So on Monday, December 17 (Periods 1,3,5) and December 18 (Periods 2,4,6) you will be taking a test to basically show me that you have understood the major concepts we have covered this nine weeks.
Topics:
1. Compare/Contrast Essay -- Can you identify a thesis statement? Can you identify that subjects that are being compared/contrasted? Can you identify supporting details?
2. Sonnets -- There are two types of sonnets: Italian (Petrachan) and English (Shakespearean). Sonnets have 14 lines and each type has a different rhyming pattern.
3. Rhetorical Devices -- There are four: Analogy, Repetition, Rhetorical Question, and Antithesis. Make sure you know the definition of each. You may also need to identify examples.
4. Gladiators word of the day -- I will give you the list of words from October 29 - December 14. You will pick any five of the words and create a sentence for each. You will only receive credit if you use it correctly in a high school level sentence.
Reminders!!!!!
*Group Project and Test are the last major grades for the second nine weeks.
*You need to show me proof of your community service by Friday, December 21st for a grade!
*Reading Plus will not be required during the break, but if you want to level up for extra credit I would recommend you do some lessons over the break.
*Remember you can also show me your registration for the SAT/ACT test for extra credit.
**I am willing to give extra credit to students who bring in items for the Christmas food baskets. Here are the items they are asking for: 2 cans of green beans, 2 cans of corn, 2 cans of black beans, Bag of rice, Box of mashed potatoes, Can of yams (large), Bag of marshmallows, Box of stuffing, 2 jars of gravy, Apple juice, Cake mix & frosting, plates, cups, utensils
Friday, December 14, 2012
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
A Christmas Carol
Here is the link to the website for the script to the play:
http://libertytheater.org/2011FalProduction/ACC_Full%20Script.pdf
Your videos should be ready by Tuesday, December 18 and Wednesday, December 19
http://libertytheater.org/2011FalProduction/ACC_Full%20Script.pdf
Your videos should be ready by Tuesday, December 18 and Wednesday, December 19
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Sonnet Assignment
Sonnet Assignment
Pick one of the following choices:
1. Write your own sonnet. Create either a Petrarchan Sonnet or Shakespearean Sonnet using the proper structure from page 303
2. Memorize and recite a sonnet to the class. You can pick a sonnet from the book or online.
3. Select one Petrarchan Sonnet and one Shakespearean Sonnet and break down its structure. Show the rhyming pattern, the stanzas and basic meaning.
Due Tuesday, December 4 (Periods 2,4,6) and Wednesday, December 5 (Periods 1,3,5)
Pick one of the following choices:
1. Write your own sonnet. Create either a Petrarchan Sonnet or Shakespearean Sonnet using the proper structure from page 303
2. Memorize and recite a sonnet to the class. You can pick a sonnet from the book or online.
3. Select one Petrarchan Sonnet and one Shakespearean Sonnet and break down its structure. Show the rhyming pattern, the stanzas and basic meaning.
Due Tuesday, December 4 (Periods 2,4,6) and Wednesday, December 5 (Periods 1,3,5)
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Word of the Day Assignment
In class you should have picked a number from 1-32.
You will go to www.gladiatorwordoftheday.blogspot.com and find the picture of the word on the right hand side that goes with your number. For example, number one is alloy.
You will click on the picture and it will take you to an article.
After reading the article you will do the following:
1. Write a summary (make sure you include the main events)
2. Write 3 interesting facts or ideas you learned from the article
3. Write how the article applies to your word
You do not have to type up the assignment.
It is due on November 28 (Periods 2,4,6) and November 29 (Periods 1,3,5)
You will go to www.gladiatorwordoftheday.blogspot.com and find the picture of the word on the right hand side that goes with your number. For example, number one is alloy.
You will click on the picture and it will take you to an article.
After reading the article you will do the following:
1. Write a summary (make sure you include the main events)
2. Write 3 interesting facts or ideas you learned from the article
3. Write how the article applies to your word
You do not have to type up the assignment.
It is due on November 28 (Periods 2,4,6) and November 29 (Periods 1,3,5)
Compare/Contrast Essays
Just an announcement to everyone:
After Wednesday I will not be accepting Compare/Contrast essays. You need to make sure you have turned in your rough draft, peer edit questions and outline form. If you were absent then you need to email your essay to me before Thursday, November 22.
If you do not turn it in you are getting a "0" and there will be no make-up.
**Progress Reports will come out the first week of December.
Many of you are failing already because you are not completing the basic assignments such as SAT/ACT Questions, Reading Plus (2 per week) and the Gladiator Word of the day.
I am going to make it very clear that I will not be allowing make-up of these assignments at the end of the nine weeks (unless you were absent and show me an excused admit).
After Wednesday I will not be accepting Compare/Contrast essays. You need to make sure you have turned in your rough draft, peer edit questions and outline form. If you were absent then you need to email your essay to me before Thursday, November 22.
If you do not turn it in you are getting a "0" and there will be no make-up.
**Progress Reports will come out the first week of December.
Many of you are failing already because you are not completing the basic assignments such as SAT/ACT Questions, Reading Plus (2 per week) and the Gladiator Word of the day.
I am going to make it very clear that I will not be allowing make-up of these assignments at the end of the nine weeks (unless you were absent and show me an excused admit).
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Peer Edit Questions
Peer Edit for Compare/Contrast Essay
1. Do they use an attention grabber? What is it?
2. Does the essay have a clear thesis (main idea sentence in the introduction paragraph)? What is it?
3. What two things are being compared?
4. What areas are being compared?
5. Do they have at least 3 quotes to support their ideas?
6. Are transitional words used to identify points of comparison and contrast? What are they?
7. Does the conclusion paragraph connect to their introduction paragraph? How?
8. Could the writer add or take anything out of their essay? Explain.
*Make sure that someone completes the following questions based on your rough draft.
1. Do they use an attention grabber? What is it?
2. Does the essay have a clear thesis (main idea sentence in the introduction paragraph)? What is it?
3. What two things are being compared?
4. What areas are being compared?
5. Do they have at least 3 quotes to support their ideas?
6. Are transitional words used to identify points of comparison and contrast? What are they?
7. Does the conclusion paragraph connect to their introduction paragraph? How?
8. Could the writer add or take anything out of their essay? Explain.
*Make sure that someone completes the following questions based on your rough draft.
Friday, November 9, 2012
Compare/Contrast Essay Tips
We have shared your introduction paragraphs in class and are working on body paragraphs now. Here are some general tips to help you with these paragraphs:
1. Do not start off your body paragraphs with a quote. You should have quotes to back up your points in your body paragraphs, but the quotes should be within the paragraph not used as a topic sentence.
2. Follow one type of format. Either focus on one subject in your first two body paragraphs and then move onto your second subject in paragraphs three and four or go from subject one to subject two then back to subject one and subject two again.
Compare/Contrast Essay Buzz words
Comparison:
In comparison like
In the same way likewise
Just as . . . so similarly
Contrast:
Although
nevertheless
But
nonetheless
Conversely
on the contrary
Despite on the one hand . . . on the other hand
Even though
still
However
unlike
In contrast
whereas
Instead
yet
This next week we will continue working on body paragraphs and the conclusion paragraph. You will also be doing peer editing so it is very important that you have a rough draft to exchange with a classmate.
You should be prepared to type up your Final Draft by November 19th (Periods 1,3,5) or November 20th (periods 2,4,6).
This essay will be a major grade so do not slack off!
1. Do not start off your body paragraphs with a quote. You should have quotes to back up your points in your body paragraphs, but the quotes should be within the paragraph not used as a topic sentence.
2. Follow one type of format. Either focus on one subject in your first two body paragraphs and then move onto your second subject in paragraphs three and four or go from subject one to subject two then back to subject one and subject two again.
Compare/Contrast Essay Buzz words
Comparison:
In comparison like
In the same way likewise
Just as . . . so similarly
Contrast:
Although
nevertheless
But
nonetheless
Conversely
on the contrary
Despite on the one hand . . . on the other hand
Even though
still
However
unlike
In contrast
whereas
Instead
yet
This next week we will continue working on body paragraphs and the conclusion paragraph. You will also be doing peer editing so it is very important that you have a rough draft to exchange with a classmate.
You should be prepared to type up your Final Draft by November 19th (Periods 1,3,5) or November 20th (periods 2,4,6).
This essay will be a major grade so do not slack off!
Monday, October 29, 2012
Compare/Contrast Essay Introduction
Over the next couple of weeks you will be working on creating a Compare/Contrast essay.
We will be taking the process step-by-step.
Here is a website that you can use as a guide to help you at home or give you more explanation if you need it:
http://www.apsu.edu/sites/apsu.edu/files/academic-support-center/Compare_and_contrast_essay.pdf
Reminders:
*SAT/ACT Questions of the Day are due every Friday!
*Reading Plus (two sessions per week) need to be completed by Sunday!
*Outline of pages 287-297 needs to be complete by November 5th. Outline quiz will be that week.
**No school November 6th (Teacher Work Day)
**No school November 12th (Veteran's Day)
**No school November 22-23 (Thanksgiving Holiday)
We will be taking the process step-by-step.
Here is a website that you can use as a guide to help you at home or give you more explanation if you need it:
http://www.apsu.edu/sites/apsu.edu/files/academic-support-center/Compare_and_contrast_essay.pdf
Reminders:
*SAT/ACT Questions of the Day are due every Friday!
*Reading Plus (two sessions per week) need to be completed by Sunday!
*Outline of pages 287-297 needs to be complete by November 5th. Outline quiz will be that week.
**No school November 6th (Teacher Work Day)
**No school November 12th (Veteran's Day)
**No school November 22-23 (Thanksgiving Holiday)
Friday, October 19, 2012
End of the First Nine Weeks
Students,
The end of the nine weeks is October 25th, which happens to be an early release day.
I am in the process of closing my gradebook. If you were absent within the last two weeks you need to bring me your excused admit and make up your assignments before Thursday.
I will not be in school on October 26th for the teacher workday so whatever grade you have by Thursday afternoon is your grade for the nine weeks.
The last grades I will be putting in are the Reading Plus sessions for this week and your Gladiator Words for this week.
Some of you are accomplishing your goal of getting good grades like you stated at the beginning of the school year and others do not seem to want to graduate. I will remind those students again that this is a required class for graduation and if you do not have your 10 points by the end of the year you will not receive your diploma.
Looking forward to Homecoming Week! Enjoy the weekend.
