English 9
Today we discussed Worldviews. A complicated idea that clearly has a lot of weight behind it. We had a lengthy discussion and drew a mindmap revealing the intricacies of of this idea.

We also discussed the DEJ - or Double Entry Journal. We'll be using this as part of your CLS, so hold on to those pink sheets!

Next day we'll be preparing our folders for submitting work, and start on our first short story.

English 12
Here is a digital copy of our reading from Thursday.

• Case Studies

Today we'll be discussing the flip side of moral relativism and its impact on infanticide. There's a lot of material out there on this, check out the links below:

1. The Challenges of Cultural Relativism
2. BBC: Infanticide and Ethics
3. Culture is No Defense for Infanticide

Utilitarian philosopher, Peter Singer constructs a fascinating argument in support of abortion and infanticide. His argument is based largely on the medical situation of the infant/fetus, however. His argument was highly controversial, and there were calls for his resignation when he proposed it.

There are more articles and responses to this topic than I can list, Google says it all.

Greetings!

English 12
Today we read about a fairly uncomfortable issue: female infanticide. With this article, we'll:

• Read about several case studies from India and China
• Determine a level (if any) of bias in the article.
• Evaluate the weight of these case studies against the backdrop of moral goodness and ethical conflicts we have already discussed.

Ultimately, this will lead to your first synthesis work for grade 12, where we'll draw connections between our discussions of ethics and infanticide.

English 9

Today we applied our knowledge of ethics to form a collaborative code of conduct. I'll be merging class contributions for our final copy.

We didn't have time to discuss DEJs today, or start Worldviews, but we will tomorrow!

Greetings!

English 12 and English 9
Today we'll be finishing our mandalas and taking a closer look at ethics. We have a few discussion topics to cover in this regard. We'll use this discussion as a platform for our next assignment.

Both 12s and 9s are doing mandalas, but our discussion on ethics will differ quite a bit :)

A beautiful beginning to a wonderful school year!

Welcome students of Mr. Rogers' classes. You'll find updates on homework and details on our classes here.

English 12 and English 9
Today we began designing our classroom passports, also known as our Mandalas. For grade 12s, your mandalas should identify the following:

1. Name
2. Values
3. What makes you.
4. What breaks you.

For grade 9s, please use the following to form your Mandala:

1. Name
2. Places you've been.
3. Situations you've survived.
4. What defines you.

Homework
Finish the writing component of your mandalas. We'll want to get right to the next step on Wednesday!

HEY HEY HEY - It's a new day!

English 12 AP
Greetings AP people! I hope university is treating you well. We have a special event tomorrow to go watch Othello at the Bard on the Beach.

If you haven't been before, it's an open outdoor theater. Very cool. I'll be there about 30-40mins before the show to meet everyone inside. There's room to meander and chat before we go into our theater to sit down. Maybe we can grab a bite or snack while we're there/after the show.

If you lost your ticket, no big deal, I will bring an extra copy of every ticket.

The play starts at 7:30pm on Saturday, Sep 10. I will be there by 7:00pm at the latest.

This week I will be available for multiple study sessions in preparation for the EN10 and EN12 provincial exam. I will be at school all day on Wednesday and Thursday - available for help, but I have scheduled a few meeting times for specific grades. When you come, make sure you bring an electronic device or laptop with you.

-------
On Wednesday, I will host a workshop for English 10 to discuss strategies and key knowledge for the provincial from 9am - 11am. Attendance is not mandatory, but it might be a good idea.

On Thursday, I will host a workshop for English 12 from 9am - indeterminate to discuss strategies and key knowledge for the provincial exam.
-------

English 9 SPECTRUM
Today we'll be doing a survey!

English 10
If you haven't done your survey, please do so today. We have an epic kahoot all lined up! We'll also finish our film and do more one on one interviews.

English 12AP
Do your survey if you haven't done so yet. Also be sure to return all novels to me by the end of today.

Provincial exams are imminent.

English 10: Thursday, June 23. 9:00am. 3 hours permitted. Be there at 8:30 to get mentally prepared.

English 12: Friday, June 24. 9:00am. 3 hours permitted. Be there at 8:30 to get mentally prepared.

For all classes: We will be filling in a survey for our classes. Please use the following link to fill in the survey. The survey is password protected, since we have many visitors from outside our classroom. I will give you the password in class for the survey.

Each class gets its own collection data. Click on the link that corresponds with your class. I'll give you the password during the class.

English 10

English 9 SPECTRUM

English 12AP

There will be a homeroom on Monday, June 20 to collect locks and to distribute 2016-2017 timetables.  There is an alternate bell schedule in effect.
TIME BLOCK
8:25 - 9:42 D Block
9:42-9:50 8-Minute Break
9:50 - 11:07 C Block
11:07-11:16 9-Minute Break
11:16 - 12:33 B Block
12:33-1:13 LUNCH
1:18 - 2:35 A Block
2:40 - 2:55 HOMEROOM (Lock Return & 2016-2017 Timetable Distribution)

Sharkfest is Tuesday, June 21. There is an alternate bell schedule in effect.
Time Block
8:25 – 9:15 AM A Block
9:15 – 9:25 10 minute Break
9:25 – 10:15 AM B Block
10:15 – 10:25 10 minute Break
10:25 – 11:15 AM C Block
11:15 – 11:25 10 minute Break
11:25 – 12:15 PM D Block
12:15 PM Homeroom & Yearbooks
1:00 PM SHARKFEST

English 12AP
Don't be a late Lucas, be an ON TIME TIMMY.

English 10
Today we'll take a final gander at your essays if you need more time.

English 9 SPECTRUM
Today we'll be writing your  synthesis paragraphs.

English 10
Today we're writing our final compare and contrast essay in the provincial that we examined yesterday. You may bring in a thesis statement only.

English 12AP
Today we'll continue our film from yesterday. Hand in your synthesis essay!

English 12AP

Money stuff:

Bring $29 for your Bard on the Beach ticket (your name is on the board if you haven't paid).

Bring $6 for each copy of Fragments of Imagination you requested.

Today we're watching a film!

English 9 SPECTRUM

Today we'll be making more connections between The Boy In the Striped Pajamas, and Life is Beautiful.

English 10

Today we'll be looking at another provincial in detail, and begin planning our final compare and contrast assignment.

It's TERRIFIC TUESDAY. HAVE A TERRIFIC TUESDAY.

English 10
Today I'll be modelling an introductory paragraph for compare and contrast essays, then everyone will have a chance to try their own C&C intros!

Topic for Mr. Rogers: Compare and contrast the choice PAPER VS PLASTIC in the context of a BBQ at the beach.

1. Which is a better use of free time: Playing video games vs. reading an interesting novel. 
2. Which is better done as a homework assignment: writing an essay vs. solving math problems. 

English 12AP
Today we'll be going over the characters we began to examine yesterday. Be prepared to share your analysis with the class, and the significance of these characterizations in the context of Chaucer's time (14th century).

Our class anthology is $6. Bring the money!
4 of you still need to pay for your Bard on the Beach tickets. $29

English 12AP
FEES: $29 if you signed up for Bard on the Beach

Incoming due date: Thursday, June 16 for your final synthesis essays.

We're going to take a gander at the Canterbury Tales - from a post-secondary perspective. That is, we'll be examining several characters and determine how the society at the time would perceive this character.

The original text was written in early middle English - which is more difficult to comprehend than Shakespeare's middle English. We'll use a somewhat modernized translation of the text for interpretation purposes. A complete analysis takes much more time than we have, but we should be able to briefly learn about these characters.

