA 10/1

Computer Lab: introduce Current Events Discussion Board Project
Create Turnitin.com account

Thursday, September 24, 2009

AGENDA 9/24

Out scoring baseline essays -
Work on GW prewriting exercise
Vocabulary warm-up #1

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

AGENDA 9/23

Grammar Practice: Verbs #3
Review parallel structure and verb tense--and introduce subject-verb agreement.

Analyze sample The Grapes of Wrath intercalary chapter essay in groups - color code and ask questions about the assignment.

HW: Draft of GW paper due on October 1--prewriting activity tomorrow. Continue to learn new vocabulary.

Monday, September 21, 2009

AGENDA 9/21

Trip to textbook room
Begin introducing new vocabulary from The Grapes of Wrath
Bag of Destiny: select intercalary essay chapter
Briefly discuss purposes of intercalary chapters

HW: Reread Ch. 1 and your assigned intercalary chapter of The Grapes of Wrath. Begin to study new vocabulary words.

Friday, September 18, 2009

Thursday, September 17, 2009

AGENDA 9/17

Grammar Practice #2: Parallelism and Verb Tense
Foldable Notes - discuss in groups what makes for good introductions, body paragraphs, conclusions, grammar & vocabulary for essays. Share strategies and tips.

Review SAT Scoring Guide, Practice Baseline Essay Prompt, and sample SAT essays

HW: Summer free choice book essay due on Monday. Baseline essay tomorrow--bring blue or black ink pens, notebook paper, and any resources, handouts, or texts you'd like to use on your essay. Bring ID card and your copy of The Grapes of Wrath on Monday.

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

AGENDA 9/16

The Grapes of Wrath Reading Quiz
Debrief Monday's seminar and Tuesday's guest speaker presentations
Distribute and explain summer free choice book assignment
Sample #1: Nonfiction (and 2 books); Sample #2: Fiction (1 book)

HW: Summer free choice book assignment due on Monday, September 21. Begin bringing The Grapes of Wrath on Monday.

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

AGENDA 9/15

Guest speaker - presentation in the library

HW: Prepare for quiz on The Grapes of Wrath tomorrow

Monday, September 14, 2009

AGENDA 9/14

Materials checks--ongoing all week
Review seminar norms and grading guidelines
Seminar on "Rethinking 'Retarded': Should it Leave the Lexicon?", "Overview of Autism," "Fitting in and Speaking Out: Me and Asperger's Syndrome," and "Schools Fight Families over Autism Service Dogs."

Turn in your 200-400 word response to "Rethinking 'Retarded': Should it Leave the Lexicon?" , stapled to your 1/2 sheet of notes from today's discussion.


HW: None! Guest speaker presentation in the library tomorrow. Reading quiz on The Grapes of Wrath on Wednesday. Seminars will continue on Wednesday. Baseline essay on Friday.

Friday, September 11, 2009

AGENDA 9/11

Grammar Practice #1: Parallelism Errors
According to Purdue's OWL (Online Writing Lab): Parallel structure means using the same pattern of words to show that two or more ideas have the same level of importance. This can happen at the word, phrase, or clause level. The usual way to join parallel structures is with the use of coordinating conjunctions such as "and" or "or."

Get more help here:
http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/623/01/

Discuss Seminar Expectations and Grading

HW: Read "Rethinking 'Retarded': Should it Leave the Lexicon?" and write a 200-400 word response: Should the word "retarded" be treated the same as hate speech and racial slurs? Should it be "bleeped" from music, movies, and TV? Bring this article and yesterday's articles to class with your preparation for Monday's discussion.

Thursday, September 10, 2009

AGENDA 9/10

Seating Chart
Syllabus Q&A
Names Activity #1: Group members stand in a circle. First person introduces self with an accurate, alliterative statement. Second person repeats first person's information, then adds own. This continues around the group.

Sample:
1st person: I'm Sandra and I like to swim.
2nd person: This is Sandra and she likes to swim. I'm Jennifer and I like my toast with jam.
3rd person: This is Sandra and she likes to swim. That's Jennifer and she likes her toast with jam. I'm Paul and I'm playful and persistent.

