In Context

Friday, December 26, 2008

Week of January 5, 2009

UNIT: The English Literary Tradition Objectives
Analysis of a literary text by:
• Exploring the way writers in the English tradition reveal a personal view of their lives and culture while exploring universal themes• Exploring a writer’s individual style and technique• Exploring the author’s use of language and how it relates to the literary work as a whole• Evaluating the effectiveness of the elements of fiction and poetry

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 3, 4A, 4B~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research

  • The Romantic Age (1798-1832) in English Literature: William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Jane Austen, Lord Bryon, Percy Bysshe Shelley, John Keats, and Mary Shelley
  • Characteristics of The Romantic Age in English Literature (1798-1832), pgs. 455 to 472 in literature anthology
  • Handouts, discussion, and analysis of Pride and Prejudice (1813) by Jane Austen
  • Research Paper conferences (50 pts.) on January 8 & 9: TEN academic sources due
  • Academic sources: primary text; author info; time period info; *literary techniques and themes = MAJOR FOCUS of research
  • High School Semester Exams: January 20-23
  • End of Second Quarter: January 23


English 12 Honors~Period 2~Literary Analysis of British and American Literature, Application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model, Collegiate Writing with 6+1 Writing Traits, Creative Writing, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the SAT and the AP English Language and Composition Exam, and MLA Research

  • Overview of the AP English Language and Composition Exam
  • Defining rhetoric and identifying rhetorical devices in persuasive writing
  • Characteristics of the Romantic Age in English Literature (1798-1832)
  • Defining the gothic novel, the frame story, symbolic contrasts between Thrushcross Grange and Wuthering Heights, Bronte's use of multiple narrators, and themes
  • Discussion and analysis of Wuthering Heights (1847) by Emily Bronte
  • Continued independent reading of novel
  • In-class objective comprehension test (100 pts.) and completion of questions for Chapters 11-20 scheduled for Friday, January 9
  • High School Semester Exams: January 20-23
  • End of Second Quarter: January 23

Friday, December 12, 2008

Week of December 15, 2008

UNIT: The English Literary Tradition Objectives
Analysis of a literary text by:
• Exploring the way writers in the English tradition reveal a personal view of their lives and culture while exploring universal themes• Exploring a writer’s individual style and technique• Exploring the author’s use of language and how it relates to the literary work as a whole• Evaluating the effectiveness of the elements of fiction and poetry

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 3, 4A, 4B~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research

  • The Romantic Age (1798-1832) in English Literature: William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Jane Austen, Lord Bryon, Percy Bysshe Shelley, John Keats, and Mary Shelley
  • Characteristics of The Romantic Age in English Literature (1798-1832), pgs. 455 to 472 in literature anthology
  • Discussion and analysis of Pride and Prejudice (1813) by Jane Austen
  • Independent Research Paper AP book choices finalized by the end of this week
  • Research Paper conferences (50 pts.) on January 8 & 9: TEN academic sources due
  • Academic sources: primary text; author info; time period info; *literary techniques and themes = MAJOR FOCUS of research
  • Enjoy a restful Winter Break!

English 12 Honors~Period 2~Literary Analysis of British and American Literature, Application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model, Collegiate Writing with 6+1 Writing Traits, Creative Writing, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the SAT and the AP Language and Composition Exam, and MLA Research

  • Characteristics of the Romantic Age in English Literature (1798-1832)
  • Defining the gothic novel, the frame story, symbolic contrasts between Thrushcross Grange and Wuthering Heights, Bronte's use of multiple narrators, and themes
  • Discussion and analysis of Wuthering Heights (1847) by Emily Bronte
  • Continued independent reading of novel
  • In-class objective comprehension test (100 pts.) and completion of questions for Chapters 11-20 scheduled for Wednesday, January 7
  • Enjoy a restful Winter Break!

