Last Day Before the Break!

Hi all,

Today in class was your day to hand in your literary paragraph package (if you chose to).  If you did not hand your work in today, it is due on January 5th.

Homework for the break:

Read:  "Valentine Heart" and "Like a Lion"

Complete chapter questions #3 up until the end of the "Like A Lion."  We will complete the remaining questions after the break.

Handouts:

Chapter Questions #3:  https://docs.google.com/document/d/1cf6wRjs5mn1BD8OMpZyf3aYKNskyQrI7H2e4Rk-G61c/edit?usp=sharing

Thank you for continuing to be such an amazing class.  I wish you all a wonderful winter break and Happy Holidays!!

Ms. Michalski

Editing Day!

Hi all,

Today in class you came with your completed rough drafts.  We went to a computer lab where you were expected to do three things:

1.  Have your paragraph edited by at least two other students and edit at least two others' paragraphs.
2.  Complete an editing plan outlining what changes you need to make to your rough draft.
3.  Began typing out your good copy.

Good copies are due either tomorrow OR January 5th (first English day after the break).

Please staple work together in this order when handing in:

1.  Good copy
2.  Outline
3.  Rough draft
4.  Peer editing checklists
5.  Editing plan
6.  Rough edit (optional if you did an additional edit).

Thanks and see everyone tomorrow for our final day before the break!

Handouts:

Peer editing checklist (page 1 of this link only):  https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhVlZwa3N3MzMyMG8/view?usp=sharing

Editing plan: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1dPcU4RqoXXqjLR1d9PK_CyXFj0LzVdzAXYVd-dsCqWc/edit?usp=sharing

Homework:

Good copy paragraph due either tomorrow or January 5th.

Rough Draft Day

Hi all,

Today in class we started with your vocab quiz.  You then were given the block to complete your rough draft.  Those who were finished were able to start peer editing.  Rough drafts are due on Thursday for a full editing day.

See you Thursday!

Ms. Michalski

No handouts today.

Literary Paragraphs

Hi all,

Today in class I did a vocab homework check and collected your second chapter questions.  We then discussed what we read in the novel.

Class time today was used to work on our literary paragraphs.  I handed out outlines and you had the block to work on your paragraphs.  Rough copies are due on Monday.
Here is the plan for the literary paragraph:

Monday's class - Finish writing outline and write rough draft.

Thursday's class - Come to class with your completed rough draft.  This will be a peer editing and revision day.

Literary paragraphs are due EITHER Friday December 16th (to get it out of the way before the break) OR Thursday, January 5th.

No handouts today.

Homework:

Vocab quiz Monday

Bring Literary Paragraph ROUGH COPY to class.  This is not the version you are handing in, so don't sweat it if it's not perfect!

Read "And a Partridge in a Pear Tree" and "Red Versus White"

Starting Our Literary Paragraphs

Hi all,

Today in class I collected your "Two Sides of Me" cartoon assignment.  We then discussed where you read in the novel and completed a quick write.  This was quick write #5, so I collected them for marking.

Class time today was used to review literary paragraph writing.  I then gave you the literary paragraph assignment for ATDPTI.  We worked on creating our topic sentence, collecting our quotes for evidence and writing our outlines.

Here is the plan for the literary paragraph:

Friday's class - Finish writing outline and write rough draft.

Monday's class - Come to class with your completed rough draft.  This will be a peer editing and revision day.

Thursday's class - Revision and good copy day.

Literary paragraphs are due EITHER Friday December 16th (to get it out of the way before the break) OR Thursday, January 5th.

Handouts:

Literary Paragraph Overview:  https://docs.google.com/document/d/14yf9Yr1b_5-mlJyB1UQ-UUdqvVIntAL-bW55F62dCko/edit?usp=sharing

Character Trait Quote Collection Chart:  https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhOUNaXzZKN3lTUWM/view?usp=sharing

Homework:

Chapter Questions #2 Due tomorrow.

Vocab Homework Check tomorrow.

Read "Reindeer Games"

Work Block

Hi all,

Today in class we started with a discussion about the chapters we read last night in the novel.  You were then given a work block and could decide to work on your next cartoon assignment, your vocabulary or your chapter questions.  I have given all of these materials well in advance so that you can decide how to best complete the work.

Two Sides of Me Cartoon - due Thursday, December 8th

Chapter Question #2 - due Friday, December 9th

Vocabulary Homework Check - Friday, December 9th

Vocabulary Quiz - Monday, December 12th

No handouts today.

Homework:

Work on the above.

Read "Dance, Dance, Dance" to the end of "My Sister Sends Me A Letter"

Two Sides of Me

Hi all,

Today in class your first set of chapter questions were due.  We began the class with a discussion of the novel.  We then began working on your second cartoon assignment.  The assignment takes a closer look at the cartoon on page 57 of the novel that looks at the two sides of Junior.  You will have more time in class to work on these tomorrow and the completed cartoons are due on Thursday, December 8th.

In addition to our cartoon assignment, I thought it would be a good idea to hand you upcoming work so that you can work on it in advance if you choose.  I know how busy things are, so I thought if you had the work ahead of time, you can choose how it best fits into your life.  You will mostly be given class time for group work, but any remaining class time can be used to work on these upcoming tasks too.

Here are the upcoming pieces of work:

Chapter Questions #2 (Due Friday, December 9th): https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_Ha9ANYwMB7WcpI6w32kZfr_WXDRL0mQIqaopCQy-D4/edit

Vocab #2:  Homework Check Friday, December 9th: https://docs.google.com/document/d/19A2UxE-KbwO4gcx-w_Vty2sUksTXhLQkJ2-dlLbJ7II/edit

Vocab Quiz: Monday, December 12th


Handouts from today's class:

Cartoon Assignment (Due Thursday, December 8th): https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zEzuuGIgIhrQkK4tLrtyVD00M0IfO0Y9OvlbNXdnBLs/edit

Homework:

Work on your cartoon assignment.

Read from "Hunger Pains" to "Rowdy Gives Me Advice About Love"

Debate Day!

Hi all,

Today in class you had 15min to finish prepping your debate before we presented them to the class.  The remainder of class was spent discussing where you've read in the novel and working on the chapter questions that are due tomorrow.

No handouts today.

Homework:

Chapter Questions due tomorrow (Tuesday)

Read from "My Sister Sends Me An Email" to the end of "Thanksgiving"

Mascot Debate Prep

Hi all,

Today in class we had a quick discussion about what you have read in novel since last class.  We then went to the learning commons where you had the entire block to research and prepare your debate presentation for Monday.  On Monday, you will be given 15 minutes to get your groups organized and then we will hear your debate presentation.  Please make sure you refer to your assignment sheet so that you know how you will be graded.

I also handed out your first set of chapter questions today.  Chapter questions are not due until Tuesday, November 29th, but you can get a head start on them if you would like.

Homework:

Work on your mascots presentations for Monday (if necessary)

Read: Tears of a Clown - Slouching Toward Thanksgiving (pg 98).

Work on your chapter questions if you choose (due Tuesday).

Handouts:

Chapter Questions #1: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1S1RkS1tD8VO-e7DkVDfqgnPezKXzNlOydAcbuJ-hlFA/edit?usp=sharing

Refer to your Mascots Debate handout from last class for presentation criteria.

Mascots

Hi all,

Cartoon assignments due at the beginning of class.


Today in class we read "Go Means Go" and "Rowdy Sings the Blues" as part of USSR.  You then completed your first vocab quiz for our novel unit.  When we were finished with the quiz, we discussed the chapters of the novel that we have read so far.  We then had a group discussion about stereotypes and started reading the chapter "How To Fight Monsters" together.

After reading the chapter, we took our discussion a step further and started talking about mascots in team sports.  I showed you a video clip titled, "Savage Country: American Indian Sports Mascots" and we discussed the implications.  I then divided you into groups and handed you some articles with differing opinions on the topic.  I assigned your group an "opinion" and you are going to be responsible for creating a debate that backs your side of the question, "Are sports mascots racist?"  I assigned you an opinion so that we can have an unbiased argument that looks at the facts of both sides. We will spend Friday's class in the computer lab doing research and preparing our presentations/arguments.  Arguments will be presented next Monday.

See you Friday everyone!

