Last Day
That's a wrap folks. Thank you for a great end to the year. It was a pleasure being your teacher. Should you need anything, you can reach me at [email protected]
Have a fantastic break!
That's a wrap folks. Thank you for a great end to the year. It was a pleasure being your teacher. Should you need anything, you can reach me at [email protected]
Have a fantastic break!
5/6 June 2017
Well folks, exams begin tomorrow. The grade book is all up to date. Please feel free to email me or talk to me in school about exam questions!
Well folks, exams begin tomorrow. The grade book is all up to date. Please feel free to email me or talk to me in school about exam questions!
2 June 2017
Today we started preparing for the final exam. First, we began by writing our own thoughts about requiring students to study Shakespeare in our discussion sheet. After, we read two opposing articles written by English teachers. After reading each article, we highlighted and wrote down the main points of the author's argument. For the last 25 minutes, we broke into a Socratic seminar and discussed the issue as a class. We took notes in our discussion sheet.
I will be checking reading ladders Sunday morning at 9am!
HW: Reading Ladder, Choice Reading (Look for Books)
Today we started preparing for the final exam. First, we began by writing our own thoughts about requiring students to study Shakespeare in our discussion sheet. After, we read two opposing articles written by English teachers. After reading each article, we highlighted and wrote down the main points of the author's argument. For the last 25 minutes, we broke into a Socratic seminar and discussed the issue as a class. We took notes in our discussion sheet.
I will be checking reading ladders Sunday morning at 9am!
HW: Reading Ladder, Choice Reading (Look for Books)
1 June 2017
Today was the third day to finish up our reading ladders for the semester. The reading ladders are due Friday night, but we will not have class time to work on them tomorrow. Keep looking for choice reading books hanging around your house or locker. We start preparing for the final exam tomorrow.
HW: Reading Ladder (Friday)
Today was the third day to finish up our reading ladders for the semester. The reading ladders are due Friday night, but we will not have class time to work on them tomorrow. Keep looking for choice reading books hanging around your house or locker. We start preparing for the final exam tomorrow.
HW: Reading Ladder (Friday)
30 May 2017
Welcome back! We finished the last Passion Project presentations today. After that, I gave an overview of this week. Then, we went down to the Fishbowl to start our Reading Ladders for the second semester. We will work on these tomorrow and Thursday in class. The Reading Ladder is due Friday night, but you will not have class time to complete it on Friday. Between these two days and today, you should have more than enough time to complete your Reading Ladder. Keep an eye out for choice reading books laying around that need to be turned in.
HW: Choice Reading, Reading Ladder
Welcome back! We finished the last Passion Project presentations today. After that, I gave an overview of this week. Then, we went down to the Fishbowl to start our Reading Ladders for the second semester. We will work on these tomorrow and Thursday in class. The Reading Ladder is due Friday night, but you will not have class time to complete it on Friday. Between these two days and today, you should have more than enough time to complete your Reading Ladder. Keep an eye out for choice reading books laying around that need to be turned in.
HW: Choice Reading, Reading Ladder
25/26 May 2017
Continued with presentations. Next week we will finish any extra presentations! We will also begin reading ladders for the second semester.
Continued with presentations. Next week we will finish any extra presentations! We will also begin reading ladders for the second semester.
24 May 2017
Day 1 of Presentations! Those who were not ready to go must be ready to go tomorrow. If you are not ready to present tomorrow, you will lose points on your presentation.
Day 1 of Presentations! Those who were not ready to go must be ready to go tomorrow. If you are not ready to present tomorrow, you will lose points on your presentation.
23 May 2017
Today was the last day to work on your visual. We start presentations tomorrow!
Today was the last day to work on your visual. We start presentations tomorrow!
22 May 2017
Today you had the entire hour to work on your visual presentation. You will also have tomorrow. Be wise with your time. Your visual is due by class on Wednesday. We will have presentations Wednesday-Friday.
HW: Visual, Choice Read
Today you had the entire hour to work on your visual presentation. You will also have tomorrow. Be wise with your time. Your visual is due by class on Wednesday. We will have presentations Wednesday-Friday.
HW: Visual, Choice Read
19 May 2017
Today we started with some choice reading. Then I introduced the visual component of the Passion Project. I went through the expectations and gave you some ideas to get started. I demonstrated using Piktochart, and many of you decide to use it. We will have Monday and Tuesday to complete the visuals. We will present Wednesday-Friday.
HW: Work on Visual, Choice Read
See Google Classroom for all the resources related to the visual.
Today we started with some choice reading. Then I introduced the visual component of the Passion Project. I went through the expectations and gave you some ideas to get started. I demonstrated using Piktochart, and many of you decide to use it. We will have Monday and Tuesday to complete the visuals. We will present Wednesday-Friday.
HW: Work on Visual, Choice Read
See Google Classroom for all the resources related to the visual.
18 May 2017
PEER-EDITING DAY! Today you were supposed to come in with a completed rough draft of the annotated bibliography. A completed rough draft was worth 40 points. We spent the rest of the hour using the Peer-Editing Checklist to go through our rough drafts with a partner or solo. The checklist contains all the necessary elements you need to have to do well on this assignment. The final draft (edited rough draft) is due tonight. If you were not here because of the field trip, you are expected to use the checklist to proofread your essay and revise it. I hope you had a great time. Tomorrow I will introduce the visual/presentation piece of the project.
HW: Annotated Bibliography
Checklist
PEER-EDITING DAY! Today you were supposed to come in with a completed rough draft of the annotated bibliography. A completed rough draft was worth 40 points. We spent the rest of the hour using the Peer-Editing Checklist to go through our rough drafts with a partner or solo. The checklist contains all the necessary elements you need to have to do well on this assignment. The final draft (edited rough draft) is due tonight. If you were not here because of the field trip, you are expected to use the checklist to proofread your essay and revise it. I hope you had a great time. Tomorrow I will introduce the visual/presentation piece of the project.
HW: Annotated Bibliography
Checklist
17 May 2017
I was out yesterday, but you were expected to continue working on your annotated bibliographies in the air-conditioned fishbowl. Today was our last in class work day to complete our rough drafts. You rough drafts, three sources fully completed, are due tomorrow at the beginning of class when you walk in. Most of you need to put in some work tonight to be prepared for tomorrow. All resources are on Google Classroom.
HW: Annotated Bibliography, Choice Reading
I was out yesterday, but you were expected to continue working on your annotated bibliographies in the air-conditioned fishbowl. Today was our last in class work day to complete our rough drafts. You rough drafts, three sources fully completed, are due tomorrow at the beginning of class when you walk in. Most of you need to put in some work tonight to be prepared for tomorrow. All resources are on Google Classroom.
HW: Annotated Bibliography, Choice Reading
15 May 2017
Today we immediately started into writing our annotated bibliographies in the Fishbowl. Today you were expected to finish entry one. If you are behind this point, be sure to catch up. You need a fully written rough draft when you walk in on Thursday. That means THREE SOURCES! All resources and slides can be found on Google Classroom.
HW: Annotated Bibliography
Today we immediately started into writing our annotated bibliographies in the Fishbowl. Today you were expected to finish entry one. If you are behind this point, be sure to catch up. You need a fully written rough draft when you walk in on Thursday. That means THREE SOURCES! All resources and slides can be found on Google Classroom.
HW: Annotated Bibliography
12 May 2017
Started with some choice reading. We began our annotated bibliography portion of the unit today. The goal for today was to have your top 3 sources cited and moved into the template. I will be checking organizers and thesis statements this weekend. We will be writing our bibliographies next week Monday-Thursday. If you did not meet today's goal, catch up this weekend.
