Writing Right

Last Blog Post

2010-01-04T19:52:00.001-08:00

Writing Right has moved to Pre-AP English 10 Cafe.

Please join us there!

Christmas Break Is Here!

2009-12-19T06:21:00.000-08:00

Last updates:

I ordered $300+ of new books! According to an email that I received this morning, they have already been shipped!
Am grading papers this weekend...keep checking the online grades. As weird as this sounds, I am hoping to have a surgery over break to remove a cyst on my wrist, so I am working to get the paperwork completed before then.
I will be switching class blog URL's when we return to class next year so that we can go back to using the mrsg.homework@gmail.com email. With your using gmails, I also need to use one for class, that way all correspondence communicates better.

Please enjoy your break! Should you have time...remember to read a good book! I started a new one last night! My goal is to read some every day!

Take care...and Merry Christmas!

Tuesday, Dec. 15

2009-12-15T08:26:00.000-08:00

Today's Menu:

Writer's Notebooks are due.
Julius Caesar content and vocab tests.
Review for semester test.

Other Deadlines:

Wednesday - Julius Caesar essay...remember strong arguments acknowledge the other side. Also remember...I have read this drama = no need for summaries! Just present the data to support your argument. Line references = great!
Thurs/Friday - Semester Test
Friday, 8 AM - Blogs due!

REMINDER: Have you turned in all your books....The Time Machine, The Invisible Man, Seven Habits..., Julius Caesar (may turn in when you submit your essay)....other novels?

Three days left....Merry Christmas!

To write or to write?

2009-12-14T19:00:00.000-08:00

Writer's Notebooks are due in class on Tuesday! Click here for a list of topics.

Your Writer's Notebook and your blog posts (list of topics here) will count as one test grade (see rubric here).

Reminder: blogs are not due until Friday, 8:00 AM.

Thanks!

Friday, December 11

2009-12-11T10:53:00.000-08:00

Recite lines!

Listen/read Act 5.

Julius Caesar Test

Shakespeare/JC Background PowerPoint
Terms/notes...
Content
Vocabulary...30 words

Due next week:

JC Essay...due by Wednesday.
Blog posts...due Friday (Dec. 18), 8 AM.
Writer's Notebook...due in class on Tuesday.

Wed., Dec. 9

2009-12-09T10:03:00.000-08:00

Quiz over Act 2!

Listen/read Acts 3-4.

Enjoy!

Mon., Dec. 7

2009-12-07T09:46:00.000-08:00

Writer's Notebook: Remember these lines? Now listen to the story "Chrysanthemum." Reflect on why you think people make fun of people's names. Have you ever made fun of someone's name? Has someone ever made fun of your name? How did this make you feel?

Time for Caesar!

Submit your name paragraphs to mrsg.homework@yahoo.com. Please remember to put your class name and assignment in the subject line: 3B: Name paragraph.
Vocab quiz today!
Now let's continue on with Act 2-3.
Terms to know thus far....blank verse, puns, foreshadowing, soliloquy, imagery, dramatic irony, anachronism.
Predicting outcomes: Who will assume power after Caesar's death? How will the people react to Caesar's death? Support with evidence from Acts I and II.
Assignment: Choose your essay!

Thursday, Dec. 3

2009-12-03T09:54:00.000-08:00

Only 22 days until Christmas! Better yet...only 11 days until Christmas Break!

Okay...back to the real world!

Anarchy? Tyranny? Both?

Choose a sentence from your paragraph and paste it here into
4B: Etherpad 1 and Etherpad 2

3B: the Etherpad or Etherpad 2.

Now embellish this sentence by adding an appositive phrase to it!
Now go back to your paragraph and "color-code"....remember green, yellow, red...

Diagramming 101 Continues...

Take notes!

Julius Caesar...the drama continues.

Tuesday, December 1

2009-12-01T09:56:00.000-08:00

It's beginning to feel and sound a lot like Christmas! (Note: Do you always spell a lot this way?)

Blog Posts: Open your blog. How many posts do you have for this nine weeks? Check here for a list of post topics...so far.

Submitted your novel? Did you send me an email verifying this?

Julius Caesar Time:

Vocab
Review of Shakespeare and Julius Caesar
Listen to Act 1.
Assign composition. What is the difference between tyranny and anarchy?

Grammar Time

Diagramming 101...continues.

Tuesday, Nov. 24 ~ Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-24T10:12:00.000-08:00

Writer's Notebook: Time to be thankful! Draft a top ten list as you ponder on the reason for the season. Then add this reflection to your blog...may choose to draft this one in your blog.

Check-in Time:

Annotated your biography?
Tagged the Globe Theater in your Delicious account? Check this site and this site also!
Check your email for a message from me concerning your 250-word novel. Then submit them!

Grammar Time! More Diagramming 101.

May I have your help, please? We need to set up some tables for tonight's Silent Dessert Auction, hosted by the Beta Club.

Friday, Nov. 20

2009-11-20T07:46:00.000-08:00

Writer's Notebook: Think of leaders you admire...create a list of them. Beside several of your favorite, explain why they are your favorites.

Due today: 250 words and a title for the start of your young adult novel.

JC Time!

Who was Shakespeare?

Globe Theater...find a replica of the Globe, one that has the areas defined. Save into your Delicious as Shakespeare_Globe.

Who was Julius Caesar? Read the assigned biography and annotate the text.

Grammar Time!

May I hear you sing?

Diagramming 101. Diagram these sentences.

Wed., Nov. 18

2009-11-20T07:17:00.000-08:00

Work Time...due today!

Vocab test today!

Homework: 250 words of your young adult novel and the title.

Monday, Nov. 16 ~ Catch-up Day!

2009-11-16T09:56:00.000-08:00

First...a vocab quiz!

WRITER's WORKshop

Sci-Fi Projects: Oooppss....we sent those to my Yahoo email...cannot read them from there. Please resend to mrsg.homework@gmail.com
Seven Habits: Why Are You Who You Are? Let's create a cover page. May turn this in today...if you have proofed enough!
Seven Habits: You via Music...Let's create your cover page, your chart and your Reference Page.
Young Adult Novel: Draft due Friday...250 words and title.

Homework:

Finalize Seven Habits papers.
Vocab test on Wednesday.

FRIDAY...Shakespeare Alive in Cafe 16!

Thurs., Nov. 12

2009-11-12T07:26:00.000-08:00

Writer's Notebook: Please read this post (Source: The Doc Is In) about ten people who plagiarized and the cost of this choice. Did any of these examples surprise you? What were the consequences of their actions? Reflect on this in your Writer's Notebook. Can you make any Text-to-World (T2W) Connections? Hopefully, you cannot make any T2Y...Text-2-You Connections!

Before I forget....!....please hand in your mission statement handout!

Vocab quiz today!

Top 20 Figurative Language: let's master these definitions by Christmas.

Grammar Time:

Appostives: Deliberately using appostives, those phrases that add so much descriptive information about the nouns in a sentence, expands one's writing style and vividly enhances images for the reader.
Absolutes: The students created wonderful absolute phrases in their essays, their minds intent upon mastering that "A." NOTE: absolutes often begin with a possessive pronoun and must contain a part of a predicate. Warning: must be a part of a verb and not a participial. Review these examples to clarify this.
Basic Diagramming 101.

Writer's Workshop Today!

Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens:

Why Are You Who You Are...one-page draft due today! Due on Monday: final paper.
You via music...what song reflects who you are?

Young Adult Novel:

Where are you in this process? Who is your main character? Minor characters? Plot? Sub-plots determined? Setting?
Requirements: Title and 250 words

Blog Post:

Blog Post #2 is due today. See Nov. 2 post in this blog for more information.

Tuesday, Nov. 10

2009-11-10T08:09:00.000-08:00

Please go here and complete a survey for the BHS newspaper The Spirit of the Pioneer.

Survey #2...this one at the request of Mr. Hall!

Writer's Notebook: Tomorrow is Veteran's Day. May we read this poem (See Veteran's Day, PowerPoint), ponder, reflect, and then spend a few moments writing about veterans you know.

Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens:

Assignment 2: Why Are You Who You Are?
Assignment 3: What song or poem do you think best reflects who you are?