Homework:

Finish reading "How To Fight Monsters" and "Grandmother Gives Me Some Advice"

Handouts:

Mascots Articles: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1xH0YT0LggI4J6t5eRlE-4C39jtOq2e6C3tLbXKFfW1w/edit?usp=sharing

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1BoaGMvcppqGJYOqusxZkgYv2ve6NbF9r-zDyX8ee61I/edit?usp=sharing

Mascots Debate: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1SowDvMCrM7uBSkOuLj6hLmcanrpqbLv1ap1ygp25F80/edit?usp=sharing

Continuing ATDPTI

Hi all,

Today in class I did a vocab homework check, and we discussed the novel up until where you have read.  I also went over your short story tests and reviewed some of the common errors in literary paragraph writing.  We then completed a quick write on some of the issues that are arising in the novel.  When we were finished, I gave you some time to either work on your cartoon assignment (due Monday), study for your vocab quiz (on Monday) or get a head start on your novel reading for homework.

Homework:

Vocab Quiz - Study for Monday's vocab quiz.
Cartoon Assignment - Finish your cartoon assignment (due Monday).
Read:  Finish up until the end of Hope Against Hope (pg 43).

No handouts today.

ATDPTI Day 2

Hi all,

Today we jumped further into our novel.   I handed out your first vocab words for the unit and will do a vocab check next Friday.  I then introduced you to a major theme of the novel and handed out a sheet to keep track of any time you come across a lesson that Junior learns during the novel.  This will help you when it comes time to write the essay for this unit.

For the remainder of class we discussed dreams versus reality and how Junior's parents were never able to fulfil their dreams.  We started on a cartoon assignment like the cartoon Junior draws on page 13 of the novel.  Cartoons will be due on Monday, November 21st.  We will have time to work on them next class as well.

Handouts:

Literary Analysis: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1RnpWed0VfkcTcr94BSm2_EvOWl9TGIKtO0AOIE1uarQ/edit?usp=sharing

Literary Log: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1LvGzcdHvUerQTUNJyHaAPuXBdX8da0EjYeaLzdpGwJg/edit?usp=sharing

Vocabulary: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1jnlCAJcRpHrZY8spsLqtJkQlD2z5QO3mjNMJbdZVtK8/edit?usp=sharing

Cartoon Assignment: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1xVTsirV4oPmyfC42lJB7eeSkaQBoPnGs0EdNSedRc88/edit?usp=sharing

Homework:

Read to page 31.

Complete your vocab definitions and sentences for vocab check next Friday.

Optional:  Work on cartoon assignment.  Cartoons due Monday, November 21st.

Introduction to Our Novel

Hi all,

Today in class we exchanged our textbooks for our novel.  We will be reading The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie.  In order to get us thinking about the novel and some of its messages, we had two guest speakers in our class today.  They joined us in order to talk about the local First Nations people, as well as the history of residential and reservation schools.  We then began discussing the novel and the authors background.

Handouts:

Author Background: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1FP8Z1DIqq04Tj9OpBDYkvXxRe6blr0_FtVHR7OZ-wJY/edit?usp=sharing

Map of Spokane Tribe: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1es0zAPFCmtONBVRRbZvwlchYao8C9EDjJm3hwOx-1G8/edit?usp=sharing

Homework:

Please read until page 24 of the novel for tomorrow.

Short Stories Unit Test

Hi all,

Today in class you completed your test for our Short Stories unit.  I will do my best to have these marked and back to you as quickly as possible.

Please bring your Short Stories text to class tomorrow, as you will be exchanging it for our novel.

Thanks and see you tomorrow!

No handouts today.

No homework today either :)  Enjoy!

Studying for Unit Test Tomorrow

Hi all,

Today I gave you the entire class to study for tomorrow's unit test.  Some of you worked on your paragraph outlines, while others reviewed stories and terms.

Please review the handout from last week that outlines the structure of tomorrow's test.  You will be matching terms to definitions, answering multiple choice questions about the stories we read and writing a literary paragraph response answering the prompt I handed to you on Friday.  You will be given a new copy of "A Manly Heart," but will not be allowed to use your paragraph outline.

Reminders:

*Your topic sentence must offer an opinion about the topic posed.
* Write in present tense.
* Avoid summarizing, and make sure you are only using examples from the story when you are providing evidence for your own ideas/thoughts.
*Double space your work and write in pen.

Good work today, everyone!  We start our novel unit on Wednesday.

No handouts today.

Homework:

STUDY FOR TOMORROW'S TEST.

STUDYING!

Hi all,

Today in class we reviewed our notes on how to write a literary paragraph, and you read through my notes on your previous assignment.  I then gave a mini lesson on sentence fragments and the difference between colons and semi colons.

The remainder of the block was spent reading the story "A Manly Heart," which will be the story you will write a paragraph response to on your test.  I handed out paragraph outlines, and the paragraph response question, and you were given time to start planning your paragraphs.  Note:  For the test, you will not be allowed your paragraph outline, but you will be given a copy of the story.

Homework:

STUDY for you Short Stories Unit Test on Tuesday!  Review your terms, the stories we have read and work on your paragraph outline.

You will be given all block on Monday to prepare as well.

Handouts:

"A Manly Heart" Question - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1gqUnk01mG4T2r1gNVITKTj_trir-N8ukEpv5D1qYck0/edit?usp=sharing 

"A Manly Heart" Story - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1gqUnk01mG4T2r1gNVITKTj_trir-N8ukEpv5D1qYck0/edit?usp=sharing

"Barney" and Short Stories Unit Test Prep

Hi all,

Today in class we learned about different types of endings and kinds of irony.  We then read our last short story for this unit, "Barney."  We discussed the use of irony in the story.

For the remainder of class, we began to review our short stories unit in preparation for our short stories unit test next week (November 8th).

We will continue to prepare for the test on Friday and Monday.

Homework:

Continue reviewing the stories we have read.   Fill in the review chart that was handed out in class today (you will have more time to do this in class too).

Handouts:

Barney Discussion Questions:  https://docs.google.com/document/d/10umThy7OwIxitaM2SbU1foZ_GtgrnpSwPJD7rwjHko4/edit?usp=sharing

Types of Endings: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1svkCqp79_tklGbzrI-ha0SSy7P82pGdw9hk4j2Xej0o/edit

Irony: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhVl9TcS12NTYxaUU/view?usp=sharing

Short Stories Review Sheet: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1m6j9gJQKvR1oN9zDeAZOFUGbR5MFnvozVEZF9BolLG4/edit

Point of View in Stories and Presentations

Hi all,

Today in class you were given a few minutes to go over your presentations before presenting to the class.  Your energy was incredible throughout this assignment.  Great work, everyone!

We finished up class by taking some notes on point of view and did a mini lesson on some grammar issues that I've noticed popping up.

See you next week!  I hope you have a Happy Halloween!

Handouts:

POV Notes:  https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhY0hSZmNaMlNNdzg/view?usp=sharing

"The Veldt" News Stories

Hi all,

Today in class you were given the entire block to work on your news presentations for "The Veldt."  Presentations will occur in class tomorrow.

I'm really excited to see them!

No handouts today.

"The Veldt"

Hi all,

Today in class we completed your second vocab quiz.  We then started to work on our broadcast news assignment for "The Veldt."  We will work on these again on Wednesday (when I see you next) and will present them on Thursday.  I'm excited to see them!

Good work everyone!

Handouts:

"The Veldt" News Assignment:  https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhNkNtcjFWMFBHd1k/view?usp=sharing

Homework:

If you would like to work on your news presentations, go for it!  You will be given class time to work on them on Wednesday too, so no stress :)

Enjoy your long weekend you lucky kids!

"The Veldt"

Hi all,

Today in class we started with a homework check of your vocab words in preparation for your vocab quiz tomorrow.

We then continued with our discussion questions about "The Veldt" from last class.

1. Describe the goals and motivations of Peter and Wendy. What will they likely do with David? Why?
2. What foreshadowing is there of George and Lydia’s fate? Give examples of ways in which they raise their children badly.
3. How does Bradbury build atmosphere in the story?
4. How are the children portrayed in the story.

We finished class by watching a video version of the story, and I showed you a music video that uses the story as inspiration.

Here is a link to the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=erkL_IqlupE

No handouts today.

Homework:

Vocab Quiz #2 tomorrow!  Study tonight!

"The Veldt"

Hi all,

Today in class I reminded you of the importance of checking our class website.  Please remember to check the website daily, as too many of you are forgetting due dates due to band days in between English days.  Let's work on that!

Yesterday, there was some confusion over the homework check day for the vocab words.  I will be doing the new homework check next Wednesday.  You must have all definitions and sentences completed by that day.

Vocab quiz is next Thursday!

Today we read the short story, "The Veldt."  You then got into groups to discuss the following questions and report back to the class:

-Describe the goals and motivations of Peter and Wendy. What will they likely do with David? Why?-What foreshadowing is there of George and Lydia’s fate? Give examples of ways in which they raise their children badly.
-How does Bradbury build atmosphere in the story?
-How are the children portrayed in the story?


