Do-Now:
Today: You-Call-It Extra Credit: Today you will finish your extra-credit assignments. You may choose what type of assignment you would like to complete as long as you get the assignment approved by Ms. Winberg BEFORE you begin. Assignments will be assigned Extra Credit based on creativity and completeness. All Extra Credit is due AT THE END OF CLASS on TODAY @ 8:55am. Assignments WILL NOT be accepted after this time.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Monday, June 13
Do-Now: Think of writing assignments you have enjoyed doing in class or assignments we haven't done in class that you wish we had done. Write a proposal detailing assignments you would like to work on for Extra Credit during the next two days. Make sure to be specific about what you will be writing.
Today: You-Call-It Extra Credit: Today and tomorrow you will be given time in class to work on Extra Credit to go toward your final grade. You may choose what type of assignment you would like to complete as long as you get the assignment approved by Ms. Winberg BEFORE you begin. Assignments will be assigned Extra Credit based on creativity and completeness. All Extra Credit is due AT THE END OF CLASS on Tuesday, June 14 @ 8:55am. Assignments WILL NOT be accepted after this time.
Today: You-Call-It Extra Credit: Today and tomorrow you will be given time in class to work on Extra Credit to go toward your final grade. You may choose what type of assignment you would like to complete as long as you get the assignment approved by Ms. Winberg BEFORE you begin. Assignments will be assigned Extra Credit based on creativity and completeness. All Extra Credit is due AT THE END OF CLASS on Tuesday, June 14 @ 8:55am. Assignments WILL NOT be accepted after this time.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Friday, June 10
Do-Now: What do you think are your greatest strengths (as a person, not as a student)? What do you think are your greatest weaknesses? EXPLAIN.
Today: Today, you will be editing/revising all TEN of your memoirs on your GoogleDocs and then sharing them with Ms. W to get your grade. Once you are finished editing, make sure to share all TEN of them with TeacherWinberg@gmail.com. Remember, this project is worth 200 points towards your final grade!
Today: Today, you will be editing/revising all TEN of your memoirs on your GoogleDocs and then sharing them with Ms. W to get your grade. Once you are finished editing, make sure to share all TEN of them with TeacherWinberg@gmail.com. Remember, this project is worth 200 points towards your final grade!
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Wednesday, June 8
Do-Now: If a friend or family member of yours was killed, would you seek revenge? Why or why not? Would killing the person who killed your loved one make you feel better about your loved one's death? Can death ever really be avenged? Explain.
Today: Today, we will be starting "True Grit" for your last movie review. Guiding questions:
1) A brief summary of the movie's plot (without giving away the ending or any important events)
2) What you liked/disliked about the movie
3) Who the main actors was and how well/badly the actor portrayed his character
4) A comparison of the movie to similar movies you've seen
5) Your ultimate opinion on the movie as a whole and how the movie made you feel
Today: Today, we will be starting "True Grit" for your last movie review. Guiding questions:
1) A brief summary of the movie's plot (without giving away the ending or any important events)
2) What you liked/disliked about the movie
3) Who the main actors was and how well/badly the actor portrayed his character
4) A comparison of the movie to similar movies you've seen
5) Your ultimate opinion on the movie as a whole and how the movie made you feel
Tuesday, June 7
Do-Now: Reflect back on your past year at school. What do you think you'll do differently next year? What do you think you'll keep doing the same? EXPLAIN.
Today: 1) Letter to a Freshman: Compose a letter offering advice to Freshman who will be entering tenth grade next year. What should they expect in tenth grade? What will be different? (classes, shops, friends, teachers, etc.) What will stay the same? What can you tell them that will help make their tenth grade year easier?
2) Year in Review Poem/Song: Write a poem/song about your entire tenth grade year. You can focus on things that happened both inside and outside of school starting with September and ending with June. Think of the most important things that have happened this year as well as any other memories you have which stick out. Try to use your poem/song to summarize the highlights of the year.
Homework: Finish letter and poem/song
Today: 1) Letter to a Freshman: Compose a letter offering advice to Freshman who will be entering tenth grade next year. What should they expect in tenth grade? What will be different? (classes, shops, friends, teachers, etc.) What will stay the same? What can you tell them that will help make their tenth grade year easier?
2) Year in Review Poem/Song: Write a poem/song about your entire tenth grade year. You can focus on things that happened both inside and outside of school starting with September and ending with June. Think of the most important things that have happened this year as well as any other memories you have which stick out. Try to use your poem/song to summarize the highlights of the year.
Homework: Finish letter and poem/song
Friday, June 3, 2011
Monday, June 6
Do-Now: What topics have been the easiest for you to write about? Why? What topics have been the hardest for your to write about? Why? Explain.
Today: Today, you will be typing Memoir #10 into your GoogleDocs. On Friday, you will have the entire class period to edit all TEN of your memoirs and submit them to Ms. W. Remember, the project is worth 200 pts. towards your grade (20 pts. per memoir).
Today: Today, you will be typing Memoir #10 into your GoogleDocs. On Friday, you will have the entire class period to edit all TEN of your memoirs and submit them to Ms. W. Remember, the project is worth 200 pts. towards your grade (20 pts. per memoir).
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Friday, June 3
Do-Now: What do you miss about your childhood? What don't you miss? Describe. (Example: You miss not having any responsibility. You don't miss having less freedom.)
Today: 1) Pass-it-Around Story (Last One of the Year!) : Starting Line "On a warm, June morning I stepped outside my house and walked to the corner to wait for my bus."
2) Memoir #10 (Last One of the Year!): Compose your 10th Memoir (to be typed Monday). Next Friday you will have the entire class to edit and submit all TEN of your Memoirs. This project will be worth 200 points. Possible Memoir #10 Topics:
~ Write about your change from a child to a young adult. Think of an event/experience where you felt you were no longer a child and had taken the first step into young adulthood. (Examples: A milestone birthday. Letting go of a habit/item from your childhood. Experiencing freedom for the first time. A serious argument with a parent.)
~ Write about a time you had to say goodbye to someone/something. (Example: Moving away from your first home. Saying your final goodbye to a dying friend/family member. Saying goodbye to your classmates on the last day of school.)
~ Write about an important lesson your learned from someone older (a parent, friend, relative, teacher, boss). What did they teach you? How have you used this lesson to improve yourself and your life?
Homework: Finish Memoir #10
Today: 1) Pass-it-Around Story (Last One of the Year!) : Starting Line "On a warm, June morning I stepped outside my house and walked to the corner to wait for my bus."
2) Memoir #10 (Last One of the Year!): Compose your 10th Memoir (to be typed Monday). Next Friday you will have the entire class to edit and submit all TEN of your Memoirs. This project will be worth 200 points. Possible Memoir #10 Topics:
~ Write about your change from a child to a young adult. Think of an event/experience where you felt you were no longer a child and had taken the first step into young adulthood. (Examples: A milestone birthday. Letting go of a habit/item from your childhood. Experiencing freedom for the first time. A serious argument with a parent.)
~ Write about a time you had to say goodbye to someone/something. (Example: Moving away from your first home. Saying your final goodbye to a dying friend/family member. Saying goodbye to your classmates on the last day of school.)
~ Write about an important lesson your learned from someone older (a parent, friend, relative, teacher, boss). What did they teach you? How have you used this lesson to improve yourself and your life?
Homework: Finish Memoir #10
Thursday, June 2
Do-Now: If you had been placed in the same situation as Paul Conroy (Ryan Reynolds) from "Buried," how would you have reacted? Do you think you would have been able to find a way to get rescued? Who would you have called from your cell phone? What would you have done the same/differently?
Today: Today, we will be reading a movie review on "Buried." Then you will be composing your own movie review. Here are the guiding questions to follow:
1) A brief summary of the movie's plot (without giving away the ending or any important events)
2) What you liked/disliked about the movie
3) Who the main actors was and how well/badly the actor portrayed his character
4) A comparison of the movie to similar movies you've seen
5) Your ultimate opinion on the movie as a whole and how the movie made you feel
Homework: Finish movie review.
Today: Today, we will be reading a movie review on "Buried." Then you will be composing your own movie review. Here are the guiding questions to follow:
1) A brief summary of the movie's plot (without giving away the ending or any important events)
2) What you liked/disliked about the movie
3) Who the main actors was and how well/badly the actor portrayed his character
4) A comparison of the movie to similar movies you've seen
5) Your ultimate opinion on the movie as a whole and how the movie made you feel
Homework: Finish movie review.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Wednesday, June 1
Do-Now: What is one thing about yourself you wish you had the power to change? Describe what it is and why you would want to change it.
Today: We will finish watching "Buried" and you will write your review. Here are the guiding questions for your review:
1) A brief summary of the movie's plot (without giving away the ending or any important events)
2) What you liked/disliked about the movie
3) Who the main actors was and how well/badly the actor portrayed his character
4) A comparison of the movie to similar movies you've seen
5) Your ultimate opinion on the movie as a whole and how the movie made you feel
Homework: Finish your review.
Today: We will finish watching "Buried" and you will write your review. Here are the guiding questions for your review:
1) A brief summary of the movie's plot (without giving away the ending or any important events)
2) What you liked/disliked about the movie
3) Who the main actors was and how well/badly the actor portrayed his character
4) A comparison of the movie to similar movies you've seen
5) Your ultimate opinion on the movie as a whole and how the movie made you feel
Homework: Finish your review.
Friday, May 27, 2011
Tuesday, May 31
Do-Now: Describe a non-school related personal goal you have set for yourself. What made you set this goal? What steps are you taking to achieve the goal? Is there a certain time frame for your goal?
Today: Type Memoir # 9 into your GoogleDocs. Then, type your Travel Log from last week into a blog. Feel free to add pictures to go along with it.
Today: Type Memoir # 9 into your GoogleDocs. Then, type your Travel Log from last week into a blog. Feel free to add pictures to go along with it.
Friday, May 27
Do-Now: What are your plans for Memorial Day Weekend?
Today: 1) Memoir #9 : Begin composing Memoir #9 (to be typed on Tuesday along with your Travel Log). You will have ONE more memoir after this for a total of TEN.
2) Begin watching "Buried"
Homework: Finish Memoir #9
Today: 1) Memoir #9 : Begin composing Memoir #9 (to be typed on Tuesday along with your Travel Log). You will have ONE more memoir after this for a total of TEN.