HW: Read "Overview of Autism," "Fitting in and Speaking Out: Me and Asperger's Syndrome," and "Schools Fight Families over Autism Service Dogs." For each article, highlight one or more significant quotations, write one comment, and one question. Seminar on Monday!

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

AGENDA 9/9

Welcome!!!

Please complete the First Day Student Information Form
Introductory powerpoint
Distribute class syllabus (abridged) , parent letter, and classroom rules and procedures
Collect "first feedback"

HW: Review abridged syllabus and generate one or more questions for class tomorrow. Bring your copy of the curious incident of the dog in the night-time if you have one.

Friday, September 4, 2009

Thursday, May 14, 2009

AGENDA 5/14

CONGRATULATIONS! You survived the AP Lang test. :-)

Introduction to Cormac McCarthy's All the Pretty Horses:
setting: West Texas, 1953
protagonist: John Grady Cole, 16, who has lost just about everything he cares for--so he and his best friend, Lacey Rawlins head out for Mexico
stylistic choices to consider: Why does McCarthy use untranslated Spanish? Why does he not use quotation marks, and seldom uses attributes (he said, she inquired, etc.)? Why does he only use apostrophes in contractions when absolutely necessary (i.e., not in "dont" or "cant" but in "we'll" and "I'll")? What is the purpose of these unconventional choices?

Fun & Games: watch Dr. Horrible's Incredible Sing-a-Long Blog and play board games to celebrate our one day of freedom :-)

HW: Please complete the AP Language Post-Mortem for Tuesday. Read and be prepared to talk about pages 1-30 of All the Pretty Horses for Tuesday's class.

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

AGENDA 5/13

Take the AP English Language & Composition Exam! Good luck! :-)

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

GOOD LUCK ON THE AP EXAM!!!

Final Review materials:

Rhetorical Terms half-sheet
- a review of all of the most important rhetorical terms, grouped by categories

Jeopardy! Review game (you need PowerPoint to play)

Good luck tomorrow--remember to arrive at the cafeteria by 7:15am! Bring lots of #2 pencils and blue/black ink pens, a sweater in case it's cold, and a snack. Please leave your cell phones, iPods, and other personal electronic devices at home--you won't need any of these during the test and you don't want to get into an altercation with one of the proctors right before the exam. So follow Thoreau's advice and SIMPLIFY! :-) If you bring a snack to enjoy on the 10-minute break, make sure to keep the snack with you and do not put it in your backpack--you won't have access to your backpack during the exam. PLEASE GO TO BED EARLY TONIGHT AND HAVE A GOOD BREAKFAST TOMORROW MORNING.

Best wishes for a great testing experience! I know you'll do well!

Friday, April 24, 2009

AGENDA 4/24

Assign speech dates
Complete AP scantrons
Work in groups on speeches

HW: Multiple-choice practice - allow yourself 20 minutes. Continue working on speeches - we'll deliver them beginning next Wednesday!

FULL LENGTH PRACTICE TEST TOMORROW - REPORT TO OUR CLASSROOM, B200, AT 8:45AM, AND BRING #2 PENCILS, BLUE/BLACK INK PENS, NOTEBOOK PAPER, SNACKS, AND SWEATERS IN CASE IT'S COLD. GOOD LUCK!!!

Answer Key for today's multiple-choice practice--

Passage 11
1. C
2. A
3. D
4. D
5. E
6. B
7. B
8. C
9. B

Passage 12
1. C
2. D
3. A
4. B
5. D
6. E
7. E

Thursday, April 23, 2009

AGENDA 4/23

Work on and monitor progress of group speeches

HW: Continue working on local issues speeches.

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

AGENDA 4/22

Earth Day Assembly: View and discuss The Story of Stuff

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

AGENDA 4/21

Finish "A Plea for Mercy" - discuss implications for our speeches

Review annotated bibliography expectations.

HW: For Thursday - progress check on speeches (note cards, bibliography entries, research/interview questions, visual aid, etc. Nothing needs to be finished--I just need to see some progress!) For Friday - 2 rhetorical terms entries; 1 "free choice" and 1 from a famous speech.

Monday, April 20, 2009

AGENDA 4/20

Welcome back from Spring Break!