The end of the nine weeks is October 25th, which happens to be an early release day.
I am in the process of closing my gradebook. If you were absent within the last two weeks you need to bring me your excused admit and make up your assignments before Thursday.
I will not be in school on October 26th for the teacher workday so whatever grade you have by Thursday afternoon is your grade for the nine weeks.
The last grades I will be putting in are the Reading Plus sessions for this week and your Gladiator Words for this week.
Some of you are accomplishing your goal of getting good grades like you stated at the beginning of the school year and others do not seem to want to graduate. I will remind those students again that this is a required class for graduation and if you do not have your 10 points by the end of the year you will not receive your diploma.
Looking forward to Homecoming Week! Enjoy the weekend.
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Coat of Arms Project
To conclude with the story of King Arthur you will be creating a poster-size coat of arms based on one of the characters from the story.
Your coat of arms must include the following items:
1. The name of your character
2. Important information about your character (facts such as how they are related to King Arthur, their role/position in the story, where they were from, etc.)
3. An image of the character (you can draw what you think the character looked like or print out an image from the internet)
4. A symbol of the character -- After researching your character pick a symbol that represents them. (for example, a crown could be a symbol for King Arthur)
5. A quality that your character has -- think of the code of chivalry or courtly love, does your character represent any of those qualities?
You will present your coat of arms on Thursday, October 18 (Periods 2,4,6) and Friday, October 19 (Periods 1,3,5)
*Make sure you do the character I gave you. If you forgot please ask me for their name.
You can refer to the following website for information http://www.kingarthursknights.com/knights/default.asp
Characters:
King Arthur
Sir Lancelot
Sir Gawain
Sir Geraint
Sir Gareth
Sir Gaheris
Sir Bedivere
Sir Galahad
Sir Kay
Sir Bors
Sir Lamorak
Sir Tristan
Sir Percivale
Queen Guinevere
Merlin
Your coat of arms must include the following items:
1. The name of your character
2. Important information about your character (facts such as how they are related to King Arthur, their role/position in the story, where they were from, etc.)
3. An image of the character (you can draw what you think the character looked like or print out an image from the internet)
4. A symbol of the character -- After researching your character pick a symbol that represents them. (for example, a crown could be a symbol for King Arthur)
5. A quality that your character has -- think of the code of chivalry or courtly love, does your character represent any of those qualities?
You will present your coat of arms on Thursday, October 18 (Periods 2,4,6) and Friday, October 19 (Periods 1,3,5)
*Make sure you do the character I gave you. If you forgot please ask me for their name.
You can refer to the following website for information http://www.kingarthursknights.com/knights/default.asp
Characters:
King Arthur
Sir Lancelot
Sir Gawain
Sir Geraint
Sir Gareth
Sir Gaheris
Sir Bedivere
Sir Galahad
Sir Kay
Sir Bors
Sir Lamorak
Sir Tristan
Sir Percivale
Queen Guinevere
Merlin
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Extra Credit -- First Nine Weeks
Dear students,
Here are some extra credit opportunities for this nine weeks:
1. Leveling up on Reading Plus (only one level up for the nine weeks will be accepted) You do not have to print anything out for me because I can check for this myself.
2. Proof that you took the SAT/ACT during this nine weeks (show me your scores or registration ticket online)
3. Proof that you attended the Oct. 13 college Expo at Miami Dade College (bring me some pamphlets or flyers from the event and share with the class information you learned)
You will receive 5 points for each of these that you qualify for.
**Remember the first nine weeks ends on October 25th so if you want the extra credit it needs to be done before then.
Here are some extra credit opportunities for this nine weeks:
1. Leveling up on Reading Plus (only one level up for the nine weeks will be accepted) You do not have to print anything out for me because I can check for this myself.
2. Proof that you took the SAT/ACT during this nine weeks (show me your scores or registration ticket online)
3. Proof that you attended the Oct. 13 college Expo at Miami Dade College (bring me some pamphlets or flyers from the event and share with the class information you learned)
You will receive 5 points for each of these that you qualify for.
**Remember the first nine weeks ends on October 25th so if you want the extra credit it needs to be done before then.
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Courtly Love Assignment
During the time of King Arthur and his knights the lords and ladies of the time followed rules of courtly love. In class you picked a number, which corresponds to one of the rules of courtly love.
Your assignment is as follows:
1. Write down your rule and explain it in your own words.
2. Give a modern day example using your rule. In other words, give me a scenario or anecdote using your rule.
3. In your opinion, is your rule true? Explain in at least a paragraph whether your rule applies in today's world.
*Make sure you are doing the correct number. For example, if you picked number 1 in class you have to do the assignment using rule number 1. If you do another number you will not get credit.
Assignment is due October 8 (Periods 2,4,6) and October 9 (Periods 1,3,5)
Andreas Capellanus’s Rules for Love
1. Marriage is no real excuse for not loving.
2. He who is not jealous cannot love.
3. No one can be bound by a double love.
4. It is well known that love is always increasing or decreasing.
5. That which a lover takes against the will of his beloved has no relish.
6. Boys do not love until they arrive at the age of maturity.
7. When one lover dies, a widowhood of two years is required of the survivor.
8. No one should be deprived of love without the very best of reasons.
9. No one can love unless he is impelled by the persuasion of love.
10. Love is always a stranger in the home of avarice.
11. It is not proper to love any woman whom one should be ashamed to seek to marry.
12. A true lover does not desire to embrace in love anyone except his beloved.
13. When made public, love rarely endures.
14. The easy attainment of love makes it of little value; difficulty of attainment makes it prized.
15. Every lover regularly turns pale in the presence of his beloved.
16. When a lover suddenly catches sight of his beloved, his heart palpitates.
17. A new love puts to flight an old one.
18. Good character alone makes any man worthy of love.
19. If love diminishes, it quickly fails and rarely revives.
20. A man in love is always apprehensive.
21. Real jealousy always increases the feeling of love.
22. Jealousy, and therefore love, are increased when one suspects his beloved.
23. He whom the thought of love vexes, eats and sleeps very little.
24. Every act of a lover ends with the thought of his beloved.
25. A true lover considers nothing good except what he thinks will please his beloved.
26. Love can deny nothing to love.
27. A lover can never have enough of the solaces of his beloved.
28. A slight presumption causes a lover to suspect his beloved.
29. A man who is vexed by too much passion usually does not love.
30. A true lover is constantly and without permission possessed by the thought of his beloved.
Your assignment is as follows:
1. Write down your rule and explain it in your own words.
2. Give a modern day example using your rule. In other words, give me a scenario or anecdote using your rule.
3. In your opinion, is your rule true? Explain in at least a paragraph whether your rule applies in today's world.
*Make sure you are doing the correct number. For example, if you picked number 1 in class you have to do the assignment using rule number 1. If you do another number you will not get credit.
Assignment is due October 8 (Periods 2,4,6) and October 9 (Periods 1,3,5)
Andreas Capellanus’s Rules for Love
1. Marriage is no real excuse for not loving.
2. He who is not jealous cannot love.
3. No one can be bound by a double love.
4. It is well known that love is always increasing or decreasing.
5. That which a lover takes against the will of his beloved has no relish.
6. Boys do not love until they arrive at the age of maturity.
7. When one lover dies, a widowhood of two years is required of the survivor.
8. No one should be deprived of love without the very best of reasons.
9. No one can love unless he is impelled by the persuasion of love.
10. Love is always a stranger in the home of avarice.
11. It is not proper to love any woman whom one should be ashamed to seek to marry.
12. A true lover does not desire to embrace in love anyone except his beloved.
13. When made public, love rarely endures.
14. The easy attainment of love makes it of little value; difficulty of attainment makes it prized.
15. Every lover regularly turns pale in the presence of his beloved.
16. When a lover suddenly catches sight of his beloved, his heart palpitates.
17. A new love puts to flight an old one.
18. Good character alone makes any man worthy of love.
19. If love diminishes, it quickly fails and rarely revives.
20. A man in love is always apprehensive.
21. Real jealousy always increases the feeling of love.
22. Jealousy, and therefore love, are increased when one suspects his beloved.
23. He whom the thought of love vexes, eats and sleeps very little.
24. Every act of a lover ends with the thought of his beloved.
25. A true lover considers nothing good except what he thinks will please his beloved.
26. Love can deny nothing to love.
27. A lover can never have enough of the solaces of his beloved.
28. A slight presumption causes a lover to suspect his beloved.
29. A man who is vexed by too much passion usually does not love.
30. A true lover is constantly and without permission possessed by the thought of his beloved.
Gladiator Word of the Day
Dear students,
Please go to the following website to get any of the words you missed during the week:
www.gladiatorwordoftheday.blogspot.com
For your grade you have to have the words for Monday-Friday with the example for each word.
I will be collecting your composition notebook every Monday or Tuesday (whenever I have you).
Please go to the following website to get any of the words you missed during the week:
www.gladiatorwordoftheday.blogspot.com
For your grade you have to have the words for Monday-Friday with the example for each word.
I will be collecting your composition notebook every Monday or Tuesday (whenever I have you).
Friday, September 28, 2012
Is chivalry dead? Assignment
The code that guided knightly behavior was called chivalry or the chivalric code.
The Knight's Code of Chivalry was a moral system that stated all knights should protect others who can not protect themselves. It also included such values as: strength, discipline, loyalty, generosity and faith.
Part 1:
In your own words, answer the question: What is chivalry? or Do you think chivalry is dead?
Be honest with yourself and give some personal examples to back up your answer.
Part 2:
Interview five people by asking them the same question: What is chivalry? or Do you think chivalry is dead? You have to ask at least one family member, one teacher/coach/administrator, and three people of your choice. Make sure to include their name, age and who they are. Please write down their answer exactly as they tell you (whether they are right or wrong).
Due Tuesday, October 2 (Periods 2,4,6) and Wednesday, October 3 (Periods 1,3,5)
The Knight's Code of Chivalry was a moral system that stated all knights should protect others who can not protect themselves. It also included such values as: strength, discipline, loyalty, generosity and faith.
Part 1:
In your own words, answer the question: What is chivalry? or Do you think chivalry is dead?
Be honest with yourself and give some personal examples to back up your answer.
Part 2:
Interview five people by asking them the same question: What is chivalry? or Do you think chivalry is dead? You have to ask at least one family member, one teacher/coach/administrator, and three people of your choice. Make sure to include their name, age and who they are. Please write down their answer exactly as they tell you (whether they are right or wrong).