HW: Annotated Bib Set Up
Slides
Started with some choice reading. We began our annotated bibliography portion of the unit today. The goal for today was to have your top 3 sources cited and moved into the template. I will be checking organizers and thesis statements this weekend. We will be writing our bibliographies next week Monday-Thursday. If you did not meet today's goal, catch up this weekend.
HW: Annotated Bib Set Up
Slides
11 May 2017
Today we had shortened hours due to the assembly. This was our last day to finish research in class. If you have not completed your research, make sure you work on it tonight so you are ready for tomorrow. You should have 6 sources. Tomorrow we begin the writing portion of this unit!
HW: Source Gathering, CRJs, Choice Reading
Slides posted to Google Classroom
Today we had shortened hours due to the assembly. This was our last day to finish research in class. If you have not completed your research, make sure you work on it tonight so you are ready for tomorrow. You should have 6 sources. Tomorrow we begin the writing portion of this unit!
HW: Source Gathering, CRJs, Choice Reading
Slides posted to Google Classroom
10 May 2017
Today we got right to work with research. Our initial research needs to be completed by the end of the hour tomorrow. We're writing thesis statements tomorrow based off of our research. The target for today was to have 4 sources completed in your organizer. If you are not at this point, make sure you do some research tonight to stay on track. All of the resources you need are on Google Classroom.
HW: Source Gathering, Choice Reading
Slides
Today we got right to work with research. Our initial research needs to be completed by the end of the hour tomorrow. We're writing thesis statements tomorrow based off of our research. The target for today was to have 4 sources completed in your organizer. If you are not at this point, make sure you do some research tonight to stay on track. All of the resources you need are on Google Classroom.
HW: Source Gathering, Choice Reading
Slides
9 May 2017
We started by learning about searching techniques and about the database we will use to find our scholarly article (General Reference Center Gold). We spent the rest of the hour gathering sources. We need to have 6-8 different sources completed by Friday. We will work on thesis statements over the next couple days. You should be at 2-4 sources today. If you aren't, take some time tonight to catch up.
HW: Source Gathering, Choice Reading
Slides
We started by learning about searching techniques and about the database we will use to find our scholarly article (General Reference Center Gold). We spent the rest of the hour gathering sources. We need to have 6-8 different sources completed by Friday. We will work on thesis statements over the next couple days. You should be at 2-4 sources today. If you aren't, take some time tonight to catch up.
HW: Source Gathering, Choice Reading
Slides
8 May 2017
Today, we started with choice reading, and then I booktalked The Martian Chronicles by Ray Bradbury. I passed back driving question and met with those that needed some redirecting. We enrolled ourselves into Google Classroom and started our Source Gathering Organizer. We should have completed 1/2 sources today. We will use Google Classroom throughout the unit to keep our resources organized.
HW: CRJs(9A), Source Gathering, Choice Reading
Slides w/ Google Classroom Codes
Today, we started with choice reading, and then I booktalked The Martian Chronicles by Ray Bradbury. I passed back driving question and met with those that needed some redirecting. We enrolled ourselves into Google Classroom and started our Source Gathering Organizer. We should have completed 1/2 sources today. We will use Google Classroom throughout the unit to keep our resources organized.
HW: CRJs(9A), Source Gathering, Choice Reading
Slides w/ Google Classroom Codes
3/4 May 2017
We have started our final unit of the year: the Passion Project! Yesterday, we brainstormed topics for our projects after choice reading. I handed out the unit overview and introduced the schedule. Today, we started with choice reading.. The main focus of today was developing our DRIVING QUESTION. The Driving Question is the heart of our research and is due by the end of the hour tomorrow.
HW: Think about your Driving Question, Choice Reading
Slides
We have started our final unit of the year: the Passion Project! Yesterday, we brainstormed topics for our projects after choice reading. I handed out the unit overview and introduced the schedule. Today, we started with choice reading.. The main focus of today was developing our DRIVING QUESTION. The Driving Question is the heart of our research and is due by the end of the hour tomorrow.
HW: Think about your Driving Question, Choice Reading
Slides
2 May 2017
Today we finished the SAT writing unit. You all worked very hard and I'm proud of you. Tomorrow, we will start the passion project unit.
Today we finished the SAT writing unit. You all worked very hard and I'm proud of you. Tomorrow, we will start the passion project unit.
1 May 2017
This was day one of the final assessment for the SAT writing unit. In class, we read and annotated the article "The Digital Parent Trap." We had the hour to plan out our essays. Tomorrow we write the final essay in class. You can use your outline, annotated article, and any other resource you want while writing the essay. The outline is included in your final grade for the essay.
HW: Finish Planning Your Essay, Vocab Sheet Pushed to Monday
Link to Organizer with Extra Help
[email protected] if you need any help. I will also be available in the morning before school.
This was day one of the final assessment for the SAT writing unit. In class, we read and annotated the article "The Digital Parent Trap." We had the hour to plan out our essays. Tomorrow we write the final essay in class. You can use your outline, annotated article, and any other resource you want while writing the essay. The outline is included in your final grade for the essay.
HW: Finish Planning Your Essay, Vocab Sheet Pushed to Monday
Link to Organizer with Extra Help
[email protected] if you need any help. I will also be available in the morning before school.
28 April 2017
Today we looked at our pre-tests for the SAT unit. We also looked at introductions and body paragraphs. We read the article that we will be writing about for the final assessment. I also booktalked Under the Banner of Heaven by Jon Krakauer.
Today we looked at our pre-tests for the SAT unit. We also looked at introductions and body paragraphs. We read the article that we will be writing about for the final assessment. I also booktalked Under the Banner of Heaven by Jon Krakauer.
27 April 2017
We started today with choice reading. I did a booktalk on The Burn Journals by Brent Runyon. The main lesson today was focused around crafting an SAT style introduction and thesis statement. We gathered our information from a TED Talk from Gary Kovacs.
HW: VOCAB SHEET (TOMORROW), Choice Reading
SAT Introduction Assignment
We started today with choice reading. I did a booktalk on The Burn Journals by Brent Runyon. The main lesson today was focused around crafting an SAT style introduction and thesis statement. We gathered our information from a TED Talk from Gary Kovacs.
HW: VOCAB SHEET (TOMORROW), Choice Reading
SAT Introduction Assignment
26 April 2017
Today we started with choice reading. I booktalked The Rose that Grew from Concrete by Tupac Shakur. We familiarized ourselves with how the SAT essay is graded. We then looked at three example SAT essays and graded them. Tomorrow we begin our end of the unit assessment. Tomorrow, we will look at SAT essay introductions
HW: Vocab Sheet, Choice Reading
Slides
Today we started with choice reading. I booktalked The Rose that Grew from Concrete by Tupac Shakur. We familiarized ourselves with how the SAT essay is graded. We then looked at three example SAT essays and graded them. Tomorrow we begin our end of the unit assessment. Tomorrow, we will look at SAT essay introductions
HW: Vocab Sheet, Choice Reading
Slides
25 April 2017
Today we started with a long period of choice reading. Then I booktalked The Tempest by William Shakespeare. We then wrote about how we would spend our gap years. After that, we looked at the similarities between the SAT essay and the essay you wrote for Romeo and Juliet. We then looked at the difference between a weak body paragraph and a strong body paragraph. We ended by trying to revise a weak paragraph into a stronger one.