No handouts today!

Homework:

1.  Complete vocab definitions and sentences for homework check on Wednesday.
2.  Study for vocab quiz on Thursday.

Plot Devices and "The Veldt"

Hi all,

Today in class I collected your found poem assignment.  I cannot wait to read them!  We then went over the vocab words for your next vocab quiz and you had time to get started on the definitions.  There will be a homework check tomorrow to check for completed definitions and sentences.  We then completed our third quick write of the year before moving into some notes on plot devices.  We finished the class by reading the story, "The Veldt" by Ray Bradbury.

Homework:

Vocab words and definitions due tomorrow.  Vocab quiz next Thursday, October 20th.

Handouts:

Plot Device Notes: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhYnJrcU9CXzFQU2c/view?usp=sharing


Vocab Words #2: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1257oWOe2eCZ8qhLjO86KngwhDTKyjC37lT8ON1do9nw/edit?usp=sharing

Reminder - Today is a Band Day!

Hi all,

Just a reminder that there was a switch to your calendar.  Today is a band day.

See you tomorrow with your found poems!

Ms. Michalski

Found Poems

Hi all,

Today in class you handed in your literary paragraphs and "The Sea Devil" questions.  We then spent time talking about found poetry.  We used a section of the short story, "The Sea Devil" to create found poems.  If you were away today, use 4 pages of the story to start your found poem.  Good copy found poems are due on Wednesday.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Handouts:

Found Poetry Assignment:  https://docs.google.com/document/d/1RkOoJ4TMAD7G1pSOiGCS6CpQln7U7XHaZKYJ0GU3buI/edit?usp=sharing

Homework:  Found poem project due on Wednesday.

The Sea Devil

Hi all,

Today in class we spent some time working on your paragraphs.  We then took notes on the types of conflict in stories and read a new story together called, "The Sea Devil."  I handed out questions about the story and you had time to work on the story questions.

Homework:
-"The Sea Devil" questions due Friday
- "The Father" literary paragraph due Friday.  Good copy must be typed, double spaced and stapled to your paragraph outline.

Reminder:  Bring pencil crayons and black felt pens (like a sharpie) for Friday's class.

See you Friday!

Handouts:

"The Sea Devil" Questions: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14GgF-qQknFG-bof3KeOHq7723uHoc4fsBBxztedKSjs/edit?usp=sharing

Notes on Conflict: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhLV9acExkOUtMODA/view?usp=sharing

Literary Paragraph Writing Day

Hi all,

Today in class we did a quick review of the literary paragraph must haves.  We looked at an example and discussed what was well-written and what could be improved in the paragraph.  You were then given the majority of class time to write your literary paragraphs using your outlines to guide you.  Paragraphs are due on Friday.  Twenty more minutes of class time will be given tomorrow to work on paragraph writing.

Homework:

Finish writing and type out good copy of literary paragraph.  Staple your good copy to your paragraph outline.  Paragraphs are due on Friday, but can be handed in tomorrow if you are finished.

Handouts:

No handouts today.

Vocab Quiz and Literary Paragraphs

Hi all,

Today in class we completed our first vocab quiz!  We then talked about tips for writing literary paragraphs and reviewed the material from last class.  I went over incorporating transition words and gave you a list of expectations for all literary paragraph assignments.  We finished class by working on paragraph outlines.

You will have time in class to compile your paragraphs on Monday.

GOOD COPY LITERARY PARAGRAPHS DUE TUESDAY!

Homework:

Work on paragraph outlines.  Please come to class on Monday with a completed topic sentence and your three main points added to your paragraph outline.

Handouts:

Transition words: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1lSKX0QfmAJ1agJYYgiCx66TwxSLdbySg5BT4wMOwyOQ/edit?usp=sharing

Literary Paragraph Checklist: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhcXc2Rktla0Zra1U/view?usp=sharing

OCTOBER CALENDAR:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhQ1d2azlJTGRGNUk/view?usp=sharing

Literary Paragraphs

Hi all,

Today in class we finished discussing how to write a literary paragraph and we broke down an example together.  I checked your vocab homework at the start of class.  I then gave you paragraph outlines, and we worked on taking your ideas and quotes from the web diagrams and incorporating them into a literary paragraph.  I also gave a lesson on transition words and incorporating quotations into your writing.  Paragraphs will be due next week.

The prompt for the literary paragraph is:  Discuss the personality traits that make John Purcell a poor father in the short story “The Father,” by Hugh Garner.

Homework:

Study for Friday's vocab quiz!

Handouts:

Incorporating quotations: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhS3lHSl9tTDlzZzQ/view?usp=sharing

Persuasive language:  https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhaGsxS2RzVFMxbDQ/view?usp=sharing

Paragraph outline: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhOVZ2N3d1M3AxVE0/view?usp=sharing

Writing a Literary Paragraph

Hi all,

Today in class we discussed important quotes in the story in relation to the father's personality traits.  We linked relevant quotes to the traits in your web diagram.

I then spent time going over how to write literary paragraphs as we approach our first formal writing piece.

I also handed out vocabulary words for your first vocab quiz this Friday.  I discussed the structure of the quiz so that there are no surprises.

Homework:

Complete vocab definitions and sentences for class tomorrow.  I will do a homework check.
Study for vocab quiz on Friday.
Make sure web diagram is complete with traits and matching, relevant quotes.

Handouts:

How to write a persuasive paragraph: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhM3h6cDRWazdlNDg/view?usp=sharing

Vocab List #1:
 https://docs.google.com/document/d/12Fw3xvXBMuRfnSivjWrvLHzSlA5clVtphEIey-xpS08/edit?usp=sharing

"The Father"

Hi all,

Today in class we discussed the questions from our class yesterday and I handed back your responses.  We then took time to discuss different types of characters and you entered notes into the short stories section of your binder.  I then had you read the short story, "The Father" by Hugh Garner and we began discussing the types of characters in this story.

Homework:  Come to class with a web diagram of John Purcell's personality traits.  Leave space between the traits so you can enter some more information on Monday.  Aim for 10 traits.

See you Monday!

Handouts:

Character Notes:  https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhVWw0QzJEbUZEdFk/view?usp=sharing

"The Friday Everything Changed"

Hi all,

Today in class we read the short story "The Friday Everything Changed" by Anne Hart.  This story connects the conversation topics about gender stereotypes we discussed in our last class.  When we were done reading the story, I handed out some reflection questions.  Reflection questions are due tomorrow at the start of class if you did not hand them in today.

Homework:

"The Friday Everything Changed" questions due tomorrow (Thursday)

Handouts:

"The Friday Everything Changed" questions:  https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qJJebl_MzLdrxadRihy-V9Ua59c8tVx4d5HumblEzK4/edit?usp=sharing

The Good Wife's Guide

Hi All,

Today in class we discussed your "Charles" plot lines that were due today.  We then began brainstorming gender stereotypes and read an article from a 1950's magazine.  The article titled, "The Good Wife's Guide" gives strong insight into how gender stereotypes have changed over the years.  We used this to begin a discussion that will lead us into our next short story and wrote a quick write on the topic as well.

No homework today.  Have a great weekend!

Handouts:

The Good Wife's Guide:  https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhQmxPTmFmRWN3X1U/view?usp=sharing

"Charles"

Hi All,

Today in class we finished taking notes on the elements of plot.  I then discussed what our quick writes will look like this semester, and we completed our first quick write.  We spent the remaining class time reading our first short story, "Charles."  I asked you to use the story, "Charles" to identify the different parts of a short story on a plot diagram.  Completed plot diagrams due Friday.

Homework:  Plot diagrams due Friday.

Handouts:

Quick Write Expectations: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1koKF3WYLa4YD6l5-Rbeeh-BdjKmM_qJ70fRNrr_RsBE/edit?usp=sharing

"Charles" Story: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwheU5NY29CR0xsUlU/view?usp=sharing

Plot Diagram: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhWE5NcjluQlZwVGs/view?usp=sharing

Getting Started

Hi All,

Signed course outlines due.

Today in class we had our first day of silent reading.  We also went to the learning commons and signed out a copy of our short stories textbook.  We then got to know each other a little more by conducting interviews.

For the rest of class we got our binders organized and started discussing the elements of plot.  We began taking notes for our binder in the short stories section.

Homework:  Please bring me your signed course outline tomorrow if you forgot it today.