Vocab quiz on Thursday!

TOP 20 Figurative Terms...get to know these!

Due December...your additional examples.

Reminder: Deadline for Blog Post #2 is Thursday, Nov. 12. Please refer to Nov. 2's blog post for more information.

Meet My Voki!

2009-11-09T19:57:00.001-08:00

Wed., Nov. 4

2009-11-04T08:09:00.000-08:00

Writer's Notebook: When was the last time you did a Random Act of Kindness? How did that make you feel? Pledge to be proactive today!

Writer's Workshop:

Draft your young adult novel idea...plot? Setting? Characters?
Review absolutes: A phrase consisting of a noun, this group of words can add so much detail to what was once a very boring sentence!
Click here to further review absolutes.

Seven Habits...

Drafts 1-3 due!
Review chiasmus. Now search for one on the Internet...your group needs to share one with the class.
Visit Sean Covey's website.
Complete the Check-ups.
Now type...type...type!

Sci-Fi Vocabulary Presentations

2009-11-02T14:15:00.000-08:00

Listed below are the links to the vocabulary:

The Time Machine: 3B and 4B

The Invisible Man: 3B and 4B

Take some time to look over the words and become familiar with their meanings.

Monday, Nov. 2

2009-11-01T17:24:00.000-08:00

Happy November!

A New Contest for Us! Enter the Young Adult Novel Contest!

Need a title and the first 250 words.
Deadline: Tuesday, Nov. 24.

Writer's Notebook: Read this post at Brian's Blog and think about finding the "light" for your novel. Reflect in your Writer's Notebook on any ideas you might have for your young adult novel.

Blog Spotlight: Read this blog post and check out who commented! Impressive!

Blog Post #1 is due! Did you use journalistic style (short, mini-paragraphs)? Did you include a list?
Blog Post #2 = Introduce the book (author/title). Then choose a habit to discuss on your blog...your favorite? Your least favorite? The one on which you need to work the most? The one on which you have mastered? Discuss any favorite insights from the other habits/chapters. Then conclude with your recommendation concerning the reading of this book. Deadline: Wednesday, Nov. 11. This post is in lieu of your book review for this assigned read.

November is National Family Literacy Month: Here's the deal!

Your parent/guardian may read one of your required books for you!
Discuss the book with your parent/guardian.
Blog about your experience.
Deadline December 1.

Complete and share your Sci-Fi Vocab with me via my Google email: tammy.gillmore@gmail.com

Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens:

Review the project and terms.
Ideas for five with three of them drafted: due Wednesday.
Two drafts due Friday.
Final project due Tuesday.

Writer's Workshop ~ Phrases:

Review appositives.
Review/learn absolutes.

Is Catching Fire catching fire?

2009-11-01T13:05:00.000-08:00

Here's a link to my review of Catching Fire, in which I post a link to Crist's review of the same novel.

What do you think? Want to read this novel?

House of Night Fan?

2009-11-01T12:16:00.000-08:00

Here's the link to the lastest novel (chapter one preview) Tempted...if you are interested

Gmail vs. Yahoo

2009-10-29T21:05:00.000-07:00

Well...we do have a problem! Silly me...I should have thought this through.

I cannot open a shared document in a different email provider. Gmail and Yahoo documents will not communicate with each other.

Sooooo...please, to those who shared your Sci-Fi vocab, please share that Google Presentation with my gmail homework email: mrsg.homework@gmail.com.

Sorry about this...thanks!

Tuesday, Oct. 20

2009-10-20T11:22:00.000-07:00

Test Today!

Homework:

Read through page 130 of Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens for Monday.

In Class on Thursday...must complete these two projects on Thursday!

Vocab via Google Presentation
Sci-Fi Worlds via Glogster

Have you been reading the class blog? I posted a few this past weekend...scroll on down!

Sci-Fi Test

2009-10-19T19:16:00.000-07:00

Please study the following:

Novel:

Skim/scan your novel for a review of content.
Might review the PowerPoint on author H.G. Wells located here.

Poetry:

Click here for your analysis of the assigned poems.
Know what the initials TPCASTT represent (Title, Paraphrase, Connotation, Attitude, Shift, Title, Theme).

Short Stories:

Review the short stories by Bradbury and Asimov.
Check here for additional author info also.

Literary Terms:

Know the terms in the poetry review.
Other terms: tone, anaphora, genre, science-fiction

Authors:

Always know who wrote what.

Questions?

Good luck!

Review...in progress

2009-10-19T19:13:00.000-07:00

Sorry...did not get this posted...

Am working on the review now!

Are We Friends?

2009-10-18T19:16:00.000-07:00

For me to grade GoodReads book reviews, we must first be "friends."

Have you invited me to be your friend? Please check!

Thanks!

Cursive or Print

2009-10-18T17:48:00.000-07:00

Did you know that for timed tests you should consider cursive writing?

Yes, according to my peer Mr. Qualls, one can write faster in cursive.

Planning for the AP exams cannot start too soon...you might ponder on this. Do you write faster in print or cursive?

This Week's Blog Type

2009-10-18T17:07:00.000-07:00

This week, please write a post that includes a numbered list...yes, this Blog Post 1 for the 2nd Nine Weeks.

Below are two posts for you to review that includes such a list:

String of Thoughts - Thanks, Lauren C!
Treasure Chest of Thoughts - Skyping all the way to Iraq!

You may choose the topic on which to reflect...just be sure to include a numbered list somewhere within the post.

Reminder: Always run spellcheck before publishing!

Deadline? Saturday, October 24 at noon.

Poetry Analysis

2009-10-18T15:11:00.000-07:00

You may find your analysis of the four sci-fi poems here!

Wed., Oct. 14

2009-10-14T07:20:00.001-07:00

Have you read Jay Asher's Thirteen Reasons Why? He has a blog here. He would be a great author to add to your Google Reader! Remember how to do add a subscription?

In your Writer's Notebook, work with your group to identify at least three literary/poetic devices used in this introductory sentence:

"Half past a windless night, rain cantered out of the Gulf, across the shore and the levees: parades of phantom horses striking hoof rhythms from roofs of tarpaper, tin, tile, shingles, slate, counting cadence along the avenues."

~ Dan Koontz's Frankenstein: Dead and Alive (Book Three), page 1

Reader's Workshop:

A-Tone-ment Time! Let's hear that attitude!
First, go here and read the linked article.

Writer's Workshop

Let's review prepositional phrases.

Lit Circle:

Share your "phases." Edit and revise.
Who will read/record your poem?
Check out Glogster!
Sci-Fi Vocabulary: Presentations are due! Please complete them!

Homework:

Writer's Notebook due Friday = a test grade!
Book Reviews should be posted to your blog and GoodReads = a test grade!
Finalize the "phases" of your new sci-fi world. On Friday, you will post your phases to your Glog.

Sci-Fi Project: Creating a Cartoon

2009-10-13T06:06:00.000-07:00

Check out this site: Go Animate.

I found this in a link on Mrs. Huff's Delicious bookmarks.

Are you "friends" with anyone on Delicious? "It" is a good "thing"!

Monday, October 12

2009-10-11T06:53:00.001-07:00

Homecoming Week at BHS has arrived! Please participate!

Read today's announcements here.

Let's have a "ha-ha" moment. Each of the following sentences have two possible meanings...what are they?

Local High School Dropouts Cut in Half
Hospitals Sued by 7 Foot Doctors
Red Tape Holds Up New Bridges
Miners Refuse to Work after Death
Man Struck By Lightning Faces Battery Charge
(Source: http://www.webenglishteacher.com/)

Want to check out a book from Cafe 16 Library? We have a new method of checking out books!

Cafe 16 Library at http://cafe16library.blogspot.com/

Reminder: Need to submit homework to Mrs. Gillmore? I have created an email just for that very purpose!

mrsg.homework@yahoo.com

Today's Menu...in progess!

Writer's Notebook: Reflect on the sci-fi character your group is creating in Hero Machine 2.5.

Lit Circle:

Complete your character.
Check out the phases...which four will your group complete?
Agree on the content for each phase.
Assign drafting of phase to each lit circle member...drafts/scripts due on Wednesday.