HW: Choice Reading, Vocab Sheet (Friday)
Slides
Today we started with a long period of choice reading. Then I booktalked The Tempest by William Shakespeare. We then wrote about how we would spend our gap years. After that, we looked at the similarities between the SAT essay and the essay you wrote for Romeo and Juliet. We then looked at the difference between a weak body paragraph and a strong body paragraph. We ended by trying to revise a weak paragraph into a stronger one.
HW: Choice Reading, Vocab Sheet (Friday)
Slides
24 April 2017
Today we started with some choice reading. I did a booktalk on Yummy: The Last Days of a Southside Shorty. Then we received a new vocab list that is due Friday. The button for the Quizlet is above. We tried drafting rhetorical thesis statements.
HW: Vocab Sheet (Due Friday), Choice Reading
Today's Slides
Today we started with some choice reading. I did a booktalk on Yummy: The Last Days of a Southside Shorty. Then we received a new vocab list that is due Friday. The button for the Quizlet is above. We tried drafting rhetorical thesis statements.
HW: Vocab Sheet (Due Friday), Choice Reading
Today's Slides
21 April 2017
We had some student led booktalks today. Then we choice read for about ten minutes. We read a new article called The Case for the Gap Year. We read and annotated the article together to find examples of the six strategies we learned about yesterday. After highlighting and annotating the articles, we started a descriptive outline for the article. We are learning to go from just summarizing evidence, to proving why it matters.
HW for the Weekend: Finish descriptive outline if you didn't in class, and choice reading.
Link to Article
Link to Descriptive Outline
We had some student led booktalks today. Then we choice read for about ten minutes. We read a new article called The Case for the Gap Year. We read and annotated the article together to find examples of the six strategies we learned about yesterday. After highlighting and annotating the articles, we started a descriptive outline for the article. We are learning to go from just summarizing evidence, to proving why it matters.
HW for the Weekend: Finish descriptive outline if you didn't in class, and choice reading.
Link to Article
Link to Descriptive Outline
20 April 2017
Today I did a booktalk on The Things They Carried. We did 10 minutes of choice reading. Our main focus today was on learning the six major ways authors build arguments. We annotated and labeled examples of these strategies in an article called Early Bird Gets the Bad Grade. We took notes off of the slides and wrote them in the organizer. I will attach links to those files below.
HW: Choice Reading (9a: 24 CRJs)
Article
Slides
Organizer
Today I did a booktalk on The Things They Carried. We did 10 minutes of choice reading. Our main focus today was on learning the six major ways authors build arguments. We annotated and labeled examples of these strategies in an article called Early Bird Gets the Bad Grade. We took notes off of the slides and wrote them in the organizer. I will attach links to those files below.
HW: Choice Reading (9a: 24 CRJs)
Article
Slides
Organizer
19 April 2017
Today we took the English 9 Content Vocabulary Quiz. Then, I booktalked 127 Hours: Between a Rock and a Hard Place. After the quiz, we went back to the documentary we watched yesterday and discussed our findings of S.O.A.P.S and ethos, pathos, and logos. Then we turned our findings into a rockin' thesis statement that could kick off a rhetorical analysis paper.
HW: Choice Reading
Today we took the English 9 Content Vocabulary Quiz. Then, I booktalked 127 Hours: Between a Rock and a Hard Place. After the quiz, we went back to the documentary we watched yesterday and discussed our findings of S.O.A.P.S and ethos, pathos, and logos. Then we turned our findings into a rockin' thesis statement that could kick off a rhetorical analysis paper.
HW: Choice Reading
18 April 2017
Started off today with a book talk. Then, we reviewed the vocab for tomorrow's quiz. We continued our lesson on ethos, pathos, and logos. We watched a documentary on an oil pipeline in Michigan and we will discuss our findings tomorrow after the vocab quiz.
Started off today with a book talk. Then, we reviewed the vocab for tomorrow's quiz. We continued our lesson on ethos, pathos, and logos. We watched a documentary on an oil pipeline in Michigan and we will discuss our findings tomorrow after the vocab quiz.
17 April 2017
Today we started a new unit on SAT writing. We reviewed the three rhetorical appeals of ethos, pathos, and logos. We reviewed different advertisements for these appeals. Remember that we have a vocab quiz on Wednesday and the review sheet is due tomorrow. The quiz is on Wednesday!
HW: Vocab Study Sheet, Choice Reading,
Link to Today's Prezi
Today we started a new unit on SAT writing. We reviewed the three rhetorical appeals of ethos, pathos, and logos. We reviewed different advertisements for these appeals. Remember that we have a vocab quiz on Wednesday and the review sheet is due tomorrow. The quiz is on Wednesday!
HW: Vocab Study Sheet, Choice Reading,
Link to Today's Prezi
14 April 2017
COFFEEHOUSE FRIDAY. Thank you everyone for diving deep into a discussion about the "single story" today. If you were not here and need to get credit for your quick write, just come see me on Monday with it. This weekend you should catch up on your reading (with all this testing and schedule changing, we didn't get that much time to read in class), work on CRJs (if you're in 9a), and complete the English 9 Content Vocabulary list that is due Tuesday. VOCAB TEST OVER THOSE WORDS ON WEDNESDAY!
Link to the vocab study guide
COFFEEHOUSE FRIDAY. Thank you everyone for diving deep into a discussion about the "single story" today. If you were not here and need to get credit for your quick write, just come see me on Monday with it. This weekend you should catch up on your reading (with all this testing and schedule changing, we didn't get that much time to read in class), work on CRJs (if you're in 9a), and complete the English 9 Content Vocabulary list that is due Tuesday. VOCAB TEST OVER THOSE WORDS ON WEDNESDAY!
Link to the vocab study guide
12/13 April 2017
I saw you on one of these days. Big things to remember: WE HAVE A COFFEE HOUSE DISCUSSION ON FRIDAY (TOMORROW). You need to come to class with at least a page prepared and ready to talk. If you need to see the prompts again or the TED Talk, check out this week's slides using the button above. If you were absent, make sure you watch the TED Talk and get your page written. I will be giving credit for both the writing you did and participating in the discussion. In other news, the Content Vocabulary Quiz has been moved to next week Wednesday. I will pass out a study guide tomorrow that will be due next week. I want you all to ace this!
TED Talk: www.ted.com/talks/chimamanda_adichie_the_danger_of_a_single_story?language=en#t-1103508
I saw you on one of these days. Big things to remember: WE HAVE A COFFEE HOUSE DISCUSSION ON FRIDAY (TOMORROW). You need to come to class with at least a page prepared and ready to talk. If you need to see the prompts again or the TED Talk, check out this week's slides using the button above. If you were absent, make sure you watch the TED Talk and get your page written. I will be giving credit for both the writing you did and participating in the discussion. In other news, the Content Vocabulary Quiz has been moved to next week Wednesday. I will pass out a study guide tomorrow that will be due next week. I want you all to ace this!
TED Talk: www.ted.com/talks/chimamanda_adichie_the_danger_of_a_single_story?language=en#t-1103508
11 April 2017
Today I saw you for a shortened hour. We used it to review for the vocab quiz coming up on Friday and did some choice reading. We also had a discussion about standardized testing. Make sure to study up for the quiz!
Today I saw you for a shortened hour. We used it to review for the vocab quiz coming up on Friday and did some choice reading. We also had a discussion about standardized testing. Make sure to study up for the quiz!