Read Clarence Darrow's "A Plea for Mercy" and discuss rhetorical techniques and appeals to ethos, pathos, and logos

Group work on local issues speeches - note card check and bibliography draft check on Thursday!

HW: 2 rhetorical terms entries due Friday - one "free choice" and one from a famous speech.

Friday, April 3, 2009

AGENDA 4/3

The Great Gatsby vocabulary quiz!

Have a safe, restful, wonderful Spring Break!

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

AGENDA 3/31

Happy Birthday, Pust! :-)
Answer questions regarding Local Issues Speech Project

Write Open House letters!

HW: Study for vocabulary quiz on Thursday. The Great Gatsby rhetorical analysis papers due Friday--if you're not going to be here Friday, turn it in early!

Monday, March 30, 2009

AGENDA 3/30

Multiple-Choice practice: complete, review, and discuss
Pass out Local Issues Persuasive Speech Project Components
Discuss - find potential group members and topics.

HW: study for vocabulary quiz on The Great Gatsby, chapters 1 and 6-9 for Thursday. The Great Gatsby rhetorical analysis papers due Friday (unless you're leaving early for Spring Break, in which case, your paper is due before you leave).

Friday, March 27, 2009

AGENDA 3/27

Guest Speaker: School Board Member Ben Allen

HW: Study vocabulary from The Great Gatsby, Chapter 1 and Chapters 6-9. Quiz next week!!! Final drafts of The Great Gatsby rhetorical analysis papers due NEXT THURSDAY.

Friday, March 20, 2009

AGENDA 3/20

EAP Essay

HW: Read the two "Sputnik" passages and complete the graphic organizer. Work on your Gatsby papers if needed--be ready for style revision on Monday!

Thursday, March 19, 2009

AGENDA 3/19

Fishbowl-style seminar on article packet
Turn in seminar preparation with your half-sheet notes from today's discussion
Turn in rhetorical terms entries if you haven't already

HW: None :-)
REMINDERS: Tomorrow is THE LAST DAY to register for the AP English Language Exam. Go to T211 (I House Office). Checks should be made out to Samohi ($96.00 per exam).
EAP Essay tomorrow!

Monday, March 16, 2009

AGENDA 3/16

Debrief Mr. Gruber's presentation

Color-mark Gatsby drafts
Highlight the following:
1) Every instance of the author's name
2) Direct quotations and citations (sentence-length quotations)
3) Quoted words for connotations (individual words in quotations - no citations needed)
4) "Argument" verbs (affirms, attests, describes, uses, etc.)
5) Rhetorical techniques

Meet in indie reading groups to discuss role assignments and rhetorical techniques

HW: 2 Rhetorical terms entries due Wednesday/Thursday - 1 from indie reading book and 1 free choice

Friday, March 13, 2009

AGENDA 3/13

Guest speaker: Mr. Frank Gruber, opinion columnist for The Lookout
Take Shape Notes of presentation (or use your own note-taking style)

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

AGENDA 3/11

COLLEGE CENTER PRESENTATIONS

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

AGENDA 3/10

Announcement: Register for AP Exams! T211, $86 per exam. Take care of it this week, please, and avoid late fees.

Rhetorical Terms chart
Review and discuss humor devices: read "Dollar Bill on Floor Sends Wall Street into Frenzy"
Generate thesis statement for Gatsby rhetorical analysis paper

HW: Indie reading roles assignment #2 due next Monday 3/16 (roles assigned yesterday)
Gatsby paper complete, typed draft due Monday 3/16...you'll have a little time in class each day this week to work on it.
Two rhetorical terms entries due next Wednesday 3/18: one "free choice" using any text and
one from your indie reading book.

Monday, March 9, 2009

AGENDA 3/9

Finish watching F. Scott Fitzgerald: The American Dreamer
Finish introducing new vocabulary words
Pass out The Great Gatsby rhetorical analysis essay scoring guide
Get into indie reading groups and assign new roles

HW: Indie reading roles assignment #2 due Monday 3/16
Draft of Gatsby paper due Monday 3/16

Friday, March 6, 2009

AGENDA 3/6

Watch F. Scott Fitzgerald: The American Dreamer and complete viewing guide assignment
Return approved Gatsby passages for rhetorical analysis essays

HW: Draft of The Great Gatsby rhetorical analysis essay due Monday 3/16. Indie book groups will meet on Monday.