Due Tuesday, October 2 (Periods 2,4,6) and Wednesday, October 3 (Periods 1,3,5)
Thursday, September 27, 2012
SAT Vocabulary Assignment
Using the next set of SAT words:
Benevolent
Bias
Boisterous
Brazen
Brusque
Camaraderie
Canny
Capacious
Capitulate
Clairvoyant
Pick one of the SAT Vocabulary words, write down the word (big and clear) and add a picture that connects to the word. Please do it on paper no bigger than 8x11.
Example:
ARID with the picture of a desert
Due by October 3 (Periods 1,3,5) and October 4 (Periods 2,4,6)
Benevolent
Bias
Boisterous
Brazen
Brusque
Camaraderie
Canny
Capacious
Capitulate
Clairvoyant
Pick one of the SAT Vocabulary words, write down the word (big and clear) and add a picture that connects to the word. Please do it on paper no bigger than 8x11.
Example:
ARID with the picture of a desert
Due by October 3 (Periods 1,3,5) and October 4 (Periods 2,4,6)
Monday, September 24, 2012
Beowulf Group Assignment
Periods 2,4,6 will present their Beowulf sections on Tuesday, September 25th and Periods 1,3,5 will present on Thursday, September 27th.
**Remember there is no school on Wednesday. It is a teacher work day.
What I will be grading you on:
1. Summary of your pages -- Do you have the main points? You do not need to include every single detail.
2. Visual Aide -- A poster, video, puppet show or skit of your section is acceptable. Basically you are bringing the pages to life.
3. Deeper Meaning -- What lesson is your section trying to teach? (Example: The section on Grendel was teaching what makes something evil, which was basically Grendel killing the Danes because he was jealous and envious of them.)
*Everyone in the group should know what the section was about. If I see anyone in the group lost I will put them on the spot.
**Remember there is no school on Wednesday. It is a teacher work day.
What I will be grading you on:
1. Summary of your pages -- Do you have the main points? You do not need to include every single detail.
2. Visual Aide -- A poster, video, puppet show or skit of your section is acceptable. Basically you are bringing the pages to life.
3. Deeper Meaning -- What lesson is your section trying to teach? (Example: The section on Grendel was teaching what makes something evil, which was basically Grendel killing the Danes because he was jealous and envious of them.)
*Everyone in the group should know what the section was about. If I see anyone in the group lost I will put them on the spot.
Friday, September 14, 2012
What makes a hero or a villain?
Pick one of the following assignments to complete:
1. Write a 12 line poem describing a HERO. The poem does not have to rhyme. You can describe what the hero looks like, what qualities they have, where they come from, etc. Be creative!
AND
Write a 12 line poem describing someone/something that is EVIL. The poem does not have to rhyme. You can describe what evil looks like, what characteristics they have, etc. Be creative!
2. Write one page (front of a paper) making a connection to a hero in today's society. The hero should be someone famous/well-known. You can also connect to a movie, TV show or song that has a hero in it and describe how it connects to a hero. (Example: The Dark Knight Rises has the character of Batman that is a hero because...)
AND
Write one page making a connection to a someone/something evil in today's society. The villain should be well-known. You can also connecto to a movie, TV show or song that has a villain in it and describe how it connects to a villain. (Example: The Dark Knight Rises has the character of Bane that represents evil because ...)
The assignment is due on September 19 (Periods 2,4,6) and September 20th (Periods 1,3,5)
**Don't forget to complete your outline notes for pages 19-29 of the Literature book. The outline quiz will be this week.
1. Write a 12 line poem describing a HERO. The poem does not have to rhyme. You can describe what the hero looks like, what qualities they have, where they come from, etc. Be creative!
AND
Write a 12 line poem describing someone/something that is EVIL. The poem does not have to rhyme. You can describe what evil looks like, what characteristics they have, etc. Be creative!
2. Write one page (front of a paper) making a connection to a hero in today's society. The hero should be someone famous/well-known. You can also connect to a movie, TV show or song that has a hero in it and describe how it connects to a hero. (Example: The Dark Knight Rises has the character of Batman that is a hero because...)
AND
Write one page making a connection to a someone/something evil in today's society. The villain should be well-known. You can also connecto to a movie, TV show or song that has a villain in it and describe how it connects to a villain. (Example: The Dark Knight Rises has the character of Bane that represents evil because ...)
The assignment is due on September 19 (Periods 2,4,6) and September 20th (Periods 1,3,5)
**Don't forget to complete your outline notes for pages 19-29 of the Literature book. The outline quiz will be this week.
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Reading Plus
This week you took the placement test for Reading Plus in the computer lab.
Starting this week (September 17th) you will need to complete two sessions per week (session means Pave, Guided Reading, and Cloze Vocabulary).
Most of you should access Reading Plus through your portal, but if you have issues getting into your portal here is the way to log onto the website:
1. Go to www.readingplus.com
2. Click on login (top right corner)
3. Click on student login
4. School code is hia117
5. Class (look for Ms. Manfra and the period you have me)
6. Look for your name
7. Password will be your ID #
You must complete your two sessions between Monday to Sunday before midnight. I will give you a weekly grade on Mondays.
Two sessions = 5 points
One session = 2.5 points
*If you have any issues please let me know. (If you wait until Sunday night to do your sessions and the website goes down or you have computer issues that is not an excuse. You will still be held responsible and receive a 0 for not completing your sessions.)
Starting this week (September 17th) you will need to complete two sessions per week (session means Pave, Guided Reading, and Cloze Vocabulary).
Most of you should access Reading Plus through your portal, but if you have issues getting into your portal here is the way to log onto the website:
1. Go to www.readingplus.com
2. Click on login (top right corner)
3. Click on student login
4. School code is hia117
5. Class (look for Ms. Manfra and the period you have me)
6. Look for your name
7. Password will be your ID #
You must complete your two sessions between Monday to Sunday before midnight. I will give you a weekly grade on Mondays.
Two sessions = 5 points
One session = 2.5 points
*If you have any issues please let me know. (If you wait until Sunday night to do your sessions and the website goes down or you have computer issues that is not an excuse. You will still be held responsible and receive a 0 for not completing your sessions.)
Chevy Teacher of the Year Contest
If you think I am doing a good job please go to the following website and nominate me for the Chevy Teacher of the Year contest: http://www.southfloridahighschoolfootball.com/news-notes-a-blogs/chevy-teacher-of-the-year.html
The contest ends in January 2013 so there is plenty of time.
The contest ends in January 2013 so there is plenty of time.
Celebrate My Drive Contest
Let the celebration begin!
Enter Hialeah Gardens High School into the State Farm Celebrate My Drive sweepstakes for the chance to win a $100,000 grant. Anyone 14 years or older can vote for any high school. Teens 15-18 years that vote will also be registered for a chance to win a new car.
Online entries accepted from Sept. 10 to Sept. 15 at www.celebratemydrive.com
Enter Hialeah Gardens High School into the State Farm Celebrate My Drive sweepstakes for the chance to win a $100,000 grant. Anyone 14 years or older can vote for any high school. Teens 15-18 years that vote will also be registered for a chance to win a new car.
Online entries accepted from Sept. 10 to Sept. 15 at www.celebratemydrive.com
Monday, September 10, 2012
SAT Vocabulary Homework assignment
On a piece of construction paper or small poster (no bigger than 8x11) pick one of the SAT Vocabulary words, write down the word (big and clear) and add a picture that connects to the word.
Example:
ARID with the picture of a desert
Due September 12 (Periods 2,4,6) and September 13 (Periods 1,3,5)
Example:
ARID with the picture of a desert
Due September 12 (Periods 2,4,6) and September 13 (Periods 1,3,5)
Reality Check
Dear College Prep students,
We are going into the fourth week of school and some of you are already failing this nine weeks. Ladies and gentleman, it is your responsibility to complete your assignments and turn them in on time. I explain the assignments in class, I post them to the blog, if you have questions I am here to answer them, I have given you time in class to work on projects -- there is no reason for excuses!
You are seniors and most of you want to graduate come June 2013, but that is not going to happen if you continue on the path you are on.
**This week we are starting with British Literature -- Beowulf. You should be finishing up with your outlines of pages 19-29. If you need to work on your outline at home you can get access to the textbook at classzone.com and put in the code Student Text 12th - 4696215-50.
**SAT/ACT Questions of the Day are due by Friday every week. You can either turn them in on paper or email them.
**Open House is on Wednesday, September 12th at 7pm. I hope your parents can make it.
We are going into the fourth week of school and some of you are already failing this nine weeks. Ladies and gentleman, it is your responsibility to complete your assignments and turn them in on time. I explain the assignments in class, I post them to the blog, if you have questions I am here to answer them, I have given you time in class to work on projects -- there is no reason for excuses!
You are seniors and most of you want to graduate come June 2013, but that is not going to happen if you continue on the path you are on.
**This week we are starting with British Literature -- Beowulf. You should be finishing up with your outlines of pages 19-29. If you need to work on your outline at home you can get access to the textbook at classzone.com and put in the code Student Text 12th - 4696215-50.
**SAT/ACT Questions of the Day are due by Friday every week. You can either turn them in on paper or email them.
**Open House is on Wednesday, September 12th at 7pm. I hope your parents can make it.
Monday, August 27, 2012
Updates
Due to school not being open on Monday, Tuesday's schedule will be a 2,4,6 day.
*I will collect your essay assignment (rough and final draft). If there are any issues I will only except late essays by Wednesday. After Wednesday it goes in as a zero -- no excuses! This goes for all my classes.
*Thursday and Friday Summer Reading essays are also due. No summer reading will be accepted after Friday.
**Questions of the Day starts this week! I am changing things a little. I discovered that ACT has a question of the day as well. So instead of doing two (2) SAT Questions of the day per week I want you to do one (1) SAT Question of the Day and one (1) ACT Question of the day. The links to get to these questions are on the left-hand side of the blog under "Important Links." Remember you can either hand write them (write the full question, your answer and whether you got it right or wrong), print it out, or email it to me (my email is cmanfra@dadeschools.net).
Hope everyone weathered Tropical Storm Isaac and that you are taking advantage of the extra day off to complete assignments for your classes.
See you tomorrow!
*I will collect your essay assignment (rough and final draft). If there are any issues I will only except late essays by Wednesday. After Wednesday it goes in as a zero -- no excuses! This goes for all my classes.