10 April 2017
Happy first day back from break. Today in class we got to know each other. This week will be a bit awkward due to testing. I will see some of you three times and some of you four times. The big focus this week should be mastering the English 9 Content Vocabulary words. We will be having a quiz over them on Friday or next week sometime. It will count as an assessment grade, so make sure you're prepared.
Happy first day back from break. Today in class we got to know each other. This week will be a bit awkward due to testing. I will see some of you three times and some of you four times. The big focus this week should be mastering the English 9 Content Vocabulary words. We will be having a quiz over them on Friday or next week sometime. It will count as an assessment grade, so make sure you're prepared.
2 April 2017
Hey! This is Mr. Meston. I hope you are having a great Spring break. Be sure to keep up with your choice reading and CRJs! I look forward to meeting you all, like really really meeting you all, next week. Have a great break and if you need to reach me, here's my email: [email protected]
I'm binge watching the Netflix version of Thirteen Reasons Why.
23 and 24 March 2017
Today in class we had some choice reading and student book talks. Then I explained the Sociogram assignment and answered questions. The goal for this assignment is to demonstrate the relationships between all the characters in Romeo and Juliet WITHOUT using words, but rather with symbols. The sheet tells you all the characters who should appear on your sociogram (you're welcome to add more, if you want), but remember that the relationship between the characters is key to the work. Create this on an 8x11 piece of paper--NOT a posterboard!
This is due Monday
You had time in class on Thursday and Friday to work on these while you watched the end of Romeo and Juliet.
Click HERE to see some more examples.
Today in class we had some choice reading and student book talks. Then I explained the Sociogram assignment and answered questions. The goal for this assignment is to demonstrate the relationships between all the characters in Romeo and Juliet WITHOUT using words, but rather with symbols. The sheet tells you all the characters who should appear on your sociogram (you're welcome to add more, if you want), but remember that the relationship between the characters is key to the work. Create this on an 8x11 piece of paper--NOT a posterboard!
This is due Monday
You had time in class on Thursday and Friday to work on these while you watched the end of Romeo and Juliet.
Click HERE to see some more examples.
20 and 21 March 2017
Today in class we had choice reading and conferring times. After that, we kept reading Act 5, Scenes 1 and 2 of Romeo and Juliet and then updated our foldable. Then we did a quick write answering the question, "Who is the blame for the circumstances thus far in the pay and why?" Students had lots of different ideas!
On Wednesday, we finished reading Romeo and Juliet--Paris is killed by Romeo (sad face) and Romeo and Juliet are both dead in the tomb. After that is revealed, we also found out that Lady Montague has died of a broken heart. AHHH!!
Today in class we had choice reading and conferring times. After that, we kept reading Act 5, Scenes 1 and 2 of Romeo and Juliet and then updated our foldable. Then we did a quick write answering the question, "Who is the blame for the circumstances thus far in the pay and why?" Students had lots of different ideas!
On Wednesday, we finished reading Romeo and Juliet--Paris is killed by Romeo (sad face) and Romeo and Juliet are both dead in the tomb. After that is revealed, we also found out that Lady Montague has died of a broken heart. AHHH!!
6 and 7 March--Monday and Tuesday
Monday in class we started with some book talks and then read Act II, Scene II of Romeo and Juliet--the balcony scene. We also added some notes to the foldable and discussed Juliet's statement about casting off her family name in order to be with Romeo.
Homework: Answer 3 questions, 3-5 sentences per question--1) Who is the most likable character and why? 2) Who is a character who is confusing and why? 3) Do you think Romeo and Juliet should obey their parents or their hearts? Why?
Tuesday--Started with Student Book talks and then discussed the homework as partners and then in a whole class. Next, we reviewed briefly the RJ balcony scene or finished it as is the case with some classes. After that, we watched 5 different versions of the balcony scene from 1936-2010 and took notes on the document below. If you were absent, you SHOULD WATCH the video below!
Monday in class we started with some book talks and then read Act II, Scene II of Romeo and Juliet--the balcony scene. We also added some notes to the foldable and discussed Juliet's statement about casting off her family name in order to be with Romeo.
Homework: Answer 3 questions, 3-5 sentences per question--1) Who is the most likable character and why? 2) Who is a character who is confusing and why? 3) Do you think Romeo and Juliet should obey their parents or their hearts? Why?
Tuesday--Started with Student Book talks and then discussed the homework as partners and then in a whole class. Next, we reviewed briefly the RJ balcony scene or finished it as is the case with some classes. After that, we watched 5 different versions of the balcony scene from 1936-2010 and took notes on the document below. If you were absent, you SHOULD WATCH the video below!
2 and 3 March--Thursday and Friday
On Thursday in class we started with some student book talks and then did a quick write on Love--since Romeo and Juliet apparently fall in love at first site, we did some discussing and thinking about if that is feasible. We will continue this discussion on Monday in class. Then we finished reading Act I--Romeo and Juliet have met at the party and exchanged 2 kisses. He exalts here to a god-like status--she's THAT beautiful!
Friday in class you'll take your vocab quiz, watch the meeting of R and J on the 1996 version of Romeo and Juliet (Claire Danes and Leonardo DiCaprio) and then do a quick write comparing the differences between viewing and reading this scene.
Homework--Study for your vocab quiz on Friday--for the weekend--Choice Reading.
On Thursday in class we started with some student book talks and then did a quick write on Love--since Romeo and Juliet apparently fall in love at first site, we did some discussing and thinking about if that is feasible. We will continue this discussion on Monday in class. Then we finished reading Act I--Romeo and Juliet have met at the party and exchanged 2 kisses. He exalts here to a god-like status--she's THAT beautiful!
Friday in class you'll take your vocab quiz, watch the meeting of R and J on the 1996 version of Romeo and Juliet (Claire Danes and Leonardo DiCaprio) and then do a quick write comparing the differences between viewing and reading this scene.
Homework--Study for your vocab quiz on Friday--for the weekend--Choice Reading.
27 February 2017--Monday
Today we choice read for a few minutes, had a student book talk, and then jumped into Romeo and Juliet--we finished reading Act I Scene I and II and added notes to the foldable. Some classes had time to do vocabulary; others did not--we will take a vocabulary quiz on Friday. If you didn't do vocab today, you'll do it tomorrow!
Homework: Choice Reading
Today we choice read for a few minutes, had a student book talk, and then jumped into Romeo and Juliet--we finished reading Act I Scene I and II and added notes to the foldable. Some classes had time to do vocabulary; others did not--we will take a vocabulary quiz on Friday. If you didn't do vocab today, you'll do it tomorrow!
Homework: Choice Reading
8 February 2017--Wednesday
Today the Diatribe visited! It was awesome! Here is some info on the Workshop they are hosting next Friday at Northview--sign ups start tomorrow morning!
Hello 9th Graders!
Did you LOVE the Diatribe today? Feeling inspired? Then you should sign up for the Workshop next Friday, February 17--Diatribe Workshop for 60 students--work with the poets, write some stuff, share, get feedback on your work--it's going to be super awesome!
This is just to remind you that if you want to get one of the 60 spots for NEXT FRIDAY'S workshop with the Diatribe poetry group, I am starting sign ups at 7:30am TOMORROW MORNING in my classroom. You can have a friend sign up for you, but you cannot email your sign up.
Hope to see many of you bright and early tomorrow morning--I think the 60 spots will fill up quite quickly, so if you're interested, please roll by in the morning.
What a fun day of poetry we just had!
See you tomorrow!