Handouts:

Elements of Plot Notes: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhVlp5cXdYM05NeFU/view?usp=sharing

English 9 Day 1

Hi All,

It was so nice spending class time with you today.  I look forward to our semester together.

Today in class we went over our course outline and class expectations.  We then talked about what supplies you will need, and I introduced you to our class website.  We spent the remainder of class getting to know each other.

Reminders:  PLEASE BRING YOUR SILENT READING BOOK AND SIGNED COURSE OUTLINE FOR MONDAY.

No homework today.

Handouts:

Course Outline:  https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vMASX3wECqCVgbEtRL-k0NCrjoXRTp55YK5jtrL6emA/edit?usp=sharing 

Welcome!

Hi Everyone!

Welcome to English 9!

Here you will find handouts to all of our class assignments as well as explanations of daily activities.  You can also use this website to get updates on homework and due dates.  Everything you need to stay on top of your learning will be available to you here.

Daily posts will occur on scheduled class days.

I'm looking forward to our year together!

Ms. Michalski

Last day!

Hi All,

Congratulations on the last day of English 9!  Today you could choose which aspect of the exam you wanted to practice.

Thank you for a lovely semester!

Exam:

Wednesday, June 22nd at 9am in the large gym.  Please arrive no later than 8:45am.

Almost there!

Hi everyone!

Today in class we went over literary writing techniques again in preparation for Wednesday's exam.  We also talked about creating hooks and did some practice with poetic devices.

Tomorrow will be a free choice day between a bunch of the exam components.

If you would like extra help before the exam, I will meet you in our classroom at 8am on Wednesday morning.

You're almost there!

Review Day Two

Hi All,

Today we spent another day reviewing all of the works we studied this semester.  I had all of the textbooks in the room and we also looked at example thesis statements that you might see on the exam.  I suggest looking over your notes on the texts we studied again before your exam.

No handouts today.

Homework:

Study for your exam (Wednesday, 9am)

Review of works studied

Hi everyone,

Today in class we spent the block (and will do this tomorrow too) reviewing the works we have read together this semester.  I gave you two charts to use to record details about the texts we have studied and I also brought in a bunch of the different books in order to properly review them.  You could choose to use your review time to re-read stories or to record extra notes, quotes and details that you believe will help you on the exam.  I also went over some thesis statement examples that are similar to the ones you will see on your exam.

See me for review material if you missed today.

Thanks everyone!  You're almost there!

Note:
English 9 Exam
Wednesday, June 22nd
9:00am (3 hour exam)
Large Gym
*Arrive between 8:30am and 8:45am
Bring multiple blue or black ink pens and a water bottle

Reading Strategies

Hi everyone,

Today in class we discussed your short story practice paragraphs from yesterday.  We then spent time talking about effective vs ineffective reading strategies.  The remainder of class was spent practising with poetry.

Tomorrow, we will look back at all of the works we have studied this year (and Friday too).

Thanks everyone!  We are almost there!

Homework:

Study

See me for exam prep handouts if you were away.

Short Story Exam Prep

Hi All,

Today in class we practised the short stories section of your upcoming exam.  We read a short story and completed a literary paragraph response.  You were then asked to use the marking criteria to self-evaluate and edit your work.

We will continue with exam prep this week.

See me if you were away and would like the exam prep.

No handouts today.

Homework:

Exam prep and silent reading to finish books before the end of the year.

Exam Prep

Hi All,

Today we went over the exam in detail and I handed out sheets that outlined the structure of the exam.  We then spent some class time looking over more poetry examples and answering questions.  We also did a mini lesson on run on sentences.

Please see me for any exam prep sheets if you were away.

We are almost there!

No homework tonight.

Exam Prep

Hi Everyone,

Today in class we discussed some of the stand out points that arose as I was marking your poetry unit test.  We then went through a mini lesson on the comma!  I then spent time talking to you about the structure of your final exam and we did some poetry reading practice.

Have a great weekend everyone!  You're almost there!

Ms. Michalski

Handouts:

The comma:  https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Ng_NhDZPC_a_Hep_JUR8Itaw0eCeJeMrsgMQ1L_F4Ks/edit?usp=sharing

See me if you would like the exam prep, as I am not going to post this.

Poetry Unit Test

Hi All,

Today we started class right away with our unit test.  Silent reading occurred at the end of class after you finished writing your test.

Upcoming class days will be devoted to grammar, review and exam prep.

No handouts today.

Poetry Unit Test Studying

Hi all,

Today in class we spent time preparing for your unit test in poetry tomorrow.  I went over the structure of the test and the terms you will need to know.  We then practised answering questions about a poem and you had time to study your terms and literary writing techniques.

Homework:

Study for tomorrow's poetry unit test

Handouts:

Poetry Unit Review:  https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhdG5xendhZnBKak0/view?usp=sharing

Warren Pryor Practice Questions:  https://docs.google.com/document/d/1rYCsszjcfuTCw0B4v6yLTyb7787HIe8eOpAmkRvX5TA/edit?usp=sharing

Poetry Editing

Hi All,

Today in class you had time to complete your poetry editing assignment.  Students who finished moved on to some unit test studying.

Homework:

Poetry Editing Assignment:  Due tomorrow

Poetry Unit Test:  Thursday

Handouts:

Poetry Editing Assignment: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhQmE5TjhlYms2N1U/view?usp=sharing

Poetry Editing Rubric:  https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhZHBvSU1qQVV2Z0k/view?usp=sharing

Poetry Unit Review Sheet: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhdG5xendhZnBKak0/view?usp=sharing

Poetry Comprehension Practice!

Hi all,

Today we practised with poetry comprehension.  I had various poems set out around the room, and you had to go to each station, read the poem, and answer specific questions.  These questions would be similar to some that you might see on your exam.

We will go over the answers together in class.

Reminder:  Poetry Unit Test on Thursday!

Handouts:

Cooks Brook Poem:  https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhczBkOVhtSWFoZ2c/view?usp=sharing

Gallery Walk Questions:  https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhNE5mR0xNQVlqeWs/view?usp=sharing

Practice with Descriptive Writing!

Hi All,

Today in class your "Warren Pryor" literary paragraphs were due.  We then spent time practising creative/descriptive writing and learned how to write a Pantoum poem.

Please make sure to complete your Pantoum poem and have it in the poetry section of your binder.  You will need it for classes next week.

Next week we will finish our poetry unit and move onto exam prep.

Have a great weekend!

Homework:

Finish Pantoum poem if you did not complete it in class.

Handouts:

Writing a Pantoum:  https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhXzRyNUhGRENPTWM/view?usp=sharing

Literary Paragraph Editing

Hi All,

Today we met in the computer lab for class due to the mock exam.

You were asked to bring your draft paragraphs to class today for editing.  We spent time going through and editing your paragraphs.  You used peer editing checklists to read through each others work and then may a plan to edit your paragraph.  Remaining time was spent turning drafts into the good copies that are due tomorrow.

Please hand in your paragraph in the following order:

1.  Good copy of paragraph - include an interesting title at the top
2.  Rough copy
3.  Two peer editing checklists
4.  Editing plan

Good copies are due at the beginning of class on Friday, June 3rd.

Homework:

Literary paragraph good copies

Handouts:

Peer Editing Checklist:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhVlZwa3N3MzMyMG8/view?usp=sharing

Paragraph Editing Plan:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1sbwi568tCiaqMBw5OOknTmoxS7B4bDUIAURa6YcvtuY/edit?usp=sharing

Warren Pryor Literary Paragraph

Hi All,

Today we read a new poem using some of the poetry reading techniques we discussed in class yesterday.  You were given a topic for a literary paragraph, and today we spent time developing thesis statements and writing drafts for our paragraphs.

Tomorrow we will use our drafts in a peer editing fashion and make changes to improve.  Good copies will be due on Friday.

Please remember that your draft is just that, a draft!  Last time many drafts were handed in identical to the good copy.  Please take care to ensure that you are reading through the literary must haves in order to recognize areas for improvement.  Use the checklists I have given you and the peer evaluation sheets to help guide your proofreading and editing.

Homework:

"Warren Pryor" literary paragraph rough draft - due tomorrow.

Handouts:

"Warren Pryor" poem: https://docs.google.com/document/d/18qD4NvjgJUb7IvzbIFkD3Djwl5P3Szq71N-DOztVOcs/edit?usp=sharing

"Warren Pryor" paragraph topic: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1JO3Yp-b_n_68ls35_eB6CW-iuMtZpisqo14RDUT0xP4/edit?usp=sharing

Two Tone Poetry

Hi All,

Today you handed in your "Lessons from Nature" poems and we discussed the "lessons of the moth" questions.