The Canterbury Tales

Characters to examine:

1. The Wife of Bath (challenge)
2. The Prioress
3. The Miller (challenge)
4. The Pardoner
5. The Friar
6. The Lawyer
7. (Your choice)

Questions:

1. Summarize the story
2. Characterize with quotes.
3. Based on what we understand about society at the time this was written, what conclusions can we make about the character?
4. What is Chaucer attempting to accomplish through this character? (consider the prologue and the story)

English 10
Today is a lit circle day! If we have time, I'll be modelling an intro for compare and contrast in order to clarify what we're looking for on the provincial exam.

English 9 SPECTRUM
Well- it took the entire weekend, but your essays are marked, and you'll be getting them back today.

English 12AP
Speaking of Synthesis, we'll take a look at a few TED talks that may supplement some of your ideas:

PTSD: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BEHDQeIRTgs
PTSD Part 2 (not covered in class):https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Bhk65bY_I0

Today we'll discuss the elements of a film analysis, and another look at the provincial.

English 10
Silent reading, and expanding C&C points into arguments. Specifically, we'll look at forming a killer introduction for C&C and Narratives.

English 10
It's another day on thesis statements! Today we'll wrap up thesis statements on the open-ended questions, then we'll spend some time developing thesis statements for compare and contrast writing. We've been over the rules before, but here's something to keep in mind:

1. Be sure to mention both items in your thesis statement.
2. Don't simply state that there are more similarities or differences.
3. Take a position based on the subject of the comparison.

Example:

Compare and contrast the economic benefits of SUVs and Coups.

The italicized and underlined section is the subject of the C&C.

In your groups, create a thesis statement and brainstorm 3 components of your argument.

Here's a list of C&C topics to try in your groups. Decide on a subject for your C&C. Don't simply compare the two items in an open-ended context:

1. Apple and Microsoft
2. Pencils and Pens
3. Biology and Chemistry
4. Jazz and Classical Music
5. Cash and Credit Card
6. Nuclear Power and Solar Power
7. Porcelain and Glass
8. Books and Movies
9. Vampires and Werewolves
10. Rap and Pop

English 12AP
PICK YOUR FILM

Remember all those literary terms? Time for a collaborative activity!

GOOGLE DOC LINK

In other news, fees:

1. If you want a copy of our class anthology, bring me $15. Once the exact cost is determined we'll work out the difference.
2. For Bard on the Beach, you need to decide if you would like to come if you didn't check doodle. If you checked doodle, you're coming: $29 please!

English 9 SPECTRUM

Today we'll finish Life is Beautiful.

Another lovely morning!

English 10
Note: Any students in the 35% - 55% range will be recommended for remedial summer school. If you are currently passing, but you're in a lower range, you'll need to get a sufficient grade on the provincial exam in order to pass. Keep in mind that this test is worth 20% of your final grade.

Today we completed our first lit circle and handed in the package. Nicely done.

Essay marking is coming along. Another class set of essays is nearly completed. Poems for Block C are completed.

English 12AP
Shakespeare in Love - what a great film.

Time for more essays. How many you might ask? The current count is 182.

English 12AP

There was a question about the expectations of a synthesis essay in English 12. We'll be discussing this in more detail in class, but here are some quick items:

1. Synthesis means that we're using two texts to create new ideas and form an argument that incorporates both of them. This should be reflected in your thesis statement.
2. Do not compare and contrast the texts for this assignment. 
3. Our synthesis essay has a primary text. Namely, Othello. You have a choice of two other texts with which you will synthesize your essay. 
4. Because there is a primary text, you can use either article to "re-read" Othello and form an argument based on how Othello comments on the topics addressed in the article. Conversely, you could even use Othello to address the arguments in the article.

English 10

Here are some example topics we'll be examining while we refine our thesis statements:

Everyone is basically good.

People should be able to criticize the government.

Beauty is a matter of personal preference.

Personality is more important than beauty.

Love can last forever.

Blondes aren’t as smart as brunettes.

Violence is necessary sometimes.

All students should be required to speak English.

Teachers are always right.

Money is more important than love.

Possession of drugs should require jail time.

1. Do I answer the question? Re-reading the question prompt after constructing a working thesis can help you fix an argument that misses the focus of the question. 
2. Have I taken a position that others might challenge or oppose? If your thesis simply states facts that no one would, or even could, disagree with, it’s possible that you are simply providing a summary, rather than making an argument. 
3. Is my thesis statement specific enough? Thesis statements that are too vague often do not have a strong argument. If your thesis contains words like “good” or “successful,” see if you could be more specific: why is something “good”; what specifically makes something “successful”? 
4. Does my thesis pass the “So what?” test? If a reader’s first response is likely to be “So what?” then you need to clarify, to forge a relationship, or to connect to a larger issue. 
5. Does my essay support my thesis specifically and without wandering? If your thesis and the body of your essay do not seem to go together, one of them has to change. It’s okay to change your working thesis to reflect things you have figured out in the course of writing your paper. Remember, always reassess and revise your writing as necessary. 
6. Does my thesis pass the “how and why?” test? If a reader’s first response is “how?” or “why?” your thesis may be too open-ended and lack guidance for the reader. See what you can add to give the reader a better take on your position right from the beginning. 

Source: UNC Writing Center

English 9 SPECTRUM

Today we handed in the good copies of our stories. We discussed more BITSP and began viewing a film with similar tones: Life is Beautiful (1997).

English 10
Today we're starting off with some silent reading to ensure everyone has a good start on their novels, then we'll finish up our essays. If you're done already, read!

We'll go over the role sheets today. Remember, your lit circles are meeting June 8, June 13, and June 17!

English 12AP
The concert on Friday was fantastic - and the promposal was hilarious! Today, we'll be writing another narrative - this one we'll hand in at the end of the class.

Due dates to discuss:
***This can be done in a group***Creative Assignment for Paradise Lost: June 10
Othello Synthesis Essay Assignment: June 16

English 12AP
We had 9 confirmed responses on the Doodle tonight, so I have bought tickets for each of you. The youth price is $29, but these are prime seats that anyone over 22 would have to pay $57 for.

If more would like to come, I can reserve more tickets, but we might have to sit in a few scattered spots around the theater!

The reservation is for September 10, 2016 at 7:30pm. Each ticket is $29. If you signed up on Doodle, bring the money ASAP!

English 10
Today we shared our poems which are in fact - surprise: Sonnets! Yes, you have worked out one of the more tricky poetic forms in the English language!

We also formed our lit circle groups and determined meeting times and dates.

English 12AP
Today we'll be taking about your next two assignments. There's your creative assignment where we take the tone and approach of Milton and there's the Synthesis assignment we started yesterday. We'll establish the due dates for these today!

English 9 SPECTRUM
Today, we discussed the significance of Bruno's narration of such a terrible global event. We closely examined the chapter "The Fury" where Bruno met Hitler and we wrote a journal response on that encounter.

Next week we'll check out the film - as well as another film for our final assignment.

English 10
Today we wrote our 2nd narrative essay, this time, with planning as part of the picture. We'll be starting (somewhat shortened) lit circles in Friday, with a total of 3 meetings.

English 12AP
After our last skit, today will be synthesis day. Use the links below to inform your work.

Othello Synthesis Topic
PTSD Article
Interracial Marriage Article

Do not consult any additional outside sources - read the topic first, then pick which of the two synthesis questions you will respond to.

Please vote on the day that we'll go see Othello this summer!
DOODLE LINK

Vote by midnight Friday.