*Thursday and Friday Summer Reading essays are also due. No summer reading will be accepted after Friday.
**Questions of the Day starts this week! I am changing things a little. I discovered that ACT has a question of the day as well. So instead of doing two (2) SAT Questions of the day per week I want you to do one (1) SAT Question of the Day and one (1) ACT Question of the day. The links to get to these questions are on the left-hand side of the blog under "Important Links." Remember you can either hand write them (write the full question, your answer and whether you got it right or wrong), print it out, or email it to me (my email is cmanfra@dadeschools.net).
Hope everyone weathered Tropical Storm Isaac and that you are taking advantage of the extra day off to complete assignments for your classes.
See you tomorrow!
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
College Research Project
Part 1: Select a college/university from list on pages 58-64 in the Next Magazine
Part 2: Begin research by going to the school's website
Part 3: Create a Powerpoint or poster
Include the following information:
Slide 1 – Name of school, picture, and location
Slide 2 – Cost to attend school (tuition, room and board, meal plans, etc.)
Slide 3 – Programs of study (Majors, programs, etc.)
Slide 4 – Admission requirements (GPA, test scores, community service, etc.)
Slide 5 – Enrollment (student to teacher ratio)
Slide 6 – Extracurricular (athletic programs, sororities/fraternities, organizations)
Slide 7 – Ratings (example: Has it been rated as a top school for academics or a party school?)
Slide 8 – Would you recommend applying?
Slide 9 – Interesting info, school mascot, video, comments
Slide 10 – Works cited (websites, books or magazines used to obtain information)
Part 4: Presentation
Have project ready to present on September 5 (Periods 2,4,6) and September 6 (Periods 1,3,5)
Serious points will be deducted for late projects!
Part 2: Begin research by going to the school's website
Part 3: Create a Powerpoint or poster
Include the following information:
Slide 1 – Name of school, picture, and location
Slide 2 – Cost to attend school (tuition, room and board, meal plans, etc.)
Slide 3 – Programs of study (Majors, programs, etc.)
Slide 4 – Admission requirements (GPA, test scores, community service, etc.)
Slide 5 – Enrollment (student to teacher ratio)
Slide 6 – Extracurricular (athletic programs, sororities/fraternities, organizations)
Slide 7 – Ratings (example: Has it been rated as a top school for academics or a party school?)
Slide 8 – Would you recommend applying?
Slide 9 – Interesting info, school mascot, video, comments
Slide 10 – Works cited (websites, books or magazines used to obtain information)
Part 4: Presentation
Have project ready to present on September 5 (Periods 2,4,6) and September 6 (Periods 1,3,5)
Serious points will be deducted for late projects!
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Summer Reading Assignment
You will address the following paragraphs and put them into essay format based on the book that you read:
Paragraph 1 – Introduction/general information about the book, include “Title”, Author, type of book (fantasy, humor, mystery, non-fiction, etc.)
Paragraph 2 – Main Character. Describe the character. Answer these 3 questions:
1. The main character changes from ____ to ____ by the end of the story.
2. The main character does the right thing when...
3. I can identify with the character when…or I couldn’t identify with the character because …
Paragraph 3 – Other Characters. List 2 other characters, include similar details.
Paragraph 4 – Setting. Describe the time and place of the story. Include comments about the setting - examples: setting enhances the novel because it highlights character’s feelings, makes story exciting, setting has an important effect on the main character, setting increased my knowledge about something.
Paragraph 5 – Theme. What is the author trying to say in this story? What is his or her lesson in life? Is there a moral to this story? This is a story about ____ (examples: courage, working hard, doing the right thing, greed, love, sadness, etc.). What did you learn from this book? State a problem in the story and how it was solved.
Paragraph 6 – Plot: The Action/Summary of what happened in the story. List up to six events that happened in the story, keep them in order.
Paragraph 7 – Evaluation of the Book. Answer these questions:
1. How did the book enhance/expand your knowledge?
2. What did you like and not like about the book?
3. Was the story confusing or hard to believe?
4. Was it predictable? Realistic?
5. The ending was _____.
Paragraph 1 – Introduction/general information about the book, include “Title”, Author, type of book (fantasy, humor, mystery, non-fiction, etc.)
Paragraph 2 – Main Character. Describe the character. Answer these 3 questions:
1. The main character changes from ____ to ____ by the end of the story.
2. The main character does the right thing when...
3. I can identify with the character when…or I couldn’t identify with the character because …
Paragraph 3 – Other Characters. List 2 other characters, include similar details.
Paragraph 4 – Setting. Describe the time and place of the story. Include comments about the setting - examples: setting enhances the novel because it highlights character’s feelings, makes story exciting, setting has an important effect on the main character, setting increased my knowledge about something.
Paragraph 5 – Theme. What is the author trying to say in this story? What is his or her lesson in life? Is there a moral to this story? This is a story about ____ (examples: courage, working hard, doing the right thing, greed, love, sadness, etc.). What did you learn from this book? State a problem in the story and how it was solved.
Paragraph 6 – Plot: The Action/Summary of what happened in the story. List up to six events that happened in the story, keep them in order.
Paragraph 7 – Evaluation of the Book. Answer these questions:
1. How did the book enhance/expand your knowledge?
2. What did you like and not like about the book?
3. Was the story confusing or hard to believe?
4. Was it predictable? Realistic?
5. The ending was _____.
Beginning of school essay assignment
Select and write an essay of 250 – 500 words on one of the topics listed below:
• Evaluate a significant experience, achievement, risk you have taken, or ethical dilemma you have faced and its impact on you.
• Discuss some issue of personal, local, national, or international concern and its importance to you.
• Indicate a person who has had a significant influence on you and describe that influence.
• Describe a character in fiction, a historical figure, or a creative work (as in art, music, science, etc.) that has had an influence on you and explain that influence.
• A range of academic interests, personal perspectives, and life experiences adds much to the educational mix. Given your personal background, describe an experience that illustrates what you would bring to the diversity in a college community or an encounter that demonstrated the importance of diversity to you.
Rough draft and final draft (typed) are due on August 28 (periods 1,3,5) and August 29 (periods 2,4,6)
Requirements:
1. Rough draft should demonstrate editing was done.
2. Final draft must be typed, 12 point font, double spaced and include word count below your heading (name, date, period, in right hand corner)
*No title is needed
*No pictures or graphics
• Evaluate a significant experience, achievement, risk you have taken, or ethical dilemma you have faced and its impact on you.
• Discuss some issue of personal, local, national, or international concern and its importance to you.
• Indicate a person who has had a significant influence on you and describe that influence.
• Describe a character in fiction, a historical figure, or a creative work (as in art, music, science, etc.) that has had an influence on you and explain that influence.
• A range of academic interests, personal perspectives, and life experiences adds much to the educational mix. Given your personal background, describe an experience that illustrates what you would bring to the diversity in a college community or an encounter that demonstrated the importance of diversity to you.
Rough draft and final draft (typed) are due on August 28 (periods 1,3,5) and August 29 (periods 2,4,6)
Requirements:
1. Rough draft should demonstrate editing was done.
2. Final draft must be typed, 12 point font, double spaced and include word count below your heading (name, date, period, in right hand corner)
*No title is needed
*No pictures or graphics
Sunday, August 19, 2012
Welcome back class of 2013!
Are you ready?
This is a question I will be asking you throughout the year and even though it seems very simple it is a lot more complex when you start to really think about it.
If you are not sure then it is my job to make sure you are ready to enter college or the workforce.
This is College Prep English and we will be focusing on the next chapter of your life -- "the real world."
To put it simply, entering the real world means becoming a productive member of society.
I will be preparing you to take the PERT, SAT, and ACT tests as well as apply to college or complete a resume and prepare to apply to jobs.
I look forward to guiding you through your senior year and to see all of you graduate and move on to the next chapter in your lives.
Here is a video to get you ready for your "Senior Year."
This is a question I will be asking you throughout the year and even though it seems very simple it is a lot more complex when you start to really think about it.
If you are not sure then it is my job to make sure you are ready to enter college or the workforce.
This is College Prep English and we will be focusing on the next chapter of your life -- "the real world."
To put it simply, entering the real world means becoming a productive member of society.
I will be preparing you to take the PERT, SAT, and ACT tests as well as apply to college or complete a resume and prepare to apply to jobs.
I look forward to guiding you through your senior year and to see all of you graduate and move on to the next chapter in your lives.
Here is a video to get you ready for your "Senior Year."
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Summer Plans
Dear students,
This 2011-2012 school year was a memorable one. I hope that you all learned something in my class. ;)
As you move onto your senior year I hope you are beginning to plan for college, which includes filling out applications, applying for financial aid, scholarships, etc. Many of you have taken the SAT or ACT at least once and might need to take them again to improve your score.
I would like to offer my services this summer if any of you need it.
If any of you need help with your applications please don't be afraid to contact me.
I am also available if you need any tutoring for the SAT or ACT.
You can send me an email at cmanfra@dadeschools.net
** You will also be responsible for completing Summer Reading. Please refer to the list below:
Bedford, Martyn. Flip. ISBN: 978-0-385-73990-0
Alex is not expecting to wake up in someone else's body, and doesn't know how to convince his "new” family that he is not their son Phillip (Flip). He discovers that he and Flip have switched souls, but what happened to his original body and is there a way back home?
Condie, Ally. Matched. ISBN: 9780525423645
Cassia looks forward to her matching ceremony where the Society will reveal the man she will marry. Her match seems perfect until a computer error causes Cassia to question the trust she has in the Society's choice for her as well as the other aspects of life and death that are controlled by them.
de la Pena, Matt. I Will Save You. ISBN: 9780385738279
Kidd has run away from a group home and his past. He finds a job at the beach and meets rich girl Olivia. Devon has a death wish and follows Kidd to the beach; Devon's not leaving until he teaches Kidd some lessons about life, and about Olivia.
Flinn, Alex. Cloaked. ISBN: 978-0-06-087422-3
From being an average teenager working at his family's shoe repair shop in the South Beach area of Miami, Johnny is all pulled into a fairytale world. He meets talking animals, giants, witches, a princess, a prince, and the girl of his dreams. Based on several obscure fairytales, Johnny's travels take him from Miami to the Florida Keys, to Europe, and Manhattan as he tries to do what is right while he saves the day.
Grennan, Conor. Little Princes: One Man's Promise to Bring Home the Lost Children of Nepal.