We then went to the lab to complete a new poetry assignment using colours as comparisons to personality.  The poem will be put in the poetry section of your binder.

Handouts:

Two Tone Poetry:  https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhWXJyUnNNNXA4Um8/view?usp=sharing

Poetry Practice

Hi All,

Today in class we practised writing poetry.  We brainstormed ideas about lessons that nature teaches us (just like in "the lesson of the moth") and started to use some editing techniques to type up a poem.  I know that we are just learning poetic devices, so don't get too frustrated if you are having difficulty writing them.  We are just practicing!

Lessons from Nature poems due tomorrow.

Handouts:

Lessons from Nature Poetry Assignment:  https://docs.google.com/document/d/1JbgAWsGo9nKRzgmaYi7AqL_MZ56xcHO37eILlulCBq8/edit?usp=sharing

Concrete vs Abstract Imagery

Hi all,

Today in class we discussed the questions to "Your Own Brother."  We then learned about concrete and abstract imagery and practised with this by writing a "He Said/She Said" poem.  We then read a new poem called "The Lesson of the Moth" and discussed the poem's concept.  You were then given some reflection questions about the poem and had some time to work on these.  Questions are due on Monday.

Handouts:

He Said/She Said Poem:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1AUVLhPng0krkyIz_iE_sSMvaYXf0CsxkzSwx5Mo_XVw/edit?usp=sharing

"the lesson of the moth" by Don Marquis:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HG_iZfz2odIyCLfp72Vtz2H0zaw9Iyl0sWYqvz-kwKY/edit?usp=sharing

"the lesson of the moth" questions:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1M44dvmEGYaNLa_r5ujGipUemQOjp06iiiyH9wcl16Uw/edit?usp=sharing

List of Abstract Nouns:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhZHJKdThIbXg4X3c/view?usp=sharing

Homework:

Questions on "the lesson of the moth" - Due Monday

Your Own Brother

Hi All,

Today in class we completed a free write, read and analyzed a new poem (questions due tomorrow) and started writing an autobio poem (due tomorrow).

Handouts:

Your Own Brother Poem: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1jikEvhSUDox90q65RnfKuNEwgUVCdGuNeCxmyV-6KWc/edit?usp=sharing

Your Own Brother Analysis Questions: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14rYQxTeWWHQjE0efxvchYVfgcRAAh98_57_lTZuyKr0/edit?usp=sharing

Tone Vocabulary: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhOVdCRkF1WFZ6MFk/view?usp=sharing

Autobio Poem: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1dtjzSXClJE1T5dvgCGQUYBqndNkRoiA2nUW1X-Qy61c/edit?usp=sharing

Descriptive Language

Hi all,

Today we discussed descriptive language in poetry by looking at tone words and how to expand our language.  We discussed the poem "Mirror" by Sylvia Plath and wrote one group poem and an autobio poem.

Here are the handouts:

Poetic Devices (from yesterday): https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhN2k3dkUzZnZYQUE/view?usp=sharing

Poetry Identification (from yesterday):  https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhOHZwTWdOdHBjNXM/view?usp=sharing

Mirror: https://docs.google.com/document/d/19SigL0JKRGp56qONC-eOoaV-1jdQsUhoPGDGy_jYiM8/edit?usp=sharing

Group Poetry: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhMmVmQnFmWE04amM/view?usp=sharing

A special performance!

Hi all,

Today in class we had the privilege of watching a special presentation from the Tzinquaw dancers.  This presentation demonstrated some of the First Nations' traditions that we learned about in our novel studies this semester.

We will continue with our poetry unit tomorrow.

No handouts today.

Poetry

Hi all,

We began the block today by returning our plays to the Learning Commons.  We started our poetry unit today and learned about free writing and found poetry.  We started going over some poetic devices and reminding ourselves of those that we have already learned.

No homework this weekend!  Enjoy!

Ms. Michalski

Finishing the Unit

Hi All,

Today we finished watching A Midsummer Night's Dream and wrote a quick reflection on the differences between the film and play versions.  We then spent some time re-writing parts of our essay as practice for our exam.

We will jump into our poetry unit tomorrow.  Please bring your textbooks to return.

No handouts today.

Watching the Play

Hi All,

Today in class we finished watching the more modern version of Shakespeare's play.  While there are many similarities in the video version to the play, there are also many differences.  We kept track of all of the differences we observed in order to write a reflective response tomorrow.

Please bring your textbooks to class in order to return them.

No handouts today.

Unit Test and Watching the Play!

Hi everyone,

Today we completed your unit test for A Midsummer Night's Dream.  We then began watching a more recent version of the play in order to get a feel of what all of this crazy, mixed up love would look like acted out and on stage.

We will finish watching the play tomorrow, and will move on to our poetry unit later this week!

No homework tonight!


No handouts either :)

Essay Writing Day

Hi All,

Today in class you were given the topic choices for your essay and had the block to complete your timed write.  The topics were not meant to trick you, and if you used your time to think about the major themes in the play last week, you should have done just fine today!

Good work everyone!

No handouts today.

Homework:

Review for your multiple choice unit test tomorrow.

Quiz and Prep

Hi All,

Today in class we took our second character quiz.  We then spent the rest of the class reviewing for our upcoming tests.

Here is what I suggest you do:

1.  Review the play.  You can read sparknotes for some detailed explanations.

2.  Review your notes on Shakespeare and the play.

3.  Review your literary writing expectations as well as previous assignments that I have marked for you.

4.  When looking at the major themes/topics in the play (in your MSND notes), write down three specific situations in the play that pertain to each major topic/theme.  This will help you organize your thoughts on Monday when you see the topics for your in class essay.

The in class essay will be less words than your last essay and the topics will be handed out along with a checklist that will help guide your writing.  Remember the technique for planning that we practised together in class.

**Your unit test on Tuesday is only 28 multiple choice questions about Shakespeare and the play.  The literary writing component of the test is being omitted due to your in class write on Monday.

Handouts:

Unit Test Review (Part II is omitted):  https://docs.google.com/document/d/1cAFXNiUtujyfL-rR0MxLNRAatnaXWK00SFwRE57kwIw/edit?usp=sharing

Essay Prep

Hi all,

Today in class we practised and prepared for Monday's in class essay.  On Monday, you will be given a list of topics to choose from and you must come up with a thesis statement (point to prove) for your essay.  You then must write a 600 word, five paragraph essay in class. 

Today we went through:

How to write a body paragraph (review)

How to write a conclusion (review)

Important points to keep in mind while literary writing (review)

6 point marking scale (review)

Evaluation expectations for Monday (review)

We then discussed how to organize your thoughts for Monday, and started making predictions about arguments that we may see come up on the test.

Homework:

Character Quiz #2 tomorrow.  Make sure you are familiar with the characters in the play and what happened to each of them.  This is good preparation for your unit test on Tuesday (all multiple choice).

Bottom's Dream

Hi All,

Today in class you analyzed Bottom's Dream in Act IV Sc i.  This analysis went into your binder and completion marks were awarded.

We then read the rest of the play together.  I told you Shakespeare's comedies usually ending in marriage!

Remaining class time was spent updating your character guides and making predictions about what you might be asked on Monday's literary essay.  I suggest doing the following:
-  Go to your MSND notes and find the section with the major topics and themes. 
-  Come up with an argument (thesis) that you could make for each of these themes, and find 3 points of argument (which would become your body paragraphs).
This will make you feel more prepared for Monday.  We will continue to work on this tomorrow.

Handouts:

Bottom's Dream: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ukR4sHJf5Mt1jeU5BW4AOx_PzOgN9pIwhFUXZNo2hCw/edit?usp=sharing

Homework:

Update your character guide and work on thesis statement predictions.

Act IV

Hi all,

Today in class I collected the "Oberon's Plan" homework.  We then discussed the crazy happenings of Act III Sc ii and made some predictions of what we think will happen next.

Following our discussion, we read Act IV Sc i.  We are nearing the end of the play, so I then outlined how our in class essay for the unit will work.  We reviewed effective introductions, and then I gave you time to update your character guide and find quotes that you believe may lend themselves nicely to the play's major themes.

We will have character quiz #2 on Friday.

In class essays will be written on Monday, and a unit test will be written next Tuesday.

Homework:

Update your character guide in preparation for the upcoming in class essay.

Oberon's Plan

Hi all,

Today in class, I gave you a quick overview of III.ii and we started reading the scene together.  You then divided up into your troupes to continue reading the play.  I asked you to stop every once in a while to try and paraphrase the plot and discuss any words you did not understand the meaning to.  Definitions of these words were added to the MSND section of your notebook.

