Overview

Welcome to the online extension of our classroom. This forum is designed to serve as a forum for all English classes to continue those discussions begun during the school day. You will be able to share your observations, ask questions, and respond to classmates' comments in a way that is not confined to a single, 45-minute period. Enjoy!

Friday, June 3, 2011

Periods 6 & 7, Post 11: End-of-Year Reflections

Well, everyone, we've made it to the end of the 2010-2011 academic year. Awesome job!!

This week, I'd like for you to reflect on your performance in this class over course of the past year. What did you do well? Of what are you especially proud? In what areas do you believe that you need to improve? Why? What steps can you take in order to be more successful next year?

Your responses will count as the final homework assignment for the spring semester.

Congratulations. You've made it!! :-)

Periods 1 & 2, Post 11: End-of-Year Reflections

Well, everybody, we've made it to the end of the 2010-2011 academic year. Good going!!

I'd like for you to reflect on your performance in this class over the course of this past year. What did you do well? What are you especially proud of? In what areas do you feel that you need to improve? Why? What steps can you take in order to be more successful next year?

Your responses will count as the final homework assignment for the spring semester.

Congratulations. You've made it. :-)

Friday, May 20, 2011

Periods 6 & 7, Post 10: The Meaning of the Title

This week, we have reached the conclusion of Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird. We have focused not only on the novel's resolution, but also on the significance of the book's title.

Therefore, as this week's topic, I want you to discuss the title's meaning. Be sure to link Atticus' statement that "it's a sin to kill a mockingbird" with what we learned during the last few chapters of the book. Who are the "mockingbirds" to whom Harper Lee is referring? What are the "sins" committed against them?

Your responses will count as a homework assignment grade for the third marking period of the spring semester.

Periods 1 & 2, Post 10: The Meaning of the Title

This week, we have reached the conclusion of Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird. We have focused not only on the novel's resolution, but also on the significance of the book's title.

Therefore, as this week's topic, I want you to discuss the title's meaning. Be sure to link Atticus' statement that "it's a sin to kill a mockingbird" with what we learned during the last few chapters of the book. Who are the "mockingbirds" to whom Harper Lee is referring? What are the "sins" committed against them?

Your responses will count as a homework assignment grade for the third marking period of the spring semester.

Friday, May 13, 2011

Periods 6 & 7, Post 9: What Difference Does It Make?

We've spent the past two weeks analyzing the testimonies of several key witnesses from the trial scene of Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird, arriving afterward at the unanimous conclusion that Tom Robinson is innocent of the crime of which he's been accused by the prosecution's star witnesses: Mayella Ewell and her father, Bob. And yet, we've also seen how this knowledge makes little difference in the minds of the jurors, who unanimously convict Tom in spite of this.

This week, I would like you to consider Atticus' actions. He worked so hard to give Tom Robinson the best defense possible, even subjecting his children to taunts and criticism from neighbors, friends, and even relatives. In your opinion, was it worth it? Did Atticus do the right thing in defending Tom to the best of his abilities? Do you think that his actions have made any difference whatsoever? Explain your answer using textual examples.

Your comments will count as a homework assignment for the third marking period of the spring semester.

Periods 1 & 2, Post 9: What Differences Does It Make?

We've spent the past two weeks analyzing the testimonies of several witnesses from the trial scene in Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird, and have come to the unanimous conclusion that Tom Robinson is innocent of the crime of which he's being accused by the prosecution's star witnesses: Mayella Ewell and her father, Bob. And yet, we've also seen how this knowledge makes little difference in the minds of the jurors, who unanimously convict Tom anyway.

This week, I would like you to consider Atticus' actions. He worked so hard to give Tom Robinson the best defense possible, even subjecting his children to taunts and criticism by neighbors, friends, and even relatives. In your opinion, was it worth it? Did Atticus do the right thing in defending Tom to the best of his abilities? Do you think that his actions have made any difference whatsoever? Explain your answer using textual examples.

Your comments will count as a homework assignment for the third marking period of the spring semester.

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Periods 6 & 7, Post 8: The True Meaning of Courage

In recent weeks, we've talked a lot about how difficult it is for Scout to follow Atticus' instructions to stay away from fights, especially with all of the hateful talk surrounding the Finches as Tom Robinson's trial approaches. Until this point, we have only heard Scout's opinion--that she saw her father as old and physically weak, albeit mentally strong. However, this week, we've seen a different side of Atticus: as the best marksman in the county, we now recognize him to possess both physical strength and talent, while making a conscious decision to abstain from violence. What I want you to consider is, why Atticus refuses to use his shooting talents. How does this carry over into his opinions about fighting? What lessons can Scout and Jem take away from their newfound knowledge of him? Your comments will count as a homework assignment grade for the second marking period of the spring semester.