New Homework Email Address

2009-10-08T11:49:00.000-07:00

From this day forth, please send homework to this email address:

mrsg.homework@yahoo.com

Why a Yahoo email? Our class blogs are set up through my gmail account, and as far as I know, one cannot be logged into two gmail accounts at one time. Therefore, Yahoo it is!

Thanks!

Thurs., October 8

2009-10-07T19:05:00.000-07:00

Today's Menu:

Featured Post of the Day!

In your Writer's Notebook, discuss where you anticipate your digital fingerprint might land. What imprint will you have in the land of the Internet?

Poetry Perception:

Review terms/Etherpad.

Group Report: Share with class your most insightful conclusion about your poem.

Style: What is your style? In clothes? In cars? In conversation? In writing? As you read "The Feeling of Power" (for homework), consider how Isaac Asimov's writing style compares to H.G. Well's writing style.

A-"tone"-ment Time!

Today: Groups 3B/4B Frappe, 3B/4/BMocha
Monday: Groups 3B/4B Expresso, 3B/4B/ Latte, 3B Cappuccino, 4B Macchiato

Writer's Workshop/Lit Circle/Coffee Group:

A Whole New (Sci-Fi) World: Create the character around which your character will center. Create main character here. Will your character be male, female, or not? Will your character be a hero or a villian? What powers (if any) will your character possess?Work together...your group must come to a consensus on this!
Overview of project...via a multi-genre approach.
Review composition terms.

Homework:

Read "A Feeling of Power."

Photo: http://englishcompanion.ning.com/photo/the-5paragraph-theme-monster?context=user

Tuesday, October 6

2009-10-06T08:01:00.000-07:00

Today's Menu!

Writer's Notebook: Briefly state...

...your thoughts on the sci-fi genre
...your thoughts thus far on a "new" sci-fi world.

Book Reviews: See previous post.

Lit Circle Time!

Poetry Perception: On your assigned poem, provide the information requested on your poem's slide. Write your info in an Etherpad document. Click on PowerPoint link to access the presentation.
Tone: Choose a passage to read/perform that best illustrates tone of your assigned novel. Passage should be long enough that each person in your group has a speaking part.
Complete vocabulary presentation!

Reminder: Book Reviews

2009-10-03T18:09:00.000-07:00

Before class on Tuesday, please post your book reviews for your out-of-class read (unless I still have your draft) and for you sci-fi novel to your blog.

Refer to the book review rubric for further guidance.

Remember, your book reviews should also be posted to GoodReads.

Log-in to your GoodReads account.
Either add the novel to a bookshelf or click on the novel listed in "My Books."
In "My Review" you may select "edit" and copy/paste your book review in the box provided.
Once you have proofed one more time, hit the "post" button.

Congratuations! You are now a published author!

Friday, October 2

2009-10-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

Record! Record! Record!
Voice Thread comments due today!

Email your paragraphs to me now if you need me to print so you can color-code.

Through the month of October, we will Focus on Poe...the poet Edgar Allen Poe. Please go here and listen (yes, you need your earphones!) to the production of "The Raven." Please add the terms to your Reader's Notebook.

Read this post on my personal blog Treasure Chest of Thoughts.

Please identify the anaphora used in the post...hint, may find the anaphora near the end of the passage. (Definition of anaphora: Figure of repetition that occurs when the first word or set of words in one sentence, clause, or phrase is/are repeated at or very near the beginning of successive sentences, clauses, or phrases; repetition of the initial word(s) over successive phrases or clauses.:
In your Writer's Notebook, "detail" this sentence: The house in "There Will Come Soft Rains" was doomed.
In your writings, use details. When answering a quiz prompt, provide lots of juicy details!

Short Story Read...

Learn more about Ray Bradbury Author Info.ppt. Be sure and read the notes inserted under the slides.

TODAY's MENU:

Record your comments on the Duck Voice Thread.
Lit Circle Time! During your Lit Circle, each group will choose a passage to read/perform that best illustrates tone. Take some time to reflect on a passage that best illustrates your character's tone.
Complete vocabulary presentation!

SCI-FI PROJECT:

Next week, each group will begin to creat a new sci-fi world based on a character you will create in Hero Machine.

May your duck characters be a part of your world? Yes! Absolutely!

HOMEWORK:

Read these poems: Martian Sends a Postcard Home.doc , Sonnet to Science by Poe.doc, and Two poems by Robert Priest.doc.

Tone Assignment

2009-09-30T19:37:00.001-07:00

During your Lit Circle time on Friday, each group will choose a passage to read/perform that best illustrates tone.

Take some time to reflect on a passage that best illustrates your character's tone.

Posting to a Voice Thread

2009-09-30T14:04:00.001-07:00

NOTE TO 4B: Sorry about the confusion in class today. Upon some reflection, I now realize that our problem was that we were not communicating! Duh! The problem was mine; I failed to to make sure that we began with the end in mind...meaning that I had forgotten that you did not know what a Voice Thread was/is...sorry! Forgot that we had not worked through that.

"Voicethread is an amazing tool with almost limitless possibility for classroom application. Upload images or video and users can make text, audio and video comments, and even draw on the images while commenting. Learn more here. Want examples? Look here, here and here.)"

The previous information I borrowed from Mrs. Huff's 21clc site, a wiki dedicated to teams of BHS teachers she is leading as they, too, learn more about Web 2.0 tools.

Please follow these steps when posting to a Voice Thread.

Click on the sign-in button. Log-in using your gmail and password.
When prompted, add your picture (avatar).
Now click on "Comment."
Click "yes" to allow microphone.
Time to record! Proudly proclaim who your duck is...using that tone of voice!
When finished, click on the red line.
Listen...listen to what you just recorded.
If you like what you said, click save. If not, select cancel...and begin again!

IMPORTANT: Please remember to sign out!

Deadlines to submit your introductory paragraph, your Voice Thread Script, and to record your comment on the Voice Thread:

3B: due by 12:00 on Friday
4B: due by the end of class on Friday.

Questions? Please send me an email...or stop by and see me in Cafe 16!

Wed., Sept. 30

2009-09-30T10:39:00.000-07:00

Today's Menu Choices include...

Comma Test
Voice Thread Recording
Sci-Fi Vocab...continues
Lit Circle using your novel:
Watch the PowerPoint and learn about H.G. Wells.
Discuss what you learned about him in relation to content of your novel.
Complete "Conclusion of Novel" lit circle form.

Homework:

Read "There Will Come Soft Rains" by Ray Bradbury
Complete your Ducks Galore Introductions (#4) Project.

Clarification: Ducks Galore

2009-09-28T21:29:00.000-07:00

When you go to Mrs. G's Info Page and read number four, this is what is expected of you:

4. Introduce your duck!

Introductory Paragraph.dot ~ to the teacher
Voice Thread Script Organizer.doc ~ to your classmates

Nothing new...just have these two documents typed and proofed and proofed again to turn in on Friday. I have several drafts of your introductory paragraphs to the teacher (me) graded and will hand them back to you on Wednesday.

Voice Tread comments will be completed in class on Wednesday!

Mon., Sept. 28: Today's Menu!

2009-09-28T08:13:00.001-07:00

Do I have all kinds of specials for you!

SSR TIME....shhhh, you should be reading.

Writer's Notebook: Place this definition of plagiarism in your WN.

According to the Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary, to "plagiarize" means

to steal and pass off (the ideas or words of another) as one's own
to use (another's production) without crediting the source
to commit literary theft
to present as new and original an idea or product derived from an existing source.

In other words, plagiarism is an act of fraud. It involves both stealing someone else's work and lying about it afterward.

Now give your thoughts on why one might plagiarize? Now make the commitment to not plagiarize in this class!

Sci-Fi Novel:

Quiz: For your novel, identify explain whether the tone word your group chose is still best summarizes H.G. Well's attitude for his main character. If so, provide support for this in your continued reading. If not, provide a new tone word and support. This is not an open-book quiz!
Content test on Friday!

Ducks Galore!