English 9 SPECTRUM
Here is how you need to organize the header for your creative writing:

1. Title centered.
2. Name on the right.
3. Date on the right.
4. Size 12 Times New Roman (1.5x spacing)
5. Double sided preferred, not required.

Due: Tuesday, June 7 2016

English 10
Today we made a few planned changes to our 3 quatrains. The new steps are:

d. In a meter other than the one in your poem, write a rhyming couplet that encompasses a central theme of your symbol.
e. Combine your stanzas into one big stanza. Indent the rhyming couplet at the end. The poem should be a single stanza, and 14 lines long.

Print this, and make it pretty to hand in tomorrow, June 2.

English 12AP
Today we showed most of our skits. They were excellent - except of course for the cringe-worthy moments you all remember! These are the best Othello skits I have seen. Tomorrow - essays!

English 10
Today we shared our first quatrain with our group. Other group members would then try to determine the foot, meter, and rhyme scheme. Don't forget - the first step is always counting syllables!

After our opening activity, we began work on the last two quatrains. You must bring in a typed version of this poem tomorrow, Wednesday June 1. This is your draft copy. We'll do a quick peer edit tomorrow, and make good copies to hand in the following day.

Homework
Complete the draft version of your 3 quatrains. Type it and bring it in tomorrow.

English 12AP
Today we'll return to Milton's Paradise Lost.

English 9 SPECTRUM
Today was our first editing day for our short stories. There was a lot of enthusiasm today! Make sure you go through the following steps before we reconvene on Wednesday:

1. Find a partner who will be your editing buddy.
2. Exchange essays and contact information with that person.
3. Read the essay, and do the following:
1. Was it interesting? yes/no - and why.
2. Write feedback directly on the story that addresses grammar and content concerns.
3. At home, write 6 - 8 sentences that describe your overall impression. Feedback should be constructive.

Homework

Complete the feedback for your partner. You will be marked for your feedback, so be sure to complete all the above steps.

English 12AP

Some of you are returning the novels you borrowed over the course of the semester. Keep them coming in!

English 10

Today we learned about using rhythm and meter in practice. We begun work on our symbol poem.

Remember, a quatrain has 4 lines and a rhyme scheme. You may pick your rhyme scheme and your foot and meter.

Homework
Finish ONE quatrain for your symbol poem.

Today is soliloquy day!

English 12
Yes, we are performing our soliloquies today.

Reminder: Tomorrow is the deadline for submitting your creative assignments to apbooksubmission@gmail.com

EDIT: If you would like to extend your skits to Wednesday, June 1, please post a comment under this post by midnight tonight!

English 10
Today we took a pause from poetry to check out the effect of symbolism in "The Smile" by Ray Bradbury. Then we did more poetry - but this time, with a symbol!

Homework
Be sure to complete your diamante. Colour it in. Make it pretty. Rainbows and stuff. Cut it to a square.

English 10
Today we presented our group poems and began working on our own diamantes.

Here's the diamante form we're using:

                      Noun
        Adjective    Adjective
   Verb         Verb          Verb
Noun    Noun    Noun    Noun
   Verb         Verb          Verb
        Adjective    Adjective
                      Noun

Make it pretty. Put some colours and drawings on it. Print the text. Cut the poem down to a nice square shape. Due on Monday, May 30.

English 12
Today we got our soliloquies back and took a day to practice our soliloquies and skits. Tomorrow is soliloquy day!

English 9 SPECTRUM
Today we observed the ENEX project presentations for the grade 10s. Take notes, people - this will be you next year!

Reminder: The first draft of your Strathcona narratives is due on Monday next week.

English 10
Today we finished up our good copies of the narrative essays. If you need extra time, please come and see me during lunch.

We returned to poetry analysis, and are now looking at some points as groups. On Thursday, we'll present our findings and respond to the big questions we examined on the board:

1. What message is the speaker trying to convey?

• How do you know? (make references to the text)

1. Foot/Meter/Rhyme Scheme?
2. Poetic Devices? Use your package!

• Locate devices and explain how it adds meaning to the poem.

English 12AP
We'll be getting class time for Othello skits/videos on Thursday this week. Don't forget - we have two deadlines coming up:

1. Friday, May 27 - This is the day for your soliloquies.
2. Tuesday, May 31 - This is the day for your Othello skits/videos.

It's time for some Shakespearean Sonnets! Here's our sonnet signup list for today:

1. 138
2. 43
3. 116
4. 18
5. 130

Yes, you need to edit your writing. Guess what we'll be doing!

English 10
Today we handed each other's feedback back to the essay author. We took some time to review possible revisions and went back to work on our good copy. We'll have some time tomorrow to finish our good copies, but not the entire class.

Once you are finished, staple the good copy on top of your draft. Do not staple the feedback form to your essay. Hand in your partner's feedback form in a separate pile at the front of the room. This way there will be two hand in items: Your essay, and your partner's feedback.

English 12AP
Today we discussed your soliloquies, which you all have been practicing over the long weekend! Here's what I'll be looking for in your presentations:

1. Clarity: Is it English?
2. Eye contact: Does the audience exist?
3. Inflection: Do you use inflection or do you speak with a robot voice?
4. Memorized

Soliloquy presentation day is Friday, May 27.

The provincial has 3 written responses on it. A short, one paragraph response to a poem or short story, a synthesis question, and an open-ended composition question. On Thursday, we did a practice run of the final composition question. For revision, we discussed the two big items we should include for the final essay topic: A twist or surprise in the narrative, and a cathartic return to the topic as your final thought.

We'll be making skits for Othello. These are group assignments that can be recorded or presented in front of the class. The purpose of this assignment is to demonstrate your knowledge of genre and adapt original scenes into a language appropriate for your genre selection. 

Groups:

1. Joel's Group - Act 3 scene 4 (Romantic Comedy)
2. David's Group - Act I scene 1 (Law & Order)
3. Dorothy's Group - Act 2 scene 3 (Reality TV)
4. George's Group - Act 4 scene 1 (High School Drama)
5. Jill's Group - Act 5 scene 2 (Black Comedy)

We'll be performing/showing these skits on Tuesday, May 31.

English 9 SPECTRUM

Today we took a look at the rubric for our creative writing assignment. The first draft of this assignment is due on Monday, May 30:

1. Typed
2. Size 12, Times New Roman
3. Double-spaced/Double-sided
4. Name/Date

The revision of our narratives is a significant step and will take at least one class. Don't worry about the revision steps until you complete your first draft.

For class, we'll be discussing our last big unit - The Boy in the Striped Pajamas.

Greetings! Time to get this road on the show!

English 10
Today we did another English 10 provincial practice. Remember: your peer feedback assignment is due next class. Tuesday, May 24, 2016.

English 12AP
The word is out, our next big assignment is the presentation of our soliloquies. We'll share these on Friday next week. You may also trade with a partner. In cases where there is some dialogue before the soliloquy, other students can help you along to establish the context.

Hey, here's a list of Composition Topics From Previous Provincials.

Good morning team, and may the sun shine ever in your favour!

English 9 SPECTRUM
Today we expanded a highlighted section of our story notes using one of the following approaches:

• Narrative
• Imaginative
• Descriptive
• Personal

Also, we worked on our first sentence, and discussed what makes a good opening sentence.

Homework

Expand another highlighted component of your story and decide on a good first sentence.

English 10
Today we'll be finishing up our narrative/persuasive compositions and do some peer editing. Be sure to put your name on the peer editing sheet you complete so that I know who did it!

Did anyone notice that scent? It's the scent of lit circles!