Periods 1 & 2, Post 8: The True Meaning of Courage

In recent weeks, we've talked a lot about how difficult it is for Scout to follow Atticus' instructions to stay away from fights, especially with all of the hateful talk surrounding the Finches as Tom Robinson's trial approaches. Until this point, we have only heard Scout's opinion--that her father was old, and physically weak. This week, we've seen a different side of Atticus: as the best marksman in the county, we now see a man with physical strength and talent, who makes a conscious decision to abstain from violence. What I want you to consider is, why Atticus refuses to use his shooting talents. How does this carry over into his opinions about fighting? What lessons can Scout and Jem take away from this newfound knowledge? Your comments will count as a homework assignment grade for the second marking period of the spring semester.

Thursday, April 7, 2011

Periods 6 & 7, Post 7: The Setting of "To Kill a Mockingbird"

Hi everyone! The main focus of this week has been your projects about the Great Depression and its effect on various aspects of American life. Therefore, here is what I want you to consider this week: what did you learn while researching this topic, that you didn't know already? How has your research helped you to understand the lives of the characters in To Kill a Mockingbird better? Your comments will count as a homework assignment grade for the second marking period of the spring semester.

Periods 1 & 2, Post 7: The Setting of "To Kill a Mockingbird"

Hi, guys! So, the main focus of this week has been your projects on the Great Depression, and its influence on various aspects of American life. So, what I want you to consider is this: what did you learn while researching your topic, that you didn't know already? How has your research helped you to understand the lives of the characters in To Kill a Mockingbird better? Your comments will count as a homework assignment grade for the second marking period of the spring semester.

Friday, April 1, 2011

Periods 6 & 7, Post 6: "A Man's World"?

Okay, so James Brown's song says that "it's a man's world," something Miss Maudie alludes to when talking to Scout about prejudice against women. Do you think that men still rule the world? How are women and men still equal educationally, financially, and socially? How are they still unequal in today's society? Your comments will count as a homework assignment for the second marking period.

Periods 1 & 2, Post 6: "A Man's World"?

Okay, so James Brown's song says that "it's a man's world," something Miss Maudie alludes to when talking to Scout about prejudice against women. Do you think that men still rule the world? How are women and men now equal educationally, socially, and financially? How are they still unequal in today's society? Your comments will count as a homework assignment for the second marking period.

Friday, March 25, 2011

Periods 6 & 7, Post 5: Life in a Small Town

Hey, everyone!!

We've begun reading Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird, and one of the first things we have noticed is how prominently Maycomb County figures into the life of the Finch family. Think about this particular setting, in a small, Southern town; what might be some of the benefits of small-town life? What might be some of the drawbacks?

Your comments will count as a homework assignment for the second marking period of the spring semester.

Periods 1 & 2, Post 5: Life in a Small Town

Hi, guys!!

We're just starting To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee, and one of the first things we notice is how prominently Maycomb County into the life of the Finch family. Think about this particular setting, in a small, Southern town; what might be some of the benefits of small-town life? What might be some of the drawbacks?

Your comments will count as a homework assignment for the second marking period of the spring semester.

Thursday, March 10, 2011

Periods 6 & 7, Post 4: First Marking Period Reflections

We've made it through the first marking period of the spring semester. Only two more marking periods left in the entire academic year!! :-)

For this week's blog post, please reflect on your academic performance in this class over the past five weeks. What did you do well? Where do you still need to improve? Considering these things, what do you believe you deserve as your first marking period grade? Why?

Your comments will as a homework assignment for the second marking period.

Periods 1 & 2, Post 4: First Marking Period Reflections

Well, we've it through the first marking period of the spring semester. Only two semesters left in the entire academic year!! :-)

For this week's blog post, please reflect on your academic performance in this class over the past five weeks. What did you do well? Where do you still need to improve? Considering these things, what do you believe you deserve as your first marking period grade? Why?

Your comments will count as a homework assignment for the second marking period.

Friday, February 18, 2011

Periods 6 & 7, Post 3: Black Leaders throughout American History

Hi, everyone. Because February is Black History Month, I would like for this week's blog post to concentrate on those African-American leaders who helped to shape this country into what it is today.