Project...#4 Components... due Friday! This is a test grade!
Today: create a Voice Thread account.
Due Friday: final duck paragraph and printout of Voice Thread introduction. Remember: proof one more time before submitting via the homework dropbox.
While you are each recording, the rest of us are moving on to commas.

Grammar ~ Comma Check-up

Review the rules for the test on Wednesday.
Test format is...1) multiple choice, 2) a passage to correct, and 3) three awesome comma website URL's
Check here for comma rule sites.
Tag these three comma websites in your Delicious account....Comma_Rules.

Sci-Fi Vocab

Complete your slides today!

Sept. 24:

2009-09-24T08:46:00.000-07:00

Shhhh...time for Silent Sustained Reading!

Lit Circle Group:

Click here to see today's assignment! Time to check out our vocabulary!

Writing/Grammar CHECK-up:

Let's review the comma exercise you completed in class last week.

In your writing, I am noting that we sometime spell numbers; sometimes we write them numerically. Check here to review when to spell numbers...or not.

Ponder on this: how might we combine these three sentences into one? In the Writer's Workshop tab in your 3-ring binder, revise these three sentences into one:
"I recommend this book for any girl. This book captures the reader. I loved this book."

May we review the No-No List...is this list in your Writer's Workshop (hint!)?

It
You
There is/are/was/were
Things/stuff
I believe/I feel/I think...
contractions (I'm, wasn't...)

Ducks Galore...continuing with tone!

Time to draft the introduction of your duck to your classmates.

Homework:

Complete your novel for Monday.
Finalize and practice your duck intro for the Voice Thread.

Thanks!

2009-09-24T05:30:00.000-07:00

Heather is awesome! Thanks, Heather, for reading the blog outside of class!

Well, let's see...by how many of you in 3B that knew about SSR being moved to the first of the class, well, many of you are reading the blog!

Thank you...making me proud!

September 22

2009-09-22T23:47:00.000-07:00

ANNOUNCEMENT: On Wednesday, we start something new! The first 15 minutes of class is SSR time! That's right...always bring your favorite read with you! I have not decided what my read will be, but as I have about fifty novels awaiting me, the challenge is not what to read but which one!

Please take out a piece of paper and defend the following about the main character of your novel found at this site.

WRITER'S NOTEBOOK: Please watch the following video; then reflect in your WN about the collaborative beauty of Google Docs.

DUCKS GALORE: Discuss characterization. Please put these terms in your Reader's Workshop:

Flat vs. Round

Dynamic vs. Static

Apply these terms, as you read, to the main character in your assigned novel.

DUCK GALORE PROJECT #1 consists of the following two parts:

Introduce your duck to Mrs. Gillmore via paragraph. This part completed! (May make any changes to your paragraph for partial credit!)

Sign in to Voice Thread. Insert your Avatar. Introduce your duck to your peers via Voice Thread. Remember...use tone as you present your duck!

Duck photos scheduled for next time; please bring your friend to class!

May we review the No-No List...is this list in your Writer's Notebook (hint!)?
*It
*You
*There is/are/was/were
*Things/stuff
*I believe/I feel/I think...
*contractions (I'm, wasn't...)

READER'S WORKSHOP: WHAT'S ALIEN YOU?

As we read H.G.Well's novels, we begin our sci-fi unit. This week, as I attempted to catch up my Google Reader (had over a 1000 posts! No, not 100 but 1000!), I came across this link. Go ahead! Check it out!

First, let's add a term to your Reader's Workshop: genre. What does this term mean to you?

Now let's work on discovering the tone H.G. Wells established in the first few chapters of his novels. Click here to access the worksheet your group must complete. You each need to complete the worksheet; then select a group member to email me the final product.

Something New!

2009-09-20T20:48:00.000-07:00

Beginning Tuesday, September 22, we begin something new! That's right!

The first fifteen minutes of each class is now SSR time so plan to bring your favorite current read. Okay?

Bell rings; you being to read.

Sept. 18

2009-09-18T09:48:00.001-07:00

REMINDER: Due last time...comma exercise and book review and duck introductory paragraph.

Grammar Time/Writer's Notebook:

Check comma exercise.

Lit Circle:

Etiquette of the Circle.
Complete your novel for next week!

Sept. 16: Novel Assignments

2009-09-15T22:34:00.000-07:00

Good afternoon!

Please remind them to email me their introductory duck paragraphs by 8:00 PM this evening.

Please click here to find the chart that shows which student is assigned what novel.

Thanks!

Because...

2009-09-15T19:50:00.000-07:00

Because you got me to thinking, I wrote about you on my personal blog. Click here to check out what I had to say!

Sept. 14: The Quacky Days of Pre-AP

2009-09-14T07:53:00.000-07:00

Today's Menu:

Commas Rule...or Comma Rules
Ducks Galore: from profile to paragraph
Literary terms to consider using in paragraph

I will not be here on Wednesday/Thursday as I will be serving on a committee for the Arkansas Department of Education.

Due in class on Wednesday/Thursday:

Your introduction of your duck...
Study the comma rules...could be a quiz!
SSR Time...Time Machine or Invisible Man.

September 10: May We Never Forget

2009-09-09T18:10:00.000-07:00

"Always bear in mind that your own resolution to succeed is more important than any other one thing."
- Abraham Lincoln

WRITER'S NOTEBOOK: To mark the anniversary of the bombing of the World Trade Center and the Pentagon in 2001, President Bush proclaimed that September 11 be named Patriot Day. On this day, the proclamation asks that flags be flown at half-mast and that the day be marked by ceremonies, candlelight vigils, and other remembrance services.

President Obama has also declared September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance. Please go here to learn more that this.

Even though this day marks the anniversary of a huge disaster, it is called Patriot Day. How does this label change our perceptions about the events of September 11, 2001? Think of the various meanings of the word “patriot.” Is it possible to be a patriot and still disagree with certain aspects of the government? What is the best way to voice criticism of the government?

May we also commemorate this day with poetry? Please read the following poems:

We're Still Standing
© Hannah Schoechert

Those twin towers
Standing tall with pride,
Fell with grieving hearts.
Stunned, America cried.

But we're still standing.

Bin Laden tried
To crush our land,
But we stood our ground
With our flag in hand

And we're still standing.

Red for the valor
And the blood that fell.
White for the purity
Our heroes tell.
Blue for the justice
That will be done,
Proving once more
These colors don't run

And we're still standing.

By Hannah Schoechert
A 7th grade student

To The Foolish American

© By Alyssa Marquardt

It kills me to hear you say
That war is just a foolish game
That men and women dare to play
Well I'd like to see you last one day
You obviously don't see the pain
Or the freedom that we Americans gain.
From those brave ones across the sea
The ones that mean so much to me
The ones who give you the right
To stand right there and hold that sign
You'll never see the world as a soldier does.
You'll never see that hate or feel that love.
You worry about work and school
They worry about destructive tools.
They worry about saving and taking lives.
And the freedom of their kids and wives.
We can't appreciate our whole ton.
But they are happy with the last little one.
So before you stand back and point you finger,
Listen to these words I give
And appreciate the life you live.

(Poem accessed at Poetry America.)

Who is the speaker? What is his/her perspective? What are your thoughts on these poem?

Definition of anaphora: Repetition of the same word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or verses. Can you find the anaphora the poet used in the previous poem? Why do authors choose to use such figurative devices?

TODAY'S MENU:

Tech Time: Have you created all your accounts? Completed the form and hit submit?

Grammar Time!

Now let's post to your blog!

Choose a topic.
Draft your post.
Proofread! Then proofread again! Might consider having someone else proofread!
Run spell check.
Post to your blog.
Read your post again...make any necessary revisions...again!

Ready to write your book review? Open up the Book Review Rubric here.

Ducks Galore: Introduce me to you duck! Click here and find the guidelines and handouts for this project.

Homework:

Complete your out-of-class read!
Finalize and post your first blog post.
Draft your introduction of your duck.

Sept. 8: Target Tech

2009-09-07T17:52:00.001-07:00

Welcome back! I hope you had a restful three-day break!

Writer's Notebook Topic: Think about this sentence..."All writing equals the sum of its sentences." What does this mean? How important are sentences to a piece of writing's meaning? Now write a loooooooooooooooog sentence...keep adding parts.