Here is the Google Slide document that I used to show you the questions you need to answer. You should have 5 questions and 1 paragraph for your feedback form.

Homework
Complete your feedback work to be handed in on Tuesday, May 24.

English 12AP
Today we'll be looking at Emilia before moving on to Act IV.

1. Why doesn't Emilia tell Desdemona about the handkerchief?
2.  Is it unlikely that she is truly unaware of Iago's plot regarding the handkerchief?

IV
1. How does Iago enable Othello's jealousy in IV.i?
2. How do we know that this has utterly unraveled Othello's character?
3. How do the themes of Othello to this point appear similar to Shakespearean comedy?
4. Is Emilia actually aware of Iago's plot in IV.ii? Is she playing coy, or is she genuinely naive?
5. What is the meaning behind Desdemona's song in IV.iii?
6. What can we infer about Emilia and Desdemona's character based on their conversation about infidelity that follows Desdemona's song in IV.iii?
7. What meaning can we extract from Emilia's final comment before she leaves Desdemona for the night in IV.iii?

English 10
Today we discussed the basic elements of a persuasive essay and began work on our narrative essay! We also briefly touched on persuasive writing, but keep in mind that persuasive writing doesn't play as significant a role in English 10 as it does in English 11 or 12.

English 12AP
Today we examined some major questions regarding Act III in Othello. Tomorrow we'll be discussing Emilia's intentions - regarding her behaviour and the handkerchief as well as Act IV.

Homework
Read Act IV!

Greetings all!

English 9 SPECTRUM
Today we wrote about our experiences in Strathcona. The goal is to write (in point form) about the events that actually happened - this is not a draft, only an overview of what actually happened. Next we highlighted certain points of our experience that we would like to "spice up"

English 12AP
Today we did a practice run of a EN12 provincial, and to our shock and horror, there are some pretty ambiguous questions! Keep your copy of the provincial and we'll revisit the essay content later.

Homework
For now, we'll be returning to Othello. Please read Act III before tomorrow so we may discuss it!

English 10
We took a closer look at section C of the provincial and learned some of the basics of narrative writing. You have done this kind of thing before. Section C is essentially asking you to respond to a topic. Using the narrative form is often beneficial here where you can respond with a personal experience that reveals your position on the subject.

Homework
Complete an outline for section C before tomorrow. You may bring in your first sentence in complete form, but the rest should be in point form.

On that note, the photos for Strathcona are ready, but due to regulations regarding student data on servers in the USA, I can't share them via One Drive. I can, however, share them if you bring in a USB stick.

There are 322 photos (some are duplicates) that take up about 2.2 GB.

English 12AP
Today we took a gander at some synthesis writing with poetry. We'll be combining English 12AP and English 12 approaches to synthesis - but as you know I'll be assessing you at the English 12 level.

English 10
Today we learned about examining poetry and took a look at a couple examples.

English 12 AP
Hey, here's something to check out. What does a good synthesis essay look like? Here's a good break down.

Today we took a closer look at the kind of essay and work you'll be doing for the remainder of English 12AP.

English 10
Today we finished (nearly) all presentations. Very nice! Tomorrow we'll return to poetry and take a look at the steps of parsing a poem.

Homework
If you haven't handed in your written response yet, please do so by Friday, this week!

English 12 AP


You have completed the test! See you all tomorrow, AP12!

English 10
More presentations completed today, more to go tomorrow!

English 12 AP
Behold: the complete literature resource. Many of these items we have used on our practice essays and MC, but there are a few things here we haven't used. Enjoy!

AP LIT 12 PACKAGE.

Good luck on your test tomorrow. GET SOME SLEEP TONIGHT.

English 10
Today we began our song presentations! Remember: you've had a week to work on these. You'll have to do a lot more than press play to pass. Check below for the big questions you should address in your presentation.

Greetings English 12 AP people!

We'll be meeting at McDonald's on Sunday at 3pm for a couple hours of multiple choice review.

7120 No. 3 Road. Richmond BC.

About a block south of Richmond Center on Number 3 road. See you there! Bring a pencil/pen!

English 9 SPECTRUM
Today we began exploring our big question for the unit: What makes an interesting story?

Our discussion turned towards how we establish setting. We learned that:

1. Setting can establish mood.
2. Descriptive language can make a dull setting interesting.
3. Figurative language is used to:

• Add depth to the meaning - this means you can convey more than one meaning at the same time using figurative language.
• Add emphasis

English 12AP
Today we wrote our final Question 3 practice. Not bad! We're not official on to our final creative project for the anthology: The Soliloquy.

English 10
Here's a link to an excellent Quizlet that'll help you learn the terms. Maybe we'll do a quiz on them! Or maybe not (yet). Here's some advice: Take a few minutes each day to take a look at these terms. You have just under 2 months before the big test. Now's a great time to start putting a few minutes into getting ready.

English 10

Here's your list of terms for the provincial exam!

English 12AP
Hey, here's your topic for our final Q3 essay!

Some works of literature focus on the conflict that can arise when characters of different generations respond to the same situation. Select a novel or play in which such contrasting perspectives play a pivotal role. Then write a well-organized essay in which you analyze how the opposing viewpoints and values of older and younger characters contribute to the meaning of the work as a whole.

Do not merely summarize the plot.

You'll have 40 minutes to complete the essay tomorrow.

English 12 AP
Here's a DOODLE for our meeting on Sunday. Indicate your availability so we can decide a time!

English 10
We didn't have a chance to check out the memes yet. Some memes have not yet been submitted. We'll be taking a look at your memes tomorrow!

Also, we'll be sharing your short stories.

English 9 SPECTRUM
Nice presentations! Don't forget to hand in your script. We'll be starting on our individual creations soon.

English 10
Today we discussed the nature of viral content on the internet. We began work on our song project. Here are the big questions to think about as you prepare your presentation:

Questions:

1. Why did this song become a hit?
2. What audience is this song intended for?
1. How do you know?
3. What kind of behaviour does this song suggest?
4. Identity some parts of the song that suggest more than a literal meaning.

Your presentation should be:

1. 1 - 2 minutes long.

2. Play the song, or a portion of it for the class. Keep it polite!

3. Answer the above questions during the presentation.

4. Hand in your extended response after you complete the presentation.

Here is the link for song sign-ups.

If you want to make a change to your song, please inform me by no later than tomorrow's class.

Homework
Complete your meme assignment, and email it to me by tonight: jrogers@sd38.bc.ca

English 12AP
Today we went over the quiz. A lot of students felt this should be part of their English 12AP mark, so it shall be!

Read the first part of Heart of Darkness for tomorrow.

English 10 A and C
Today we finished our intro to the media unit and took a closer look at memes and what makes up a meme. Today we took photos (hopefully responsible ones!) that we'll use for a meme building activity tomorrow.

English 12AP
Today we did a couple poems related to the topic of 'home and family'. We'll go over the quiz tomorrow (really!)

English 9 SPECTRUM
Great videos! We'll finish them up on Wednesday and do more creative writing!

English 10 A/C
We're just about consolidated between our classes. This means your friends in the other section will be doing more similar things! The intro for the media unit has completed and we'll now be moving on to the body of it:

English 12AP
We did our lit circle and wrote the figurative language quiz. We'll go over the quiz on Monday. One item I needed to include today but we didn't get to: Read ACT III.

English 12AP
Here's some examples of Synechdoche and Metonymy.

Synecdoche:
A part of the thing represents the whole. Figurative term. Examples:
a. These are my wheels. (a car)
b. All hands on deck.
c. The head of an organization.