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

Week of December 8, 2008

UNIT: The English Literary Tradition Objectives
Analysis of a literary text by:
• Exploring the way writers in the English tradition reveal a personal view of their lives and culture while exploring universal themes• Exploring a writer’s individual style and technique• Exploring the author’s use of language and how it relates to the literary work as a whole• Evaluating the effectiveness of the elements of fiction and poetry

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 3, 4A, 4B~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research

  • The Romantic Age (1798-1832) in English Literature: William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Jane Austen, Lord Bryon, Percy Bysshe Shelley, John Keats, and Mary Shelley
  • Characteristics of The Romantic Age in English Literature (1798-1832), pgs. 455 to 472 in literature anthology
  • Independent reading of Pride and Prejudice (1813) by Jane Austen; objective comprehension test (100 pts.) scheduled for December 9
  • English Academic Support Day on Wednesday, December 10
  • Creative written response to Wordsworth quote (50 pts.) due by Friday, December 12

English 12 Honors~Period 2~Literary Analysis of British and American Literature, Application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model, Collegiate Writing with 6+1 Writing Traits, Creative Writing, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the SAT and the AP Language and Composition Exam, and MLA Research

  • College Essay Revision (50 pts.) due on Monday, December 8
  • Characteristics of the Romantic Age in English Literature (1798-1832)
  • Defining the gothic novel, the frame story, symbolic contrasts between Thrushcross Grange and Wuthering Heights, Bronte's use of multiple narrators, and themes
  • Independent reading of Wuthering Heights (1847) by Emily Bronte
  • Independent completion of Study and Discussion Guide Questions accompanying the novel
  • In-class objective comprehension test (100 pts.) and completion of questions for Chapters 1-10 scheduled for Tuesday, December 9
  • English Academic Support Day on Wednesday, December 10
  • Schedule due date for independent reading of Chapters 11-20 and completion of Study Questions



Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Week of December 1, 2008

UNIT: The English Literary Tradition Objectives
Analysis of a literary text by:
• Exploring the way writers in the English tradition reveal a personal view of their lives and culture while exploring universal themes• Exploring a writer’s individual style and technique• Exploring the author’s use of language and how it relates to the literary work as a whole• Evaluating the effectiveness of the elements of fiction and poetry

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 3, 4A, 4B~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research
  • The Romantic Age (1798-1832) in English Literature: William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Jane Austen, Lord Bryon, Percy Bysshe Shelley, John Keats, and Mary Shelley
  • Independent reading of The Romantic Age (1798-1832), pgs. 455 to 472 in literature anthology, due the week of December 1
  • Independent reading of Pride and Prejudice (1813) by Jane Austen; comprehension test (100 pts.) scheduled for December 9


English 12 Honors~Period 2~Literary Analysis of British and American Literature, Application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model, Collegiate Writing with 6+1 Writing Traits, Creative Writing, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the SAT and the AP Language and Composition Exam, and MLA Research

  • Intro to English Literature, the gothic novel, and the frame story via The Rime of the Ancient Mariner by Samuel Taylor Coleridge--handouts, oral reading, and discussion
  • Independent reading of Wuthering Heights (1847) by Emily Bronte
  • Independent completion of Study Guide Questions accompanying the novel
  • In-class objective test (100 pts.) and completion of questions for Chapters 1-10 scheduled for Tuesday, December 9

Friday, November 21, 2008

Week of November 24, 2008

UNIT: The English Literary Tradition Objectives
Analysis of a literary text by:
• Exploring the way writers in the English tradition reveal a personal view of their lives and culture while exploring universal themes• Exploring a writer’s individual style and technique• Exploring the author’s use of language and how it relates to the literary work as a whole• Evaluating the effectiveness of the elements of fiction and poetry

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 3, 4A, 4B~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research

  • Introduction to the Romantic Age (1798-1832) in English Literature: William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Jane Austen, Lord Bryon, Percy Bysshe Shelley, John Keats, and Mary Shelley
  • Review of American Romanticism (handout)
  • In-class reading and analysis of The Rime of the Ancient Mariner by Samuel Taylor Coleridge; definition of a Frame Story (handout)
  • Independent reading of The Romantic Age (1798-1832), pgs. 455 to 472 in literature anthology, due December 1
  • Independent reading of Pride and Prejudice (1813) by Jane Austen; comprehension test (100 pts.) scheduled for December 9

English 12 Honors~Period 2~Literary Analysis of British and American Literature, Application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model, Collegiate Writing with 6+1 Writing Traits, Creative Writing, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the SAT and the AP Language and Composition Exam, and MLA Research

  • Intro to English Literature, the gothic novel, and the frame story via The Rime of the Ancient Mariner by Samuel Taylor Coleridge--handouts, oral reading, and discussion
  • Independent reading of Wuthering Heights (1847) by Emily Bronte
  • Independent completion of Study Guide Questions accompanying the novel
  • In-class objective test (100 pts.) and completion of questions for Chapters 1-10 scheduled for Tuesday, December 9

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Week of November 17, 2008

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 3, 4A, 4B~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research