Thursday, March 5, 2009

AGENDA 3/5

Synthesis timed essay: The effects of advertising

HW: Draft of The Great Gatsby rhetorical analysis essay due Monday 3/16

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

AGENDA 3/4

Turn in annotated passages from The Great Gatsby today.

SYNTHESIS TIMED WRITE TOMORROW! Bring blue or black ink pens, notebook paper, and any notes or handouts you wish to have.


Click here to print out the Anatomy of a Synthesis Body Paragraph
Here it is, color-coded for your convenience (see samples below!!!)
1. Open with claim
2. Use meaningful ½ sentence and an argument verb to introduce quotation
3. Include “direct quotation” from source packet
4. Give citation in parentheses, followed by period (Source A).
5. Provide analysis of evidence: What does this quotation demonstrate, reveal, or suggest?
6. Reaffirm link to Thesis: How does all of this reinforce and advance your argument?


Sample Body Paragraphs: (COLOR CODED TO ABOVE!!!)
(SPECIAL THANKS to Neda N. for providing the direct quotations via email since I unwittingly left my synthesis packet at school. What a fortuitous circumstance for me that she checked her email and saw my request!)

SAMPLE BODY PARAGRAPH USING ONE PIECE OF EVIDENCE IN SUPPORT OF MY THESIS: (thesis--term limits = good)

Two-term limits help safeguard democracy—we can prevent one person from becoming corrupt and amassing too much power. Dennis Roddy, in his article from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, argues that "George Washington could have been elected to a third term, but declined it, suggesting two terms of four years were enough for any president.... His two-term example became an unwritten rule in the realm of presidential politics until 1940" (Source A). This implies that two-term limits for the Presidency are essential for promoting unchecked power and preventing corruption. For our government to remain for and by the people, we must ensure that no one man can amass or exert too much power, and so we should not alter the 22nd Amendment.


SAMPLE BODY PARAGRAPH REFUTING THE COUNTERARGUMENT, MAKING A CONCESSION, AND USING TWO PIECES OF EVIDENCE IN SUPPORT OF MY THESIS: (thesis--term limits = bad)
NOTE: Same color-coding as above. Language that indicates a counter-argument and refutation is in BOLD.

Some people may think that term limits will prevent corruption and the abuse of power. Dennis Roddy, in his article from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, argues that "George Washington could have been elected to a third term, but declined it, suggesting two terms of four years were enough for any president.... His two-term example became an unwritten rule in the realm of presidential politics until 1940" (Source A). Admittedly, term limits would help ensure that ineffective presidents do not remain in power indefinitely, but would also greatly harm America, as term limits would make effective presidents have only a transitory period in office. What the proponents of term limits fail to recognize is that the presidency is a unique position--and those who have held this office have invaluable experience, enabling them to tackle challenges more effectively than someone new would. As former President Bill Clinton asserts, "since people are living much longer...the 22nd Amendment should probably be modified to say two consecutive terms instead of two terms for a lifetime" (Source B). Former President Clinton recognizes that the 22nd Amendment may be outdated given the extended life span of Americans today, and surely knows firsthand how important it is to have someone with experience guiding the country through difficult times. With the removal of the two-term limit on the presidency, we could have the opportunity to re-elect a qualified, effective, experienced candidate when needed. America would benefit greatly from this change.

Old Synthesis handouts:
Notes on Synthesis Essays
Sample student essays on "flag burning amendment"

Friday, February 27, 2009

AGENDA 2/27

Introduce new vocabulary from Chapters 6-9 of The Great Gatsby
Independent reading book groups: Share assignments & decide whose assignment is most laudable - then share that most "laudable" assignment with the class & tell us a bit about what you find most intriguing in your book.

HW: Read and be prepared to discuss Chapters 7-8 of The Great Gatsby.