Metonymy:
A thing that is far more symbolic than synechdoche, that represents an idea.
a. The pentagon.
b. The crown.
c. Give me a hand!


What makes a good soliloquy notes (To be refined!)
Characterization
Insight
Exposes trajectory of views/emotional state
Reveals a facet of plot. Reveals where the character thinks s/he is going.
Has to be essential to the plot.
Carefully thought out; less spontaneous/carefully thought.
NOT a stream of consciousness.
Conclusive tone/for the moment.
Elegant level of diction/reveals thoughtfulness. /
Reflection. Reveals development in the character.

Unfiltered. Iago's eloquence is a unique character trait. Eloquent/Raw.

English 10
Today we wrapped up our MSND unit. Starting tomorrow: media!

Homework
Don't forget to bring your MSND books to return.

English 12AP
Today we took a closer look at Othello. Soliloquy is the name of the game here. We've examined one soliloquy at the end of Act I.iii, and we'll examine a couple others tomorrow.

Another note, the quiz will be moved to Thursday, after we complete our 2nd lit circle. We'll write the Q3 on Wednesday - this way you have the full class to complete it rather than feeling rushed.

We already have a link for the google doc, but due to the nature of being a google doc, some items may have been removed.

Here's the version I'm using to create our quiz.

Homework
Read Act II.

English 10 (C)
Today everyone wrote their final assignment for Ms. Lee - an essay! Hurray! Tomorrow, we'll be starting a media unit with another student teacher.

English 12AP
Today we discussed the nature of question 3 responses, and began work on Othello. We'll be speeding through this play over the course of next week and moving on to Heart of Darkness in the week preceding the AP test.

Homework
Read Act I of Othello.

English 10 
Today we handed in our character panels. A few reminders for the next few classes:

1. Your plot profile (and conflict tracking - which should be written on your plot profile)
2. Group skits will be due on Tuesday, April 20.

Homework
Your skits should modernize the language in Midsummer Night's Dream. Take some time this weekend to work on your script. You could make a video, or you could act it out in front of the class.

English 12 AP
For question 3 preparation, we're going to use the following 3 links:

QUESTION 3 PROMPT
QUESTION 3 SCORING GUIDE
QUESTION 3 SAMPLES

English 10
Today we read through Act IV scene i. Anyone notice a pattern with the scenes/act? We watched more of the film, and will be returning to our panel assignments tomorrow. We'll also take a look at Act IV scene i, and Act V scene i - if we have time!

Homework
Finish your character panels. You should have 11 character panels for tomorrow.

English 12AP
The google doc has been updated to combine duplicate figurative/poetic items. We'll be doing a 2nd edit, and also include any additional items at the beginning of class today.

Here's the link.

I've made a PDF with the updated figurative and poetic items. It is a lovely work of collaboration!

Here's the link! Study it - we'll do a quiz on these items next week.

English 9 SPECTRUM
Today we had our first lit circle. Nice job everyone. Roles were thoroughly completed. Remember: as the Quarrelsome Questioner, it's ok if your conversation goes off-topic, but you need to track this on your role sheet during the meeting.

We're moving into the planning stages for your project. Be sure to know which format your group will be using for your story. On Thursday, we'll be going over some components of story writing and some preparation time will be given - depending how long it takes us to get through the class content.

Story Presentation Date: April 25 2016

English 12 AP
For our class today, we'll be doing some review for figurative language items.

1. Select 3 items from your figurative/poetry package.
2. Type them + example on the google doc.
3. We'll delete duplicates and clean up formatting after information is posted.

Click this link for the google doc. Turn off your virus protection first. It's ok. You can trust it. <(^_^)>


English 10 (A)

English 12 AP
Read "Two Ways to Belong in America". Check the pdf!

Click this link.

English 10A
We'll be finishing Act 3 tomorrow. There might be another Kahoot!

English 12AP
We have decided our lit circle meeting days for lit circle #2. Our meeting days are April 14, and April 21.

Google doc link: Jonson and Bastard

Yes, you may also write about tone.

English 10
We've begun designing ads for Midsummer Night's Dream! Bring them in Monday to share with the class.

English 9 SPECTRUM
What a lively day! Today we took the first steps into the realm of creative writing in the form of a collaborative writing experiment. We broke short stories into 5 elements. Our groups came up with the following elements:

1. Conflict
2. Symbol
3. Characters - original characters please!
4. Theme/Moral
5. Setting

Have something ready for these elements by Tuesday, April 12. On Tuesday, we'll be turning these elements into a narrative that we'll be sharing with the class.

English 12AP and stuff

Trifles Part 2: Revenge of the Dead Canary

Hey! Here's the blog!

English 10 (A Block)
Today we completed Act 2 scene i, and began discussing characterization in Shakespeare plays.

Homework
Begin your character panels for 11 characters in MSND.

English 9 SPECTRUM
Today we started our lit circles! You may begin to fill in your role sheet. We're having our first circle on Tuesday next week. As it turns out, the block rotation is on the week of the play, which throws a wrench into the plans. Hold on to your $5 until I speak to the theater group.

Homework
Get started on your novels. Be sure to reach your reading goal before Tuesday next week!

English 12AP
Today we wrote our last essay for the first term of this semester. I will be going on a marking blitz, and will have the marks entered before the deadline this Monday.

Items of note:
1. Make sure you have been in touch with Meghan regarding your bios. Also be sure to send her your first creative project. email: apbooksubmission@gmail.com
2. If you haven't handed in one of your lit circle handouts be sure to get it done this week.
3. The AP test is coming. Think about forming a study group and meeting regularly!

Tomorrow we'll be rotating lit circle books.

English 12AP
Hey EN12AP people! Click this link for our class!

English 12AP Question 2 (2012)

Today we discussed this!

English 10 (A block)

English 10
Wow! Your enthusiasm for this ad project is excellent! I'm looking forward to seeing your results on Monday!

Homework
Ad project due on Monday, April, 4!

English 12AP
Today we edited our 2nd creative project, and took photos for our anthology!

Our next lit circle is on Monday, also, please read Trifles (play) before Monday. The link for the play is under March 31.

English 9 SPECTRUM
We have begun work on our advice column. Check the link below for the google doc where we will post our articles. Please keep a copy of the article in case some information is lost on the google doc.

GOOGLE DOC LINK.

Homework
With your partner, create an advice column (300 - 500 words) that either responds to a letter that you make up, or provides general advice based on the research materials you have brought to class.

English 12AP
If we have time today, we'll be taking a look at a short play, Trifles by Susan Glaspell. If we don't get around to it today, we'll discuss it next week. Rather than print out the reading, I have created a PDF for your green, paper saving pleasure.

Here's the link!

We'll be taking pictures for our collaborative anthology tomorrow. Come dressed for it.

DRESS CODE HERE.

English 10
Today we'll take a look at some ads through the lens of ETHOS, PATHOS, and LOGOS. We have done persuasive techniques before, but now we'll be adding EPL to the mix. This time, we'll view some new ads we haven't seen before and examine their use of EPL. Once done, we'll have a bit of time to work on our advertisement projects!

Friday is your full work day for your advertisements. They are due on Monday, April 4.

What a beautiful day!

English 10
Today we formed our groups and began brainstorming for our group projects on propaganda. We'll have at least one additional class of preperation time and we'll also have the weekend to get ready. Presentations are due on Monday, April 4, so plan meeting times with your groups.

Homework
Meet with your groups!