UNIT: The English Literary Tradition Objectives:

Compose an analysis of a literary text by:
• Exploring the way writers in the English tradition reveal a personal view of their lives and culture while exploring universal themes
• Exploring a writer’s individual style and technique
• Exploring the author’s use of language and how it relates to the literary work as a whole
• Evaluating the effectiveness of elements of fiction

Compose a thematic analysis of a literary or non-literary text by investigating the relationship of an author’s theme to the techniques employed by the writer in the creation of the work

  • Class handouts, discussion, and literary analysis of Jude the Obscure (1895) by Thomas Hardy
  • Group analysis and presentation of English AP Lit & Comp Exam essay questions relating to the novel--1985, 1987, 1991, 1995
  • In-class reading and analysis of "The Convergence of the Twain," a poem by Thomas Hardy, at http://www.poets.org/viewmedia.php/prmMID/15507
  • Explanation of AP essay rubric and holistic grading
  • Clips from Jude (1996)--Book to film adaptation at http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0116722
  • In-class AP essay on Jude the Obscure (200 pts.) scheduled for Wednesday, November 19
  • Distribution and overview of Pride and Prejudice (1813) by Jane Austen
  • Introduction to the Romantic Age (1798-1832) in English Literature: William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Jane Austen, Lord Bryon, Percy Bysshe Shelley, John Keats, and Mary Shelley


English 12 Honors~Period 2~Literary Analysis of British and American Literature, Application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model, Collegiate Writing with 6+1 Writing Traits, Creative Writing, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the SAT and the AP Language and Composition Exam, and MLA Research


UNIT: Themes in Literature and Life Objectives:


Employ strategic reading to interpret literary and non-literary text by:

• Identifying a general idea or insight about life that an author wishes to convey in a text

• Identifying specific and universal themes within a text

• Making thematic connections between written text and the arts


Compose a thematic analysis of a literary or non-literary text by investigating the relationship of an author’s theme to the techniques employed by the writer in the creation of the work

  • Using allusions in writing: "Out, Out--" poem by Robert Frost; excerpt from Macbeth
  • In-class essay (100 pts.) on Tuesday, November 18--comparing/contrasting student recommended Holes with Cuckoo's Nest; essay will be graded holistically
  • Distribution and overview of Wuthering Heights (1847) by Emily Bronte
  • Intro to English Literature, the gothic novel, and the frame story via The Rime of the Ancient Mariner by Samuel Taylor Coleridge

Friday, November 7, 2008

Week of November 10, 2008

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 3, 4A, 4B~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research

UNIT: The English Literary Tradition
Objectives:
Compose an analysis of a literary text by:
• Exploring the way writers in the English tradition reveal a personal view of their lives and culture while exploring universal themes
• Exploring a writer’s individual style and technique
• Exploring the author’s use of language and how it relates to the literary work as a whole
• Evaluating the effectiveness of elements of fiction

  • Class handouts, discussion, and literary analysis of Jude the Obscure (1895) by Thomas Hardy
  • Group analysis and presentation of English AP Lit & Comp Exam essay questions relating to the novel--1985, 1987, 1991, 1995
  • In-class reading and analysis of "The Convergence of the Twain," a poem by Thomas Hardy, at http://www.poets.org/viewmedia.php/prmMID/15507
  • Explanation of AP essay rubric and holistic grading
  • College Essay Revision (50 pts.) due Thursday/Friday this week
  • Clip from Jude (1996)--Book to film adaptation at http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0116722
  • In-class AP essay on Jude the Obscure (200 pts.) scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 19
  • Distribution and overview of Pride and Prejudice (1813) by Jane Austen


English 12 Honors~Period 2~Literary Analysis of British and American Literature, Application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model, Collegiate Writing with 6+1 Writing Traits, Creative Writing, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the SAT and the AP Language and Composition Exam, and MLA Research


UNIT: Themes In Literature and Life

Objectives:

Employ strategic reading to interpret literary and non-literary text by:
• Identifying a general idea or insight about life that an author wishes to convey in a text
• Identifying specific and universal themes within a text

Interpret visual and oral communication by:
• Identifying a general idea or insight about life presented through visual media

Compose an oral and visual presentation by:
• Illustrating a connection between a literary theme and life
• Comparing and contrasting literary themes in texts
• Making thematic connections between written texts and the arts

Compose a thematic analysis of a literary or non-literary text by investigating the relationship of an author’s theme to the techniques employed by the writer in the creation of the work