When you were finished the scene, I handed out the "Oberon's Plan" worksheets to be completed by the end of class.  These are due for homework on Tuesday if they were not finished in class.

Homework:

Oberon's Plan:  Due Tuesday.

Handouts: 

Oberon's Plan Sheet:  https://docs.google.com/document/d/11rDgiPdcakElbsbptFCWD2us10R_6DkKBHjZZ0nKdX4/edit?usp=sharing

The Big Mix Up!

Hi All,

Today in class we wrote a quick write in preparation for discussing some of the dream imagery in the play.  We then finished reading II.ii and discussed the crazy happenings in the end of this scene.  I handed out the "big mix up" sheets so that you can keep reference in your notes who loves whom.

We finished the class by watching a video version of III.i. in order to discuss Bottom's transformation.

If you didn't finish the handout today in class, make sure that it is completed for homework.  You will want this in your notes to help you study for upcoming tests and literary writing.

Handouts:

The Big Mix Up:  https://docs.google.com/document/d/1klfCaosiJkb_awy4KYPo9TsR0ru9rxbNdLjVET6cUm8/edit?usp=sharing

Subtext

Hi All,

Today in class we began with our character quiz.  We then moved on to learning about subtext (what is happening below the surface of the language) and Shakespeare's double meanings.  We then began reading Act II Sc. ii and discussed how changing the way we read Oberon's speech affects Titania (lines 33-40).

We finished the class by looking into the figurative language in Shakespeare.  We dissected Titania's speech in II.i. and worked on finding the poetic devices in her language (due for homework).

Homework:

The Lyrical Fairy World - due tomorrow

Handouts:

The Lyrical Fairy World - https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhZVhoV0FHOVBEdGM/view?usp=sharing

Iambic Pentameter

Hi All,

Today in class we discussed tetrameter and iambic pentameter in relation to MSND.  We then discussed why some characters speak in such lyrical language, while others speak in prose.

One of the major themes of the play is love.  Having read Act II Sc i, we know that many characters have differing views on love.  Today I asked you to consider some of you own positions on the situations in the play and respond.  We then moved into our "troupes" for a group discussion before having a whole class discussion on the matter.

We finished the block with a breakdown of II.i. and the responses were due at the end of the block, or must be completed for homework tonight and handed in tomorrow if you did not complete.

Handouts:

Your Thoughts on Love (keep in your notes):  https://docs.google.com/document/d/1g5OilVowzsznWXyluDxHcxZTJ7eypjj1rkha0tEzCzs/edit?usp=sharing 

A Fairy Fight: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PsamKAhmKlq5tMchwzQ7_VocBXChYfKi8sx3xttmjd4/edit?usp=sharing

Homework:

A Fairy Fight (due Wednesday)

Character Quiz (Wednesday) - make sure you know who the characters are and what has happened with them so far.

Shakespearean Form

Hi All,

Today in class we learned about Shakespeare's language in order to try to gain a better understanding as we read the play.

We then finished reading Act II Sc i.

You will have a character quiz on Wednesday now that we have been introduced to all of the characters in the play.  The quiz will test your understanding of who each character is and details about each character.  There are only 15 questions, and the entire quiz is matching.

Handouts:

Shakespearean Form:  https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhckp0SVpmUFpfZzQ/view?usp=sharing

Views of Love

Hi All,

Today in class we took some notes pertaining to the play.  These notes will be helpful to refer to as we continue reading the play.  Next, we analyzed how different characters in the play view love and had a conversation about these differences.  We then had a "silent conversation" (which will make more sense on Monday) where we conversed back and forth with a partner by writing dialogue on a piece of paper.

We finished the class by starting to look at Act II Sc i.  This is our first glimpse into the magic forest.

No homework for the weekend :)

Handouts:

MSND Notes: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1j-KOgqWOKFUWwVOGJO4bZL9FBkCXGIOTCeL89lLAoKw/edit?usp=sharing

Views of Love:  https://docs.google.com/document/d/10bAV-B3r-0q1lm0kQP39lY78I_45RjfB903V4EfCqKY/edit?usp=sharing

Finishing Act 1 Sc 1

Hi All,

Today in class we took some notes on some of the important elements in the play.  These notes will be good reference for you as we go along.

We then finished reading Act 1 Sc 1.  I put you into "troupes" and your groups discussed the scene and came up with comments or questions that you had so far.  You also worked your way through your character guide in groups.

Homework questions were handed out at the end of class and are due at the beginning of class tomorrow.

Homework:

Act 1 Sc 1 Questions due tomorrow.

Handouts:

Act 1 Sc 1 Questions:  https://docs.google.com/document/d/1JZC12BZX36Cxreccs--HHZAOvYdtIOJJftmik0Ufo5Y/edit?usp=sharing

MSND Introduction to the Lovers

Hi All,

Today we finished with our figurative language notes from yesterday.  We then discussed the intertwining plot lines in the play, and began reading Act 1 Sc 1.  In this scene, we are introduced to the lovers in the story and their very complicated situations.

In order to understand the mixed up love situations in the play, I handed out a character guide that is meant to keep you organized with the characters' motivations throughout the play.  Things get a little complicated as magic becomes involved!  This guide will also help you with upcoming literary assignments.

We read up until: Act 1 Sc 1 Line 207

Handouts:

Character Guide: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhcVBNd04zMGxlSkE/view?usp=sharing

"Map" of the Play: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhQ0pXcDVTMW1UMEk/view?usp=sharing

MSND!

Hi All,

Today we took a quick quiz on Shakespeare (based on our discussion yesterday and a quick review today).  We then talked abou tthe parts of the globe theatre, and labelled them on a diagram.  We took some notes on the figurative language that we can expect to see in Shakespeare and began reading A Midsummer Night's Dream by jumping into the second scene.  We will read the first scene tomorrow, as it is longer and more complicated.

Handouts:

The Globe Theatre: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhemNtVWRiWFkyMjA/view?usp=sharing

Figurative Language Notes: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KINxDqVNZ9qo1R5xNjHJNnw-7mwvJVa5ILl-9Am1BGQ/edit?usp=sharing

Review and Shakespeare!

Hi All,

Today in class we spent some time going over our novel essays.  You are encouraged to book time with me this week to gain some extra insight.

The remainder of class was spent diving into the wonderful world of Shakespeare.  We learned some background on Shakespeare's life and Elizabethan England.

Homework:

Quick quiz on Shakespeare's life tomorrow.

Handouts:

Notes on Shakespeare's Life: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1_iwSZL1AlU_DfrL4LDlNVcWiExhtwPnuHLtPXQgBpUM/edit?usp=sharing

Compare/Contrast

Hi all,

Today in class we wrote our final vocab quiz for our novel unit. We then completed our film study of Finding Forrester  and wrote a 250 word reflective response comparing and contrasting the novel and film. You were asked to find approximately five ways the film was similar to the novel and five ways that it was different. With full sentence responses, you were asked to describe your observations. Responses were due in class today, or on Monday if you did not finish.

Have a great weekend!  No handouts today.

Film Study

Hi all,

Today in class we started with a vocab homework check in preparation for your quiz tomorrow.

We then exchanged our novels for our new textbooks.  Our next unit will be the study of Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream.

We finished class with our compare/contrast film study of Finding Forrester.

No handouts today.

Homework:

Study for tomorrow's vocab quiz.

 

Essays Due!

Hi All,

Today in class your literary essays were due.  I then handed out the final vocab list for the unit (quiz on Thursday and homework check tomorrow).  I then gave you some good news...due to how hard you've worked on these essays, I am going to replace the unit test with a film study!  We began watching Finding Forrester today and will analyze how this film is both similar to and different from our novel.

Handouts:

Vocab List #3: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1eheRb2TEqS60HRKgBXEdZuzvT6OlOHOOxti0dkzIM6Y/edit?usp=sharing

Homework:

Vocabulary definitions and sentences check tomorrow in class.

Vocab Quiz Thursday

Final Essay Day

Hi All,

Today was the last day to work on our essays!  Essays are due tomorrow.  We spent time with peers editing rough drafts today.  Every essay was edited at least twice, and then each student made an editing plan for the changes that need to be made. 

**Look over your essay assignment for the order of essay components to be handed in tomorrow.

Handouts:

Peer Editing Checklist (We did two of these):https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhVlZwa3N3MzMyMG8/view?usp=sharing

Essay Editing Plan: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1sbwi568tCiaqMBw5OOknTmoxS7B4bDUIAURa6YcvtuY/edit?usp=sharing

Conclusion Day

Hi All,

Today in class I taught how to write an effective conclusion for a literary essay.  We then went to the lab and you had time to write out your conclusions.