-Ms. Alt
Today the Diatribe visited! It was awesome! Here is some info on the Workshop they are hosting next Friday at Northview--sign ups start tomorrow morning!
Hello 9th Graders!
Did you LOVE the Diatribe today? Feeling inspired? Then you should sign up for the Workshop next Friday, February 17--Diatribe Workshop for 60 students--work with the poets, write some stuff, share, get feedback on your work--it's going to be super awesome!
This is just to remind you that if you want to get one of the 60 spots for NEXT FRIDAY'S workshop with the Diatribe poetry group, I am starting sign ups at 7:30am TOMORROW MORNING in my classroom. You can have a friend sign up for you, but you cannot email your sign up.
Hope to see many of you bright and early tomorrow morning--I think the 60 spots will fill up quite quickly, so if you're interested, please roll by in the morning.
What a fun day of poetry we just had!
See you tomorrow!
-Ms. Alt
31 January 2017--Tuesday
Today in class we started with reminders of rules and expectations and then organized Writer's Notebooks. If you did not have a Writer's Notebook today, you NEED ONE TOMORROW. Then we choice read for 10 minutes and then I did a book talk about True Notebooks by Mark Salzman. After that we did a quick write and then watched a 3 minute video by the Twin Poets.
Homework: Write 1 page (minimum) answering the question, “What’s on your mind?”
Today in class we started with reminders of rules and expectations and then organized Writer's Notebooks. If you did not have a Writer's Notebook today, you NEED ONE TOMORROW. Then we choice read for 10 minutes and then I did a book talk about True Notebooks by Mark Salzman. After that we did a quick write and then watched a 3 minute video by the Twin Poets.
Homework: Write 1 page (minimum) answering the question, “What’s on your mind?”
18 January 2017--Wednesday
Today we started with 3 more TKAMB presentations--we will finish these by Friday, ideally, but I want to make sure you have time to work on your Reading Ladder too. After that, I reviewed 2 examples of the Reading Ladder using the buttons above and explained the final exam packet.
Then I gave you independent, silent work time to work on either the Reading Ladders or the Final Exam Packet. The Final Exam packet is due the day you take your exam (1/27) and it must be 100% finished; you cannot take this packet home with you, so work time in class is valuable and important.
Today we started with 3 more TKAMB presentations--we will finish these by Friday, ideally, but I want to make sure you have time to work on your Reading Ladder too. After that, I reviewed 2 examples of the Reading Ladder using the buttons above and explained the final exam packet.
Then I gave you independent, silent work time to work on either the Reading Ladders or the Final Exam Packet. The Final Exam packet is due the day you take your exam (1/27) and it must be 100% finished; you cannot take this packet home with you, so work time in class is valuable and important.
16 and 17 January---Monday and Tuesday (Ice Day)
Monday and Tuesday I am gone; Ms. Host is your sub. Please be on your best behavior for her while you work on your Reading Ladders. There are extra copies on the laptop cart at the front of the room. Remember, each of the questions is a paragraph, and you want to start by making a Spreadsheet in Google Sheets. These are due by 1/25/2017 (Next Wednesday).
Monday and Tuesday I am gone; Ms. Host is your sub. Please be on your best behavior for her while you work on your Reading Ladders. There are extra copies on the laptop cart at the front of the room. Remember, each of the questions is a paragraph, and you want to start by making a Spreadsheet in Google Sheets. These are due by 1/25/2017 (Next Wednesday).
11 January 2017--Wednesday
Today in class we started with 10 minutes of Choice Reading and then a student book talk (or 2!). Then I showed students another example of a quality presentation for the TKAMB project. Then students worked with partners until the end of the hour.
Projects are due THURSDAY and must be shared with me via the class website button above. Presentations will be Thursday and Friday.
CLICK HERE IF YOU LOST YOUR ASSIGNMENT SHEET--TKAMB Final Assessment
Today in class we started with 10 minutes of Choice Reading and then a student book talk (or 2!). Then I showed students another example of a quality presentation for the TKAMB project. Then students worked with partners until the end of the hour.
Projects are due THURSDAY and must be shared with me via the class website button above. Presentations will be Thursday and Friday.
CLICK HERE IF YOU LOST YOUR ASSIGNMENT SHEET--TKAMB Final Assessment
10 January 2017--Tuesday--SNOW DAY
Woo hoo!!! Yeah!! Your project for TKAMB is due THURSDAY--I'll give you some time Wednesday to work on it in class, but you could definitely work on it for a bit today as well. Presentations will start Thursday.
Remember--this is an assessment, and, as an assessment if it is LATE, the best grade you could earn is a 50%. It's a big assignment. Don't blow it off.
Woo hoo!!! Yeah!! Your project for TKAMB is due THURSDAY--I'll give you some time Wednesday to work on it in class, but you could definitely work on it for a bit today as well. Presentations will start Thursday.
Remember--this is an assessment, and, as an assessment if it is LATE, the best grade you could earn is a 50%. It's a big assignment. Don't blow it off.
9 January 2017--Monday
Today we started with Choice Reading and a book talk. Then students had the rest of the hour to work on their projects and presentations for To Kill a Mockingbird. These are due on WEDNESDAY and presentations start WEDNESDAY.
Please make sure you turn it in by sharing the link on the button above. Do not just email it to me!
Today we started with Choice Reading and a book talk. Then students had the rest of the hour to work on their projects and presentations for To Kill a Mockingbird. These are due on WEDNESDAY and presentations start WEDNESDAY.
Please make sure you turn it in by sharing the link on the button above. Do not just email it to me!
3 January 2017--Tuesday
Today in class, students had to start with writing notes to both Ms. Alt and the subsitute teacher they had on the day before holiday break started. The sub had noted that students were extremely disrespectful to him during class, so we wrote apology letters. After that I book talked Goodbye Days by Jeff Zentner and then students finished watching the To Kill a Mockingbird film. That took us all the way to the end of the class period. The homework for tonight is the following questions, in Writer's Notebooks--due Wednesday
3-4 sentences each
1) What are your thoughts on the end of this film/book? Why?
2) Who was your favorite character and why? Least favorite? Why?
3) What are some questions you still have? What characters/actions are confusing?
4) This book is one of THE MOST FAMOUS books of all time….do you think it should be? Why or why not?
5) Is this book/story still relevant/applicable today to life in 2017? Why or why not?
Today in class, students had to start with writing notes to both Ms. Alt and the subsitute teacher they had on the day before holiday break started. The sub had noted that students were extremely disrespectful to him during class, so we wrote apology letters. After that I book talked Goodbye Days by Jeff Zentner and then students finished watching the To Kill a Mockingbird film. That took us all the way to the end of the class period. The homework for tonight is the following questions, in Writer's Notebooks--due Wednesday
3-4 sentences each
1) What are your thoughts on the end of this film/book? Why?
2) Who was your favorite character and why? Least favorite? Why?
3) What are some questions you still have? What characters/actions are confusing?
4) This book is one of THE MOST FAMOUS books of all time….do you think it should be? Why or why not?
5) Is this book/story still relevant/applicable today to life in 2017? Why or why not?
8 December 2016--Thursday
Today in class we started with Choice Reading (NOTE: it took your class 1 minute and 45 seconds to come in, get seated, open your books and be ready...that's too long). Then we had a student book talk. After that, we reviewed some detals about each of the characters and added to our character chart about Boo Radley. Then we read about 5 pages of the play and learned about Bob Ewell, who is a real mess. Homework: Work on your reading for the page kerfuffle. You're not too far behind!!