In your comment, choose an African-American man or woman who was influential in shaping the culture of this country in one of the following ways, from the American revolution until the present day: politics, science, art/music, literature, or sports. In five sentences, give this person's biographical information, including birth date, the place where he/she lived, date of death (if applicable) and any other interesting information about his/her background. Then, use at least five sentences to explain this individual's contribution to American society; explain what he/she did, and why it's significant to American history.

Your comment will count as a homework assignment for this marking period.

Have an enjoyable--and safe--winter break.

Periods 1 & 2, Post 3: Black Leaders throughout American History

Hey all. Because February is Black History Month, I want this week's blog post to concentrate on those African-American leaders who helped shape this country into what it is today.

In your comment, choose an African-American man or woman who was influential in shaping the culture of this country in one of the following ways, from the time of the American revolution until the present day: politics, science, art/music, literature, or sports. In five sentences, give this person's biographical information, including birth date, the place where he/she lived, date of death (if applicable), and any other interesting information about his/her background. Then, use at least five sentences to explain this individual's contribution to American society; explain what he/she did, and why it's significant to American history.

Your comment will count as a homework assignment for the first marking period of the spring semester.

Have an enjoyable--and safe--winter break

Friday, February 11, 2011

Periods 6 & 7, Post 2: The Pros and Cons of Technology

Hi, everyone!! What an exciting day!! We've witnessed the Eyptians' successful revolution to overthrow former President Mubarak, and technology played a huge role in the outcome. Technology played a significan role in the downfall of the Shah in Iran, as depicted by Marjane Satrapi in her memoir, Persepolis.

Think about the role of technology in your own lives. What are its benefits and drawbacks? What has technology made easier for you, or helped you to do better? What has become harder because of technology? Explain your answers.

Your comments will count as a homework assignment grade for the marking period.

Periods 1 & 2, Post 2: The Pros and Cons of Technology

Hi, guys!!! What an exciting day!!! We've seen the success of the Egyptians' revolution to overthrow former President Mubarak, and technology played a huge role in the outcome. Technology played a significant role in the downfall of the Shah in Iran, as well, as portrayed in Marjane Satrapi's Persepolis.

Think about the role of technology in your own lives. What are its benefits? What are its drawbacks? What has technology made easier for you/helped you to do better? What has become harder because of technology? Why?

Your comment will count as a homework assignment for this marking period.

Tuesday, February 8, 2011

Periods 6 & 7, Post 1: What Makes a Hero?

Hello, everybody!! Welcome to a new semester of blogging.

So far during this marking period, in Persepolis, we've seen Marji battle her preconceived notions of the makings of a hero, with respect to both her family and her friends' families. Therefore, I want you to examine your own preconceptions about heroism, and how they've changed as you've grown older. When you were little, who were your childhood heroes? Who are your heroes today? Why? How have your ideas about heroism changed over the years?

Your comments on this blog post will count as a homework assignment for the spring semester.

Periods 1 & 2, Post 1: What Makes a Hero?

Hi, guys!! Welcome to a new semester of blogging.

So far, in Persepolis this marking period, we've seen Marji battle her preconceived notions of the makings of a hero, with respect to both her family and her friends' families. Therefore, I want you to examine your own preconceptions about heroism, and how they've changed as you've grown older. When you were little, who were your childhood heroes? Who are your heroes today? Why? How have your ideas about heroism changed over the years?

Your comments on this blog post will count as a homework assignment for the first marking period of the spring semester.

Friday, January 21, 2011

Period 8, Post 18: Final Marking Period Reflections

Good afternoon, everyone, and Happy Friday!! Congratulations on completing the first half of the school year--only one school day left to the semester now!! :-)

For this week's blog post, please reflect on your performance in this class, during the past six weeks and over the course of the fall semester. Consider both your academic performance and your behavior in class. What did you do well? In which areas might you improve? Did your performance reflect your best efforts? And finally, what goal might you create for yourself, to accomplish during the spring semester?

Your comments will count as the final homework assignment of the fall semester.

PLEASE DO NOT FORGET THAT YOU ARE REQUIRED TO HAND IN ANY AND ALL MISSING/INCOMPLETE CLASSWORK AND/OR HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENTS BY MONDAY, JANUARY 24TH, IN ORDER FOR THEM TO BE REFLECTED IN YOUR FINAL REPORT CARD GRADE.

Periods 6 & 7, Post 18: Final Marking Period Reflections

Good afternoon, all. Congratulations on completing the first semester of the school year--only one school day left to the marking period.

For this week's blog post, please reflect on your performance in class, over the past six weeks and over the course of the semester. Consider both your academic performance and your behavior in class. What did you do well? What areas might need some improvement? Did your performance reflect your best efforts? And finally, what goal might you create for yourself, to accomplish during the spring semester?