2) Begin watching "Buried"
Homework: Finish Memoir #9
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Wednesday, May 25
Do-Now: Describe your biggest dream for the future.
Today: "Wednesday Writing Challenge: Alphabet Story" : Today you will be writing a story that is EXACTLY twenty-six sentences long. Each sentence will begin with a different letter of the alphabet. The first sentence will begin with the letter "A" and the last sentence will begin with the letter "Z." The sentences MUST be written in alphabetical order and the story MUST make sense.
Today: "Wednesday Writing Challenge: Alphabet Story" : Today you will be writing a story that is EXACTLY twenty-six sentences long. Each sentence will begin with a different letter of the alphabet. The first sentence will begin with the letter "A" and the last sentence will begin with the letter "Z." The sentences MUST be written in alphabetical order and the story MUST make sense.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Tuesday, May 24
Do-Now: You are about to leave for a week long vacation. Thanks to new airline restrictions, you are only allowed to bring ONE carry-on bag aboard the plane and NOTHING ELSE (meaning, you can not bring a suitcase to store underneath the plane). Describe exactly what you would pack for your trip. NOTE: Your carry-on bag can be NO LARGER than 22" x 14" x 9"
Today: Fictional Travel Log: Today, you will finish writing a series of entries into a fictional travel log. Remember, your log will consist of SIX different entries (about 10-15 sentences each) detailing your adventures. If you finish your travel log before the end of class, you may begin typing it into a blog on Blogspot.com. You may also add pictures to go along with it.
Homework: Finish your travel log.
Today: Fictional Travel Log: Today, you will finish writing a series of entries into a fictional travel log. Remember, your log will consist of SIX different entries (about 10-15 sentences each) detailing your adventures. If you finish your travel log before the end of class, you may begin typing it into a blog on Blogspot.com. You may also add pictures to go along with it.
Homework: Finish your travel log.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Monday, May 23
Do-Now: Where is a place you've always wanted to travel to? Why do you want to go there? What types of activities would you want to do there?
Today: Fictional Travel Log: Today, you are going to be writing a series of entries into a fictional travel log. You may choose either a real place or a fictional place to travel to. Your log will consist of SIX different entries (about 10-15 sentences each) detailing your adventures. First, we will read a sample travel log to give you an idea of what/how to write. Then, you will be free to begin your log.
Homework: Finish your travel log.
Today: Fictional Travel Log: Today, you are going to be writing a series of entries into a fictional travel log. You may choose either a real place or a fictional place to travel to. Your log will consist of SIX different entries (about 10-15 sentences each) detailing your adventures. First, we will read a sample travel log to give you an idea of what/how to write. Then, you will be free to begin your log.
Homework: Finish your travel log.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Friday, May 20
Do-Now: Recall a time in your life where you were faced with a difficult decision and you feel you may have made the wrong choice. What led you to make this choice? What were the consequences of this decision? How would you do things differently if you could?
Today: Free Choice Friday : Choose ONE assignment from section A, ONE assignment from section B, and ONE assignment from section C.
Section A:
Write a Pantoum OR a Tritina
Section B:
1) Write a one act, one scene play (two pages). Remember to skip a line between each person's dialogue.
2) Write a jumble story (one page) using the following: a 16-year-old teenager, first day of summer, a public park, someone has just found out the truth
3) Write a non-fiction story (one page) about one of the best days of your life
Section C:
1) Draw a picture of what your life will look like in TEN years
2) Draw a detailed floor plan of your dream home.
Today: Free Choice Friday : Choose ONE assignment from section A, ONE assignment from section B, and ONE assignment from section C.
Section A:
Write a Pantoum OR a Tritina
Section B:
1) Write a one act, one scene play (two pages). Remember to skip a line between each person's dialogue.
2) Write a jumble story (one page) using the following: a 16-year-old teenager, first day of summer, a public park, someone has just found out the truth
3) Write a non-fiction story (one page) about one of the best days of your life
Section C:
1) Draw a picture of what your life will look like in TEN years
2) Draw a detailed floor plan of your dream home.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Thursday, May 19
Do-Now: If today were your last day alive, what would you do? (Describe your whole day. Remember, you have 24 full hours---you don't need to sleep if you're about to die).
Today: Short Story: "My Last Day Alive" : Use the ideas in your Do-Now to compose a short, fictional story about what you would do with your last day alive. This should read like a STORY, not like a description or list. Therefore, do not start off with "If today were my last day alive..." and go on to list every thing you would do. Also, it is not necessary to explain to your audience WHY you are about to die. You can start your story from the moment you wake up and end it 24 hours later. Your story will be about FOUR pages long, but your focus should be on CONTENT, not LENGTH.
Homework: Finish "My Last Day Alive" story.
Today: Short Story: "My Last Day Alive" : Use the ideas in your Do-Now to compose a short, fictional story about what you would do with your last day alive. This should read like a STORY, not like a description or list. Therefore, do not start off with "If today were my last day alive..." and go on to list every thing you would do. Also, it is not necessary to explain to your audience WHY you are about to die. You can start your story from the moment you wake up and end it 24 hours later. Your story will be about FOUR pages long, but your focus should be on CONTENT, not LENGTH.
Homework: Finish "My Last Day Alive" story.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Wednesday, May 18
Do-Now: What did you do yesterday during your day off?
Today: 1) Choose ONE poem from the Poetry 180 website and compose your own version of the poem. Make sure to include the original poem's title/author as well as your poem's title.
Poetry 180
2) Type Memoir #8 into your GoogleDocs
3) Type submissions for the May bulletin board (poems, stories, etc.) and share them with or e-mail them to TeacherWinberg@gmail.com
Today: 1) Choose ONE poem from the Poetry 180 website and compose your own version of the poem. Make sure to include the original poem's title/author as well as your poem's title.
Poetry 180
2) Type Memoir #8 into your GoogleDocs
3) Type submissions for the May bulletin board (poems, stories, etc.) and share them with or e-mail them to TeacherWinberg@gmail.com
Monday, May 16, 2011
Monday, May 16
Do-Now: Describe the most frightening experience of your life. This could be a time where you felt you were in danger, experienced something new, or took a risk. (Any time in your life where you felt a great deal of anxiety.)
Today: Memoir # 8: Today you will compose Memoir # 8 (to be typed into your GoogleDocs on Wednesday). You may use your Do-Now topic and expand upon it for this memoir or choose any entirely different topic from your list of Memoir Worthy Experiences. Remember, your Memoir should be about two-pages hand written. Also, you will be composing TWO more memoirs (for a total of 10) before the year is over.
Homework: Finish Memoir #8
Today: Memoir # 8: Today you will compose Memoir # 8 (to be typed into your GoogleDocs on Wednesday). You may use your Do-Now topic and expand upon it for this memoir or choose any entirely different topic from your list of Memoir Worthy Experiences. Remember, your Memoir should be about two-pages hand written. Also, you will be composing TWO more memoirs (for a total of 10) before the year is over.
Homework: Finish Memoir #8
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Friday, May 13
Do-Now: Which form of poetry have you enjoyed the MOST so far? Why? Which form of poetry have you enjoyed the LEAST so far? Why?
Today: Today you will finish working on Poetry Packet #2. You will be writing one of each of the following: Pantoum, Quintina, Tritina, Sestina. Your poems are due MONDAY, but if you turn them all in TODAY you will receive 20 points EXTRA CREDIT.
HOMEWORK: Finish Poetry Packet #2
Today: Today you will finish working on Poetry Packet #2. You will be writing one of each of the following: Pantoum, Quintina, Tritina, Sestina. Your poems are due MONDAY, but if you turn them all in TODAY you will receive 20 points EXTRA CREDIT.
HOMEWORK: Finish Poetry Packet #2
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Thursday, May 12
Do-Now: Recall a memorable time from a past summer. GIVE DETAILS.
Today: Today and tomorrow, you will be working on Poetry Packet #2. You will be writing one of each of the following: Pantoum, Quintina, Tritina, Sestina. Your poems are due MONDAY, but if you turn them all in by FRIDAY you will receive 20 points EXTRA CREDIT.
Today: Today and tomorrow, you will be working on Poetry Packet #2. You will be writing one of each of the following: Pantoum, Quintina, Tritina, Sestina. Your poems are due MONDAY, but if you turn them all in by FRIDAY you will receive 20 points EXTRA CREDIT.
Wednesday, May 11
Do-Now: Create your own storybook. Click HERE ----> Dr. Seuss Storybook Maker
Today: Finish Up Day: Today you will have an opportunity to complete any incomplete laptop assignments. #1 : Finish your Prezi presentation from last Friday and present it to Ms. Winberg. (This is the assignment where you used Prezi.com to organize 10 pictures to represent yourself.)
#2 : Memoirs: You should have SEVEN memoirs written and typed into your GoogleDocs account.
#3 : Poems for Bulletin Board: You may take any of the poems you have written for this class or for English 2 and type them up. They will be printed and displayed on the May bulletin board in the back of class. If you want, you may add pictures/artwork to go along with your poem.
Today: Finish Up Day: Today you will have an opportunity to complete any incomplete laptop assignments. #1 : Finish your Prezi presentation from last Friday and present it to Ms. Winberg. (This is the assignment where you used Prezi.com to organize 10 pictures to represent yourself.)
#2 : Memoirs: You should have SEVEN memoirs written and typed into your GoogleDocs account.
#3 : Poems for Bulletin Board: You may take any of the poems you have written for this class or for English 2 and type them up. They will be printed and displayed on the May bulletin board in the back of class. If you want, you may add pictures/artwork to go along with your poem.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Tuesday, May 10
Do-Now: Fill out the Cross-Generational Questionnaire. Answer the questions based on when you were twelve years old.
Today: 1) Share-out answers from Cross-Generational Questionnaire
2) Read and discuss three "Where I'm From" Poems
3) Compose your own "Where I'm From" Poem describing your childhood and the place you lived
Today: 1) Share-out answers from Cross-Generational Questionnaire
2) Read and discuss three "Where I'm From" Poems
3) Compose your own "Where I'm From" Poem describing your childhood and the place you lived
Monday, May 9
Do-Now: Make a list of THREE things you are thankful for in your life.
Today: 1) Pass-it-Around Poem: Each of you will start a poem with the line "Shall I compare Thee to a summer's day?" You will add one line to the poem, then pass it to the person next to you who will add another line. The poems will continue to be passed until they are each 20 lines long.