ISBN: 978-0-06-193005-8
Conor Grennan takes a year-long trip around the world with plans to volunteer for three months at an orphanage in Nepal. At first he is surprised to find that he really cares about the children. Then he figures out that they are not really orphans, but instead children who have been stolen from their homes. Conor makes it his mission to reunite the children with their families.
Hautman, Pete. Blank Confession. ISBN: 9781416913276
Detective Rawls is going to be late for dinner. Sixteen-year-old Shane Blank has just calmly walked into the police station and said he killed someone. Shane won't get to the point though. Who? Where? So, the detective must listen as Shane tells his confession, but is that the whole story? Mikey, Shane's unusual friend, also has a suspenseful story to tell about drug dealing, bullies, the killing, and a high school superhero.
Herbach, Geoff. Stupid Fast. ISBN: 978-1-40225-630-1
Felton Reinstein's sudden growth spurt transforms him from a geeky loner into a popular athlete--strong, fast and stupid. Dazed and confused, Felton is busy with his new friends, sports, and beautiful girlfriend. Meanwhile, his younger brother is obsessed with their father's suicide, and his mother is sliding into mental illness. Can Felton get smart in time to save his family?
Johnson, Maureen. The Name of the Star. ISBN: 9780399256608
Rory is from rural Louisiana and is very different from her peers at their London boarding school. Her main issues include having to play field hockey and avoiding Charlotte, the head girl, until a series of gruesome murders makes headlines for copying the Jack the Ripper crimes from over a century ago. Her school is located in the middle of the Ripper's territory and Rory is the only one who has seen the killer. She wants to help the police, but how do you catch a murderer who is a ghost?
King, A. S. Please Ignore Vera Dietz. ISBN: 9780375965869
Vera has kept her best friend Charlie's secrets for years; she secretly loves him. Charlie betrays Vera then dies under mysterious circumstances. Will Charlie quit haunting Vera as she tries to grow up and make the best of the mess that is her life? Will Vera share the secrets that will clear Charlie's name?
Maberry, Jonathon. Rot & Ruin. ISBN: 978-1-44240-232-4
Newly apprenticed zombie hunter, Benny Imura, discovers that love and life aren't always what they seem while on an adventure with a super hot "wild" girl, the girl next door, and his loser older brother. Fighting through valleys of zoms, tracking several rogue zombie hunters, and experiencing his first kiss make Benny's first few weeks on the job unforgettable.
Matson, Morgan. Amy & Roger's Epic Detour. ISBN: 978-1-41699-065-9
After the death of her father Amy must travel to a new city. As Amy and Roger travel across the country from California to Connecticut trying to pick up the pieces of their lives, their road trip ends up being a series of detours. As they travel from place to place and meet a series of other characters they learn more about each other which leads to discovering more about themselves.
Nelson, Blake. Recovery Road. ISBN: 978-0-545-10729-7
While in a rehabilitation facility for drug and alcohol abuse, Maddie meets Stewart, who is also in treatment. While there, they fall in love. Once released, Maddie tries to rebuild her life, but Stewart struggles with staying sober. In the end Maddie has to decide what she really wants from life.
Resau, Laura. The Queen of Water. ISBN: 978-0-385-73897-2
When Virginia is taken from her poor farming village in Equador to work as a servant for an upper-class family, she dreams of getting an education and a new life. However, the opportunity is not what it seems, as she is treated like a slave and has to study in secret as she struggles to find her place in the world. Based on a true story.
Revis, Beth. Across the Universe. New York, Razorbill, 2011. ISBN: 9781595143976
Amy and her parents are cryogenically frozen for their 301-year journey on the ship Godspeed to start life on a new planet. Something goes wrong and Amy is "unplugged" early. Elder has been raised on the ship and he will one day take over leadership of the crew and the important mission of getting the frozen colonists to the new world. Amy and Elder must unravel the mystery before her parents and others are left to thaw and die.
Roth, Veronica. Divergent. ISBN: 978-0-06-202402-2
In this dystopian society, each person is forced to join one of five factions, determined by taking a personality test. Sixteen year old Beatrice "Tris" Prior chooses the physically daring Dauntless faction, and embarks on a gruelling initiation reminiscent of "The Hunger Games." Meanwhile, Tris must keep secret that she is actually a Divergent, a misfit, who would be targeted for death by the dangerous ruling class.
HGHS Award Winners
Byrne, Rhonda. The Secret ISBN 978-1582701707
In this book, you'll learn how to use The Secret in every aspect of your life -- money, health, relationships, happiness, and in every interaction you have in the world. You'll begin to understand the hidden, untapped power that's within you, and this revelation can bring joy to every aspect of your life.
Collins, Suzanne. Catching Fire ISBN: 978-0439023498
Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has won the annual Hunger Games with fellow district tribute Peeta Mellark. But it was a victory won by defiance of the Capitol and their harsh rules. Katniss and Peeta should be happy. After all, they have just won for themselves and their families a life of safety and plenty. But there are rumors of rebellion among the subjects, and Katniss and Peeta, to their horror, are the faces of that rebellion. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge.
Collins, Suzanne. Mockingjay ISBN: 978-0439023511
Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has survived the Hunger Games twice. But now that she's made it out of the bloody arena alive, she's still not safe. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge. Who do they think should pay for the unrest? Katniss. And what's worse, President Snow has made it clear that no one else is safe either. Powerful and haunting, this thrilling final installment of Suzanne Collins's groundbreaking The Hunger Games trilogy promises to be one of the most talked about books of the year.
Kurson Robert. Shadow Divers ISBN 978-0345482471
For John Chatterton and Richie Kohler, deep wreck diving was more than a sport. But in the fall of 1991, not even these courageous divers were prepared for what they found 230 feet below the surface, in the frigid Atlantic waters sixty miles off the coast of New Jersey: a World War II German U-boat, its ruined interior a macabre wasteland of twisted metal, tangled wires, and human bones–all buried under decades of accumulated sediment.
School Starts August 20th! Have a fun and restful summer.
This 2011-2012 school year was a memorable one. I hope that you all learned something in my class. ;)
As you move onto your senior year I hope you are beginning to plan for college, which includes filling out applications, applying for financial aid, scholarships, etc. Many of you have taken the SAT or ACT at least once and might need to take them again to improve your score.
I would like to offer my services this summer if any of you need it.
If any of you need help with your applications please don't be afraid to contact me.
I am also available if you need any tutoring for the SAT or ACT.
You can send me an email at cmanfra@dadeschools.net
** You will also be responsible for completing Summer Reading. Please refer to the list below:
Bedford, Martyn. Flip. ISBN: 978-0-385-73990-0
Alex is not expecting to wake up in someone else's body, and doesn't know how to convince his "new” family that he is not their son Phillip (Flip). He discovers that he and Flip have switched souls, but what happened to his original body and is there a way back home?
Condie, Ally. Matched. ISBN: 9780525423645
Cassia looks forward to her matching ceremony where the Society will reveal the man she will marry. Her match seems perfect until a computer error causes Cassia to question the trust she has in the Society's choice for her as well as the other aspects of life and death that are controlled by them.
de la Pena, Matt. I Will Save You. ISBN: 9780385738279
Kidd has run away from a group home and his past. He finds a job at the beach and meets rich girl Olivia. Devon has a death wish and follows Kidd to the beach; Devon's not leaving until he teaches Kidd some lessons about life, and about Olivia.
Flinn, Alex. Cloaked. ISBN: 978-0-06-087422-3
From being an average teenager working at his family's shoe repair shop in the South Beach area of Miami, Johnny is all pulled into a fairytale world. He meets talking animals, giants, witches, a princess, a prince, and the girl of his dreams. Based on several obscure fairytales, Johnny's travels take him from Miami to the Florida Keys, to Europe, and Manhattan as he tries to do what is right while he saves the day.
Grennan, Conor. Little Princes: One Man's Promise to Bring Home the Lost Children of Nepal.
ISBN: 978-0-06-193005-8
Conor Grennan takes a year-long trip around the world with plans to volunteer for three months at an orphanage in Nepal. At first he is surprised to find that he really cares about the children. Then he figures out that they are not really orphans, but instead children who have been stolen from their homes. Conor makes it his mission to reunite the children with their families.
Hautman, Pete. Blank Confession. ISBN: 9781416913276
Detective Rawls is going to be late for dinner. Sixteen-year-old Shane Blank has just calmly walked into the police station and said he killed someone. Shane won't get to the point though. Who? Where? So, the detective must listen as Shane tells his confession, but is that the whole story? Mikey, Shane's unusual friend, also has a suspenseful story to tell about drug dealing, bullies, the killing, and a high school superhero.
Herbach, Geoff. Stupid Fast. ISBN: 978-1-40225-630-1
Felton Reinstein's sudden growth spurt transforms him from a geeky loner into a popular athlete--strong, fast and stupid. Dazed and confused, Felton is busy with his new friends, sports, and beautiful girlfriend. Meanwhile, his younger brother is obsessed with their father's suicide, and his mother is sliding into mental illness. Can Felton get smart in time to save his family?
Johnson, Maureen. The Name of the Star. ISBN: 9780399256608
Rory is from rural Louisiana and is very different from her peers at their London boarding school. Her main issues include having to play field hockey and avoiding Charlotte, the head girl, until a series of gruesome murders makes headlines for copying the Jack the Ripper crimes from over a century ago. Her school is located in the middle of the Ripper's territory and Rory is the only one who has seen the killer. She wants to help the police, but how do you catch a murderer who is a ghost?
King, A. S. Please Ignore Vera Dietz. ISBN: 9780375965869
Vera has kept her best friend Charlie's secrets for years; she secretly loves him. Charlie betrays Vera then dies under mysterious circumstances. Will Charlie quit haunting Vera as she tries to grow up and make the best of the mess that is her life? Will Vera share the secrets that will clear Charlie's name?
Maberry, Jonathon. Rot & Ruin. ISBN: 978-1-44240-232-4
Newly apprenticed zombie hunter, Benny Imura, discovers that love and life aren't always what they seem while on an adventure with a super hot "wild" girl, the girl next door, and his loser older brother. Fighting through valleys of zoms, tracking several rogue zombie hunters, and experiencing his first kiss make Benny's first few weeks on the job unforgettable.