Thursday, February 26, 2009

AGENDA 2/26

Discuss symbols (and specifically, name symbolism) in Chapters 4-6 of The Great Gatsby
Go over any lingering questions from chapters 4 & 5
Introduce the rhetorical analysis paper for The Great Gatsby: assignment sheet and sample paper
HW: Finish independent reading book group role assignments & bring indie books tomorrow!

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

AGENDA 2/25

Multiple-choice practice: "China" passage
Review and discuss answers

HW: Independent reading book group role assignments due Friday. Read and discuss chapter 6 for tomorrow.

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

AGENDA 2/24

Complete questions in groups for Chapters 4 and 5 of The Great Gatsby

HW: Independent reading book group role assignments due Friday. Read and discuss chapter 6 for Thursday.

Monday, February 23, 2009

AGENDA 2/23

Return evidence logs and rhetorical terms - discuss revisions. Revised assignments due Friday for additional credit.

HW: Independent reading book group role assignments due next Friday. Read and discuss chapters 4 and 5 of The Great Gatsby for tomorrow.

Friday, February 20, 2009

AGENDA 2/20

Vocabulary quiz over Ch. 1 words from The Great Gatsby
Introduce independent reading book group assignment roles; decide who in your group will be responsible for each role.

HW: Independent reading book group role assignments due next Friday. Read and discuss chapters 4 and 5 of The Great Gatsby for Monday.

Thursday, February 19, 2009

AGENDA 2/19

Timed essay: Argument prompt

HW: Study vocabulary for tomorrow's quiz on the Chapter 1 words from The Great Gatsby and read Chapter 4.

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

AGENDA 2/18

Independent reading group roles - decide who will do what
Prepare for tomorrow's timed write - Sample Essay Prompt
Handout on writing introductions, thesis statements, body paragraphs, and conclusions
Reminder on what persuasive essays include

HW: Prepare for timed write tomorrow. Indie role assignments due next Friday, 2/27.

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

AGENDA 2/17

Watch episode "Ariel" from MTV's My Super Sweet Sixteen and discuss

HW: Read excerpt from Thorstein Veblen's Theory of the Leisure Class
Read "MTV's My Super Sweet Sixteen Gives Sour Pleasure"
Read "Conspicuous Consumption Goes Out of Style"


TIMED WRITE ON THURSDAY - SEE ME IF YOU WANT HELP/GUIDANCE BEFORE THEN!
VOCABULARY QUIZ ON FRIDAY!

Thursday, February 12, 2009

AGENDA 2/12

Review multiple-choice passage and unfamiliar vocabulary from yesterday

Begin reading Ch. 2 of The Great Gatsby aloud

HW: Finish reading Ch. 2 of The Great Gatsby. Study for vocabulary quiz (next Thursday). Independent reading book groups will meet next Wednesday--make sure to have first 50 pages read.

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

AGENDA 2/11

Multiple-Choice practice from 2001 Exam: Charlie "Yardbird" Parker passage

HW: Go over the multiple-choice practice passage, questions, and answers, and highlight/circle ALL words that you don't know or aren't absolutely certain of their meanings. Get and read first 50 pages of indie reading book - first book group meeting next Wednesday! Read Ch. 2 of The Great Gatsby for Friday's class.

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

AGENDA 2/10

Close Analysis of passage from Ch. 1 of The Great Gatsby: two "eggs" and two houses

HW: TWO rhetorical terms entries due tomorrow--one from Ch. 1 or 2 of The Great Gatsby, and one from one of the three McGraw-Hill Reader essays we studied last week: "Delusions of Grandeur," "Men at Work," or "Ambition," pages 368-377. Remember, you CANNOT repeat a term you defined first semester.

Read Ch. 2 of The Great Gatsby for Friday's class. Get and read first 50 pages of indie reading book for next Wednesday.

Monday, February 9, 2009

AGENDA 2/9

Turn in Evidence Logs and annotated current events related to business or the economy.

Generate a list of issues affecting Samohi and questions for guest speaker, Dr. Pedroza: What do you want to know?

Begin close analysis passage from Chapter 1 of The Great Gatsby individually or with a partner.