2) FREE CHOICE:
Choose TWO of the following:
Heart Map: Draw a heart map focused on a specific topic (ie. Music, Movies, Family, etc.)
Free-Verse Poem: Compose a 20-line free verse poem on a topic of your choice
Format Poem: Compose a poem following one of the five formats from your poetry packet
Character Sketch: Compose a one-page non-fiction character sketch on a family member or friend
Short Story: Compose a one-page short fiction story on a topic of your choice
Letter: Compose a one-page letter to a younger relative (or to your future child) offering them life advice
Today: 1) Pass-it-Around Poem: Each of you will start a poem with the line "Shall I compare Thee to a summer's day?" You will add one line to the poem, then pass it to the person next to you who will add another line. The poems will continue to be passed until they are each 20 lines long.
2) FREE CHOICE:
Choose TWO of the following:
Heart Map: Draw a heart map focused on a specific topic (ie. Music, Movies, Family, etc.)
Free-Verse Poem: Compose a 20-line free verse poem on a topic of your choice
Format Poem: Compose a poem following one of the five formats from your poetry packet
Character Sketch: Compose a one-page non-fiction character sketch on a family member or friend
Short Story: Compose a one-page short fiction story on a topic of your choice
Letter: Compose a one-page letter to a younger relative (or to your future child) offering them life advice
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Friday, May 6
Do-Now: Describe the best memory you have of you and your mom.
Agenda: 1) Mother's Day Cards: Create a card to give to your mom on Mother's Day. Inside the card, write an original poem for your mom. (You may use your Do-Now as inspiration for this poem.) Before you write the poem inside of the card, write a rough draft on a piece of paper and have Ms. W check it for grammar/spelling errors.
2) Memoir #7: Compose the rough draft for your seventh memoir. You may choose a topic from your list of Memoir Worthy Experiences or you may expand upon your Do-Now and write a memoir about a memory with your mom.
Homework: Finish Memoir #7
Agenda: 1) Mother's Day Cards: Create a card to give to your mom on Mother's Day. Inside the card, write an original poem for your mom. (You may use your Do-Now as inspiration for this poem.) Before you write the poem inside of the card, write a rough draft on a piece of paper and have Ms. W check it for grammar/spelling errors.
2) Memoir #7: Compose the rough draft for your seventh memoir. You may choose a topic from your list of Memoir Worthy Experiences or you may expand upon your Do-Now and write a memoir about a memory with your mom.
Homework: Finish Memoir #7
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Thursday, May 5
Do-Now: Create your own storybook. Click HERE ----> Dr. Seuss Storybook Maker
Today: Finish Up Day: Today you will have an opportunity to complete any incomplete laptop assignments. #1 : Finish your Prezi presentation from last Friday and present it to Ms. Winberg. (This is the assignment where you used Prezi.com to organize 10 pictures to represent yourself.)
#2 : Memoirs: You should have SIX memoirs written and typed into your GoogleDocs account.
#3 : Poems for Bulletin Board: You may take any of the poems you have written for this class or for English 2 and type them up. They will be printed and displayed on the May bulletin board in the back of class. If you want, you may add pictures/artwork to go along with your poem.
Today: Finish Up Day: Today you will have an opportunity to complete any incomplete laptop assignments. #1 : Finish your Prezi presentation from last Friday and present it to Ms. Winberg. (This is the assignment where you used Prezi.com to organize 10 pictures to represent yourself.)
#2 : Memoirs: You should have SIX memoirs written and typed into your GoogleDocs account.
#3 : Poems for Bulletin Board: You may take any of the poems you have written for this class or for English 2 and type them up. They will be printed and displayed on the May bulletin board in the back of class. If you want, you may add pictures/artwork to go along with your poem.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Wednesday, May 4
Do-Now: Describe your afternoon yesterday from the perspective of your shoes.
Today: You will FINISH composing a series of THREE short stories. All three stories will be focused around a central storyline which will be told from THREE different perspectives (each of the three stories will represent a different perspective). Two stories must be told from characters within the storyline and the third story may be told from the perspective of a third character, an animal, an object or an omniscient narrator. Each story will be at least TWO pages long (longer if you have bigger handwriting).
***ALL STORIES DUE THURSDAY AT THE BEGINNING OF CLASS***
Today: You will FINISH composing a series of THREE short stories. All three stories will be focused around a central storyline which will be told from THREE different perspectives (each of the three stories will represent a different perspective). Two stories must be told from characters within the storyline and the third story may be told from the perspective of a third character, an animal, an object or an omniscient narrator. Each story will be at least TWO pages long (longer if you have bigger handwriting).
***ALL STORIES DUE THURSDAY AT THE BEGINNING OF CLASS***
Tuesday, May 3
Do-Now: Describe your day yesterday from the perspective of your backpack/book bag/purse.
Today: You will continue composing a series of THREE short stories. All three stories will be focused around a central storyline which will be told from THREE different perspectives (each of the three stories will represent a different perspective). Two stories must be told from characters within the storyline and the third story may be told from the perspective of a third character, an animal, an object or an omniscient narrator. Each story will be at least TWO pages long (longer if you have bigger handwriting).
***ALL STORIES DUE THURSDAY AT THE BEGINNING OF CLASS***
Today: You will continue composing a series of THREE short stories. All three stories will be focused around a central storyline which will be told from THREE different perspectives (each of the three stories will represent a different perspective). Two stories must be told from characters within the storyline and the third story may be told from the perspective of a third character, an animal, an object or an omniscient narrator. Each story will be at least TWO pages long (longer if you have bigger handwriting).
***ALL STORIES DUE THURSDAY AT THE BEGINNING OF CLASS***
Monday, May 2, 2011
Monday, May 2
Do-Now: We only have about six weeks before the end of the school year. What types of activities would you like to do in Creative Writing class during the next six weeks? (They can be activities we have already done or new activities we haven't done yet.)
Today: You will begin composing a series of THREE short stories. All three stories will be focused around a central storyline which will be told from THREE different perspectives (each of the three stories will represent a different perspective). Two stories must be told from characters within the storyline and the third story may be told from the perspective of a third character, an animal, an object or an omniscient narrator. Each story will be at least TWO pages long (longer if you have bigger handwriting).
EXAMPLE: You may focus on a storyline about two best friends who accuse each other of talking behind the other's back. Your FIRST version of the story can be written from the first friend's point of view. Then, your SECOND version of the story can be written from the second friend's point of view. Finally, your THIRD version of the story can be written from a teacher's point of view.
***ALL THREE STORIES ARE DUE THURSDAY AT THE BEGINNING OF CLASS***
Today: You will begin composing a series of THREE short stories. All three stories will be focused around a central storyline which will be told from THREE different perspectives (each of the three stories will represent a different perspective). Two stories must be told from characters within the storyline and the third story may be told from the perspective of a third character, an animal, an object or an omniscient narrator. Each story will be at least TWO pages long (longer if you have bigger handwriting).
EXAMPLE: You may focus on a storyline about two best friends who accuse each other of talking behind the other's back. Your FIRST version of the story can be written from the first friend's point of view. Then, your SECOND version of the story can be written from the second friend's point of view. Finally, your THIRD version of the story can be written from a teacher's point of view.
***ALL THREE STORIES ARE DUE THURSDAY AT THE BEGINNING OF CLASS***
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Friday, April 28
Do-Now: Draw a SYMBOL to represent yourself.
Today: You will be creating a Prezi presentation using Prezi.com. For this presentation, you will find TEN pictures of people, items, activities, etc. which you feel represent yourself. You will place these pictures into your Prezi presentation, then present the presentation to Ms. W explaining why you chose each picture. When you are finished, you may continue working on typing your memoirs into your GoogleDocs.
Today: You will be creating a Prezi presentation using Prezi.com. For this presentation, you will find TEN pictures of people, items, activities, etc. which you feel represent yourself. You will place these pictures into your Prezi presentation, then present the presentation to Ms. W explaining why you chose each picture. When you are finished, you may continue working on typing your memoirs into your GoogleDocs.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Thursday, April 28
Do-Now: Write a Number Poem: Your poem will be FIVE lines long. Each line will begin with the numbers 1-5 as the first word in the sentence. You can choose whether or not you want your poem to rhyme.
Example:
One woman sits alone.
Two questions on her mind: what do I do? where do I go?
Three times he promised he'd never lie again.
Four hours they fought before he slammed the door.
Five fingers on her left hand are empty once more.
Today: Today you will finish working on the FIVE poems you began writing yesterday. Remember, you are only writing ONE of each of the FIVE types of poems. All poems are due NO LATER than tomorrow at the beginning of class.
Example:
One woman sits alone.
Two questions on her mind: what do I do? where do I go?
Three times he promised he'd never lie again.
Four hours they fought before he slammed the door.
Five fingers on her left hand are empty once more.
Today: Today you will finish working on the FIVE poems you began writing yesterday. Remember, you are only writing ONE of each of the FIVE types of poems. All poems are due NO LATER than tomorrow at the beginning of class.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Wednesday, April 27
Do-Now: Try a name poem. You can either choose to write one about yourself or someone you know. The first word of each line will begin with each letter of the name. You can choose to keep your poem unrhymed or set up your own rhyme scheme.
Example: E ver since the day I brought you home
M y life has never been the same
M utt or not, you're my best friend
A lways by my side
Today: Other Types of Poetry: You will be writing five different poems following five different structured formats. You will receive a separate worksheet for each of the five types of poems. These worksheets will contain explanations on how to write each type of poem as well as examples for each type. You will compose your five poems on the back of each worksheet. The poems are due by the beginning of class on Friday and you will have today and tomorrow to work on them in class.
Example: E ver since the day I brought you home
M y life has never been the same
M utt or not, you're my best friend
A lways by my side
Today: Other Types of Poetry: You will be writing five different poems following five different structured formats. You will receive a separate worksheet for each of the five types of poems. These worksheets will contain explanations on how to write each type of poem as well as examples for each type. You will compose your five poems on the back of each worksheet. The poems are due by the beginning of class on Friday and you will have today and tomorrow to work on them in class.
Tuesday, April 26
Do-Now: Think of celebrity interviews you have read or watched on TV. Why do people conduct interviews? What makes an interview interesting to the public? What types of questions are normally asked during an interview? Which of these questions gets the most interesting responses from the people who are being interviewed?