Grammar Time! Check here for Sentence Unscrambling Exercise.

Please go to Cafe Pre-AP and post a link to your writing metaphor. We will have to do this one at a time...

Sign in.
Click on "edit."
Click on "insert images and files."
On the box, link your metaphor.

First, let's complete creating tech accounts. Please scroll down to Sept. 3's post.

Completed creating all your accounts? Submitted your form? Great! Let's move on!

Time to blog!

Look over your Writer's Notebook topics. Choose one of them on which to create a post.

Ducks Galore!

Meet your new friend!

Homework:

Read! Read! Read! Out-of-class read due next week!
Create a persona for your duck.

Sept. 3: Right on Target!

2009-09-03T10:19:00.000-07:00

Today's Agenda...or Menu!

Complete the Targit Test.
If time allows, create a Penzu, Delicious, and GoodReads account.
Fill-in the following form.
Post a link to your writing metaphor on Cafe Pre-AP.

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HOMEWORK: Read! Read! Read your out-of-class novel.

September 1

2009-08-29T18:46:00.000-07:00

Today's Writer's Notebook topic: Please read this post by children's book author Janette Rallison on her blog: "Where Children's Book Author's Work." In your notebook, discuss where you write. Describe this inspiring place and explain why you choose that particular place(s).

Please complete the following form:

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In additon to the Mrs. G's Info Page, we also have another site on which you will have rights as a writer (Yes! Another opportunity for you to be published!).

Once you click on the link in the next bullet, you will will request access to the wiki...I will grant you rights.

Then please post a link to our Class Wikispace = Cafe ~ Pre-AP English 10.

This may take some time, as I think only one of you can access the wikispace at at time.

Directions for posting a link: Click on edit. Then click on the link button. Select URL. Find your file and save. You are now published!

While everyone is posting to the wikispace, you may work on this activity until your time arrives to post:

Now let's practice leaving a comment on a blog post!

Please read this story. The man featured in this story was a little different (in a very good way).

Please think of someone in your life that is "different in a good way" and feature him/her in a comment below. Thanks!

Time to set up your blogs!

Refer to the form you created on Friday concerning your blog's title.

Click here to open the presentation that will assist in your creating a personal blog!

REMINDER: You must have a Google email created to complete this step.

Listen to Your Peers!

2009-08-25T17:14:00.001-07:00

Good afternoon!

Today's Student Learner Expectations (yes, that is state department jargon!) are...

W.7.10.1: Use figurative language effectively with emphasis on metaphor and symbolism
W.4.10.4 Elaborate ideas clearly and accurately through word choice, vivid description, and selected information
W.4.10.14 Use available technology for all aspects of the writing process

First, let's watch School Tube...watch video and respond in Writer's Notebook about changes you would like to see implemented FOR YOU within our community and school.

Now, the time has arrived to meet Mrs. Brewer and tour the library. You will need a novel in class on Friday for some SSR Time! Ahhh...Silent Sustained Reading has arrived!

Please take a few moments to complete the following questions:

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LIBRARY BLOG...You may visit the blog here!

METAPHOR PAPER = Time to listen to your peers!

Using the print form or the one online, two peers will read and critique your paper. Positive energy needed! Please take your time...your peers will appreciate any input from you, helping insure the best grade for them and a good experience in editing for you.

DUE ON FRIDAY: Final Metaphorical Paper.

Thanks!

Welcome to Our Class Blog!

2009-08-20T08:19:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Pre-AP English 10...and the land of high school!

Would you be so kind as to answer a few questions for me? Please click on the links below to take the two surveys:

Student Information ~ Day 1: Click Here to take survey

R U Techie?: Click Here to take survey

Let's go to work! Today's lesson plans can be found by clicking here.

Click here to access Mrs. Gillmore's Information Page to see sample genres.

TO-DO LIST:

1. Draft metaphorica paper.
2. Create gmail account.
3. Select an out-of-class read: Please choose a novel that would support the theme "Who Am I?" In other words, choose a novel in which a character is attempting to come to terms with who he/she/it is.

Let's go to work!

Just to Clarify...

2009-05-27T19:23:00.002-07:00

The synthesis question on the back of your review IS the one you will have on your semester exam.

Also, the part about the televison....ooopps!...left that on from last time! You will defend, clarify, or challenge the statement about the American Dream.

BLOGS:

I will check them for the final time, hopefully, during 2B tomorrow (Thursday). Make an additions or changes before then to receive any points.

Thanks for being who you are. I have enjoyed working with you, and I look forward to watching you become WHO you are over the next couple of years.

You are always welcome in Room 16, and please feel free to comment on next year's sophomore's blogs!

Good luck!

Monday Updates ~ Semester Review

2009-05-25T17:08:00.000-07:00

The school server is down, so I cannot update your grades. Hope to get this completed early in the morning.

DUE TOMORROW ~ Tuesday, May 26:

"Theme for English 10"
3A: test over Glossary of Usage
Click here for your Review!

Want to read my "Theme for English 10"? Click here.

Go ahead...feel free to comment on the "who" you find in my poem!

ANOTHER REMINDER:

Please return any novels you have checked out...whether in-class reads or those checked out from our class library.

Thanks!

Blog Posts

2009-05-24T18:38:00.000-07:00

Reminder! You have eleven blog posts due for this nine weeks. Check here for that list.

The only ones you should have to complete are

Book review of Of Mice and Men
Reflection on your sophomore year

I have completed grading your blogs as of Sunday evening. At this point, I will only accept the above two posts for full credit. Should you want to update your blog more and want me to review your previous postings again, you will have to let me know. As of now, I consider your blogs graded...except for the above two entries.

Just a reminder: PLEASE check the book review rubric! Summaries are not acceptable NOR are one-two paragraph reviews. Also, remember to post how many pages your book is...or I will only count the novel as one book.

Have read some awesome blogs...will post about that later! Several of you are finished with your blogs for me for your sophomore year! Congratulations and good job!

You will use this blog next year in your English class.

Thanks!

(Keep reading...another new post below this one.)

Mechanical Error

2009-05-24T09:35:00.000-07:00

Grading papers...and grading....and grading...getting there, though!

Have noticed a common error I am seeing:

Periods and commas must ALWAYS go INSIDE "quotation marks."
Why do you insist on placing them outside?! Help!

On Personal Note:

My husband must have (in lots of pain!) another knee surgery on Tuesday. I know...not good for me and our reviews and finishing up Of Mice and Men. Thank goodness for technology!
Please spread the word...especially to 3B (I will see 4B for review on Thursday afternoon) to please keep checking the blog.
3B: I will be available for questions/review during 4A...please stop by, if possible, if you still have questions about the test at that time.
As always, leave me comments or send me an email.

Enjoy your weekend!

Note to 3B

2009-05-22T06:25:00.001-07:00

I need two assignments from you:

the completed comparison of chapter one of Their Eyes Were Watching God to the beginning of the movie
the completed worksheet for chapter one of Their Eyes Were Watching God

Reminder:

grammar usage test on Tuesday...may borrow a book if you would like.
"Theme for English 10" poem and analysis of for rhetorical devices is due on Tuesday.
Complete your blogs....will grade those this weekend!

Thanks!

Formatting for a Book

2009-05-15T10:02:00.000-07:00

Your novelettes are due Tuesday!

Here's how to create a folded booklet (thanks Microsoft Word Help):

When you create a booklet, it's best to start with a new, blank document so that you have better control over the placement of text, graphics, and other elements. You can add a book fold to an existing document, but you may have to reposition some elements once the book fold is in place.
Start a new, blank document.
On the File menu, click Page Setup, and then click the Margins tab.
In the Multiple pages list, select Book fold.
If your document is not set to landscape orientation, Microsoft Word sets it to landscape.
In the Inside and Outside boxes, type or select the amount of space you want for the inside and outside margins (margin: The blank space outside the printing area on a page.).

Enjoy!

Ending and Beginning

2009-05-08T06:38:00.000-07:00

We are ending the Utopia unit....

Essay is due Monday.

We are beginning the We Are the World unit...