Matson, Morgan. Amy & Roger's Epic Detour. ISBN: 978-1-41699-065-9
After the death of her father Amy must travel to a new city. As Amy and Roger travel across the country from California to Connecticut trying to pick up the pieces of their lives, their road trip ends up being a series of detours. As they travel from place to place and meet a series of other characters they learn more about each other which leads to discovering more about themselves.
Nelson, Blake. Recovery Road. ISBN: 978-0-545-10729-7
While in a rehabilitation facility for drug and alcohol abuse, Maddie meets Stewart, who is also in treatment. While there, they fall in love. Once released, Maddie tries to rebuild her life, but Stewart struggles with staying sober. In the end Maddie has to decide what she really wants from life.
Resau, Laura. The Queen of Water. ISBN: 978-0-385-73897-2
When Virginia is taken from her poor farming village in Equador to work as a servant for an upper-class family, she dreams of getting an education and a new life. However, the opportunity is not what it seems, as she is treated like a slave and has to study in secret as she struggles to find her place in the world. Based on a true story.
Revis, Beth. Across the Universe. New York, Razorbill, 2011. ISBN: 9781595143976
Amy and her parents are cryogenically frozen for their 301-year journey on the ship Godspeed to start life on a new planet. Something goes wrong and Amy is "unplugged" early. Elder has been raised on the ship and he will one day take over leadership of the crew and the important mission of getting the frozen colonists to the new world. Amy and Elder must unravel the mystery before her parents and others are left to thaw and die.
Roth, Veronica. Divergent. ISBN: 978-0-06-202402-2
In this dystopian society, each person is forced to join one of five factions, determined by taking a personality test. Sixteen year old Beatrice "Tris" Prior chooses the physically daring Dauntless faction, and embarks on a gruelling initiation reminiscent of "The Hunger Games." Meanwhile, Tris must keep secret that she is actually a Divergent, a misfit, who would be targeted for death by the dangerous ruling class.
HGHS Award Winners
Byrne, Rhonda. The Secret ISBN 978-1582701707
In this book, you'll learn how to use The Secret in every aspect of your life -- money, health, relationships, happiness, and in every interaction you have in the world. You'll begin to understand the hidden, untapped power that's within you, and this revelation can bring joy to every aspect of your life.
Collins, Suzanne. Catching Fire ISBN: 978-0439023498
Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has won the annual Hunger Games with fellow district tribute Peeta Mellark. But it was a victory won by defiance of the Capitol and their harsh rules. Katniss and Peeta should be happy. After all, they have just won for themselves and their families a life of safety and plenty. But there are rumors of rebellion among the subjects, and Katniss and Peeta, to their horror, are the faces of that rebellion. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge.
Collins, Suzanne. Mockingjay ISBN: 978-0439023511
Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has survived the Hunger Games twice. But now that she's made it out of the bloody arena alive, she's still not safe. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge. Who do they think should pay for the unrest? Katniss. And what's worse, President Snow has made it clear that no one else is safe either. Powerful and haunting, this thrilling final installment of Suzanne Collins's groundbreaking The Hunger Games trilogy promises to be one of the most talked about books of the year.
Kurson Robert. Shadow Divers ISBN 978-0345482471
For John Chatterton and Richie Kohler, deep wreck diving was more than a sport. But in the fall of 1991, not even these courageous divers were prepared for what they found 230 feet below the surface, in the frigid Atlantic waters sixty miles off the coast of New Jersey: a World War II German U-boat, its ruined interior a macabre wasteland of twisted metal, tangled wires, and human bones–all buried under decades of accumulated sediment.
School Starts August 20th! Have a fun and restful summer.
Monday, June 4, 2012
Senior Pictures
Class of 2013 -- It is your time to take your senior pictures.
Go to www.foxmar.com/session to make an appointment or call one of their offices:
Miami Lakes 305-558-6891
Kendall 305-596-1750
Broward 954-653-1700
Go to www.foxmar.com/session to make an appointment or call one of their offices:
Miami Lakes 305-558-6891
Kendall 305-596-1750
Broward 954-653-1700
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Textbooks
The following students still need to return their textbooks (otherwise you will get a financial obligation):
Gisselle Sequiera
Mara Chamorro
Nathalie Arencibia
Ernesto Barrientos
Amanda Diaz
Gisselle Sequiera
Mara Chamorro
Nathalie Arencibia
Ernesto Barrientos
Amanda Diaz
Monday, May 21, 2012
Resumes
Resumes are due May 22 (periods 1,3,5) and May 23 (periods 2,4,6)
They need to be typed and only one page long.
Make sure they include the following secionts:
Name and Contact Information
Objective (name the position you are applying for a make a general statement of what you are looking for)
Education (HGHS and GPA)
Skills
Work Experience (if none leave it blank or you can include volunteer experience instead)
Achievements (only awards you have received in high school)
Interests/Activities (hobbies or extracurricular activities)
They need to be typed and only one page long.
Make sure they include the following secionts:
Name and Contact Information
Objective (name the position you are applying for a make a general statement of what you are looking for)
Education (HGHS and GPA)
Skills
Work Experience (if none leave it blank or you can include volunteer experience instead)
Achievements (only awards you have received in high school)
Interests/Activities (hobbies or extracurricular activities)
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Mother's Day Assignment
Mother's Day is May 13th, and as a mother myself, I know it means a lot to get something that was handmade by your children.
You have the option to either create a card or placemat incorporating the following requirements:
1. A Quote -- The quote you find should represent your mother or be inspirational in some way. (1 point)
2. Favorite Memory -- You will write about a memory you have of your mother (could be typed if your handwriting is not that great). (2 points)
3. Picture -- The picture can be of you with her or just you or just her. (2 points)
4. Her name -- Place her name somewhere on the placemat. (1 points)
5. Creativity -- This is where your use of supplies, and the above components will come into play. (2 points)
The assignment is worth a total of 8 points and needs to be shown to me before you leave Friday, May 11th.
*If you would rather create the placemat for another female figure in your life that is fine. For example, you can make one for your grandmother, aunt, godmother, etc.
You have the option to either create a card or placemat incorporating the following requirements:
1. A Quote -- The quote you find should represent your mother or be inspirational in some way. (1 point)
2. Favorite Memory -- You will write about a memory you have of your mother (could be typed if your handwriting is not that great). (2 points)
3. Picture -- The picture can be of you with her or just you or just her. (2 points)
4. Her name -- Place her name somewhere on the placemat. (1 points)
5. Creativity -- This is where your use of supplies, and the above components will come into play. (2 points)
The assignment is worth a total of 8 points and needs to be shown to me before you leave Friday, May 11th.
*If you would rather create the placemat for another female figure in your life that is fine. For example, you can make one for your grandmother, aunt, godmother, etc.
Nominate a Spectacular Teacher
Recognize a special teacher by going to the following link and filling out the information. Just for nominating someone you will receive a coupon for a free Pollo Tropical Tropichop.
http://www.pollotropical.com/nta.aspx
You can nominate an educator from now until May 31st.
(I would appreciate it.) ;)
http://www.pollotropical.com/nta.aspx
You can nominate an educator from now until May 31st.
(I would appreciate it.) ;)
Friday, May 4, 2012
SAT Essay Topics
Here are the 3 essay prompts that you did in class (or if you were absent you can now make-up the rough draft).
Remember I will be collecting the final draft of one of these essays and you will be attaching all three rough drafts.
Prompt 1:
If we are afraid to reveal our lack of knowledge we will not be able to learn. In order to make progress we must admit where we are now. Such an admission of ignorance is not easy. As Thoreau says, “How can we remember our ignorance which our growth requires, when we are using our knowledge all the time?”
Assignment:
Does the present system of education encourage us to admit our lack of knowledge, or is there too much pressure to demonstrate the acquisition of knowledge? Plan your response, and then write an essay...
Prompt 2:
Many societies believe that the pursuit of happiness is a fundamental human right. But it is also true that attainment of happiness remains elusive. Perhaps Bertrand Russell had it right when he said, “To be without some of the things you want is an indispensable part of happiness.”
Assignment:
What gives us more pleasure and satisfaction: the pursuit of our desires or the attainment of them? Plan your response, and then write an essay...
Prompt 3:
There is usually a kernel of truth in the words Oscar Wilde puts in the mouth of his most outrageous characters – they wouldn’t be funny otherwise. One such gem that is worth pondering is: The only thing to do with good advice is to pass it on. It is never of any use to oneself.
Assignment:
Is it true that when we most need advice we are least willing to listen to it? Or is good advice always welcome? Plan your response, and then write an essay...
This is a major grade so do not procrastinate!
Final Drafts are due typed (12 pt font), double spaced by May 14th (Periods 1,3,5) or May 15th (Periods 2,4,6)
Remember I will be collecting the final draft of one of these essays and you will be attaching all three rough drafts.
Prompt 1:
If we are afraid to reveal our lack of knowledge we will not be able to learn. In order to make progress we must admit where we are now. Such an admission of ignorance is not easy. As Thoreau says, “How can we remember our ignorance which our growth requires, when we are using our knowledge all the time?”
Assignment:
Does the present system of education encourage us to admit our lack of knowledge, or is there too much pressure to demonstrate the acquisition of knowledge? Plan your response, and then write an essay...
Prompt 2:
Many societies believe that the pursuit of happiness is a fundamental human right. But it is also true that attainment of happiness remains elusive. Perhaps Bertrand Russell had it right when he said, “To be without some of the things you want is an indispensable part of happiness.”
Assignment:
What gives us more pleasure and satisfaction: the pursuit of our desires or the attainment of them? Plan your response, and then write an essay...
Prompt 3:
There is usually a kernel of truth in the words Oscar Wilde puts in the mouth of his most outrageous characters – they wouldn’t be funny otherwise. One such gem that is worth pondering is: The only thing to do with good advice is to pass it on. It is never of any use to oneself.
Assignment:
Is it true that when we most need advice we are least willing to listen to it? Or is good advice always welcome? Plan your response, and then write an essay...
This is a major grade so do not procrastinate!
Final Drafts are due typed (12 pt font), double spaced by May 14th (Periods 1,3,5) or May 15th (Periods 2,4,6)
Friday, April 27, 2012
Teacher Appreciation Letter
This first week of May we will be working on creating Teacher Appreciation cards. You can bring materials to class in order to complete the assignment (i.e. construction paper, markers, glitter, etc.)
Cards are due to me by May 4th.
You need to have the following components on your Teacher Appreciation card:
1. On the front of the card you need a quote that deals with teachers.
For example: "A good teacher is like a candle -- it consumes itself to light the way for others." ~Unknown
2. On the inside of the card write a personal message to the teacher. Include favorite moments from their class or something that makes them stand out. (Be Specific!)