Today: Today you will be coming up with 20 questions to use while interviewing one of your classmates. You will then pick a partner and the two of you will take turns interviewing each other and recording answers. If enough time is left at the end of class, you will present any interesting information you found out about your partner. First, we will discuss what makes a good interview question.
A Good Interview Question:
1) Is Open-Ended
Example: Do you like school? <----NOT Open-Ended
Example: What do you like best/least about this school? <---- Open-Ended
2) Is Not Too Broad
Example: What are your favorite things? <----TOO Broad
Example: As a child, what was your favorite fairy tale? <---- NOT Too Broad
3) Is Not Too Narrow
Example: Which do you like better: chocolate or vanilla? <---- TOO Narrow
Example: If you could have a lifetime supply of any flavor icecream, which flavor would you choose? <----NOT Too Narrow
4) Is Not Too Personal
Example: Did your parents ever abuse you as a child? <---- TOO Personal
Example: What was your relationship like with your parents as you were growing up? <---- NOT Too Personal
5) Asks Something Different
Example: What do you want to do when you graduate high school? <----MUNDANE
Example: What do you hope to accomplish during your life? <--- DIFFERENT
Today: Today you will be coming up with 20 questions to use while interviewing one of your classmates. You will then pick a partner and the two of you will take turns interviewing each other and recording answers. If enough time is left at the end of class, you will present any interesting information you found out about your partner. First, we will discuss what makes a good interview question.
A Good Interview Question:
1) Is Open-Ended
Example: Do you like school? <----NOT Open-Ended
Example: What do you like best/least about this school? <---- Open-Ended
2) Is Not Too Broad
Example: What are your favorite things? <----TOO Broad
Example: As a child, what was your favorite fairy tale? <---- NOT Too Broad
3) Is Not Too Narrow
Example: Which do you like better: chocolate or vanilla? <---- TOO Narrow
Example: If you could have a lifetime supply of any flavor icecream, which flavor would you choose? <----NOT Too Narrow
4) Is Not Too Personal
Example: Did your parents ever abuse you as a child? <---- TOO Personal
Example: What was your relationship like with your parents as you were growing up? <---- NOT Too Personal
5) Asks Something Different
Example: What do you want to do when you graduate high school? <----MUNDANE
Example: What do you hope to accomplish during your life? <--- DIFFERENT
Monday, April 25, 2011
Monday, April 25
Do-Now: Briefly describe something you did over Spring Break.
Today: Memoir #6 : You will be composing your sixth memoir. You may choose to write on a topic from your list of Memoir Worthy Experiences or you may come up with a new topic. You might also want to consider writing a memoir about your recent Spring Break (since it is still fresh in your mind). This memoir will be typed and added to your other five memoirs on your GoogleDocs account. Remember, you will have a total of TEN memoirs by the end of the school year.
Homework: Finish Memoir #6
Today: Memoir #6 : You will be composing your sixth memoir. You may choose to write on a topic from your list of Memoir Worthy Experiences or you may come up with a new topic. You might also want to consider writing a memoir about your recent Spring Break (since it is still fresh in your mind). This memoir will be typed and added to your other five memoirs on your GoogleDocs account. Remember, you will have a total of TEN memoirs by the end of the school year.
Homework: Finish Memoir #6
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Wednesday, April 13
Do-Now: If you were turning your play into a movie, which actors would you get to play the lead roles? Why would you choose these actors? Where in the world would you have your movie take place?
Today: Today you will be finishing up the LAST four pages of your play. This should include your play's climax (the turning point or highest point of action), the falling action, the resolution (the solution to the character's problem), and the denoument (what happens to your character after the problem is solved?) Remember, your play should be at least EIGHT pages long, not including your character list.
Homework: Rough Copy of your play = Due Friday, April 15
Today: Today you will be finishing up the LAST four pages of your play. This should include your play's climax (the turning point or highest point of action), the falling action, the resolution (the solution to the character's problem), and the denoument (what happens to your character after the problem is solved?) Remember, your play should be at least EIGHT pages long, not including your character list.
Homework: Rough Copy of your play = Due Friday, April 15
Monday, April 11, 2011
Tuesday, April 12
Do-Now: Give a brief summary of what your play is about. Who are your main characters? Describe who each of them are. What is going to be the main conflict the characters are facing?
Today: You will be working on writing the first FOUR pages of your play. These pages should focus on establishing your exposition (letting your audience know who your characters are), your conflict (what problems the characters will be facing) and the beginning events in your rising action (what your characters begin to do in an attempt to solve the conflict.) Remember to follow the correct format and, at the beginning of each scene, describe the setting.
Homework: Rough Draft of your play is due FRIDAY, April 15!!!!
Today: You will be working on writing the first FOUR pages of your play. These pages should focus on establishing your exposition (letting your audience know who your characters are), your conflict (what problems the characters will be facing) and the beginning events in your rising action (what your characters begin to do in an attempt to solve the conflict.) Remember to follow the correct format and, at the beginning of each scene, describe the setting.
Homework: Rough Draft of your play is due FRIDAY, April 15!!!!
Friday, April 8, 2011
Monday, April 11
Do-Now: What do you plan on doing to enjoy today's weather? Give details.
Today: Today, we will be going over the criteria for your playwriting assignment. Afterwards, you will begin your character list and, if time allows, your first scene.
Homework: Finish your character list.
Today: Today, we will be going over the criteria for your playwriting assignment. Afterwards, you will begin your character list and, if time allows, your first scene.
Homework: Finish your character list.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Friday, April 8
Do-Now: Cryptograms
Today: 1) Type Memoir #5 into your GoogleDocs (you will not receive a laptop until you show Ms. W your rough draft).
2) Type your SECOND blog post on Blogspot.com.
Today: 1) Type Memoir #5 into your GoogleDocs (you will not receive a laptop until you show Ms. W your rough draft).
2) Type your SECOND blog post on Blogspot.com.
Thursday, April 7
Do-Now: Come up with THREE possible starting lines for today's "Pass-It-Around" story.
Today: 1) "Pass-it-Around" Story: The class will compose another round of Pass-It-Around stories. You will choose ONE of your starting lines to begin your own story and write for about three minutes. You will then pass your story and the next person will read what you have written and add on. This will continue for about FIVE rounds.
2) "How To" Manual: You will compose a How To manual on a topic of your choice. You may choose a serious topic where you can offer practical guidance for your reader. You may also choose a more humorous or unique topic meant to make your reader laugh. Sample topics will be given before you begin.
Homework: Finish "How To" Manual
Today: 1) "Pass-it-Around" Story: The class will compose another round of Pass-It-Around stories. You will choose ONE of your starting lines to begin your own story and write for about three minutes. You will then pass your story and the next person will read what you have written and add on. This will continue for about FIVE rounds.
2) "How To" Manual: You will compose a How To manual on a topic of your choice. You may choose a serious topic where you can offer practical guidance for your reader. You may also choose a more humorous or unique topic meant to make your reader laugh. Sample topics will be given before you begin.
Homework: Finish "How To" Manual
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Wednesday, April 6
Do-Now: If you re-do one thing from your past, what would it be? What would you do differently? Why would you want to do this thing over?
Today: 1)"Letter to Your Past Self": Write a letter to yourself at the age you were ten years ago. What advice would you give your past self? What would you tell him/her to do differently? The same? What else would you want your past self to know?
2) "Letter to Your Present Self": This time, write a letter to yourself now. What advice can you give yourself today? What would you like to remind yourself to do/not do? What else is important to tell yourself now?
3) "Letter to Your Future Self": Finally, compose a letter to yourself in ten years. Where do you think you will be? What will you be doing? How will your life have changed? What would you like to tell your future self about who you are now? WHo do you hope to be in ten years?
Homework: Finish your three letters.
Today: 1)"Letter to Your Past Self": Write a letter to yourself at the age you were ten years ago. What advice would you give your past self? What would you tell him/her to do differently? The same? What else would you want your past self to know?
2) "Letter to Your Present Self": This time, write a letter to yourself now. What advice can you give yourself today? What would you like to remind yourself to do/not do? What else is important to tell yourself now?
3) "Letter to Your Future Self": Finally, compose a letter to yourself in ten years. Where do you think you will be? What will you be doing? How will your life have changed? What would you like to tell your future self about who you are now? WHo do you hope to be in ten years?
Homework: Finish your three letters.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Friday, April 1
Memoir #5
Today you will be writing your rough draft for Memoir #5 to be typed on your GoogleDocs on MONDAY. For this memoir, choose ONE of the following topics.
1) Your First Love: This could be a person, place, or thing. Think of the first time in your life when you felt you had truly fallen in love. Describe where you were and how it happened. You may want to end the story by explaining what has become of that love.
2) The Hardest Thing You Ever Had to Do: This could be a decision you had to make, something you had to tell someone, something that was physically/mentally difficult to do, or something you just really didn't want to do. Describe what it was, why you had to do it, and what you've learned from the experience.
3) A Life Change: This could be a change you made in your appearance, location, social life, school life, work life, etc. What change did you make? What made you decide to make this change? What were the positive/negative effects of this change? How/is this change still affecting you?
4) A Moment You Wish You Could Re-live: This could be a positive or negative moment from your life. Think of an experience you wish you could have all over again. Describe this experience. Why would you want to re-live this moment? If you could re-live it, would you do everything the same or are there things you would do differently?
Today you will be writing your rough draft for Memoir #5 to be typed on your GoogleDocs on MONDAY. For this memoir, choose ONE of the following topics.
1) Your First Love: This could be a person, place, or thing. Think of the first time in your life when you felt you had truly fallen in love. Describe where you were and how it happened. You may want to end the story by explaining what has become of that love.
2) The Hardest Thing You Ever Had to Do: This could be a decision you had to make, something you had to tell someone, something that was physically/mentally difficult to do, or something you just really didn't want to do. Describe what it was, why you had to do it, and what you've learned from the experience.
3) A Life Change: This could be a change you made in your appearance, location, social life, school life, work life, etc. What change did you make? What made you decide to make this change? What were the positive/negative effects of this change? How/is this change still affecting you?
4) A Moment You Wish You Could Re-live: This could be a positive or negative moment from your life. Think of an experience you wish you could have all over again. Describe this experience. Why would you want to re-live this moment? If you could re-live it, would you do everything the same or are there things you would do differently?