Today in class we started with Choice Reading (NOTE: it took your class 1 minute and 45 seconds to come in, get seated, open your books and be ready...that's too long). Then we had a student book talk. After that, we reviewed some detals about each of the characters and added to our character chart about Boo Radley. Then we read about 5 pages of the play and learned about Bob Ewell, who is a real mess. Homework: Work on your reading for the page kerfuffle. You're not too far behind!!
6 December 2016--Tuesday
Today in class, we started with a book talk from Harper Lee who wrote To Kill a Mockingbird. After that, we choice read for 10 minutes (6th period, you are in LAST place...oh gosh). Then we reviewed some of the "FACTS" and "WANT TO KNOWS" from the To Kill a Mockingbird teaser the other day. Then we assigned some parts and students started reading aloud the screenplay version of the book. If you want to read the full book you are MORE than welcome to do so! Please see me to check out a book!
Homework: Work on the Page Kerfuffle....
Today in class, we started with a book talk from Harper Lee who wrote To Kill a Mockingbird. After that, we choice read for 10 minutes (6th period, you are in LAST place...oh gosh). Then we reviewed some of the "FACTS" and "WANT TO KNOWS" from the To Kill a Mockingbird teaser the other day. Then we assigned some parts and students started reading aloud the screenplay version of the book. If you want to read the full book you are MORE than welcome to do so! Please see me to check out a book!
Homework: Work on the Page Kerfuffle....
5 December 2016--Monday
Ms. Alt was absent
Ms. Alt was absent
28 November 2016--Tuesday
Today in class we started with student book talks, then about 6 minutes of reading from Tuesdays with Morrie. After that, it was Choice Reading Tuesday and conferring for 20/25 minutes. Then we discussed the end of the Class Divided video. Click HERE if you need to rewatch any segments of it--if you were absent for ANY OF THE VIDEO VIEWING YOU SHOULD CLICK HERE. Really. I'm thinking of a few specific absent bunny rabbits....ave you clicked? If not....do it. I'll wait....
Ok, homework is to finish your 7 Class Divided Questions. If you have room in the Quick Write section, put them there. If not, put them elsewhere; but do them. We will spend about 20/25 minutes on Wednesday discussing these, so you need to spend some time thinking through and analyzing these!
Friday--Cumulative Vocabulary Quiz over Lists 1-4. Quizlet is above. Review sessions on Thursday after school and Friday before school at 7:15am.
Today in class we started with student book talks, then about 6 minutes of reading from Tuesdays with Morrie. After that, it was Choice Reading Tuesday and conferring for 20/25 minutes. Then we discussed the end of the Class Divided video. Click HERE if you need to rewatch any segments of it--if you were absent for ANY OF THE VIDEO VIEWING YOU SHOULD CLICK HERE. Really. I'm thinking of a few specific absent bunny rabbits....ave you clicked? If not....do it. I'll wait....
Ok, homework is to finish your 7 Class Divided Questions. If you have room in the Quick Write section, put them there. If not, put them elsewhere; but do them. We will spend about 20/25 minutes on Wednesday discussing these, so you need to spend some time thinking through and analyzing these!
Friday--Cumulative Vocabulary Quiz over Lists 1-4. Quizlet is above. Review sessions on Thursday after school and Friday before school at 7:15am.
17 November 2016--Thursday
Today in class we started with choice reading. Then I book talked Boy 21 and Avion book talked Maus. Then we moved into looking at Identity Charts. Students made Identity Charts and worked on those and wrote about them for a bit. We shared out a bit about these and what they made us realize about our identities. Then students copied their vocabulary into the their Personal Dictionary section of the Writer's Notebook.
Homework: STUDY FOR YOUR VOCABULARY QUIZ. Look at the Quizlet above to study!!
Today in class we started with choice reading. Then I book talked Boy 21 and Avion book talked Maus. Then we moved into looking at Identity Charts. Students made Identity Charts and worked on those and wrote about them for a bit. We shared out a bit about these and what they made us realize about our identities. Then students copied their vocabulary into the their Personal Dictionary section of the Writer's Notebook.
Homework: STUDY FOR YOUR VOCABULARY QUIZ. Look at the Quizlet above to study!!
10 November 2016--Thursday
Today in class, we started with a book talk about The Wave by Todd Strasser--it's a great book and short. I'll pull aside some copies for you. Then we read for 10 minutes. Then we talked a bit about some of the issues facing you guys as young people--the election, your feelings on it, how much control you have in your life, etc. We listened to a song, Shine the Light (which I know some of you LOVED) and then wrote about the idea of Shining the Light for people who might be struggling--maybe you have a friend or family member who is having a hard day--how can you support him/her? We shared a bit as a class and then it was time to leave!
Homework: Study for your vocabulary quiz. Quizlet above!
Today in class, we started with a book talk about The Wave by Todd Strasser--it's a great book and short. I'll pull aside some copies for you. Then we read for 10 minutes. Then we talked a bit about some of the issues facing you guys as young people--the election, your feelings on it, how much control you have in your life, etc. We listened to a song, Shine the Light (which I know some of you LOVED) and then wrote about the idea of Shining the Light for people who might be struggling--maybe you have a friend or family member who is having a hard day--how can you support him/her? We shared a bit as a class and then it was time to leave!
Homework: Study for your vocabulary quiz. Quizlet above!
9 November 2016--Wednesday
Today is a Read/Write In-bring blankets, pillows, snacks, headphones and be ready to read or write the whole hour! Look at it as a calm in the stormy day of high school.
Today is a Read/Write In-bring blankets, pillows, snacks, headphones and be ready to read or write the whole hour! Look at it as a calm in the stormy day of high school.
7 November 2016--Monday
Today in class, we started with vocabulary and then reviewed how to turn in the Letter to the President on this website (use the button above) and on the Letters 2 President website. BOTH of these submissions are due by 8:59pm this evening. If they are not submitted by then, they are late and 50% off.
Homework: Finish your letter, edit it, submit it.
Finish your Vocabulary sheet--due Tuesday.
6th Period Class Code: 8OMBDQ
Today in class, we started with vocabulary and then reviewed how to turn in the Letter to the President on this website (use the button above) and on the Letters 2 President website. BOTH of these submissions are due by 8:59pm this evening. If they are not submitted by then, they are late and 50% off.
Homework: Finish your letter, edit it, submit it.
Finish your Vocabulary sheet--due Tuesday.
6th Period Class Code: 8OMBDQ
4 November 2016--Friday
Today in class, President Garfield joined us to book talk Destiny of the Republic. After that, you took a vocabulary quiz. Then it was time to work on your Letter to the Next President. These are due by 2:45pm on Monday afternoon, so work on it over the weekend if you need to!
Today in class, President Garfield joined us to book talk Destiny of the Republic. After that, you took a vocabulary quiz. Then it was time to work on your Letter to the Next President. These are due by 2:45pm on Monday afternoon, so work on it over the weekend if you need to!
31 October 2016--Monday--Halloween
Today in class, we started with Choice Reading and then book talked The Art of Racing in the Rain. Then we got new vocabulary for the week (Quiz on Friday). After that, we reviewed the Letters to the President website and students were asked to quietly read 3 letters about 3 different topics and write the following about each in his/her Writer's Notebook:
Topic and title of letter
Author and state of letter writer
YES or NO: Does it argue a point?YES or NO: Is the tone professional? How do you know?
YES or NO: Were you convinced of their position? Why or why not
Homework: Finish the vocabulary sheet (due Tuesday) and finish the Letters Response above (due Tuesday).