English 12AP
Several of you still need to submit your biographies to Meghan. email them to apbooksubmission@gmail.com.

Today we discussed René Girard as a lens through which we might read literature. Mimetic desire!

English 9 SPECTRUM
Welcome back from an excellent break! We jumped right into the final stages of our inquiry. What makes and breaks a relationship?

After viewing the remaining two R&J movies, we read 3 short articles about this topic, and took a few notes.

Homework
Find another article online on the topic of "What makes and breaks a relationship?" Print it! Bring it to class for Thursday!

English 12 AP
Lots of 1984 today!

Deadlines: 1984 creative project, due for revision on Friday, April 1.

Lit circle #1 is tomorrow!

Homework
Get to work on your creative projects.

English 12AP
Greetings! Here we are in vacation mode, and now we're doing some AP prep? Sounds like a plan! Meghan (may have) secured a room for us at City Centre on No. 3 Road. We'll be meeting by the front doors at 10am. Hopefully you have read this message before standing around at the library!

I'll check in at the library before we meet at the City Centre, it's only a 2 minute walk away :)

Also, don't forget your figurative language guide and poetic devices. We'll need them to dissect this multiple guess section.

ENJOY YOUR SPRING BREAK. 
MAKE TIME TO DO FUN THINGS.

English 12AP
We finished up Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest. Fantastic play! Hopef ully we'll have time to discuss it when we return in the mix with our Lit Circles and 1984 creative projects.

Homework
Keep checking the blog for updates on our meeting for 10am, Tuesday, March 15 at the Richmond Public Library (across the street from RC). The place may change. The meeting is not obligatory, only a tutoring session on the MC section of the exam. I have 20 copies that I'll be bringing. I will also post a digital link to the complete test on the blog.

1984 creative project. Use a theme from 1984 to build a narrative. It could also be a 1 act play, if you like.

English 10
We wrote our "quiz" for Animal Farm today. Enjoy your spring break! When we return, we will be looking propaganda in modern society and its uses.

English 10 (block A)
Today we did some review for the Animal Farm unit "quiz" tomorrow. Come prepared!

Homework
Quiz tomorrow, study tonight!

English 12AP
Today we began viewing The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde.

English 9 SPECTRUM
Today we watched some of our videos for the Romeo and Juliet project. Sadly, we were not able to get through all of them, so we'll have to finish it on Tuesday.

Homework
You have a movie review to write. In the review, you need to take measure of the qualities of the film. Offer a well-developed opinion of it. There's no need to discuss what you might learn from the film. Take a look at some movie reviews in The Vancouver Sun for example.

English 12AP
Today we're reading more into Drama and short story. For those of you away on your geotrip, have fun! (And consider doing the activities at the beginning of each of these)

Andre's Mother
This is a 1 act play that takes place at the funeral of a young man who has died of AIDS. Do the activity described at the beginning of the play.

From A Raisin in The Sun

Tomorrow we'll be watching The Importance of Being Earnest, one of the suggested titles I brought up before the semester began.

English 10 (A block)
Today we started Animal Farm - the movie! Did you know it won an academy award? Yes, indeed.

English 10 (A block)
The class presentations were great! You all should pat yourselves on the back. No homework tonight. We'll be doing a test on the unit after watching the movie!

English 12 AP
Today we handed out 1984 and established our lit circles. Each group has determined a reading goal.

Items of note:
1. Our first meeting will be Tuesday, March 29.
2. The creative assignment won't be due (for revision) until Friday, April 1. We spoke about plays and drama as a genre, and this is an option for your creative response.
3.  Your creative response should be based on a theme from 1984. We will also be discussing the novel during our first week back. 1984 can be very useful for the AP exam!
4. We'll be meeting on Tuesday, March 15 during the spring break to discuss the MC section of the AP exam. Bring your figurative and poetic devices package. I'm currently in talks with Richmond community centers and libraries to find us a space to work. We will find one, so keep watching the blog for updates.

Homework
Determine 3 themes for the short story, "Girl".

English 9 SPECTRUM
Today we explored some elements of characterization through skits. It was a real blast and there were some very creative items in there. On Wednesday, we'll be checking out the movies you've been working on!

Homework
Finish your film!

English 12AP
Some quick updates:

1. For those of you who are planning on taking the AP exam and haven't paid your AP exam fee, bring your money in tomorrow. $126.
2. Marking your creative assignments is a work-in-progress. They are excellent, by the way!
3. We'll have 2 lit circles for the novels you select this week. One on Tuesday, March 29, and another on Monday, April 4. Decide among yourselves what your role will be.
4. Tomorrow I'll be handing out a novel to read during Spring Break, and a creative assignment to accompany it.

English 9 SPECTRUM
The film is due Wednesday, March 9. No more class time will be allotted for work on this project, as it seems many of you are now at a stage where you can film it on your own time.

Homework
Make your movie!

English12AP
Today we started the framework for lit circles, and selected a book from our choices. We can finalize these choices tomorrow once everyone has returned from their absences today.

After, we took a look at two essays from the collaborative essay work. We'll be finishing this tomorrow before we do some writing.

Also, Jade's quote will be immortalized in our book.

English 10 (A block)
Today we read our 'found' poems. They were excellent. Kudos to all those who shared their poem with the class! After, we started preparation for our skits.

Homework
Try to finalize a script for your skit before tomorrow's class so you can practice as a group. Presentation day is Monday! DEJ Friday!

English 10 (block A)
Today we began work on our "found" poem. This is a poem using words from the original text. Make a poem that uses either of the themes we devised as a class.

The themes are:
1. Power begets greed for more power.
2. Absolute power corrupts absolutely.
3. MAKE YOUR OWN.

Homework
Bring your poems in on Thursday. Practice reading them before class! (enter happy emote here)

Also, your DEJ for the book will be due on Friday. You may use quotes from anywhere in the text for this DEJ.

English 12AP
Today we discussed the short story, "The First Day" by Edward Jones. There was some excellent response to this story, and it might be a great platform for another creative assignment! <(^_^)>

Deadlines:
March 4: Creative assignment 1, essay revision, and your cheque if you intend to take the AP exam.

Homework
Finish your collaborative essay tonight. No need to print it, we can discuss them on the projector.

Today a TOC covered classes! Here are some notes about things coming up tomorrow.

English 10 (C block)
Today you should be done working with themes for some of Aesop's fables, as well as your second paragraph.

Note: There is no DEJ for chapter 9 and 10, but there will be a DEJ that covers the text as a whole. It is not due tomorrow.

English 12AP
My understanding is that today, you worked on a collaborative essay. It seemed like there were some challenges with this - and we'll discuss that tomorrow. Also, since tomorrow is Wednesday, please finish your 200 words about yourself (3rd person) to be submitted to Meghan for the book. Also, include a pretty picture. You could use one of the nice pictures taken for grad.

Tomorrow, we're going to read a short story and focus on extracting theme, also some question design on theme.

Other due dates to note: Typed revisions of your first essay and "final" copy of your first creative project. Friday March 4. Typed revisions will add 0.5 to your earned score. The creative project is only "final" as far as what I will mark. Here's what I need to see:

1. Indication that you are in control of the elements of fiction.
2. Layers of meaning established through figurative language, imagery, and the elements.
3. Emerging style through control of diction in prose/poetry.
4. Poetry: Use of form, rhythm, and meter in meaning making.
5. Prose: Control of sentence structure (inversion).

English 10 (block C)
Today we talked a bit more about satire, and took a look at a sample paragraph of satire in The Simpsons. Using your handout with the 4 elements of satire, you wrote on satire in Animal Farm.