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Thursday, March 31
Do-Now: Which creative writing activity have you enjoyed the most so far? Why? Which activity have you enjoyed the least? Why? What other types of activities would you like to do in this class?
Today: In-Class Extra-Credit : All assignments due by the end of class today!
1) Write another sonnet on a topic of your choice = 20 pts.
2) Write a haiku = 3 pts. each or 10 pts. if you write THREE (you may not write more than SIX)
3) Character Sketch : Write a character sketch on another person you know (you may not choose the same person you did your first sketch on). Remember, this sketch should read like a short story that doesn't follow the traditional plotline. Length = 20 complete sentences = 20 pts.
4) Advice Column : With a partner, you may re-do the advice column activity. Each letter asking for advice should be at least TEN sentences long and each response should be at least TEN sentences as well. Remember, you are switching papers after writing the letter asking for help and responding to each other's problems. You will each receive 20 pts. for two completed letters and responses.
5) Heart Map: Create another heart map, this one focusing on a THEME such as people, sports, music, memories, etc. Make sure you put the most important things in the middle and the least important things further away from the center. You may also use different colors and sizes.
Today: In-Class Extra-Credit : All assignments due by the end of class today!
1) Write another sonnet on a topic of your choice = 20 pts.
2) Write a haiku = 3 pts. each or 10 pts. if you write THREE (you may not write more than SIX)
3) Character Sketch : Write a character sketch on another person you know (you may not choose the same person you did your first sketch on). Remember, this sketch should read like a short story that doesn't follow the traditional plotline. Length = 20 complete sentences = 20 pts.
4) Advice Column : With a partner, you may re-do the advice column activity. Each letter asking for advice should be at least TEN sentences long and each response should be at least TEN sentences as well. Remember, you are switching papers after writing the letter asking for help and responding to each other's problems. You will each receive 20 pts. for two completed letters and responses.
5) Heart Map: Create another heart map, this one focusing on a THEME such as people, sports, music, memories, etc. Make sure you put the most important things in the middle and the least important things further away from the center. You may also use different colors and sizes.
Wednesday, March 30
Do-Now: Today in class you will be writing a short story with TWO characters. First, you must make up a character sketch for each of the characters in order to give you an idea of what your story will be about.
Today: You will be writing a short fiction story (at least, but not limited to, two pages). This story will have only two characters who are sharing the same conflict. Each character should be responding to the conflict in a different way and have his/her on view of the conflict. The story should follow a normal plot line, ending with the conflict being resolved and a denoument. To help, you may want to first map your story on a plot pyramid.
Homework: Finish short story.
Today: You will be writing a short fiction story (at least, but not limited to, two pages). This story will have only two characters who are sharing the same conflict. Each character should be responding to the conflict in a different way and have his/her on view of the conflict. The story should follow a normal plot line, ending with the conflict being resolved and a denoument. To help, you may want to first map your story on a plot pyramid.
Homework: Finish short story.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Tuesday, March 29
Do-Now: Recall the best birthday you've ever had. How old were you? What did you do to celebrate? What gifts did you get? What made this particular birthday so special?
Agenda: Today you are finishing your first blog post that you started last week on http://www.blogspot.com/. When you are finished, you may type Memoir #4 into your GoogleDocs.
Homework:
Agenda: Today you are finishing your first blog post that you started last week on http://www.blogspot.com/. When you are finished, you may type Memoir #4 into your GoogleDocs.
Homework:
Monday, March 28
Do-Now: We are going to be having "silent" debates in class today. Make a list of topics you would be interested in debating. (Note: If the class doesn't come up with enough topics, they will have to debate the topics Ms. W chooses).
Today: "Silent Debates" : Today we will have a series of "silent" debates. Several topics will be written on the top of lined sheets of paper. The papers will be passed around the class and every student will have a chance to comment on the issue. Students may also comment on other students' comments. This will continue until the papers are full or time is up. Ms. W will then read the debate discussions out loud.
Today: "Silent Debates" : Today we will have a series of "silent" debates. Several topics will be written on the top of lined sheets of paper. The papers will be passed around the class and every student will have a chance to comment on the issue. Students may also comment on other students' comments. This will continue until the papers are full or time is up. Ms. W will then read the debate discussions out loud.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Friday, March 25
Do-Now: Take 3 Worksheet
Today: 1) Horoscopes: You will be read your Friday horoscope, then you will be writing a horoscope for a famous person. Everyone will take turns reading his/her horoscope and the class will guess who the famous person is.
2) Game: Taboo
3) Memoir #4 : You will begin writing the fourth chapter for your memoirs. You may use a topic from your Memoir Worthy Experiences List of come up with a new topic.
Homework: Finish Chapter #4 of your Memoirs.
Today: 1) Horoscopes: You will be read your Friday horoscope, then you will be writing a horoscope for a famous person. Everyone will take turns reading his/her horoscope and the class will guess who the famous person is.
2) Game: Taboo
3) Memoir #4 : You will begin writing the fourth chapter for your memoirs. You may use a topic from your Memoir Worthy Experiences List of come up with a new topic.
Homework: Finish Chapter #4 of your Memoirs.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Thursday, March 24
Do-Now: How have you changed since you were around 8 years old? How have your likes/dislikes changed? What do you do now that you didn't do when you were younger? What did you stop doing that you used to do when you were younger? What is important to you now that wasn't important to you back then?
Today: We will be reading/writing poems about change. First, we will focus on the change of seasons by reading "The Tree" and "Seasons of the School Oak." Next, we will focus on the changes a person goes hrough as he/she gets older by reading "Mom" and "I Once New a Girl." You will then be composing two of your own original poems. The first will be modeled after "The Tree" and "Seasons of the School Oak." In this poem, you will discuss how an object or place is used and is changed throughout the four seasons. The second will be modeled after "Mom" and "I Once New a Girl." In this poem, you will focus on how you have changed since you were a child.
Homework: Finish Poems
Today: We will be reading/writing poems about change. First, we will focus on the change of seasons by reading "The Tree" and "Seasons of the School Oak." Next, we will focus on the changes a person goes hrough as he/she gets older by reading "Mom" and "I Once New a Girl." You will then be composing two of your own original poems. The first will be modeled after "The Tree" and "Seasons of the School Oak." In this poem, you will discuss how an object or place is used and is changed throughout the four seasons. The second will be modeled after "Mom" and "I Once New a Girl." In this poem, you will focus on how you have changed since you were a child.
Homework: Finish Poems
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Wednesday, March 23
Do-Now: Brainstorm: Today in class you will be creating your own blog. List FIVE topics you might be interested in creating a blog on. Keep in mind, people tend to write blogs on things they know a lot about. Therefore, you should include topics on your list which you are not only interested in, but knowledgeable about. Remember, blogs can be used to inform others, express opinions, and reflect on life.
Today: Today you will be using Blogspot.com to create your own blog. Choose one of the five topics you listed for your Do-Now which you feel most comfortable creating a blog on. You must first create your blog using a valid e-mail address (it's easiest to use your Gmail account) and design how you would like your blog to be formatted. Next, you may look at others' blogs to give yourself an idea of what you want your blog to look/sound like. Finally, you can write your first blog entry and post it on your blog. When you are finished, give Ms. W the blog address so she can read it and grade it. Remember, blogs have spellcheck---so use it!
Today: Today you will be using Blogspot.com to create your own blog. Choose one of the five topics you listed for your Do-Now which you feel most comfortable creating a blog on. You must first create your blog using a valid e-mail address (it's easiest to use your Gmail account) and design how you would like your blog to be formatted. Next, you may look at others' blogs to give yourself an idea of what you want your blog to look/sound like. Finally, you can write your first blog entry and post it on your blog. When you are finished, give Ms. W the blog address so she can read it and grade it. Remember, blogs have spellcheck---so use it!
Monday, March 21, 2011
Tuesday, March 22
Do-Now: When you are faced with a problem, who do you usually go to for advice? Why do you usually go to this person? What is the best advice he/she has ever given you? How did you use this advice?
Today: We will be writing advice columns. First, we will look at a few sample advice columns. Next, each of you will pretend to be someone in need of advice and write a letter to an advice columnist asking for help. Your letter will then be collected and handed to one of your classmates who will read it and offer his/her advice. Afterwards, the class will share out their completed advice columns.
Today: We will be writing advice columns. First, we will look at a few sample advice columns. Next, each of you will pretend to be someone in need of advice and write a letter to an advice columnist asking for help. Your letter will then be collected and handed to one of your classmates who will read it and offer his/her advice. Afterwards, the class will share out their completed advice columns.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Monday, March 21
Do-Now: Spring Haiku: In honor of spring officially starting, compose a haiku about spring. You can focus on the weather or springtime activities.
Today: Lyric Art: Using the same lyrics you used Friday (or different lyrics if you choose) you will be creating two pieces of art. One will use lines/phrases from the song lyrics organized artistically/meaningfully on white paper (similar to your heart maps). For the other, you will draw a visual representation of a line/phrase from your song.
Homework: Finish Lyric Art
Today: Lyric Art: Using the same lyrics you used Friday (or different lyrics if you choose) you will be creating two pieces of art. One will use lines/phrases from the song lyrics organized artistically/meaningfully on white paper (similar to your heart maps). For the other, you will draw a visual representation of a line/phrase from your song.
Homework: Finish Lyric Art
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Friday, March 18
Do-Now: "Quotes & Notes" : Take out the quote you brought in for today's class. Write at least one page (more if you have BIG handwriting) explaining what you feel the quote means and how you can relate it to your life. You should have an easier time doing this since this is your second quote.
Today: "Found Poems/Art in Lyrics" : We will look at lyrics from different songs (including the lyrics you brought in) and find poetry/art in them. First, you will take certain words/phrases from the lyrics and arrange them into your own "original poem." Next, you can choose to use words/phrases to create word art. Finally, you can visually represent a line from your song in a picture. You will end up with THREE pieces when you are finished.
Homework: Finish all THREE pieces of the "Found Poems/Art"
Today: "Found Poems/Art in Lyrics" : We will look at lyrics from different songs (including the lyrics you brought in) and find poetry/art in them. First, you will take certain words/phrases from the lyrics and arrange them into your own "original poem." Next, you can choose to use words/phrases to create word art. Finally, you can visually represent a line from your song in a picture. You will end up with THREE pieces when you are finished.