  • Return Cuckoo's Nest Essay Tests and update writing folders
  • HW for Monday--Select 3 internet sources (notes or printouts highlighted) on Holes (30 pts.) for reference background and discussion
  • One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1962) by Ken Kesey--Book to Film Adaptation: NYT Critics' Pick at http://movies.nytimes.com/movie/36363/One-Flew-Over-the-Cuckoo-s-Nest/overview
  • Holes (1998) by Louis Sachar--Book to Film Adaptation http://disney.go.com/disneyvideos/liveaction/holes/main.html
  • In-class reading and analysis of "Snake," a poem by D.H. Lawrence; internal conflict and themes
  • Using allusions in writing: "Out, Out--" poem by Robert Frost; excerpt from Macbeth
  • Expository writing composition lesson: compare and contrast essay from Grammar for Writing, Level Gold, pages 69 to 75
  • In-class essay (100 pts.) on Tuesday, November 18--comparing/contrasting student recommended Holes with Cuckoo's Nest; essay will be graded holistically
  • Distribution and overview of Wuthering Heights (1847) by Emily Bronte

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Week of November 3, 2008

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 3, 4A, 4B~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research

  • 2nd Quarter begins Wednesday, November 5
  • Distribute and preview High School Writing and Style Guide, also available online at http://www.hcpss.org/aboutus/writing_manual.pdf
  • Return college essays and update writing folders
  • Comprehension Test (100 pts.) on Jude the Obscure--plot, characters, and setting--scheduled for Thursday, November 6
  • College Essay Revision (50 pts.) due date to be scheduled

English 12 Honors~Period 2~Literary Analysis of British and American Literature, Application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model, Collegiate Writing with 6+1 Writing Traits, Creative Writing, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the SAT and the AP Language and Composition Exam, and MLA Research

Friday, October 24, 2008

Week of October 27, 2008

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 3, 4A, 4B~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research
  • Extended Essay Prep for this week's Tennyson Test--Independent Poetry Analysis using elements such as Language/Diction, Imagery, Structure/Form, Point of View, Content, Setting, Tone, Historical Context, Themes, Similarities to & Differences from other Tennyson poems studied
  • Test (200 pts.) on Alfred, Lord Tennyson--PowerPoint notes, biographical info, AP multiple choice notes, and analysis of poems--scheduled for Wednesday, October 29 & Thursday, October 30--format will include fill-in sentence completions, quotes from poems, short essays, and one extended essay (independent poetry analysis). Students absent on the day of the test may expect to complete a reformatted test on the day of their return to class.
  • Comprehension Test (100 pts.) on Jude the Obscure--plot, characters, and setting--scheduled for Thursday, November 6
  • End of 1st Quarter (47 days)--Friday, October 31

English 12 Honors~Period 2~Literary Analysis of British and American Literature, Application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model, Collegiate Writing with 6+1 Writing Traits, Creative Writing, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the SAT and the AP Language and Composition Exam, and MLA Research

  • Continued application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model and "Talking to the Text" in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1962) by Ken Kesey
  • NYT Critics' Pick at http://movies.nytimes.com/movie/36363/One-Flew-Over-the-Cuckoo-s-Nest/overview
  • College Essay peer editing and teacher conferencing this week
  • Towson Online Writing Support at http://www.towson.edu/ows
  • Cuckoo's Nest Final Essay Test (200 pts.) scheduled for Wednesday, October 29 and Thursday, October 30
  • College Essay Final Draft (200 pts.) due Thursday, November 6
  • End of 1st Quarter (47 days)--Friday, October 31

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Week of October 20, 2008

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 3, 4A, 4B~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research

  • Oscar Wilde's Comic Technique in The Importance of Being Earnest: Adventures in English Literature anthology, pages 711 to 751
  • For definitions of Victorian vocabulary in the play, see Study Guide at http://www.scr.org/season/07-08season/playgoers/earnestguide.pdf
  • For notes on comedy, see Study Guide at http://my.hrw.com/nsmedia/novelwise_hs_te_version/find/bytitlepdf/import_1/im6817_1.pdf
  • See 2002 movie trailer at http://www.alltrailers.net/the-importance-of-being-earnest.html
  • English Academic Support Day--Wednesday, October 22
  • Test (200 pts.) on Alfred, Lord Tennyson--PowerPoint notes, biographical info, AP multiple choice notes, and analysis of poems--scheduled for Wednesday, October 29 & Thursday, October 30--format will include fill-in sentence completions, quotes from poems, short essays, and one extended essay. Students absent on the day of the test may expect to complete a reformatted test on the day of their return to class.
  • Comprehension Test (100 pts.) on Jude the Obscure--plot, characters, and setting--scheduled for Thursday, November 6
  • End of 1st Quarter (47 days)--Monday, November 3