Tomorrow, we'll have a very short quiz on chapter 7 and 8. DEJ will be due on Wednesday (*edit* this deadline has been amended. If you completed this assignment, it can be submitted as part of the complete AF DEJ).

For those of you who forgot to finish your poster or paragraph that comes with the poster, please bring it in by Tuesday.

English 12 AP
Today, we edited each other's creative writing. The creative writing coming up in this class is fantastic.

Homework
Finish the final copy of your short story by Thursday. I need to see good use of figurative language and manipulation of the poetic or short story elements we have discussed in class.

Complete about 200 words by Wednesday on yourself in the third person. This is an introduction for your section of the book. Include a lovely picture of yourself. Send it to Meghan.
Email: apbooksubmission@gmail.com

A technical issue didn't update EN12AP class work or SPECTRUM 9 items. It has been fixed.

English 10 (Block A)
Today we took a close look at irony and satire. We viewed an episode of The Simpsons and came to understand that satire can speak to multiple elements in a single work. For example, in The Simpsons, satire can speak to politics, gullibility, and 'The American Dream' all at once.

Homework
Finish your propaganda poster. Colour it in! Also read chapter 7 and 8 so we can discuss it on Monday.

English 12AP


Homework
Complete the short story or poem you began writing based on "The Ones Who Walk Away From Omelas".

English 9 SPECTRUM
Today we finished Romeo and Juliet! We selected our scenes from the play and began planning our filming of the scenes. You will get a more detailed outline for this assignment on Tuesday now that we have discussed the elements you feel should be a part of this assignment.

Homework
Start your scene!

English 10 (A Block)
Today we went over our short narratives and shared them with our tables. We then began our first propaganda poster to be handed in for Monday.

Homework
Complete your propaganda poster for Monday.

English 12AP
Today we blasted through several elements of fiction, and took a look at some of the big questions we should ask when we take a look at literature. Hold on to the literary samples we examined today, as these would serve as a basis for the elements.

English 10 (A block)
Today we completed a quiz for chapter 5 and 6. We took a close look at the seven commandments, and made a few of our own! Based on these commandments, we did some creative writing - a day in the life at SLSS with some new commandments.

Our Commandments - keep in mind, these are not the rules of our classroom, only fictional rules for our activity:

1. Students can come to school whenever.
2. No students shall do drugs.
3. All students can eat in class.
4. No students shall do homework.
5. All students shall sleep in class.
6. All students shall have care and respect.
7. No students shall cheat on tests or exams.

Homework
Complete your narrative if you haven't completed it yet. We'll be using these during tomorrow's class.

English 12AP
Today we read the La Guin's "The Ones Who Walk Away From Omelas". This will help to launch us into some creative writing. After reading and discussing the short story, we used it as a prompt for a creative writing piece. This may be in the form of a poem or a short story. Due Monday.

LINK: The Ones Who Walk Away From Omelas

Homework
Work on your creative response to "The Ones Who Walk Away From Omelas"

English 9 SPECTRUM
We read up to Act V scene ii of Romeo & Juliet. We also formed our groups for our scenes to film. You'll have two weekends for this - and we should be able to start your videos on March 7.

Homework
At this point, you should be able to work with your group to get started on your short film!

English 12AP
Today we took a look at synthesis writing in poetry. The key here is to use the poems to "inform" or "read" the the other. We were about to start sharing some thesis statements, then the bell rang! We'll return to these thesis statements tomorrow, and take one final look at Gatsby before moving on to short stories.

We will be writing a synthesis essay early next week.

English 10 (Block A)
Today we finished discussing the Stanford Prison Experiment, and moved on to several components that make up Russian Communism.

Homework
Prepare for the quiz tomorrow on chapter 5 and 6.

English 10 (Block A)
Today we learned about the Russian Revolution and started viewing the Stanford Prison Experiment. We are approaching some of the big (and uncomfortable) questions about the effects of power. Remember, the prison guards were protesting the very things they did only weeks before!

Homework
Read chapter 5 and 6. Complete a double entry journal. Due on Tuesday.

English 12AP
An early update for tomorrow's discussion. Here is a link to some sample essays for the topic you responded to on Friday. There are marker comments on the last page including the grade that each essay received. You will be getting a hard copy of the 6 essay (that's the 2nd one in the package). Many of you so far have scored in this range. (+/- 2).

The Black Walnut Tree (QUESTION 1)

Essays not are all marked yet. Work in progress!

English 12AP
Information for exam registration is just coming down the line. Though the exam isn't until early May, registration and fees are due soon. Here are the key points:

1. $126 (CDN) registration fee. I had stated earlier that it was $92. As it turns out this is the fee in the USDT. I suppose that's the currency franca in the world of AP.
2. The cheques should be made out to Steveston-London Secondary. 
3. In the memo/note section of the cheque, indicate the student number, name, and write "AP English Literature and Composition". This way the school can keep track of which exams you have paid for.
4. Pay prior to March 4. 

English 10

Today we did a short quiz on chapter 3 and 4, and we also began work on propaganda techniques. No homework this weekend!

English 10 (A)
Today we crated a list of characteristics of ranking animals. In the coming chapters, we will ask the question, "How are the animals measured for their value?" This is all in the context of "animalism" in Animal Farm.

The criteria we came up with as a class was: intelligence, teachable, and utility.

Students in Ms. Lee's block C English 10 class, please use the following blog for homework and updates: CLICK THIS LINK.

Homework
Read chapter 3 and 4 for homework. There will be a quiz (for real) tomorrow.

English 12 AP
Today we read our initial response pieces to "Snow". There are some very skilled writers in our class! After that, we began discussing The Great Gatsby. Tomorrow we'll be breaking from this and will do some essay writing.

English 9 SPECTRUM
After one or two more classes, we'll be at the end of our reading of Romeo and Juliet. Soon we'll be beginning our big projects!

Homework
Finish your last letter. You are Tybalt, either writing a furious letter to Romeo over Montague conflict, or to Juliet.

Ok, here's a late update!

English 10 (A)
Today we did a little review for chapter 1 and 2, disguised as a quiz. Hurray! We also made book covers that should reveal a scene from chapter 1 or 2 of Animal Farm.

Homework
Complete your double entry journal for Chapter 1 and 2. Use quotes from each chapter. If you didn't have time in class to complete your book cover, complete that also for homework.

English 12AP
We are beginning to ease into our short story unit. There are more poems coming. Today we read "Snow" and began our initial response to it. This could be in the form of a creative writing piece, or a more persuasive or analytical piece. The whole point is to form an initial impression. There's no need to type it.

Another note - we have the go ahead to use the old Barron's books as much as we like. They are yours to use as you see fit. For those of you who want a newer edition, or a different study guide entirely, I can order them for you if you bring in the cash (tax included) for the book.

These are the three most popular AP Literature Study Guides:

Barron's AP English Literature and Composition 6th edition.

Cracking the AP English Literature & Composition Exam, 2016 Edition

5 Steps to a 5 AP English Literature 2016

I would highly recommend beginning some extra test preparation at this point. Sit down with some friends and hammer out a practice test in the Barron's book.

Homework
Finish your initial response. No need for editing or spell-check.
FINISH THE GREAT GATSBY

English 10
Today we completed our paragraphs for the short story unit, and began Animal Farm.

Homework
Read up to the end of chapter 2. Double entry journals for chapter 1 and 2 will be due on Wednesday (not tomorrow!)

English 12AP
Today, we handed in our double-entry journals for the first part of The Great Gatsby. We also read "Delight in Disorder"!