HW: TWO rhetorical terms entries due tomorrow--one from Ch. 1 or 2 of The Great Gatsby, and one from one of the three McGraw-Hill Reader essays we studied last week: "Delusions of Grandeur," "Men at Work," or "Ambition," pages 368-377. Remember, you CANNOT repeat a term you defined first semester.

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

AGENDA 2/3

Timed Essay - Argument Prompt

HW: Bring ID cards and any books to return to the textbook room tomorrow, or bring your copy of The Great Gatsby if you have purchased your own.

Monday, February 2, 2009

AGENDA 2/2

Examine scoring guide and sample essays for the Sanders 2003B argument prompt.
Homework check - show your essays you wrote over the weekend for credit.

After examining samples, score your own or score a peer's essay using the scoring guide.

HW: Timed essay tomorrow. Bring blue or black ink pens, notebook paper, and any notes or handouts you would like to have with you for tomorrow's timed write.

Friday, January 30, 2009

AGENDA 1/30

Discuss the Muckraker prompt and continuum of evidence and how to handle argument prompts.

HW: Write an argument essay for the Sanders prompt. You'll get full credit just for having the complete essay written--we'll peer-score it on Monday according to the scoring guidelines.

Friday, January 16, 2009

FINAL EXAM REVIEW

STRUCTURE OF EXAM:
HOUR 1: VOCABULARY AND MULTIPLE-CHOICE
Vocabulary List of words to study for exam
Old lists of definitions:
Enrique's Journey vocabulary
The Grapes of Wrath vocabulary
Logical Fallacies vocabulary
The Crucible vocabulary
Thoreau vocabulary

Multiple-Choice practice:
Answers for passage 2 (we went over this one in class today): 8.D 9.C 10.C 11.D 12.E 13.C 14.A
Answers for passage 3 (the extra practice you received in class today): 15.B 16.A 17.B 18.E 19.D 20.A 21.C 22.D

NOTE: The multiple-choice will be approximately 28 questions but will count out of 21 points. Like on the AP exam, you will receive one point for each correct answer and lose 1/4 of a point for each incorrect answer. Your raw score will then count out of 21 points for this segment. If you are uncertain about the meaning of a word, make your best guess. BRING A #2 PENCIL FOR THIS PORTION OF THE EXAM.

HOUR 2: CHOICE OF ESSAY (RHETORICAL ANALYSIS OR SYNTHESIS)
Bring notebook paper and BLUE or BLACK INK pens for this portion of the exam.
To prepare for rhetorical analysis, look over your rhetorical terms entries and "The Death of Benny Paret" practice that we examined on Monday. Also, take a look at the Stewart passage that I gave out on Tuesday--you might consider writing a thesis statement or a body paragraph as practice and then email me for feedback.

To prepare for synthesis, look over your sample materials from the Flagburning essay (the packet and the two student sample essays). Review your researched argument paper, and take a look back at the televised election debate packet as well. Again, you might consider writing a new thesis statement or body paragraph for televised election debates or flagburning (now that you have a better idea how to write a researched argument paper) and then email me for feedback if you're unsure how to tackle this type of prompt.

Venn Diagram comparing Rhetorical Analysis and Synthesis - tips and notes from class today comparing the two essay types.

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

AGENDA 1/7

Partner discussion: What are all of the reasons that people might follow bad/unjust laws?
(Review Kohlberg's Stages of Moral Reasoning)

Introduction to excerpts from Thoreau's "Civil Disobedience"
Introduce new vocabulary from "Civil Disobedience"
Online resource: http://thoreau.eserver.org/civil.html
This online resource contains the full annotated text AND a Spanish translation! :)

HW: Reminder--your three rhetorical terms entries (#6, #7, and #8) from Adventures of Huckleberry Finn are due tomorrow if you haven't submitted them already--two should be on humor devices and one can be any other device you haven't written up yet from Huck Finn (I recommended "colloquialism" or "dialect," as you'll recall...)

Finish reading "Civil Disobedience" by Friday
Finish reading Adventures of Huckleberry Finn for next Wednesday (pace yourself appropriately!)
Be at the halfway point or beyond in your independent reading book for Friday--bring your book as book groups will meet!
Stand-up seminar tomorrow on Morality and Moral Decisions in Adventures of Huckleberry Finn...be prepared to talk!