Homework:

Essay Drafts Due Monday (we will have a peer editing day)

Good Copy Essay Packages Due Tuesday

Handouts:

Analysis of a Conclusion: https://docs.google.com/document/d/12Ome3JR_RER2AfhPloMwxAl0Du7FtgjqdjV_to3Z0fs/edit?usp=sharing

Body Paragraphs Day 2

Hi all,

Today in class we discussed the end of the novel.  We then went to the computer lab to continue working on our body paragraphs.

Remember that each body paragraph is a literary paragraph like the ones we have written in class.  Each paragraph must have a topic sentence (that relates to your thesis) and points of explanation and evidence that support your topic sentence.

We will work on conclusions tomorrow.

No handouts today.

Body Paragraphs

Hi All,

Today in class we learned about writing body paragraphs for our essays.  We then spent the remainder of class time in the computer lab writing our body paragraphs.  We will have another day in the lab tomorrow to finish writing the bodies of our essays.

Handouts:

Analysis of a Body Paragraph:  https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iRCXIFtiVH99MkEQ72Sz8ZWYb_acbP3WwfuRJoVHzms/edit?usp=sharing

Introductions

Hi All,

Today I collected chapter questions #3 and you brought your essay outlines to class.  I gave a lesson on how to write an introduction for a literary essay.  We then went to the computer lab and spent the block writing our introductions.  I checked each person's thesis statement while we were in the lab.  If you used your time wisely today, you should have no homework.

Handouts:

Analysis of an Introduction:  https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ck9QGsgaEOdZVM4A9HHvx6M65DEuXmmOyO8xdmBmotM/edit?usp=sharing

Essay Outline Day

Hi All,

Today in class you completed your vocab quiz.  We then used the entire block to work on essay outlines and your chapter questions (both due Tuesday).  Remember that an essay outline is not a word for word breakdown of your essay but merely an overview of your ideas.  We can then make those ideas more specific next week as we work on each part of the essay.

On Tuesday I will be checking each and every one of your thesis statements and we will be writing our introductions together.

Homework:

1.  Finish reading the novel

2.  Chapter questions due Tuesday

3.  Essay outlines due Tuesday

You may already have completed the above in class today, so hopefully there is not much homework for your long weekend.  Enjoy!

The Structure of an Essay

Hi All,

Today was a busy day for us.  We started with a vocabulary check in preparation for your vocab quiz tomorrow.

I then spent the block carefully going through the structure of a five paragraph essay with you.  I handed out the literary essay assignment for the novel, but we will be working step by step through the essay writing together in class.

I put a sample essay outline on the board, and we discussed the way to put an outline together.  We spent some time working on your outlines, and I checked as many thesis statements as I could today.  I will be looking at all of your thesis statements by the end of the block on Tuesday.

You will be given a large chunk of class time tomorrow to finish your outlines.  These outlines are not meant to be a completion of your essay, but a compilation of your ideas and where you are heading.  You may also work on your chapter questions tomorrow in class as well.

Next week, we will spend each day in the computer lab.  I will be teaching you about writing and introduction on Tuesday, and you will write your own introduction that day in class.  We will spend Wednesday and Thursday working on your body paragraphs and Friday on your conclusion.  We will peer edit and submit essays the following week.

The structure of this assignment should drastically reduce the amount of homework you have (assuming you use your class time wisely).  There will be no USSR next week in order to give you EVEN MORE TIME to get your work done.

HOMEWORK:

Study for your vocab quiz:  Tomorrow

Read until end of chapter "Russian Guys Are Not Always Geniuses"

Chapter Questions:  Due Tuesday (class time to finish these tomorrow)

Essay Outline:  Due Tuesday (class time to finish these tomorrow)


HANDOUTS:

Literary Essay Outline: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iBBdTZ8L7O6CNXgOk1SqdWAG-rEUsL4Z9n-nUaNpylI/edit?usp=sharing

Literary Essay Assignment:  https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vnAyNAG6D_ScgbUfN3AyHdpy4eFAmiHdkFAkBIm3Hdc/edit?usp=sharing

Sample Essay Outline: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1V2JLnwQWT0tLx03DTVesIfYinW99WWJJ6DGoRmjDQwA/edit?usp=sharing

Literary Essay Guidelines:  https://docs.google.com/document/d/18ijoehNYUSakJWABI6Z7kPzmABvvj4Beg0uCzkeC9rM/edit?usp=sharing

The Structure of a 5 Paragraph Essay: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwheGxuOGlIQ29NVkU/view?usp=sharing

5 Paragraph Essay Checklist: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhNGVyUkVCSlBzWmc/view?usp=sharing

Discussion

Hi All,

LITERARY PARAGRAPHS DUE!

Today in class we had a lengthy discussion about what has been happening in the novel lately.  We then completed a quick write and made "quick lists" like Junior does in the novel to deal with difficult situations.

Quick Lists Activity:

Make 3 separate lists of at least 10 things like Junior does in the novel.  Underneath your lists, write 50-100 words on why you believe Junior does this.
If you were away, hand me this tomorrow.

Remaining class time was given to work on vocabulary or chapter questions.


Homework:

Vocab homework check tomorrow and quiz on Friday.

Chapter Questions #3 due Tuesday.

Rough Draft Editing

Hi all,

Today in class we discussed the chapters read for homework.  We then reviewed the structure of a literary paragraph again and spent time editing and revising our rough drafts.

You should now only need to type out your good copy paragraph, as the rest of the work was done in class.

Homework:

1.  Good copy of your essay is due tomorrow (Wednesday).  Please type, double space and 12 pt Times New Roman font (as with all good copies).
Staple together in the following order to hand in:
-Your good copy
-Your outline
-Your rough draft
-Your peer edit checklist
-Your editing plan

2.  Vocab quiz on Friday (homework check on Thursday)

3.  Chapter questions #3 due next Tuesday.

Handouts:  Editing sheets can be collected from me in class.

Rough Drafts

Hi all,

Today in class I collected chapter questions #2 and we discussed the chapter "Reindeer Games" that you read for homework.

I handed out vocab list #2 (vocab quiz Friday), and we spent the remainder of class formatting our paragraph ideas into an outline and rough draft.

I also handed out chapter questions #3, but don't worry, they are not due until next Tuesday :)  

Homework:

Rough Drafts: (Due tomorrow)

Read: "And a Partridge in a Pear Tree" and "Red vs White" chapters.

Vocab #2 Homework Check (Not until Thursday, April 7th)

Chapter Questions #3 (Due Tuesday, April 12th)

Handouts:

Vocab List #2: https://docs.google.com/document/d/19A2UxE-KbwO4gcx-w_Vty2sUksTXhLQkJ2-dlLbJ7II/edit?usp=sharing

Chapter Questions #3: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1cf6wRjs5mn1BD8OMpZyf3aYKNskyQrI7H2e4Rk-G61c/edit?usp=sharing

Literary Paragraph

Hi All,

Today in class you handed in your cartoon assignments.  We then completed a quick write, and since this was the fifth quick write, you handed in your five completed quick write assignments.

We spent the remainder of class time reviewing how to write a literary paragraph, and analyzing the characters in the story.  I handed out paragraph outlines, and you have the opportunity to get a head start on your outline if you choose. Outlines will assist with your paragraph draft, which is due on Tuesday.

Handouts:

Paragraph Assignment:  https://docs.google.com/document/d/14yf9Yr1b_5-mlJyB1UQ-UUdqvVIntAL-bW55F62dCko/edit?usp=sharing

Character Analysis Sheet (to help you find quotes to support the traits of tolerance and acceptance in your chosen character):  https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhOUNaXzZKN3lTUWM/view?usp=sharing

Homework:

Chapter questions: Due Monday

Read Chapter titled "Reindeer Games"

Paragraph Outline and Draft:  Due Tuesday (class time will be given on Monday)

Cartoon Assignments

Hi All,

Today in class we discussed the novel chapters read for homework last night.  There were a couple of serious topics mentioned, so we discussed how these situations affected the lives of the characters in the novel.

The rest of the class time was spent working on your cartoon assignments.  Those who were finished could read ahead in the novel or work on the chapter questions handed out yesterday.

Two Sides of Me Cartoon Assignments due tomorrow (Friday).

Homework:

Read Chapters: Dance, Dance, Dance to My Sister Sends Me A Letter (pg 118-134).

Chapter Questions #2 - Due Monday

Two Sides of Me Cartoon - Due tomorrow (Friday)

No handouts today.