Please have House on Mango Street read by Wednesday, May 13.
On Monday, we will discuss Langston Hughes and Zora Neale Hurston...and yes, listen to our theme song!
Might consider working developing the ideas for your novelette, which should consist of five chapters. See wiki for original handout.

Ongoing...

We will complete the Glossary of Usage chapter next week. So far, exercises 1-4 are due.
Blogs: Are they current? Check wiki for a list of topics due.
Writer's Notebook: Are you caught up on this?

Two more weeks of classes...then testing. Wow! Where has this year gone?

Teacher Appreciation Week

2009-05-06T21:23:00.001-07:00

Please take a moment...or two...and post on your blog a note expressing your appreciation to your teachers; then send them an email with the link to your blog. I promise you...they will appreciate YOU even more!

Here's a link to my thoughts about my teachers...

Enjoy!

A Real Utopia

2009-05-03T09:29:00.000-07:00

Just four more weeks, then this dystopia will end and a true utopia will begin...maybe?

In the meantime, next week:

Tuesday:

review for thematic unit test
edit/revise inner delimma essay (REMINDER: be sure to create examples of figurative language and footnote each: In Word at point where you want to insert a footnote number, click on Insert: Reference: Footnote. Include explanation/rationale at the bottom of the page.).

Thursday:

Utopia vs. Dystopia Thematic Unit test
Essay due.
Begin We Are the World Thematic Unit. Assign House on Mango Street. Due next Wednesday (May 13).
Begin drafting novelette.

Your semester test will be to write a synthesis in class. This essay will be based on Of Mice and Men and two/three other sources that I will provide. Therefore, when you complete House on Mango Street, I will assign you copy of this novel to have completed May 26. On this date, we will have a discussion of the novel and other sources.

Thanks!

To the perfect (Utopia) class...

2009-04-22T21:05:00.000-07:00

Please work on the following in class on Thursday...remember, I am with Holly's class in St. Louis.

Work in groups on literary examples. Can complete the first two pages in class...the third page, you will have to complete upon finishing the novel.
Then return to your seats...now read the essay assignment and complete the graphic organizer. From that draft an outline for an essay on this topic.
Please complete the novel for Monday!
Reminder: debate is Wednesday. You are invited to watch/listen to the other class's debate if you can obtain permission from your teacher.

Have a great weekend!

Book Review Due by Monday!

2009-04-08T08:18:00.000-07:00

This week completes the third week of this nine week! Please post a review on your blog of your greatest out-of-class read by Monday.

If reading a book that counts as more than one, please let me know before Monday.

Remember to post at the end of your review on a separate line in italics how many pages your book has.

Thanks!

Midweek Update

2009-04-07T11:59:00.000-07:00

Please read chapters 3-4 in Animal Farm for Thursday!

Also research your topic for the debate. You will have time in class on Thursday to compare your findings and further develop your individual "expert" topics.

May begin adding your resources to the Think Tank.

Remember you must be logged in to "edit" your page.
To hyperlink to a source, highlight the title on the page and click on the "edit/insert link" button on the toolbar. Choose URL by "Link Type" and "Open in New Window."
Remember to save!

Week: March 30-April 3

2009-04-04T17:57:00.000-07:00

A glance at this past week:

Your Anthem essay was due March 20. Have you given me a hard copy?
Check the class wiki for Animal Farm pre-reading assignments this week... George Orwell Author Background.ppt, Shooting an Elephant.doc, Summary of The Patriot Act, and read excerpt from 1984 and respond (see me for copy).
Check out the Vocabulary PowerPoint with Definitions.ppt for Animal Farm and be ready to make up the quiz on Tuesday, April 7.
Go to the new class collaboration wiki at Just Think! (our Think Tank!) and request access. I will then grant you access as a writer.
In the Think Tank, check out the debate link to find out on which debate team you are. Debates are due at the end of this thematic unit (approximately two weeks.)
Read chapters 1-2 of Animal Farm for next Tuesday, April 7.
Two blog posts were due Friday evening. Click here for topics.

Questions? Send me an email!

Please welcome Ms. Mobley!

2009-03-29T21:18:00.000-07:00

First, welcome back! I hope your Spring Break was the most relaxing ever!

Ms. Mobley, a student intern from Lyon College, will continue spending time with us this nine weeks. On Monday, she will give us an overview of George Orwell's life. For those of you still on the band trip, please check the class wiki for this PowerPoint.

Also on Monday, we will discuss your new list of seventeen vocabulary words...might even complete a puzzle! (These resources will also be posted on the wiki.

What can you tell us about your Spring Break?

I read several novels...have posted two reviews to Mrs. Gillmore's Book Reviews Blog. Still have two to write!
Visited my family and a former neighbor.
Went to Branson for a couple of days.
Enhanced my flower beds. I was the supervisor (a very important job!) for my husband and son...great job they did!
Worked on these lesson plans.

Tell me about your Spring Break...go ahead...type a comment!

Time to Submit!

2009-03-18T08:55:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, please have your essays ready to submit!

I will need to glance over your essay...thereby, granting you permission to submit.

Please check this link for an overview of guidelines and the submit link.

Good luck...may you be the one who wins the big bucks!

Thinking Perfection?

2009-03-12T16:46:00.000-07:00

Essay drafts are due! I need to be able to preview them if you want input from me.

Due tomorrow (March 13), "drafty" outline and paper!

Your Writer's Notebook is due on Friday!

Grades are due to the office on Tuesday at 8:00. I will take no late work after 8:00 on Monday morning. Turn work in to me! Soon! Late is better than 0%!

Did you know? Tomorrow (March 13) is Mrs. James' birthday...be sure to wish her well!

Conduct Your Autopsy

2009-03-09T11:59:00.000-07:00

For your autopsy, check out at least eight parts of the Equality 7-2521's body. Remember passages and page numbers are required.

Also select the essay topic on which you plan to draft, finalize, and publish for competition.

Remember: think critically! Ask WHY?

Assignment for Thursday, March 5

2009-03-04T08:35:00.000-08:00

To 3B...sorry about the confusion as to where you were supposed to go on Tuesday. Hopefully, that will not happen again!

For Thursday, March 5, please read chapters 1-2 in YOUR new novel Anthem. Yes, the novel is yours to keep. Please highlight, make notes as you read...remember, we will draft an essay using this novel as your mentor text next week!

Later today (Wed), I will post some materials and resources concerning this novel...including the essay topics.

Happy reading!

Think WHY

2009-02-28T08:47:00.000-08:00

As you draft your essay, please thoroughly answer WHY each of the defining characteristics you have chosen best represent who you are...right now...at this very moment.

Your papers must go beyond just describing these qualities.

Consider this paragraph:

When determining the trait that most describes me, I can settle on no other adjective than busy. No less than five people have thrown this word at me this week when referring to my life. For instance, my husband, just a few hours ago, said this to me when discussing my schedule for today: decorate for a church banquet, watch my daughter cheer at a ballgame, shop for food for the banquet, attend the Polar Bear Plunge, begin cooking for the banquet....and then he asked that question, THE question: Why do you over-extend yourself?

So far this paragraph has been descriptive...right? Describing a day in my life...a busy day.

Now to complete the assignment, I must answer the WHY. Here goes...go with me on a trip into my psyche:

The answer? 1) I enjoy being involved, working with others, helping others...or is the answer... 2) maybe I am just a little bit of a control freak?! Oh, no! I do not even like typing that word, even thinking about that concept, evening contemplating the negative aspect of that answer. Uhmmm, so far this journey is not turning out too pleasant; maybe I better put that proverbial mask back on! Let me quickly go, then, to my next trait that makes me who I am. Journey with me...

See how this last part begins to tap into the WHY?

In essence, you are answering...
WHY are you WHO you ARE?

You Wear the Mask?

2009-02-26T18:02:00.000-08:00

For Friday, Feb. 27, please have your outlines/graphic organizers completed for your latest essay assignment.

I have updated the Utopia thematic unit on the class wiki. Also located there is a template for the cover page for the first essay assignment for this unit.

I will be adding much more information there! Please check the class wiki should you miss class or misplace a handout or an assignment.

Take advantage of this time to complete your out-of-class reads. Blog post book review #2 is due on Monday...unless you are reading a novel that counts as more than one. Please let me know if you are.