Today in class, we started with Choice Reading and then book talked The Art of Racing in the Rain. Then we got new vocabulary for the week (Quiz on Friday). After that, we reviewed the Letters to the President website and students were asked to quietly read 3 letters about 3 different topics and write the following about each in his/her Writer's Notebook:
Topic and title of letter
Author and state of letter writer
YES or NO: Does it argue a point?YES or NO: Is the tone professional? How do you know?
YES or NO: Were you convinced of their position? Why or why not
Homework: Finish the vocabulary sheet (due Tuesday) and finish the Letters Response above (due Tuesday).
28 October 2016--Friday
Today in class, we took a vocabulary quiz and then choice read for about 10 minutes. After that, I passed back the Mastery Unit packets and students had time to ask questions and work on these packets. The Redo can be turned in as soon as possible, but MUST be turned in with the original packet. Each time a student needs to redo the assignment, he/she loses 3 points off the total. Please turn in your packet as soon as possible.
Monday--6:45am-7:45am and 2:45pm-3:30pm--Help Time for Mastery Packets with Ms. Alt.
Today in class, we took a vocabulary quiz and then choice read for about 10 minutes. After that, I passed back the Mastery Unit packets and students had time to ask questions and work on these packets. The Redo can be turned in as soon as possible, but MUST be turned in with the original packet. Each time a student needs to redo the assignment, he/she loses 3 points off the total. Please turn in your packet as soon as possible.
Monday--6:45am-7:45am and 2:45pm-3:30pm--Help Time for Mastery Packets with Ms. Alt.
24 October 2016--Monday
Today in class, we worked on the Mastery Unit 1 packet--this is due TUESDAY at the beginning of the class period and it is a BIG ASSIGNMENT, so please do no blow it off. It must be printed when you arrive to class. Also due is your vocabulary homework--due Tuesday!
Today in class, we worked on the Mastery Unit 1 packet--this is due TUESDAY at the beginning of the class period and it is a BIG ASSIGNMENT, so please do no blow it off. It must be printed when you arrive to class. Also due is your vocabulary homework--due Tuesday!
Below is all the stuff you need for a rocking Mastery Unit 1. Make sure you read and follow the directions for each document carefully!
6th Period
Remember, you are writing your 3 documents in Google Docs--you are NOT actually sending an email.
Remember, you are writing your 3 documents in Google Docs--you are NOT actually sending an email.
18 October 2016--Tuesday
Today is Choice Reading Tuesday, so we started off with a few minutes of Tuesdays with Morrie aloud, then 25 minutes of choice reading/conferring. It's so great to hear you guys talk about your books! Thanks for sharing! Then I introduced the Mastery Unit 1--this is a BIG assignment that you will have time to work on in class on Wednesday or Thursday, but you WILL need to work on it outside of school too. It is due Monday October 24 at the beginning of the class period and must be PRINTED when you arrive to class.
Today is Choice Reading Tuesday, so we started off with a few minutes of Tuesdays with Morrie aloud, then 25 minutes of choice reading/conferring. It's so great to hear you guys talk about your books! Thanks for sharing! Then I introduced the Mastery Unit 1--this is a BIG assignment that you will have time to work on in class on Wednesday or Thursday, but you WILL need to work on it outside of school too. It is due Monday October 24 at the beginning of the class period and must be PRINTED when you arrive to class.
17 October 2016--Monday
Today in class, I book talked Molokai by Alan Brennert and we read for about 13 minutes while I conferred. Most of you are doing great with your choice reading, but many of you are STILL not reading outside of class. It needs to become a homework assignment for many of you!
After that, we did some quick writing in Writer's Notebook about "What you are thinking about"--then we watched a spoken word poem, "Thinking About You" and wrote some more. We talked about if people really listen and care about what teenagers are thinking. This is all prep for our argumentative writing unit.
Homework: Make a list of 20 things that bother or annoy you about the world, country, city, or your life--due Tuesday.
Today in class, I book talked Molokai by Alan Brennert and we read for about 13 minutes while I conferred. Most of you are doing great with your choice reading, but many of you are STILL not reading outside of class. It needs to become a homework assignment for many of you!
After that, we did some quick writing in Writer's Notebook about "What you are thinking about"--then we watched a spoken word poem, "Thinking About You" and wrote some more. We talked about if people really listen and care about what teenagers are thinking. This is all prep for our argumentative writing unit.
Homework: Make a list of 20 things that bother or annoy you about the world, country, city, or your life--due Tuesday.
14 October 2016--Friday
Today in class we read for 12 minutes and then learned about the Book Talk rubric for Semester 1 of English 9. After that, students worked on their Conference Letter Reflection--this will be used at conferences next week and is due on Monday.
Homework: Conference reflection letter--due Monday. Read in your Choice Reading book.
Today in class we read for 12 minutes and then learned about the Book Talk rubric for Semester 1 of English 9. After that, students worked on their Conference Letter Reflection--this will be used at conferences next week and is due on Monday.
Homework: Conference reflection letter--due Monday. Read in your Choice Reading book.
12 October 2016--Wednesday
Today in class, I book talked Infinite In Between by Carolyn Mackler and then students read for about 10 minutes. After that, we reviewed the Self Editing Checklist for independent work time on their memoir assignments. I also handed out the Book Talk Rubric and the Memoir Rubric to students. Student led Book Talks will start next week Tuesday! Final drafts of Memoir Papers are due FRIDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2016 by the beginning of your class period. I'll show you tomorrow in class how to turn them in.
Homework: Work on your paper--editing, revising, editing, revising!
Today in class, I book talked Infinite In Between by Carolyn Mackler and then students read for about 10 minutes. After that, we reviewed the Self Editing Checklist for independent work time on their memoir assignments. I also handed out the Book Talk Rubric and the Memoir Rubric to students. Student led Book Talks will start next week Tuesday! Final drafts of Memoir Papers are due FRIDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2016 by the beginning of your class period. I'll show you tomorrow in class how to turn them in.
Homework: Work on your paper--editing, revising, editing, revising!
10 October 2016--Monday
Today in class, I book talked The Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls and then students read for 10 minutes. After that, I reviewed with them the expectations for the Memoir and answered questions--then students had about 35 minutes of INDEPENDENT work time on their drafting of their memoirs.
Homework: TYPED, PRINTED rough draft is due tomorrow when you arrive to class.
Today in class, I book talked The Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls and then students read for 10 minutes. After that, I reviewed with them the expectations for the Memoir and answered questions--then students had about 35 minutes of INDEPENDENT work time on their drafting of their memoirs.
Homework: TYPED, PRINTED rough draft is due tomorrow when you arrive to class.
5 October 2016--Wednesday
Today in class I book talked The Memory of Things by Gae Polisner and then we choice read for 10 minutes/conferred. After that, we reviewed due dates on the Memoir assignment and answered questions (good questions, guys!!). Then it was about 15 minutes of PRE-WRITING and brainstorming. It seems like MOST of you have great ideas to get started on for this assignment--if you're lost or confused, please see me on Thursday!
Homework: Finish Checkpoint 1--due Thursday (this is just a WHAT and WHY explanation of your memoir topic. Example: "I want to write about ___________ (3-4 sentences). The reason I want to write about this is because__________________ (4-5 sentences)
Today in class I book talked The Memory of Things by Gae Polisner and then we choice read for 10 minutes/conferred. After that, we reviewed due dates on the Memoir assignment and answered questions (good questions, guys!!). Then it was about 15 minutes of PRE-WRITING and brainstorming. It seems like MOST of you have great ideas to get started on for this assignment--if you're lost or confused, please see me on Thursday!