3. On the back of the card make sure to put your name (first and last).
4. Decorate your card. Include pictures, clipart or images that reflect what teachers do or things that remind you of that teacher.
For example: If you are sending a card to your science teacher then you might want to include images of microscopes or beakers.
Cards are due to me by May 4th.
You need to have the following components on your Teacher Appreciation card:
1. On the front of the card you need a quote that deals with teachers.
For example: "A good teacher is like a candle -- it consumes itself to light the way for others." ~Unknown
2. On the inside of the card write a personal message to the teacher. Include favorite moments from their class or something that makes them stand out. (Be Specific!)
3. On the back of the card make sure to put your name (first and last).
4. Decorate your card. Include pictures, clipart or images that reflect what teachers do or things that remind you of that teacher.
For example: If you are sending a card to your science teacher then you might want to include images of microscopes or beakers.
Friday, April 20, 2012
Reminders!!
Dear students,
I will not be accepting any late Science Fiction assignments after Friday at midnight. You can email the assignment to me. If you were absent that is no excuse to not turn in the assignment. You had over two weeks to get the assignment done. It is your responsibility to meet deadlines. This is an Honors class and you are getting an Honors credit for it.
Also, make sure to send your SAT Question of the Day (by Friday before midnight) and Reading Plus needs to be completed by Sunday. Remember we only have one week left of Reading Plus.
Open Mic Day is this Thursday, April 26th and I need to know what poem you will be reading. It needs to be at least 12 lines long. It can be from the Internet, from the textbook or something you have written. You do not have to memorize it.
*I will give extra points to students who memorize it or to students who go above and beyond (examples: sing a song, bring the poem to life with props)
I will not be accepting any late Science Fiction assignments after Friday at midnight. You can email the assignment to me. If you were absent that is no excuse to not turn in the assignment. You had over two weeks to get the assignment done. It is your responsibility to meet deadlines. This is an Honors class and you are getting an Honors credit for it.
Also, make sure to send your SAT Question of the Day (by Friday before midnight) and Reading Plus needs to be completed by Sunday. Remember we only have one week left of Reading Plus.
Open Mic Day is this Thursday, April 26th and I need to know what poem you will be reading. It needs to be at least 12 lines long. It can be from the Internet, from the textbook or something you have written. You do not have to memorize it.
*I will give extra points to students who memorize it or to students who go above and beyond (examples: sing a song, bring the poem to life with props)
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Earth Day Moment
In honor of Earth Day, April 22nd, I would like you to complete one of the following activities:
1. Take a picture of yourself either appreciating nature or doing something to help save the planet (i.e. recycling or picking up trash)
Please include a short paragraph explaining the picture.
OR
2. Write five things that you could do to help preserve the planet. Explain whether you currently do any of those things.
OR
3. Write a poem expressing your thoughts about the Earth. (At least 12 lines, you can write 3 haikus if you want)
The assignment is due by April 30th (all classes).
Here is a video to help inspire you -- "What a Wonderful World"
1. Take a picture of yourself either appreciating nature or doing something to help save the planet (i.e. recycling or picking up trash)
Please include a short paragraph explaining the picture.
OR
2. Write five things that you could do to help preserve the planet. Explain whether you currently do any of those things.
OR
3. Write a poem expressing your thoughts about the Earth. (At least 12 lines, you can write 3 haikus if you want)
The assignment is due by April 30th (all classes).
Here is a video to help inspire you -- "What a Wonderful World"
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Science Fiction Movie Assignment
Science Fiction Movie Review
Escape from New York (1981)
Blade Runner (1982)
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
The Dead Zone (1983)
2010 (1984)
Firestarter (1984)
Nineteen Eighty-Four (1984)
Runaway (1984)
Starman (1984)
The Terminator (1984)
Cocoon (1985)
My Science Project (1985)
Real Genius (1985)
Aliens (1986)
Flight of the Navigator (1986)
Short Circuit (1986)
Batteries not included (1987)
Innerspace (1987)
Project X (1987)
The Running Man (1987)
They Live (1988)
The Abyss (1989)
Millenium (1989)
Total Recall (1990)
Flatliners (1990)
The Rocketeer (1991)
The Lawnmower Man (1992)
Universal Soldier (1992)
Demolition Man (1993)
Fire in the Sky (1993)
Jurassic Park (1993)
Stargate (1994)
Timecop (1994)
Congo (1995)
Outbreak (1995)
12 Monkeys (1995)
Independence Day (1996)
Contact (1997)
Gattaca (1997)
The Faculty (1998)
Sphere (1998)
The X-Files (1998)
The Astronaut’s Wife (1999)
Bicentennial Man (1999)
The Matrix (1999)
The 6th Day (2000)
Hollow Man (2000)
Pitch Black (2000)
X-Men (2000)
K-Pax (2001)
Vanilla Sky (2001)
Minority Report (2002)
The Time Machine (2002)
Paycheck (2003)
Timeline (2003)
The Butterfly Effect (2004)
The Day After Tomorrow (2004)
I, Robot (2004)
The Island (2005)
Children of Men (2006)
Déjà vu (2006)
I am Legend (2007)
Jumper (2008)
You will watch the movie and complete the following activity:
1. Explain what aspects make the movie fall into the Science Fiction genre.
2. What lesson is the movie trying to teach or show? Please use specific examples from the movie (i.e. quotes from the characters, scenes from the movie, director comments)
3. Would you recommend this movie to a friend? Explain why or why not.
4. You will incorporate the answers from above into a movie critique essay.
5. Must be at least one page typed, 12 point font, double spaced
6. Be prepared to share your opinions with the class.
You can complete this assignment by yourself or with a partner. No more than two people per movie!
You must confirm with me ahead of time what movie you will be watching.
Due week of April 16th. Must be turned in no later than April 20th!
Worth 24 points
Science Fiction: Prose writing that presents the possibilities of the past or the future, using known scientific data and theories as well as the creative imagination of the writer. Most science fiction comments on present day society through the writer’s fictional conception of a past of future society.
Escape from New York (1981)
Blade Runner (1982)
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
The Dead Zone (1983)
2010 (1984)
Firestarter (1984)
Nineteen Eighty-Four (1984)
Runaway (1984)
Starman (1984)
The Terminator (1984)
Cocoon (1985)
My Science Project (1985)
Real Genius (1985)
Aliens (1986)
Flight of the Navigator (1986)
Short Circuit (1986)
Batteries not included (1987)
Innerspace (1987)
Project X (1987)
The Running Man (1987)
They Live (1988)
The Abyss (1989)
Millenium (1989)
Total Recall (1990)
Flatliners (1990)
The Rocketeer (1991)
The Lawnmower Man (1992)
Universal Soldier (1992)
Demolition Man (1993)
Fire in the Sky (1993)
Jurassic Park (1993)
Stargate (1994)
Timecop (1994)
Congo (1995)
Outbreak (1995)
12 Monkeys (1995)
Independence Day (1996)
Contact (1997)
Gattaca (1997)
The Faculty (1998)
Sphere (1998)
The X-Files (1998)
The Astronaut’s Wife (1999)
Bicentennial Man (1999)
The Matrix (1999)
The 6th Day (2000)
Hollow Man (2000)
Pitch Black (2000)
X-Men (2000)
K-Pax (2001)
Vanilla Sky (2001)
Minority Report (2002)
The Time Machine (2002)
Paycheck (2003)
Timeline (2003)
The Butterfly Effect (2004)
The Day After Tomorrow (2004)
I, Robot (2004)
The Island (2005)
Children of Men (2006)
Déjà vu (2006)
I am Legend (2007)
Jumper (2008)
You will watch the movie and complete the following activity:
1. Explain what aspects make the movie fall into the Science Fiction genre.
2. What lesson is the movie trying to teach or show? Please use specific examples from the movie (i.e. quotes from the characters, scenes from the movie, director comments)
3. Would you recommend this movie to a friend? Explain why or why not.
4. You will incorporate the answers from above into a movie critique essay.
5. Must be at least one page typed, 12 point font, double spaced
6. Be prepared to share your opinions with the class.
You can complete this assignment by yourself or with a partner. No more than two people per movie!
You must confirm with me ahead of time what movie you will be watching.
Due week of April 16th. Must be turned in no later than April 20th!
Worth 24 points
Science Fiction: Prose writing that presents the possibilities of the past or the future, using known scientific data and theories as well as the creative imagination of the writer. Most science fiction comments on present day society through the writer’s fictional conception of a past of future society.
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Piano Slam Poem Assignment
As part of National Poetry Month and the Piano Slam poetry contest you will be submitting a typed poem on April 2 (periods 2,4,6) or April 3 (periods 1,3,5).
The poem needs to meet the following requirements:
1. 12 lines or more
2. Topic needs to relate to music (how music impacts you or makes you feel)
3. Incorporate musical terms (for example: rythm, beat, tone, percussion, sound, melody, harmony, etc.)
4. Typed (12 point font)
**Your poem does not have to rhyme or follow a specific pattern.
I have included a video from the actual Piano Slam event so you can get a better idea of what the contest is all about.
The poem needs to meet the following requirements:
1. 12 lines or more
2. Topic needs to relate to music (how music impacts you or makes you feel)
3. Incorporate musical terms (for example: rythm, beat, tone, percussion, sound, melody, harmony, etc.)
4. Typed (12 point font)
**Your poem does not have to rhyme or follow a specific pattern.
I have included a video from the actual Piano Slam event so you can get a better idea of what the contest is all about.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Parody Song Project
For this project I want to see how creative you can get with song lyrics.
You can work by yourself or with a group (up to 5 people).
1.Select a song
2.Write a biography of the singer or group (for example, when they were born, where they are from, how did they become a singer, the names of their albums or most famous songs, etc.)
3.Print out the original lyrics to the song
4.Rewrite the song as a parody (a funny version of the song) and print out those lyrics as well
5.You will either create a music video for the song or a Powerpoint with the words to the song with images related to the song.
You will present your songs on April 9 (Periods 2,4,6) or April 10 (Periods 1,3,5)
It will be worth 10 points (doubled)
You can work by yourself or with a group (up to 5 people).
1.Select a song
2.Write a biography of the singer or group (for example, when they were born, where they are from, how did they become a singer, the names of their albums or most famous songs, etc.)