Next week, we will read Anthem by Ayn Rand and begin an essay for a national contest using this novel as our mentor text.

Happy reading...and writing!

Thanks for the Interest

2009-02-26T16:58:00.000-08:00

Special thanks to those of you who expressed an interest in National History Day! I really do appreciate you!

Taylor H. will compete as my sophomore representative...he has chosen his topic, an interesting one, I might add.

Thanks again!

An Opportunity Awaits You

2009-02-21T19:50:00.000-08:00

Would you like to enter a research paper in the National History Day competition?

I have two spots...one of which is already taken!

I need to know on Monday if you are interested in this opportunity to compete both at the state and national levels...yes, this might mean a trip to Baltimore, MD, and Washington, DC!

Interested? Check out the National History Day website.

What is due Monday (Feb. 23) if you choose to compete? Your selected "Individual in History" and the title of your paper. The paper itself IS NOT due until March 9.

Should you choose to partake of this awesome opportunity, you and I will work closely to draft and edit/revise this paper for competition. In addition, I will allow your substituting this work in place of several of the assignments the rest of your classmates will complete between now and March 9...for example, the novelette.

Be thinking...and deciding...and then let me know!

Good luck, Taylor!

2009-02-20T16:17:00.002-08:00

My wishes for you:

Enjoy Texas!
Keep writing!
Learn more!
Stay true to yourself!

Keep in touch...that's right...our blogs remain an open airwave of communication with you!

AP Recommendations

2009-02-16T19:34:00.000-08:00

Advanced Placement has a list of recommended reads at "101 Great Books: Recommended for College-Bound Readers."

Listed alphabetically by author's last name, this list might be a great place to check out before selecting your out-of-class classic read for this semester.

Keep reading!

Updated Your Blog?

2009-02-15T20:09:00.000-08:00

Just a quick reminder...the following blog posts are due!

Taking a Stand thematic unit (most of you have posted this one!)
Book reviews of Antigone, Call of the Wild, and an "out-of-class" read (unless your novel counts as multiple books).

By the way, the posts I have read? Great content! Good work!

As a side note...great job to the quartet of cheerleaders on Saturday! You make us proud...Caitlin, Katherine, Norma, and Roxanne!

To Synthesize, Part 2

2009-02-10T18:20:00.000-08:00

As you ponder on what evidence to include within your synthesis essay, consider the instances in which Buck took a stand...against and for man and beast alike. What were the outcomes of this stance? Yes...who had to die? What was gained? What was lost?

Then consider times in which Jack London took a stand (oops...sorry, Samuel. Just realized that I called the author Fitzgerald!) May have to infer (draw conclusions), for no man or woman is as successful as he was without having taken a stand.

Now, the poem...just think about the title...to me that almost says it all!

Reminders:

Embed quotes. To check your use of quotes, remember to "read the sentence out loud." Can you "hear" where the quote begins or ends? No? Then you have done an outstanding job embedding quotes!
Refer to your sources as Source A, B, or C.

Tomorrow, we will read your essays...time to edit and revise.

To Synthesize

2009-02-05T15:48:00.000-08:00

First, thanks for your input in class today. I appreciated the discussion!

As you complete Call of the Wild, please ponder on the claim/thesis for your assigned synthesis essay.

Reminders:

For Monday, finish reading Call of the Wild and decide your thesis for the synthesis essay.
For Wednesday, draft your essay being sure to embed quotes and use participial phrases. Test over Call of the Wild.
For Friday, finalize your essay.

Help! I forgot to have 3B vote on nominees for class officer and class favorites. Please remind me to do this on Monday!

I also posted a "Recommended 101 Great Reads" by AP Central on the side bar of our class wiki. You might check this out before selecting your out-of-class classical read.

Have a nice weekend!

Ready to Review

2009-02-01T17:38:00.000-08:00

Completed a novel for your "out-of-class" read? Now ready to write a book review?

Please click here to access the rubric for your book reviews.

Remember you may want to check out some sites and peruse some book reviews.

Mrs. Gillmore's Book Reviews
New York Times Book Reviews
USA Today ~ Young Adult Novels : These are too short but a good place to check out some of the newest novels.

What have your read lately?

I am reading Inkheart. So far? I definitely recommend this one!

Word by Word...Analyze Style

2009-02-01T13:39:00.000-08:00

Please join me in congratulating NaTanya upon winning first place in English at the Arkansas State Beta Club Convention! Orlando, here we come! Wow!

Not turn in your analyisis of President Obama's speech? Please bring to class on Tuesday!

Your assignment is to read the first four chapters of The Call of the Wild and analyze Jack London's writing style utilizing five sentences of various lengths. Click here for the graphic organizer I had hoped to have prepared for you...just got electricity back last night! (I do hope you all have electricty now!)

Below are three sample sentences (source: The Literature Network):

"Because men, groping in the Arctic darkness, had found a yellow metal, and because steamship and transportation companies were booming the find, thousands of men were rushing into the Northland."

Complex sentence
Two adverb subordinate clauses
One participial phrase = subject-verb split

"His father, Elmo, a huge St. Bernard, had been the Judge's inseparable companion, and Buck bid fair to follow in the way of his father."

Compound sentence
Two appostive phrases (note punctuation)
Infinitive phrase

Note London's use of participials within the next sentence:

"Straight at the man he launched his one hundred and forty pounds of fury, surcharged with the pent passion of two days and nights."

Here he uses the participial phrases as a sentence opener and a sentence closing.
What type of sentence is this one?

Please plan to continue using participial phrases to add vivid content to your sentences. Notice how much more detail this sentence conveys because of the author's purposeful use of participial phrases?

Enjoy reading novels online? Forget your novel at school or at home? You may access Call of the Wild by clicking here.

Icy Homework!

2009-01-27T10:03:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone is warm and safe on this icy, beginning-to-get-very-white day! Those icy trees are beautiful (although dangerous), aren't they?

Gentle Reminders:

Read President Obama's speech and analyze for the six persuasive characteristics. Click here to access the graphic organizer, or, yes, you may identify each on the hard copy of the speech.
Please spend time adventuring to another world through the novel of your choice for one of your "outside-of-class" reads. REMEMBER: please post a book review for each read on your blog and GoodReads = the assessment on your chosen novel. I hope to finalize book review rubric today...so far, the electricity is only flickering! Check out these sites at GoodReads and Mrs. Gillmore's Book Reviews for my latest review of The Dangerous Days of Daniel X.
Blog Post Due! I will grade those while we enjoying this "cool" break.

What are you reading good right now?

Preparing for Wednesday?

2009-01-20T18:43:00.000-08:00

What shall we accomplish during class on Wednesday (January 21)?

By the way, did you know that to be proper, one should use "shall" with first-person pronouns and "will" with second and third-person pronouns? Tis true!

Now to the agenda:

Grammar Time: Introductory elements ~ participials.
Test over Antigone. Remember, you must write a paragraph on the test convincing me...ah, yes...persuading me who the most tragic figure is within this drama. QUESTION: why is "who" correct in #2? Why would "whom" be incorrect?
Return papers. Confirm grades.
Type essay (due Friday) and blog (due this weekend).
Assign speech to read...guess whose? Yes, going to analyze this speech for persuasive techniques. Please refer to previous blog.

Planning ahead? Vocabulary test on Friday!

A Curious Review

2009-01-18T18:40:00.000-08:00

I completed The Curious Case of Benjamin Button just now. Interesting read.

Please check out my review of this novelette at Mrs. Gillmore's Book Reviews.

The Art of Persuasion

2009-01-17T15:57:00.000-08:00

As you draft your essay, consider the following persuasive techniques:

Claim: State your argument. Which sentence would contain your claim?
Big Names: Important people or experts can make your argument seem more convincing. To what characters from Antigone might you refer? What other important people or experts might support your claim?
Appeal to Logos: Facts, numbers, and information can be very convincing.
Appeal to Pathos: Getting people to feel happy, sad, or angry can help your argument.
Appeal to Ethos: If people believe and trust in you, you are more likely to persuade them.
Kairos: Try to convince your audience that this issue is so important they must act now.
Research: Using reliable research can help your argument seem convincing. Yes, Antigone would be considered research in this essay.