Homework: Finish all THREE pieces of the "Found Poems/Art"
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Thursday, March 17
Do-Now: Writing Limericks (see worksheet for examples and template)
Today: 1) Type your limerick so it can be displayed on the March bulletin board in the back of class. Make sure to have Ms. W check it for spelling/grammar before e-mailing it to her at TeacherWinberg@gmail.com
2) Type your THIRD chapter for your memoirs and save it to your GoogleDocs.
3) Type anything else you have written in class that you wish to have put up on the class Writers' Wall and e-mail it to Ms. W at TeacherWinberg@gmail.com
Homework: Bring in a new quote for Quotes & Notes. Also, bring in a copy of the lyrics to your favorite song (this can be hand-written or typed).
Today: 1) Type your limerick so it can be displayed on the March bulletin board in the back of class. Make sure to have Ms. W check it for spelling/grammar before e-mailing it to her at TeacherWinberg@gmail.com
2) Type your THIRD chapter for your memoirs and save it to your GoogleDocs.
3) Type anything else you have written in class that you wish to have put up on the class Writers' Wall and e-mail it to Ms. W at TeacherWinberg@gmail.com
Homework: Bring in a new quote for Quotes & Notes. Also, bring in a copy of the lyrics to your favorite song (this can be hand-written or typed).
Monday, March 14, 2011
Wednesday, March 16
Do-Now: Who/what is an inspiration to you in your life? How has this person/thing changed your life? How does this person/thing inspire you to make other changes to your life? Why is this person/thing so important to you? How do you show your appreciation to this person/thing?
Today: First, we will talk about the importance of having a muse while writing. Each of you will select someone/something to be your own personal muse for the rest of the semester. You will use this muse for inspiration to write today's sonnet. We will read a few examples of modern sonnets written in Shakespeare's form, then you will compose your own.
Homework: Finish your sonnet.
Today: First, we will talk about the importance of having a muse while writing. Each of you will select someone/something to be your own personal muse for the rest of the semester. You will use this muse for inspiration to write today's sonnet. We will read a few examples of modern sonnets written in Shakespeare's form, then you will compose your own.
Homework: Finish your sonnet.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Monday, March 14
Do-Now: Bucket List: Make a list of at least TEN things you want to do before you die.
Today:
1)Pass-it-Around: Each of you will start a story with the line "It was a wrong number that started it, the telephone ringing three times in the dead of night." You will write for THREE minutes. Next, you will pass your story to the person behind you who will read your story and have THREE minutes to add to it. The story will continue to be passed until both sides of the paper are full. Finally, select stories will be read out loud in class.
2)Dead Man's Pockets:A man has been found dead with TEN items in his pockets. Using these items for inspiration, write a short story about how the man died. Explain where he was and what he was doing when he died. You may also choose to tell what the man was doing in the hours/days leading up to his death. Finally, you may tell where his body was found, who found his body, and what condition his body was in (if you wish to get into THAT much detail.) Be sure to include at least FIVE of the items in your story.
Homework: Finish "Dead Man's Pockets" story
Today:
1)Pass-it-Around: Each of you will start a story with the line "It was a wrong number that started it, the telephone ringing three times in the dead of night." You will write for THREE minutes. Next, you will pass your story to the person behind you who will read your story and have THREE minutes to add to it. The story will continue to be passed until both sides of the paper are full. Finally, select stories will be read out loud in class.
2)Dead Man's Pockets:A man has been found dead with TEN items in his pockets. Using these items for inspiration, write a short story about how the man died. Explain where he was and what he was doing when he died. You may also choose to tell what the man was doing in the hours/days leading up to his death. Finally, you may tell where his body was found, who found his body, and what condition his body was in (if you wish to get into THAT much detail.) Be sure to include at least FIVE of the items in your story.
Homework: Finish "Dead Man's Pockets" story
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Friday, March 11
Do-Now: Word Puzzles
TODAY: Choose another memory from your "Memoir-Worthy Experiences" List. You will be writing the THIRD chapter for your memoirs. Remember what you learned about developing a character from writing your character sketch and use those skills to create vivid characters in this chapter of your memoir. You might even choose to write this chapter as a character sketch of someone important from your life.
Homework: Finish Memoir
TODAY: Choose another memory from your "Memoir-Worthy Experiences" List. You will be writing the THIRD chapter for your memoirs. Remember what you learned about developing a character from writing your character sketch and use those skills to create vivid characters in this chapter of your memoir. You might even choose to write this chapter as a character sketch of someone important from your life.
Homework: Finish Memoir
Thursday, March 10
Do-Now: Open Mind
Agenda: Today, you will be typing your character sketches. Before you receive a laptop, you must show your completed rough copy to Ms. W. Once you have finished typing your sketch, show it to Ms. W so she can edit it before you e-mail it to her. All completed/edited sketches should be e-mailed to TeacherWinberg@gmail.com. Once you are finished with your sketch, you may type other submissions for the class Writers' Wall.
Agenda: Today, you will be typing your character sketches. Before you receive a laptop, you must show your completed rough copy to Ms. W. Once you have finished typing your sketch, show it to Ms. W so she can edit it before you e-mail it to her. All completed/edited sketches should be e-mailed to TeacherWinberg@gmail.com. Once you are finished with your sketch, you may type other submissions for the class Writers' Wall.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Wednesday, March 9
Do-Now: Who have you chosen to write your character sketch on? Why did you choose this person? What story/situation are you going to use for your character sketch to show your readers what this person is like? Why did you choose this story/situation?
Agenda: First, we are going to read and discuss one more example of a character sketch called "Flamingo Pink." Then, you are going to begin writing your character sketch using your "Main Character Questionnaire" and the two sample character sketches as guidelines. Tomorrow, you will be typing and submitting your character sketches.
Homework: Finish character sketch.
Agenda: First, we are going to read and discuss one more example of a character sketch called "Flamingo Pink." Then, you are going to begin writing your character sketch using your "Main Character Questionnaire" and the two sample character sketches as guidelines. Tomorrow, you will be typing and submitting your character sketches.
Homework: Finish character sketch.
Monday, March 7, 2011
Tuesday, March 8
Do-Now: Write a description of yourself:
How old are you?
Where are you from?
What do you look like?
What is your personality like?
What are your likes/dislikes?
What are your hobbies?
What are your hopes/fears?
Who/what is important to you in your life?
Agenda: Today we will be learning how to write character sketches. We will look at different questions you must answer when creating a character and we will also discuss different ways to develop a character. You will then begin creating a character sketch for your own fictional character who you will later use in a story.
Homework: Finish character sketch.
How old are you?
Where are you from?
What do you look like?
What is your personality like?
What are your likes/dislikes?
What are your hobbies?
What are your hopes/fears?
Who/what is important to you in your life?
Agenda: Today we will be learning how to write character sketches. We will look at different questions you must answer when creating a character and we will also discuss different ways to develop a character. You will then begin creating a character sketch for your own fictional character who you will later use in a story.
Homework: Finish character sketch.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Monday, March 7
Do-Now: "Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind." ~ Dr. Seuss What do you think Dr. Seuss meant by this? How can you relate this quote to your own life and experiences?
Agenda: Quotes & Notes: Choose one of the quotes you brought to class. You will write approximately one page explaining what the quote means to you and how the quote can be related to an experience you have had in your life. There is no wrong or right way to write this piece. You are free to include as many thoughts or ideas as you have and you're free to interpret your quote however you want.
Homework: Finish your Quotes & Notes piece.
Agenda: Quotes & Notes: Choose one of the quotes you brought to class. You will write approximately one page explaining what the quote means to you and how the quote can be related to an experience you have had in your life. There is no wrong or right way to write this piece. You are free to include as many thoughts or ideas as you have and you're free to interpret your quote however you want.
Homework: Finish your Quotes & Notes piece.
Friday, March 4, 2011
Friday, March 4
Objective: Students will finish their movie reviews and type submissions for the class Writers' Wall.
Do-Now: Go to www.magneticpoetry.com and choose one of the poetry kits. Using the word tiles, construct your own unique poem and write it down in your notebook. Call Ms. W over to check it when you are done.
Agenda: 1) If you have not yet done so, finish writing your movie review.
2) Wanna win some money? Go to www.poetry.com and enter your poem in the poetry contest. You can enter as many poems as you want!
3) Writers' Wall: Choose pieces of writing from this class to type for the class Writers' Wall. You may use poetry, stories, or any other piece of writing we have done in this class, including your movie review. When you are finished typing, e-mail your piece to TeacherWinberg@gmail.com
Homework: For Monday, bring in TEN of your favorite quotes. These can be famous quotes/sayings or lines from music lyrics which you feel are meaningful.
Do-Now: Go to www.magneticpoetry.com and choose one of the poetry kits. Using the word tiles, construct your own unique poem and write it down in your notebook. Call Ms. W over to check it when you are done.
Agenda: 1) If you have not yet done so, finish writing your movie review.
2) Wanna win some money? Go to www.poetry.com and enter your poem in the poetry contest. You can enter as many poems as you want!
3) Writers' Wall: Choose pieces of writing from this class to type for the class Writers' Wall. You may use poetry, stories, or any other piece of writing we have done in this class, including your movie review. When you are finished typing, e-mail your piece to TeacherWinberg@gmail.com
Homework: For Monday, bring in TEN of your favorite quotes. These can be famous quotes/sayings or lines from music lyrics which you feel are meaningful.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Thursday, March 3
Objective: Students will take notes on a film to use while writing their movie reviews.
Do-Now: If you were Ree, would you give up on looking for your father? (Consider what has happened in the movie up until this point.) Why or why not? Would your personal safety be more important to you than your family's well-being? (Remember, if she doesn't find her father, her family will lose their house.) Why do you think Ree is refusing to give up on looking for her father? What do you think will, ultimately, happen to her and her family?
Agenda: 1) Finish watching "Winter's Bone"
2) Movie Reviews: You will begin writing your own movie review for "Winter's Bone." You may use the sample reviews we read on Tuesday as guides. Remember to include in your review:
1) A brief summary of the movie's plot (without giving away the ending or any important events)
2) What you liked/disliked about the movie
3) Who the main actors were and how well/badly the actors portrayed their characters
4) A comparison of the movie to similar movies you've seen
5) Your ultimate opinion on the movie as a whole and how the movie made you feel
Homework: Finish writing your movie review.