Homework
Complete your notes on "My Father's Song". Be sure you answer the topic!

English 9 SPECTRUM
We read up to Act 2 scene 5 for Romeo and Juliet today. New seating plan is incoming!

Homework
Finish your 3rd letter. You are the Nurse, and you are writing a letter to Juliet, giving her a last piece of advice as she departs to get married. What will you write?

A quick update for English 12AP students: Barron's AP English Literature and Composition, 6th Edition exam prep guide is now in print. I have one on order if you want to see it before you buy it.

English 10
Today we took a look at the plot profile, also known as Freytag's Pyramid. Some of you have seen this before - we use it to map out the plot of the texts we read. After, we completed our first in-class writing assignment.

Don't worry - this is only the beginning of compare and contrast writing!

For those of you worried about the time allotted in class to complete the paragraph, you will have time on Monday to finish and edit it before I mark it.

Homework
ENJOY YOUR WEEKEND.

English 12AP
Today we did a portion of the multiple choice for English 12 AP. We also decided as a class to take on a major project - a book. That is, an anthology of works from our class. This will be a major undertaking, but there is clearly some eagerness among students to publish their work.

Homework
Complete a double entry journal for The Great Gatsby. This would be a passage that you select which should have enough literary merit to analyze.

English 9 SPECTRUM
Today we finished  Act II, scene iii. On Monday we will be finishing Act II and begin working on one of our assignments for Romeo and Juliet. Please bring both letters you have written to this point.

English 10
Today we went over the main ideas that show similarities and differences between "The Cask of Amontillado" and "The Tell-Tale Heart". After, we took a look at a synthesis paragraph that we will be using for your first in-class writing sample on Friday.

Several of you were away today for the field trip. Check below for the paragraph that we used as a sample:

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What effect does the unreliable narrator have on the mood?

        The unreliable narrator is a first person’s point of view that acts to create confusion or blur the lines between what is fantasy and reality within the context of a story. This form of diversion can be noted in both of Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Tell-Tale Heart” and “The Cask of Amontillado,” as both works are told through the narration of an unreliable narrator. Poe uses this to his advantage in order to heighten the mood surrounding the two stories, both of which mainly focuses on suspense and horror; for instance, the narrator in “The Tell-Tale Heart” almost outwardly reveals that he is an unreliable narrator when he implies that he has been accused of being a mad man by others in society. Because the reader cannot distinguish whether or not the narrator is telling the truth or plainly speaking from a lunatic’s perspective, the reader is left to wonder which part of his narration can be considered true and which cannot. Likewise, in “The Cask of Amontillado,” Poe utilizes the unreliable narrator in order to increase the tension of the suspense involved in the story; Montresor is seemingly a genuine, affable character on the surface, yet deep down below, he is filled with dense darkness and most likely some form of insanity, as he walls up an individual who is still alive and takes pleasure in this feat. However, despite the unreliable narrators’ insanity in both stories and the initial unreliability of their nature, the absolute consistency and persuasive voice have quite a powerful influence on the reader, thus creating that obscurity between what is real and what is not, which in turn works to intensify tension in the stories for the reader.

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Tomorrow you will be getting a similar topic. The goal here is to begin synthesizing ideas and connections between texts. Some of you have done text to text, text to self, or text to world connections. This is the next step, where we draw conclusions about a literary element - in the case of this example, mood.

Homework

Read the short story on page 29, "The Red-Headed League" by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. It's a lengthy story, but please have it read before tomorrow, as we'll begin discussing plot.

English 12AP

Today we went over "To an Athlete Dying Young" by Housman.

We discussed the purpose of a bell curve and how it is implemented on the AP exam. Here's a great site to help you calculate a passing mark for University credit: APPASS.COM

Tomorrow is Friday, which means there's a very good chance we'll be doing some writing.

Homework
Finish your analysis of the poem, "Bright Star, would I were steadfast as thou art-" and be ready to discuss it tomorrow!

English 12AP
Today we did some close reading of poetry and began The Great Gatsby.

This is the link for your list of POETIC DEVICES.

Homework
Read The Great Gatsby by Wednesday next week.

English 10
Today we viewed the two short stories, "The Tell-Tale Heart" and "The Cask of Amontillado." We then designed Venn Diagrams for the two stories.

English 9 SPECTRUM
Today, we finished up Romeo and Juliet Act 1. We started our second letter.

Homework 
Finish your letter!
Topic: As Benvolio (Montague) or Mercutio (neutral, but friend of Romeo), write a letter commenting on his behavior during Act 1 scene 5. Did he make the right decision to follow his heart? Should he have spoken to Rosalind?

English 10
Today, we read The Tell-Tale Heart, and discussed some of the similar motifs and themes across texts.

Click here for the short story.

Homework
Do number 1 and 4 for homework.

1. Why does the narrator lead the policeman to the old man's room? Why does he say the police "knew" that the body was hidden there? Do you agree with his perception? Comment.

4. What are some of the conflicts in the story? What effect does telling the story from the narrator's point of view have on the development of conflict?

English 12AP
We reviewed our essays from Friday and got two scores for our work. This is only the first essay this semester. It's not for marks. Paragraphs will be returned tomorrow. We'll be starting some novels later this week, and will begin diving into more independent work. Be sure to have your double entry journal guide with you for each class.

English 10
Today we read "The Cask of Amontillado"!

Homework
Create a Double Entry Journal for "The Cask of Amontillado"

English 12AP
Here's the last literary terms list you will ever need.

THE GREATEST LIST OF LITERARY TERMS EVER TO EXIST ON THE PLANET UNDER THE SUN.

English 10
Today we finished up our characterization piece on "The Heyday of the Blood". We discovered the distinction between indirect and direct characterization. Many of you brought some excellent ideas to the table. Nicely done!

We're taking a look at theme. This is a big message that the story conveys. We'll explore more on determining theme tomorrow.

Homework
Read "A Visit to Grandmother". Do #2 in the book. There are some bullets under #2 which will help guide you towards a complete answer.

English 12AP
We collaborated and organized our notes so that we can write a lovely paragraph that takes a position based on the above question (see February 3). We read more poems in class, namely, "Introduction to Poetry" and "Shawl". We drew connections between these poems and the role of the audience/reader.

Homework
Type your response. Take a position and argue it.

Get to the thesis statement in the first sentence or two, and jump right to proving it. 500 words max.

English 9 SPECTRUM
Today we got our essays back. Remember: this is only the first major assignment under the "in-class writing" category. More will come, and there will be plenty of opportunities to develop your writing.

We also began Romeo and Juliet!

English 10
Today we did an icebreaker activity and went over the DEJ expectations. Also, we handed out our short story books and began our first short story!

Homework
Complete your first DEJ (follow the handout). Focus on gathering quotes that reveal characterization in the short story, "Heyday of the Blood" (p. 62).

English 12AP
Today we did the icebreaker activity and explored our first poetic analysis.

Homework
Complete the notes on your response to the poems. Here is an image of the slide with the assignment:

Monday February 1, 2016

Welcome to semester 2!

English 10
Today started our mandala passports. Each circle of the mandala is numbered. Follow these guidelines:

1. Name
2. What you've always wanted (2 - 4 things)
3. What you'd never want (4 - 6 things)
4. What defines you (top) and what defies you (bottom). (4 - 6 things)

See you all tomorrow!

English 12AP
Today, we greeted each other and created our mandalas for classroom citizenship. We read the poem, "My Papa's Waltz," and will be moving on to a close reading sample tomorrow.