Please check the class wiki for the rubric for this essay assignment and the PowerPoint to which I will refer in class.

Has anyone checked out DailyLit yet? In answer to the question, may you subscribe to more than one novel at a time? Yes. I just subscribed to Persuasion by Jane Austen. Could I use this novel as evidence within this essay assignment?

Grades are updated in GradeQuick. If interested, you might attempt to access them online. I know they had to move our grades to another server...not sure if your log-ins and passwords will be updated. Should you see an assignment you think we need to discuss, please email me! We have Monday to finalize grades!

Have a great weekend!

For Thursday, January 15, 2009

2009-01-14T13:48:00.000-08:00

Here's our agenda:

Grammar Time: Review verb consistency. Test on run-ons, parallelism, and verb consistency on Monday.
Discuss Antigone. Who is the most tragic figure in this drama?
Draft of outline for "The Art of Persuasion" essay due in class! Reminder: Entry #2 in Writer's Notebook was to brainstorm ideas for this essay.

Assignments for Monday, January 19:

Grammar Time test.
Bring a draft of your essay.

What is next?

Review/complete discussion of Antigone and test on Wednesday.
Finalize essay.
Begin The Call of the Wild.

Have you taken any stands lately?

Read the classics via your email!

2009-01-07T20:05:00.001-08:00

Just learned about this site: Daily Lit.

Guess where I read about this interesting site? That's right...through my Google Reader where I subscribe to Ms. Carla's The English Teacher Blog.

At this link, you will discover 593 classics which are sent to you in installment format...meaning you receive a portion each day...via your email.

I chose The Curious Case of Benjamin Button by F. Scott Fitzgerald for three reasons:

This novel is now one of the newly released movies, and I like to have read the book before seeing the movie.
Written by Fitzgerald, this novel may give insights to the author as English 11 studies another of Fitzgerald's novels The Great Gatsby.
A goal of mine is to read more classical literature.

In eleven installments...or in eleven days, I will have read this novel. Not bad!

You are wondering, asking..."May I read one of these for my quarterly reading requirements?" Yes! Try it out!

Welcome to 2009!

2009-01-07T19:29:00.000-08:00

Glad to have you back on our journey through English 10...Gillmore Style.

So far we have...

Reviewed run-on sentences. What are the two types?
Wrote in our Writer's Notebooks about a time in which you took a stand...served as a prewrite for our next writing assignment and as a starting point for our next thematic unit entitled Taking a Stand.
Assigned Antigone pages 65-74 and a bio of Sophocles to read for Friday.
Assigned a paragraph. Draft due on Friday. Check here for that handout. Remember to proofread aloud!
Assigned vocabulary for this drama. Quiz on the words on Tuesday.
Reviewed your semester test.

Now, for the rest of the week:

Grammar Time: Review of parallel structure.
Edit/Revise/Type paragraph.
Read Antigone: Prologue-Act 2

What is in our near future?

Completing Antigone and beginning The Call of the Wild.

Reminders:

You have to read six books this nine weeks. As a class, we will read Antigone, Call of the Wild, and Animal Farm this nine weeks, so that means you are responsible for reading three novels of your choice.
Expectations/Length Requirements:
1-299 pages = 1 book
300-599 pages = 2 books
600 + pages = 3 books
I would also like for one of your reads between now and the end of the year to be a selection from the AP Literature exam...will give you that list on Friday.
I will post assessment options soon...just as soon as I get that all decided!

Once again...welcome back!

Check out my newest blog!

2009-01-02T11:25:00.000-08:00

Throughout 2009, one of my goals is to write book reviews as I complete the latest great read.

Please check out Mrs. Gillmore's Book Reviews here.

Completed my first novel yesterday...Twilight!

Happy New Year!

2008-12-30T18:28:00.000-08:00

I hope you have had a fun, relaxing, and restful break!

Here's to a great 2009!

See you next year!

Revised Schedule

2008-12-16T17:21:00.000-08:00

According to an email sent out by Mr. Campbell today, our semester test schedule will be as follows:

Thursday: All "A" classes
Friday: All "B" classes

Also due on your test day for our class is...

Your Julius Caesar essay
Your Writer's Notebook

Reminder: Blogs are due!

I hope you have enjoyed your break...before the Christmas Break!

Questions?

See you on Thursday!

The Tales of Beedle the Bard

2008-12-10T14:11:00.000-08:00

Attention all you Muggles: I have four copies of J.K. Rowling's latest book...a children's book. Thank goodness, there is a kid in us all!

If you are a Harry Potter fan, please see me to check out a copy!

I have not had a chance to read this book yet (see blog post below!), but Zane has...and Rachel has checked out one of the copies. I "hear" the last story is the best!

Back from a Blogging Break

2008-12-10T13:56:00.001-08:00

Life has been overwhelming lately...sorry about not blogging as much. My to-do list is getting smaller:

Graduate course project: completed! Turned in! Did I mention my project is finished?
Graded one of your tests!
Have begun creating your semester review.
Created the rubric for your essay.

To-Do List:

Complete yearbook Deadline 2 and Deadline 3.
Complete, proof, and print hardcopy of first newspaper.
Prepare and decorate for a church Christmas party.
Shop for Christmas
Make Christmas goodies and share with all my young friends. Interested? No, I won't forget the candy canes!
Back to reality...grade papers.
Make out exams.

English Class To-Do List:

Print Julius Caesar test to be admininstered on Friday.
Print additional rubrics so they will be ready as I grade the Julius Caesear essays due on Tuesday.
Print phrase test to be administered on Tuesday.
Create and print a rubric for the the five blogs due on your semester test day.
Print rubric for grading your Writer's Notebooks due on Tuesday.
Print review sheets for semester test.
Purchase candy canes for class reward for not talking! (Yes, that is to 4B!)
Ready myself for some down-time over Christmas Break so that I will be energized as I synergize with the Pre-AP English 10 classes on January 7.

Let's complete this list and have a Merry Christmas!

Tuesday, Nov 25....This Is It!

2008-11-25T06:40:00.000-08:00

I am at a meeting today in Melbourne learning more about what to teach you when.

Today's plans include

Write in your Writer's Notebook. You choose the topic.
Turn in your Seven Habits project.
Take the Julius Caesar vocabulary test.
Complete and turn in the Review Packet.

Now go and have a great break!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Go, Pioneers!

2008-11-20T21:34:00.000-08:00

Good luck to the Pioneers as they compete against Greenwood!

Good luck to the band as they play splendidly and represent good ol' Batesville High in such a grand fashion!

I will not be attending the game...working on homework! Boo hoo! Have a HUGE project due on Monday. Yes, being a student is stressful!

Drop me a comment and let me know how the game goes. Okay?

Gentle Reminders

2008-11-18T16:40:00.000-08:00

This week, on a blog that I read on a regular basis, we were asked to post our blog url's if we have a class blog. Nice to know that our class is there...we are right there in the 21st Century Learning! Let's keep it up!

For Wednesday, Nov. 19:

Test over Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens.
3A: Julius Caesar composition is due also.
Progress reports due today to the office.
Happy #4 wedding anniversary to me! I do hope that each of you one day (...more like several years down life's road) have a spouse that you like as much as I like and appreciate mine!

For Friday, Nov. 21:

Beat Greenwood! Well...not in class, of course!
Please let me know on Wednesday if not going to be in class on Wednesday. I need to determine if we will continue reading/listening to Julius Caesar...or plan to do something else in class Friday. Maybe time to type your anecdotes?
Review vocabulary...test on Tuesday!
Review grammar: prepositions, appositives, and participials.

For Tuesday, Nov. 25:

Julius Caesar vocabulary test.
Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens project due. Should include five anecdotes with at least one literary term used in each. This project should be a minimum of six pages: 1 title/cover page and one page for each anecdote/literary analysis.
I will not be class on this day. Just found out today that I will be attending a workshop on that date.

Happy Thanksgiving! No homework! Take some time to rest and reflect on why you are who you are...and take time to appreciate who you are, for you are very blessed, intelligent young people.

Be thankful!