Do-Now: If you were Ree, would you give up on looking for your father? (Consider what has happened in the movie up until this point.) Why or why not? Would your personal safety be more important to you than your family's well-being? (Remember, if she doesn't find her father, her family will lose their house.) Why do you think Ree is refusing to give up on looking for her father? What do you think will, ultimately, happen to her and her family?
Agenda: 1) Finish watching "Winter's Bone"
2) Movie Reviews: You will begin writing your own movie review for "Winter's Bone." You may use the sample reviews we read on Tuesday as guides. Remember to include in your review:
1) A brief summary of the movie's plot (without giving away the ending or any important events)
2) What you liked/disliked about the movie
3) Who the main actors were and how well/badly the actors portrayed their characters
4) A comparison of the movie to similar movies you've seen
5) Your ultimate opinion on the movie as a whole and how the movie made you feel
Homework: Finish writing your movie review.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Wednesday, March 2
Objective: Students will take notes on a film to use while writing their movie reviews.
Do-Now: What is Ree Dolly's main conflict in "Winter's Bone?" Describe what her daily life is like. Describe the town she lives in and the people she knows. Based on what you know about Ree's personality, do you think she will be successful in finding her father?
Agenda: We will continue watching "Winter's Bone." As you watch, make sure to take notes on the movie. Focus on the movie's plot, the characters, what you like/dislike about the movie, parts of the movie which excite you, parts of the movie which confuse you, and anything else about the movie you find to be interesting/noteworthy.
Do-Now: What is Ree Dolly's main conflict in "Winter's Bone?" Describe what her daily life is like. Describe the town she lives in and the people she knows. Based on what you know about Ree's personality, do you think she will be successful in finding her father?
Agenda: We will continue watching "Winter's Bone." As you watch, make sure to take notes on the movie. Focus on the movie's plot, the characters, what you like/dislike about the movie, parts of the movie which excite you, parts of the movie which confuse you, and anything else about the movie you find to be interesting/noteworthy.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Tuesday, March 1
Objective: Students will compare movie reviews to find common elements.
Do-Now: Think about the most recent movie you have seen. What was the movie about? (Describe the plot.) What did you like about the movie? What did you dislike? Would you recommend the movie to a friend?
Agenda: 1) Movie Reviews: We will read reviews for THREE recent movies and look for common elements the reviews share.
2) We will make a list of elements which must be included in a professional movie review.
3) Movie: "Winter's Bone": We will begin watching a movie which you are going to be writing your own review for. As you watch, make sure to keep notes on the movie's plot as well as what you like/dislike about the movie. These notes will later be used to help you write your review.
Do-Now: Think about the most recent movie you have seen. What was the movie about? (Describe the plot.) What did you like about the movie? What did you dislike? Would you recommend the movie to a friend?
Agenda: 1) Movie Reviews: We will read reviews for THREE recent movies and look for common elements the reviews share.
2) We will make a list of elements which must be included in a professional movie review.
3) Movie: "Winter's Bone": We will begin watching a movie which you are going to be writing your own review for. As you watch, make sure to keep notes on the movie's plot as well as what you like/dislike about the movie. These notes will later be used to help you write your review.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Monday, February 28
Objective: Students will type the second story for their memoirs and type submissions for the class Writers' Wall.
Do-Now: Get out the rough draft of the newest chapter for your memoir. Show it to Ms. W so she can check you off for completing it.
Agenda: Today, you will be typing up your second story for your memoirs and savings it to your GoogleDocs. You should type this story inside the same document you typed your first story into in order to start building your collection. Once you are finished, you may type submissions for the class Writers' Wall including any stories, poems, or other writings. E-mail these submissions to TeacherWinberg@gmail.com and Ms. W will print them out and hang them on the wall. You do not have to e-mail your memoir, just save it to your GoogleDocs.
Do-Now: Get out the rough draft of the newest chapter for your memoir. Show it to Ms. W so she can check you off for completing it.
Agenda: Today, you will be typing up your second story for your memoirs and savings it to your GoogleDocs. You should type this story inside the same document you typed your first story into in order to start building your collection. Once you are finished, you may type submissions for the class Writers' Wall including any stories, poems, or other writings. E-mail these submissions to TeacherWinberg@gmail.com and Ms. W will print them out and hang them on the wall. You do not have to e-mail your memoir, just save it to your GoogleDocs.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Friday, February 25
Objective: Students will compose another story to add to their memoirs.
Do-Now: Class Mad-Libs -----> CLICK HERE
Agenda: 1) Create your own Mad-Lib. Using two separate sheets of paper, write your own Mad-Lib and set of directions for filling in the blanks. Once you are finished, exchange your Mad-Lib with someone else, being careful not to let them view the story before they are finished filling out the list of words.
2) Memoirs: Choose another topic from your "Memoir-Worthy Experience" List and compose a second story for your memoirs. On Monday, you will be typing this story and adding it to your collection of memoirs.
Homework: Finish your memoir for Monday.
Do-Now: Class Mad-Libs -----> CLICK HERE
Agenda: 1) Create your own Mad-Lib. Using two separate sheets of paper, write your own Mad-Lib and set of directions for filling in the blanks. Once you are finished, exchange your Mad-Lib with someone else, being careful not to let them view the story before they are finished filling out the list of words.
2) Memoirs: Choose another topic from your "Memoir-Worthy Experience" List and compose a second story for your memoirs. On Monday, you will be typing this story and adding it to your collection of memoirs.
Homework: Finish your memoir for Monday.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Thursday February 24
Objective: Students will re-write popular fairytales from different points-of-view.
Do-Now: Summarize the plot of your favorite childhood fairytale.
Agenda: Today you will be writing your own version of a popular fairytale. In your version, you will tell the story from the perspective of a different character (other than the main character). To prepare for this assignment, we will read "The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs" and discuss how the story is different when told from the wolf's point of view. We will then make a list of possible fairytales you could use for your story and discuss different points-of-view to consider for each story. Finally, you will begin writing your own take on a famous fairytale.
Homework: Finish your fairytale.
Do-Now: Summarize the plot of your favorite childhood fairytale.
Agenda: Today you will be writing your own version of a popular fairytale. In your version, you will tell the story from the perspective of a different character (other than the main character). To prepare for this assignment, we will read "The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs" and discuss how the story is different when told from the wolf's point of view. We will then make a list of possible fairytales you could use for your story and discuss different points-of-view to consider for each story. Finally, you will begin writing your own take on a famous fairytale.
Homework: Finish your fairytale.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Wednesday, February 23
Objective: Students will write eulogies for themselves.
Do-Now: Compose a "Persona Poem" about yourself:
Line 1 : your first name or nickname
Line 2 : 4 adjective that describe you
Line 3 : your relationship to an important person
Line 4 : 3 things you love
Line 5 : 3 things that scare you
Line 6 : 3 things you want to see
Line 7 : "resident of"...a place, time, or concept
Line 8 : your last name
Agenda: Today you will be imagining that you have died and, at your funeral, a eulogy will be read in your honor. How will people remember you? How will they describe who you were? What memories will your friends/family have of you? All of these things will be included in your eulogy. First, we will look at an example of a eulogy and discuss what made the eulogy effective. Then, you will compose a eulogy for yourself to be read at your imaginary funeral.
Homework: Finish your eulogy.
Do-Now: Compose a "Persona Poem" about yourself:
Line 1 : your first name or nickname
Line 2 : 4 adjective that describe you
Line 3 : your relationship to an important person
Line 4 : 3 things you love
Line 5 : 3 things that scare you
Line 6 : 3 things you want to see
Line 7 : "resident of"...a place, time, or concept
Line 8 : your last name
Agenda: Today you will be imagining that you have died and, at your funeral, a eulogy will be read in your honor. How will people remember you? How will they describe who you were? What memories will your friends/family have of you? All of these things will be included in your eulogy. First, we will look at an example of a eulogy and discuss what made the eulogy effective. Then, you will compose a eulogy for yourself to be read at your imaginary funeral.
Homework: Finish your eulogy.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Friday, February 17
Objective: Students will finish typing the first chapter of their memoirs and type submissions for the Writers' Wall.
Do-Now: Compose a Friday haiku. Remember: Haikus are THREE lines long. The FIRST and THIRD line have five syllables each. The SECOND line has seven syllables.
Agenda: 1) Finish typing the first chapter of your memoirs and save it onto your GoogleDocs account.
2) Writers' Wall: The class will begin creating a Writers' Wall in the back corner of the room. If you like, you may choose one or more of the pieces you have written in class to go up on the wall. To include a piece on the wall you must type it and send it to TeacherWinberg@gmail.com. Ms. Winberg will then print it out and post it on the wall.
3) Online Poetry Activities:
Click HERE to play with Magnetic Poetry Online
ACTIVITY#2 : Poetry Contest: Compose your own short poem to submit to the website. This poem will be approximately 10 lines long and can be on a topic of your choosing. You may NOT use the same poem you wrote with the magnetic poetry. Write a copy of your poem on your paper BEFORE typing it onto the website. If you win the poetry contest, you could also win MONEY!
Click HERE to enter the poetry contest
ACTIVITY#3 : Poetry 180: Choose FIVE different poems from the website to read. For each poem, write down the poem's title/author and answer each of the following questions: What is the poem about? Why do you feel the author wrote the poem? Who do you think the poem was written for? How can you relate the poem to your own life?
Click HERE to visit the Poetry 180 Website
Do-Now: Compose a Friday haiku. Remember: Haikus are THREE lines long. The FIRST and THIRD line have five syllables each. The SECOND line has seven syllables.
Agenda: 1) Finish typing the first chapter of your memoirs and save it onto your GoogleDocs account.
2) Writers' Wall: The class will begin creating a Writers' Wall in the back corner of the room. If you like, you may choose one or more of the pieces you have written in class to go up on the wall. To include a piece on the wall you must type it and send it to TeacherWinberg@gmail.com. Ms. Winberg will then print it out and post it on the wall.
3) Online Poetry Activities:
ACTIVITY#1 : Magnetic Poetry : Create your own poem using the word tiles provided to you on the Magnetic Poetry website. Your poem should be about 10 lines long when finished. Write down a copy of your poem on your paper once all of your tiles are assembled. You may also submit your poem electronically to the website, but make sure to have a written copy to hand in to me.