Two Sides of Me Cartoon

Hi All,
I hope you had a great break!
Today your chapter questions from before the break were due.
We then spent a good amount of class time going over what we read in the novel before and during the break.  Remember to keep filling in your literary log as you go, as this will help you with your essay later on.
After discussing the novel, we looked at the cartoon on page 57 and discussed how everyone has many sides to him/her.  Junior identifies with his "white" and "Indian" side.  After brainstorming different sides to our own personalities, we began work on the "two sides of me" cartoon assignment.  This assignment is due on Friday.  We will have more class time to work on these tomorrow.
I also handed out the second set of chapter questions for the novel.  These questions are due on Monday.
Homework:  

Homework Read: Hunger Pains and Rowdy Gives me Some Advice about Love

Handouts:
Two Sides of Me Assignment: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zEzuuGIgIhrQkK4tLrtyVD00M0IfO0Y9OvlbNXdnBLs/edit?usp=sharing

Chapter Questions #2: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_Ha9ANYwMB7WcpI6w32kZfr_WXDRL0mQIqaopCQy-D4/edit?usp=sharing

Mascot Debate Day

Hi All,

Today in class we completed the vocab quiz.  Everyone was then given time to quickly review his/her debate points, and we took turns presenting the two sides to the mascot argument.  We finished with a discussion about our discoveries before moving on.

At the end of class today, time was given to look at the literary log and go through the book to find lessons that Junior has learned. 

Homework for over the break:

Read: Grandmother Gives Me Some Advice - Thanksgiving pg. 67-103.

Chapter Questions (due Wednesday, March 30th): https://docs.google.com/document/d/1S1RkS1tD8VO-e7DkVDfqgnPezKXzNlOydAcbuJ-hlFA/edit?usp=sharing

Mascot Debate Prep

Hi All,

Today in class I handed back your short stories unit tests and went through some of the common paragraph errors.  I gave everyone some time to go back through the mistakes.  I also handed back your cartoons.  I LOVED them!  You are all so creative.

We spent the rest of class preparing for our debates tomorrow.  I put everyone in small groups, and we spent time in the computer lab researching and then in the classroom getting our presentations organized.

Homework:

1.  Vocab quiz tomorrow
2.  Debate presentations tomorrow

No handouts today.

Mascots

Hi All,

Today in class we read further into the novel together and discussed many of the key situations that have happened to Junior so far.  We then looked at the idea of mascots being inappropriate and racist towards First Nations people in many situations in our world today.  We read some examples of both sides of the argument and began a debate presentation.  Our debates will be presented on Friday (with a whole block to work on them tomorrow).

Homework:

Study for Friday's vocab quiz.

Prepare debate presentations.  Come to class tomorrow with four or five good points that you can use in your argument.

Handouts:

Mascots Article:  https://docs.google.com/document/d/1xH0YT0LggI4J6t5eRlE-4C39jtOq2e6C3tLbXKFfW1w/edit?usp=sharing

Mascots Assignment: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1SowDvMCrM7uBSkOuLj6hLmcanrpqbLv1ap1ygp25F80/edit?usp=sharing

Debate Info:  https://docs.google.com/document/d/1BoaGMvcppqGJYOqusxZkgYv2ve6NbF9r-zDyX8ee61I/edit?usp=sharing

Cartoon Assignment Day Two

Hi All,

Today in class we completed our fourth quick write and then spent the remainder of class time completing our aspirations cartoons.  Any remaining class time was spent on vocabulary and tonight's reading assignment.

Homework:

Aspirations Cartoon - Due tomorrow
Vocabulary - Homework check tomorrow
Read pages 25-43 of ATDPTI

No handouts today.

ATDPTI Day one!

Hi All,

Today in class we really began discussing our novel.  We talked about the author, and dove into the story together.  A literary log and literary analysis sheet were handed out in order to assist you as you go through the novel.  We also had vocabulary handed out today.  We finished class with a cartoon activity that is due on Wednesday.  You will have a lot of class time to work on this tomorrow.

Homework: 
Read pages 7-24
Vocab Homework Check Wednesday
Cartoon Assignment Due Wednesday

Handouts:

Literary Log (This sheet is for you to fill out as you read.  It is meant to assist you when it comes time to write our essays): https://docs.google.com/document/d/1LvGzcdHvUerQTUNJyHaAPuXBdX8da0EjYeaLzdpGwJg/edit?usp=sharing

Literary Analysis (Fill this out as you go.  The information will assist you when it comes time to write the unit test): https://docs.google.com/document/d/1RnpWed0VfkcTcr94BSm2_EvOWl9TGIKtO0AOIE1uarQ/edit?usp=sharing

Cartoon Activity: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1xVTsirV4oPmyfC42lJB7eeSkaQBoPnGs0EdNSedRc88/edit?usp=sharing

Vocab List #1:   https://docs.google.com/document/d/1jnlCAJcRpHrZY8spsLqtJkQlD2z5QO3mjNMJbdZVtK8/edit?usp=sharing

Introduction to Novel and Guest Speaker

Hi All,

Today in class we exchanged our short stories textbooks for the novel we will begin reading.  We had a brief introduction to the novel, and then a guest speaker joined our class today.  The novel focuses on a teen's struggle through a residential school as well as a "white school," and our guest speaker gave us some insight into the truth of residential schools in Canada and abroad.

No handouts today.

Please do your best to not start reading the novel this weekend (as hard as this is for some of you).  I would like to begin reading it together on Monday so that we can discuss some of the initial plot points.

Have a great weekend!

Ms. Michalski

Short Stories Unit Test

Hi all,

Today in class we wrote your short stories unit test.  Silent reading occurred at the end of the block once you were finished your test.  We begin our novel unit tomorrow!

No homework today.

No handouts today.

Unit Test Prep Day 2

Hi All,

Today in class, the whole block of time was given in preparation for your test tomorrow.  After a quick review of stories, you were given the block to work on your paragraph outlines or your story studying.

Format of test:

Part I:  Matching terms to definitions

Part II:  Multiple choice questions from the stories we read and applying the terms to the stories.

Part III:  Paragraph response question that you have been preparing in class.  Must be written in pen.

Homework:

Study for your test.

No handouts today.

Unit Test Prep

Hi all,

Today in class we reviewed how to write a persuasive/literary paragraph in preparation for our upcoming unit test.  We then read the short story that will be on the test, and started working on paragraph outlines.

Things to review for paragraph writing (you should have all of the below handouts already):

How to write a persuasive paragraph: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhM3h6cDRWazdlNDg/view?usp=sharing

How to incorporate quotations: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhS3lHSl9tTDlzZzQ/view?usp=sharing

Literary paragraph checklist: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhcXc2Rktla0Zra1U/view?usp=sharing

Review all of your terms notes.  In addition to understanding that the terms mean, you should be able to apply the terms to the stories we have read.  For example, what point of view is each story written in?

Handouts:

Since most of the handouts today were test-related, I will not be posting them online.  Please see me if you were away.  Extra copies are in the file folders in our classroom.

Paragraph outline:  https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhOVZ2N3d1M3AxVE0/view?usp=sharing

Homework:

You should review all of the stories we have read, and the terms.  We will work on paragraph outlines in class again tomorrow.

Unit test on Thursday

Veldt Presentations and Irony

Hi all,

Today in class we started with your Veldt presentations.  Following presentations, we took some notes on the types of irony.  We then discussed the "Barney" questions from Friday, and what kind of irony is present in the short story.

We ended class today with a review sheet of all of the stories and terms that you will need to be familiar with for Thursday's unit test.  Tomorrow, we will read the short story on the test, and begin preparing your paragraph outlines.

Homework:

Study for your unit test.

Handouts:

Irony Notes: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhVl9TcS12NTYxaUU/view?usp=sharing

Short Stories Review Sheet: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1m6j9gJQKvR1oN9zDeAZOFUGbR5MFnvozVEZF9BolLG4/edit?usp=sharing

Barney

Hi All,

Today in English you took your second vocabulary quiz.

We then took notes on point of view in the short stories section of our notebook.  We read the short story "Barney" and discussed the point of view of the story.  We then had group discussions using some questions as prompts.  Any remaining time was used to work on your broadcast assignments.

Have a great weekend!

Homework:

News Broadcast Presentations due Monday

Handouts:

Point of View Notes: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4XSIYoQBjwhY0hSZmNaMlNNdzg/view?usp=sharing

Barney Discussion Questions (we only did part one today): https://docs.google.com/document/d/10umThy7OwIxitaM2SbU1foZ_GtgrnpSwPJD7rwjHko4/edit?usp=sharing