3.Print out the original lyrics to the song
4.Rewrite the song as a parody (a funny version of the song) and print out those lyrics as well
5.You will either create a music video for the song or a Powerpoint with the words to the song with images related to the song.
You will present your songs on April 9 (Periods 2,4,6) or April 10 (Periods 1,3,5)
It will be worth 10 points (doubled)
Friday, March 9, 2012
Spring Break Reminders
I hope everyone has a safe and relaxing Spring Break.
Just wanted to give you some quick reminders:
1. Don't forget to complete two Reading Plus sessions by March 18th. You must get at least 70% comprehension and complete a vocabulary activity to get full credit. It will count as a grade.
2. Those interested in registering for the SAT or ACT you still have time to register for upcoming tests. (remember extra credit is being given this nine weeks and next nine weeks)
Go to www.sat.collegeboard.org/register or www.actstudent.org
The school code is 102183.
**Remember if you have free or reduced lunch you can receive a waiver number from Ms. Abesada.
As I usually do, here is a song to get you in the Spring Break mood:
Just wanted to give you some quick reminders:
1. Don't forget to complete two Reading Plus sessions by March 18th. You must get at least 70% comprehension and complete a vocabulary activity to get full credit. It will count as a grade.
2. Those interested in registering for the SAT or ACT you still have time to register for upcoming tests. (remember extra credit is being given this nine weeks and next nine weeks)
Go to www.sat.collegeboard.org/register or www.actstudent.org
The school code is 102183.
**Remember if you have free or reduced lunch you can receive a waiver number from Ms. Abesada.
As I usually do, here is a song to get you in the Spring Break mood:
Friday, March 2, 2012
The Great Gatsby Projects
I am looking forward to seeing how you apply what you read from the novel in creative ways. These projects are in lieu of a test, so I want quality work.
1. I am looking for presentations to last a minimum of five minutes.
2. There should be a visual element to your presentation (i.e. Powerpoint, poster, Prezi, dressing up)
3. Do you make connections to the actual novel?
For example, referring to quotes from the novel, summarizing ideas from the novel, etc.
4. Did everyone participate in the group?
Everyone in the group should have a responsibility. If there is someone in the group that I notice not prepared or does not know what they should be doing -- their grade will be lowered.
**There will be no extensions for the project. I have given you time in class to work on it so there will be no excuses.
Due March 5th (Periods 2,4,6) and March 6th (Periods 1,3,5)
Worth 20 pts
1. I am looking for presentations to last a minimum of five minutes.
2. There should be a visual element to your presentation (i.e. Powerpoint, poster, Prezi, dressing up)
3. Do you make connections to the actual novel?
For example, referring to quotes from the novel, summarizing ideas from the novel, etc.
4. Did everyone participate in the group?
Everyone in the group should have a responsibility. If there is someone in the group that I notice not prepared or does not know what they should be doing -- their grade will be lowered.
**There will be no extensions for the project. I have given you time in class to work on it so there will be no excuses.
Due March 5th (Periods 2,4,6) and March 6th (Periods 1,3,5)
Worth 20 pts
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Congrats on your rings juniors!
To my Class of 2013,
It might be hard to believe that you are almost seniors and soon will be graduating from high school. I hope you enjoy these moments and appreciate the people around you who have made them possible.
As we have learned in class about symbols, your rings are a symbol of a goal that soon will come to fruition -- finishing your high school education.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Point of View Letter Assignment
Now that we are half-way through the novel you are going to get into the characters heads by writing a point of view letter from one character to another.
What I will be looking for:
1. Do you capture the voice of the character? Does it sound like something they would really write? Does it sound like it was written back in the 1920's?
2. It needs to be at least the front of a page long or a page typed, double spaced.
It will be due February 14 (Periods 1,3,5) or February 15 (Periods 2,4,6).
Here is a video to get you into the spirit of the 1920's and it was also the song that Mr. Klipspringer was singing at the end of Chapter 5 -- "Ain't we got Fun."
What I will be looking for:
1. Do you capture the voice of the character? Does it sound like something they would really write? Does it sound like it was written back in the 1920's?
2. It needs to be at least the front of a page long or a page typed, double spaced.
It will be due February 14 (Periods 1,3,5) or February 15 (Periods 2,4,6).
Here is a video to get you into the spirit of the 1920's and it was also the song that Mr. Klipspringer was singing at the end of Chapter 5 -- "Ain't we got Fun."
Monday, February 6, 2012
Humane Society Visit
Last week we shared our donations with Lisa DePriest from the Humane Society of Greater Miami. You can copy and paste the link below into your browser to see the pictures that I took of Lisa's presentation. Enjoy!
http://secure.smilebox.com/ecom/openTheBox?sendevent=4d6a6b344e5467354e54553d0d0a&blogview=true&campaign=blog_playback_link
http://secure.smilebox.com/ecom/openTheBox?sendevent=4d6a6b344e5467354e54553d0d0a&blogview=true&campaign=blog_playback_link
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Congratulations!!!!
I want to congratulate the following students for being awarded for their creative writing through the Scholastic Writing Awards. Their work will be on display in the Exhibition Hall at the Dade County Youth Fair.
First Place - Anjeniss Concepcion for her poems "Broken Heartsongs" and "Sweet Faith Sweet Gone"
First Place - Steven Ricaurte for his short story "Elegance"
Second Place - Chandra Diaz de Arce for her poems "Lust" and "This Sorrow"
Second Place - Angel Martinez for his poems "Paulie," "Lucy," and "Picky"
Second Place - Cyndia Romero for her poems "Lost Death" and "Darkened Prisons"
Second Place - Vanessa Zeyer for her poems "Butterfly Bruises" and "Second Chance"
Third Place - Kristie Mercado for her poems "9/11/01 Pledge" and "In my Heart"
Third Place - Alejandra Miret for her poems "Tame Heart" and "Savage Mind"
First Place - Anjeniss Concepcion for her poems "Broken Heartsongs" and "Sweet Faith Sweet Gone"
First Place - Steven Ricaurte for his short story "Elegance"
Second Place - Chandra Diaz de Arce for her poems "Lust" and "This Sorrow"
Second Place - Angel Martinez for his poems "Paulie," "Lucy," and "Picky"
Second Place - Cyndia Romero for her poems "Lost Death" and "Darkened Prisons"
Second Place - Vanessa Zeyer for her poems "Butterfly Bruises" and "Second Chance"
Third Place - Kristie Mercado for her poems "9/11/01 Pledge" and "In my Heart"
Third Place - Alejandra Miret for her poems "Tame Heart" and "Savage Mind"
Friday, January 20, 2012
Another one bites the dust
The second nine weeks is over -- bring on the third nine weeks.
We will be off to a running start with the third nine weeks.
1.Final drafts for the John Stossel essay contest have been turned in and I will be grading them and submitting them to the contest in the next couple weeks.
2. We will be starting to read The Great Gatsby this next week so it is very important that you have access to the book. I will be checking for the book this coming week for a grade so download it to your phone, check it out from the library, purchase it new or used, just make sure you have it.
3. Make sure you finish and have your outline of pages 824-833 for next class so you can use it on the outline quiz. These pages also give you some good background information for our novel.
4. Make sure you finish the Grammar Worksheet Exercise #2. I will be collecting it for a grade on Tuesday/Wednesday.
I will leave you with a clip of some jazz music to get you "In the mood" for the novel:
We will be off to a running start with the third nine weeks.
1.Final drafts for the John Stossel essay contest have been turned in and I will be grading them and submitting them to the contest in the next couple weeks.
2. We will be starting to read The Great Gatsby this next week so it is very important that you have access to the book. I will be checking for the book this coming week for a grade so download it to your phone, check it out from the library, purchase it new or used, just make sure you have it.
3. Make sure you finish and have your outline of pages 824-833 for next class so you can use it on the outline quiz. These pages also give you some good background information for our novel.
4. Make sure you finish the Grammar Worksheet Exercise #2. I will be collecting it for a grade on Tuesday/Wednesday.
I will leave you with a clip of some jazz music to get you "In the mood" for the novel:
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
And the novel for the third nine weeks is...
With a total of 116 votes to 21 votes the novel that you have chosen is
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
You will need to have a copy of the book starting January 24th. I will be doing a book check so make sure you download it, check it out from the library or buy it.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Third Nine Weeks book
I am between having all my classes read The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald or A Lesson Before Dying by Ernest J. Gaines.
I am putting in two clips for you to watch and I recommend you look up summaries of the books as well. On Monday and Tuesday all my classes will be voting on what book to read.
The Great Gatsby
A Lesson Before Dying
Reminders:
*Don't forget to bring in your donations for the Humane Society. Donations will be accepted until Friday, January 13th. Please refer to the Nov. 22nd post for the list of items I am collecting.
*Extra Credit SAT word posters are no longer being collected. You can still earn extra credit by leveling up in Reading Plus before January 16th.
*Make sure you have your rough draft for the John Stossel essay contest when you come to class. We will be revising them on Monday and Tuesday (Jan. 9 & 10).
*Make sure you are reviewing your SAT words A-P. The test on these words will be the week of January 17th.
*Remember NO SCHOOL on January 16th for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
I am putting in two clips for you to watch and I recommend you look up summaries of the books as well. On Monday and Tuesday all my classes will be voting on what book to read.
The Great Gatsby
A Lesson Before Dying
Reminders:
*Don't forget to bring in your donations for the Humane Society. Donations will be accepted until Friday, January 13th. Please refer to the Nov. 22nd post for the list of items I am collecting.
*Extra Credit SAT word posters are no longer being collected. You can still earn extra credit by leveling up in Reading Plus before January 16th.
*Make sure you have your rough draft for the John Stossel essay contest when you come to class. We will be revising them on Monday and Tuesday (Jan. 9 & 10).
*Make sure you are reviewing your SAT words A-P. The test on these words will be the week of January 17th.
*Remember NO SCHOOL on January 16th for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Stossel Essay Contest
You can go to the following website to watch the video clips and get more information about the contest.
Remember the essay will count for a grade in my class, but I will only submit it to the contest if you want me to.
We will be working on the essays until around January 20th.
http://stosselintheclassroom.org/essaycontest.php?p=watch_video.html&l=22
Remember the essay will count for a grade in my class, but I will only submit it to the contest if you want me to.
We will be working on the essays until around January 20th.
http://stosselintheclassroom.org/essaycontest.php?p=watch_video.html&l=22
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