Click HERE to play with Magnetic Poetry Online
ACTIVITY#2 : Poetry Contest: Compose your own short poem to submit to the website. This poem will be approximately 10 lines long and can be on a topic of your choosing. You may NOT use the same poem you wrote with the magnetic poetry. Write a copy of your poem on your paper BEFORE typing it onto the website. If you win the poetry contest, you could also win MONEY!
Click HERE to enter the poetry contest
ACTIVITY#3 : Poetry 180: Choose FIVE different poems from the website to read. For each poem, write down the poem's title/author and answer each of the following questions: What is the poem about? Why do you feel the author wrote the poem? Who do you think the poem was written for? How can you relate the poem to your own life?
Click HERE to visit the Poetry 180 Website
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Thursday, February 17
Objective: Students will be able to describe an object from several different perspectives.
Do-Now: How many different uses can you think of for a rubber band? List as many as you possibly can.
Agenda: 1) Optical Illusions: We will be looking at several pictures that appear to be of one thing, but, when looked at from a different perspective, appear to be of something else.
Here is the link to the Optical Illusions
2) We will read the poem "Thirteen Ways of Looking at a Blackbird" and discuss the many perspectives the author has on blackbirds. We will then read a similar poem "Eleven Ways of Looking at Paper" and discuss how the author emulates the multiple perspectives from the "Blackbird" poem.
3) Writing Your Own: You will compose a poem in which you look at an object in TEN different ways. You may emulate the style of the "Blackbird" poem or create a style all of your own. HINT: Think of all the different uses for the object. Think of all the places you might find the object. Think of what the object might mean to different people.
Homework: Finish your poem. Make sure to bring the rough copy of the first story for your memoirs tomorrow.
Do-Now: How many different uses can you think of for a rubber band? List as many as you possibly can.
Agenda: 1) Optical Illusions: We will be looking at several pictures that appear to be of one thing, but, when looked at from a different perspective, appear to be of something else.
Here is the link to the Optical Illusions
2) We will read the poem "Thirteen Ways of Looking at a Blackbird" and discuss the many perspectives the author has on blackbirds. We will then read a similar poem "Eleven Ways of Looking at Paper" and discuss how the author emulates the multiple perspectives from the "Blackbird" poem.
3) Writing Your Own: You will compose a poem in which you look at an object in TEN different ways. You may emulate the style of the "Blackbird" poem or create a style all of your own. HINT: Think of all the different uses for the object. Think of all the places you might find the object. Think of what the object might mean to different people.
Homework: Finish your poem. Make sure to bring the rough copy of the first story for your memoirs tomorrow.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Wednesday, February 16
Objective: Students will compose an ODE to their favorite food.
Do-Now: What is your favorite food? Describe it: What does it look like? (Describe the shapes and colors). Smell like? (What other foods/things does it smell like besides itself?) Taste like? (Use adjectives such as "juicy," "spicy," "sweet," etc.) Feel like? (Describe the texture/temperature of the food). Sound like? (What sounds are made when the food is cooking or being eaten?)
Agenda: An ODE is a poem written in praise of something/someone. Today, you will be writing an ODE in praise of your favorite food. FIRST, we will read examples of two ODES written about different foods: "Ode to Subway" and "Ode to the Apple." After discussing these examples, you will compose your own ODE about your favorite food using SENSORY DETAILS (details which describe taste, sound, touch, smell, and sight.) You will describe your food as well as describe what it's like to eat your food. You will, ultimately, show everyone why your food is the best and why it is worthy of praise.
Homework: Finish your ODE.
Do-Now: What is your favorite food? Describe it: What does it look like? (Describe the shapes and colors). Smell like? (What other foods/things does it smell like besides itself?) Taste like? (Use adjectives such as "juicy," "spicy," "sweet," etc.) Feel like? (Describe the texture/temperature of the food). Sound like? (What sounds are made when the food is cooking or being eaten?)
Agenda: An ODE is a poem written in praise of something/someone. Today, you will be writing an ODE in praise of your favorite food. FIRST, we will read examples of two ODES written about different foods: "Ode to Subway" and "Ode to the Apple." After discussing these examples, you will compose your own ODE about your favorite food using SENSORY DETAILS (details which describe taste, sound, touch, smell, and sight.) You will describe your food as well as describe what it's like to eat your food. You will, ultimately, show everyone why your food is the best and why it is worthy of praise.
Homework: Finish your ODE.
Monday, February 14, 2011
TUESDAY, February 15
Objective: Students will compose poems about lost friendships/relationships.
Do-Now: Think about all the friendships/relationships in your life that have ended. Which one affected you the most? Who was it with? Why did it end? What was your friendship/relationship like before it ended? Why did it affect you so much once it was over? What is your friendship/relationship like now that it has ended? What would you like to tell that person if you could speak with them today?
Agenda: Today we will read two poems entitled "Practically Triplets" and "Call Me." Both poems are about friendships that have ended and how the author views that person now. You will be composing your own poem about the friendship/relationship you wrote about in your Do-Now. Focus your poem on what the friendship/relationship was like in the past, compared to what it is like today.
Homework: Finish your poem.
Do-Now: Think about all the friendships/relationships in your life that have ended. Which one affected you the most? Who was it with? Why did it end? What was your friendship/relationship like before it ended? Why did it affect you so much once it was over? What is your friendship/relationship like now that it has ended? What would you like to tell that person if you could speak with them today?
Agenda: Today we will read two poems entitled "Practically Triplets" and "Call Me." Both poems are about friendships that have ended and how the author views that person now. You will be composing your own poem about the friendship/relationship you wrote about in your Do-Now. Focus your poem on what the friendship/relationship was like in the past, compared to what it is like today.
Homework: Finish your poem.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Monday, February 14
Objective: Students will type the first chapter of their memoirs.
Do-Now: Valentine's Day Card: You will create your own Valentine's Day card which may include either a poem, special message or both on the inside. You may make this card for whomever you want and can decorate it using markers/colored pencils. Try to be creative and make your card unique.
Agenda: Today you will be typing the first chapter of your memoirs. You will be typing this chapter into GoogleDocs. If you don't have a Google account, you will need to sign up for one. Once you are done typing your chapter, have Ms. Winberg come check it. Then you will save it to your account for later in the semester. Remember, you will be writing about nine more chapters to add to this one (for a total of ten chapters).
Homework: Bring in an interesting or unusual picture. This picture could be of anything (person, place, or thing) and should be unique. ***Make sure your picture is appropriate for school***
Do-Now: Valentine's Day Card: You will create your own Valentine's Day card which may include either a poem, special message or both on the inside. You may make this card for whomever you want and can decorate it using markers/colored pencils. Try to be creative and make your card unique.
Agenda: Today you will be typing the first chapter of your memoirs. You will be typing this chapter into GoogleDocs. If you don't have a Google account, you will need to sign up for one. Once you are done typing your chapter, have Ms. Winberg come check it. Then you will save it to your account for later in the semester. Remember, you will be writing about nine more chapters to add to this one (for a total of ten chapters).
Homework: Bring in an interesting or unusual picture. This picture could be of anything (person, place, or thing) and should be unique. ***Make sure your picture is appropriate for school***
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Friday, February 11
Objective: Students will compose the first chapter of their memoirs.
Do-Now: Take out your list of 20 "Memoir-Worthy Experiences" you finished for homework. Choose one of those experiences to write about today. Make a list of important details: Where did this experience happen? Who was involved? What were the main events of this experience? (List them in chronological order). What did you learn from this experience? Why was this experience important to you? Also, try to remember any other details which could add interest to the story. (Example: What you were wearing, what the air smelled like, what sounds you could hear in the background, etc.)
Agenda: Today you will compose the first chapter of your memoirs using one of the ideas from your "Memoir-Worthy Experience" list. Your chapter should be at least two pages hand-written (filling up both sides of one sheet of paper). If your handwriting is big, you will probably write more than two pages. However, instead of focusing on the chapter's length, focus on the completeness of your story. On Monday, you will be typing your story and saving it. Throughout the semester, you will add and save other stories for your memoirs and, eventually, you will have a collection.
Homework: Finish the first chapter of your memoirs.
Do-Now: Take out your list of 20 "Memoir-Worthy Experiences" you finished for homework. Choose one of those experiences to write about today. Make a list of important details: Where did this experience happen? Who was involved? What were the main events of this experience? (List them in chronological order). What did you learn from this experience? Why was this experience important to you? Also, try to remember any other details which could add interest to the story. (Example: What you were wearing, what the air smelled like, what sounds you could hear in the background, etc.)
Agenda: Today you will compose the first chapter of your memoirs using one of the ideas from your "Memoir-Worthy Experience" list. Your chapter should be at least two pages hand-written (filling up both sides of one sheet of paper). If your handwriting is big, you will probably write more than two pages. However, instead of focusing on the chapter's length, focus on the completeness of your story. On Monday, you will be typing your story and saving it. Throughout the semester, you will add and save other stories for your memoirs and, eventually, you will have a collection.
Homework: Finish the first chapter of your memoirs.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Thursday, February 10
OBJECTIVE: Students will begin brainstorming ideas for their memoirs.
Do-Now: In your notebook, begin answering the "Questions for Memoirists." Make sure to THINK about every question thoroughly before you answer it. Make sure your answers are meaningful and introspective.
AGENDA: You will be using your answers from your "Questions for Memoirists" to compile a list of Memoir-Worthy Experiences from your life. We will go over the example list and discuss what types of events/memories would be considered memoir-worthy. You will then begin creating your list. Aim for at least TWENTY experiences. Tomorrow, you will be choosing one of these experiences to write a short story on.
HOMEWORK: Finish your Memoir-Worthy Experiences list.
Do-Now: In your notebook, begin answering the "Questions for Memoirists." Make sure to THINK about every question thoroughly before you answer it. Make sure your answers are meaningful and introspective.
AGENDA: You will be using your answers from your "Questions for Memoirists" to compile a list of Memoir-Worthy Experiences from your life. We will go over the example list and discuss what types of events/memories would be considered memoir-worthy. You will then begin creating your list. Aim for at least TWENTY experiences. Tomorrow, you will be choosing one of these experiences to write a short story on.
HOMEWORK: Finish your Memoir-Worthy Experiences list.
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