Your comments will count as the final homework assignment for the semester.

PLEASE DO NOT FORGET THAT YOU ARE REQUIRED TO HAND IN ANY AND ALL MISSING CLASSWORK AND HOMEWORK BY MONDAY, JANUARY 24TH, IN ORDER FOR IT TO BE REFLECTED IN YOUR REPORT CARD GRADE.

Periods 1 & 2, Post 18: Final Marking Period Reflections

Hello, everyone!! Congratulations on making it to the end of the first semester--only one school day left.



For this week's blog post, please reflect on your performance in class, over the past six weeks and over the entire semester. Consider both your academic performance and your behavior in class. What did you do well? What might you need to improve? Did your performance reflect your best efforts? And finally, what goal might you create for yourself, to accomplish during the spring semester?



Your comments will count as the final homework assignment for the fall semester.



DO NOT FORGET THAT YOU ARE REQUIRED TO HAND IN ANY AND ALL MISSING WORK BY MONDAY, IN ORDER FOR THE ASSIGNMENTS TO BE REFLECTED IN YOUR REPORT CARD GRADE.

Friday, January 14, 2011

Period 8, Post 17: Fighting Fires

Hi guys. I know that this was an "off" week for a bunch of different reasons, but let's not let it break our stride academically!!

In My Sister's Keeper, Jodi Picoult uses the metaphor of "fighting fires" to describe Brian Fitzgerald's efforts to hold his family together. This week, I'm asking you to make a text-to-self connection; what "fires" are you trying to "put out" in your own lives? What have been the effects of these "fires" on your lives? Do you think you'll be successful at fighting these "fires"?

Your comment will count as a homework assignment for the third marking period of the semester.

Periods 6 & 7, Post 17: "The Veil"

Hi, guys. I know that this has been an "off" week for many reasons, but don't let that distract you academically!!

In the first chapter of Persepolis, Marjane Satrapi depicts demonstrators protesting both for and against a law mandating that all women in Iran wear veils; those who support the law cheer, "The veil!" while those against it cheer, "Freedom!" Why do you think this is? Why might some Muslim women support wearing veils, while others do not? And finally, what is the "separation of church and state"?

Your comments will count as a homework assignment for the third marking period of the semester.

Periods 1 & 2, Post 17: "The Veil"

Hi, everyone!! I know that this has been an "off" week for various reasons, but let's not let that derail us academically!!

In the first chapter of Persepolis, by Marjane Satrapi, we see demonstrators protesting both for and against a law mandating that all women in Iran wear veils; those who support the law cheer, "The veil!" while those against it cheer, "Freedom!" Why do you think this is? Why might some Muslim women support wearing veils, while others do not? And finally, what is the "separation of church and state"?

Your comments will count as a homework assignment for the third marking period of the semester.

Friday, January 7, 2011

Period 8, Post 16: Simple vs. Complex Characters

Hi, guys!! We've made it through our first week back from Christmas break--no small achievement!! ;-)

We've spent the past week discussing simple, or one-sided, and complex, or many-sided, characters. Which do you believe to be more realistic? Why? Choose a one-dimensional character from My Sister's Keeper and one whom you believe to be two-dimensional in nature; explain why you think these characters are simple or complex, using examples from the text.

Your comment will count as a homework assignment for the third marking period of the semester.

P.S.--Don't forget about your opinion papers!!!!! :-D

Periods 6 & 7, Post 16: Memoir vs. Autobiography

Hi, guys. Great job on your mock-trials for The Bluest Eye!! It was great to see you all so involved. We've made it through our first week back from vacation--no small feat, in my opinion!! ;-)

This week, we've started reading Persepolis, by Marjane Satrapi. For this week's post, I would like you to tell me what the definition of a memoir is, and how it differs from that of an autobiography. Then, tell me what topic you have chosen for your unit projects, your personal memoirs.

Your comments will count as a homework assignment for the third marking period of the semester.

Thursday, January 6, 2011

Periods 1 & 2, Post 16: Memoir vs. Autobiography

Hey, everyone. You did well on your mock-trial for The Bluest Eye; it was great to see how "into it" everyone was. :-) We've made it through our first week back from vacation--no small feat, in my opinion!! ;-)

This week, we've started reading Persepolis, by Marjane Satrapi. For this week's post, I would like you to tell me what the definition of a memoir is, and how it differs from that of an autobiography. Then, tell me what topic you have chosen for your unit projects, your personal memoirs.

Your comments will count as a homework assignment for the third marking period of the semester.