Homework: Finish Checkpoint 1--due Thursday (this is just a WHAT and WHY explanation of your memoir topic. Example: "I want to write about ___________ (3-4 sentences). The reason I want to write about this is because__________________ (4-5 sentences)
29 September 2016--Thursday
Today in class I book talked Flowers for Algernon and In Cold Blood. After that we choice read for 10 minutes and conferred. Then students worked in small groups on the I am Malala and A Lesson Not Learned memoir stories in their Writer's Notebooks. After that we did a vomit brainstorm where we started thinking about major topics or ideas that impact our life under the categories of PERSON, PLACE, OBJECT and EVENT. This vomit brainstorm will act as a jumping off point for memoir writing next week! Homework tonight is to Choice Reading for 20 minutes!
Today in class I book talked Flowers for Algernon and In Cold Blood. After that we choice read for 10 minutes and conferred. Then students worked in small groups on the I am Malala and A Lesson Not Learned memoir stories in their Writer's Notebooks. After that we did a vomit brainstorm where we started thinking about major topics or ideas that impact our life under the categories of PERSON, PLACE, OBJECT and EVENT. This vomit brainstorm will act as a jumping off point for memoir writing next week! Homework tonight is to Choice Reading for 20 minutes!
28 September 2016--Wednesday
Today in class, I book talked The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie and then we choice read and conferred for about 10 minutes. After that, students finished the work from Monday (button below) and practiced submitting papers using the form on the website. Then it was about 10 minutes of work time on the homework that is due tomorrow which is to read and annotate (write all over it!) the copy of I am Malala. That is due Thursday.
Today in class, I book talked The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie and then we choice read and conferred for about 10 minutes. After that, students finished the work from Monday (button below) and practiced submitting papers using the form on the website. Then it was about 10 minutes of work time on the homework that is due tomorrow which is to read and annotate (write all over it!) the copy of I am Malala. That is due Thursday.
26 September 2016--Monday
22 September 2016--Thursday
Today in class I book talked When We Collided by Emery Lord. Then we read and conferred. After that we moved into a Graffiti Walk. Then, students started working on Creating an Image of Quotation Analysis which is due tomorrow when you arrive to class.
Today in class I book talked When We Collided by Emery Lord. Then we read and conferred. After that we moved into a Graffiti Walk. Then, students started working on Creating an Image of Quotation Analysis which is due tomorrow when you arrive to class.
20 September 2016--Tuesday
Today in class we worked on a lot of choice reading (Tuesday's we read for about 20-30 minutes) and then got further into our close reading and analysis of Shake the Dust. I was extremely proud of students who worked so hard on their quick writes during the time in class. The homework tonight is to ANNOTATE your copy of the Shake the Dust poem--due Wednesday. Annotations mean writing all over to help yourself understand the poem better. Give it a try--I can't wait to see what you produce!
Today in class we worked on a lot of choice reading (Tuesday's we read for about 20-30 minutes) and then got further into our close reading and analysis of Shake the Dust. I was extremely proud of students who worked so hard on their quick writes during the time in class. The homework tonight is to ANNOTATE your copy of the Shake the Dust poem--due Wednesday. Annotations mean writing all over to help yourself understand the poem better. Give it a try--I can't wait to see what you produce!
12 September 2016--Monday
Today in class, I book talked All American Boys by Jason Reynolds and Brenden Kiely. After that, we choice read for 15 minutes. Tomorrow we will read for 30 minute (on Tuesdays we will always read for 30 minutes). Then I gave all of you letters from a former member of the NVHS Senior Class--these are letters of advice. Your HOMEWORK for tonight is to answer some questions about your letter and to fill an entire notebook page in your Writer's Notebook (Quick Write section). Tomorrow we will discuss these questions and your responses:
What most surprised you about this letter? Why?
What did you find to be most interesting? Why?
What would you like to ask this senior? Why?
Do you think this was good advice? Why or why not?
How do you think this letter might influence you moving forward as a 9th grader? Why?
If you had to write a letter of advice to current 8th graders, what would you include?
Today in class, I book talked All American Boys by Jason Reynolds and Brenden Kiely. After that, we choice read for 15 minutes. Tomorrow we will read for 30 minute (on Tuesdays we will always read for 30 minutes). Then I gave all of you letters from a former member of the NVHS Senior Class--these are letters of advice. Your HOMEWORK for tonight is to answer some questions about your letter and to fill an entire notebook page in your Writer's Notebook (Quick Write section). Tomorrow we will discuss these questions and your responses:
What most surprised you about this letter? Why?
What did you find to be most interesting? Why?
What would you like to ask this senior? Why?
Do you think this was good advice? Why or why not?
How do you think this letter might influence you moving forward as a 9th grader? Why?
If you had to write a letter of advice to current 8th graders, what would you include?
9 September 2016--Friday
Today in class we had 2 new book talks (A Child Called It and Everything, Everything), did some work on reading meditation, some writing, and then looked at books to check out/got some reading done. The only homework for the weekend is to ensure 1) You have your choice reading book for Monday. I'll be at school early if you need to come check a book out. 2) We are organizing and decorating Writer's Notebooks on Monday--if you'd like to bring pictures/decorations for your book, feel free to do so. If you STILL do not have a Writer's Notebook by Monday, I'll be making phone calls home.
Today in class we had 2 new book talks (A Child Called It and Everything, Everything), did some work on reading meditation, some writing, and then looked at books to check out/got some reading done. The only homework for the weekend is to ensure 1) You have your choice reading book for Monday. I'll be at school early if you need to come check a book out. 2) We are organizing and decorating Writer's Notebooks on Monday--if you'd like to bring pictures/decorations for your book, feel free to do so. If you STILL do not have a Writer's Notebook by Monday, I'll be making phone calls home.
7 September 2016--Wednesday
Today in class we started off with some ice breakers/getting to know you games and then did a tour of the classroom. I talked about the ways to check books out and in from the classroom library and conferring/bathroom passes/tardies/homework. After that we did some speed dating of books that we might want to read throughout the year. Students filled in 3-5 books on their pink charts (which we will staple into the Writer's Notebook eventually).
Homework: Bring your Composition Notebook and other materials for class Thursday.
Today in class we started off with some ice breakers/getting to know you games and then did a tour of the classroom. I talked about the ways to check books out and in from the classroom library and conferring/bathroom passes/tardies/homework. After that we did some speed dating of books that we might want to read throughout the year. Students filled in 3-5 books on their pink charts (which we will staple into the Writer's Notebook eventually).
Homework: Bring your Composition Notebook and other materials for class Thursday.
6 September 2016--FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL!
Today in class we reviewed the Syllabus and rules/protocols for the class. We also wrote a letter to ourselves that students will get back to read in June. Materials for the class are below and are due by Thursday. Open House is Wednesday from 7-8:30pm at the high school.
Today in class we reviewed the Syllabus and rules/protocols for the class. We also wrote a letter to ourselves that students will get back to read in June. Materials for the class are below and are due by Thursday. Open House is Wednesday from 7-8:30pm at the high school.
Materials for Class (BY THURSDAY):
--Composition Notebook
--1" Binder (just for English)
--Blue/Black pens
--Choice Reading Book
--Composition Notebook
--1" Binder (just for English)
--Blue/Black pens
--Choice Reading Book