English 12 Honors~Period 2~Literary Analysis of British and American Literature, Application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model, Collegiate Writing with 6+1 Writing Traits, Creative Writing, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the SAT and the AP Language and Composition Exam, and MLA Research

  • Continued application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model and "Talking to the Text" in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1962) by Ken Kesey
  • NYT Critics' Pick at http://movies.nytimes.com/movie/36363/One-Flew-Over-the-Cuckoo-s-Nest/overview
  • College Essay peer editing and teacher conferencing this week
  • English Academic Support Day--Wednesday 10.22.08
  • Towson Online Writing Support at http://www.towson.edu/ows
  • HW Reading and Notations (30 pts.)--Cuckoo's Nest, Part 4 (pgs. 249 to 311) due Friday, October 24
  • Cuckoo's Nest Final Essay Test (200 pts.) scheduled for Wednesday, October 29 and Thursday, October 30
  • College Essay Final Draft (200 pts.) due Thursday, November 6
  • End of 1st Quarter (47 days)--Monday, November 3

Just for fun--Pumpkin Picassos at http://abcnews.go.com/search?searchtext=Pumpkin%20Picassos&type=

Friday, October 10, 2008

Week of October 13, 2008

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 3, 4A, 4B~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research
  • Oral in-class reading and discussion of two paired texts--Sara Teasdale's "Guenevere" and Alfred, Lord Tennyson's Idylls of the King (Guinevere)
  • Oscar Wilde's Comic Technique in The Importance of Being Earnest: Adventures in English Literature anthology, pages 711 to 751
  • Test (200 pts.) on Alfred, Lord Tennyson--PowerPoint notes, biographical info, and analysis of poems--scheduled for Thursday, October 23
  • Comprehension Test (100 pts.) on Jude the Obscure--plot, characters, and setting--scheduled for Wednesday, October 29

English 12 Honors~Period 2~Literary Analysis of British and American Literature, Application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model, Collegiate Writing with 6+1 Writing Traits, Creative Writing, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the SAT and the AP Language and Composition Exam, and MLA Research

  • Continued application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model and "Talking to the Text" in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1962) by Ken Kesey
  • College Essay Rough Draft (50 pts.) due for peer editing and teacher conferencing this week
  • Towson Online Writing Support at http://www.towson.edu/ows
  • HW Reading and Notations (30 pts.)--Cuckoo's Nest, Part 3 (pgs. 193 to 245) due Thursday, October 16

Friday, October 3, 2008

Week of October 6, 2008

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 3, 4A, 4B~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research
  • College Essay Final Draft (200 pts.) rolling due date from October 3 to October 10
  • Oral in-class reading and discussion of two paired texts--Sara Teasdale's "Guenevere" and Alfred, Lord Tennyson's Idylls of the King (Guinevere)
  • Additional readings from the Victorian Age in Adventures in English Literature anthology: Robert Browning, Matthew Arnold, Thomas Hardy, A.E. Housman, Charles Dickens, and Oscar Wilde
  • To be scheduled: Essay Test (200 pts.) on Alfred, Lord Tennyson--PowerPoint notes, biographical info, and analysis of poems

English 12 Honors~Period 2~Literary Analysis of British and American Literature, Application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model, Collegiate Writing with 6+1 Writing Traits, Creative Writing, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the SAT and the AP Language and Composition Exam, and MLA Research

  • Continued application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model and "Talking to the Text" in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1962) by Ken Kesey
  • Cuckoo's Nest Essay Test (100 pts.) on Part 1--Monday & Tuesday
  • College Essay Models; Rubric; Organizational Patterns
  • College Essay Rough Draft (50 pts.) due for peer editing this week
  • Towson Online Writing Support at http://www.towson.edu/ows
  • HW Reading and Notations (30 pts.)--Cuckoo's Nest, Part 2 (pgs. 141 to 190) due Friday, October 10

Saturday, September 27, 2008

Week of September 29, 2008

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 3, 4A, 4B~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research

  • College Essay Final Draft (200 pts.) rolling due date from October 3 to October 10
  • Class discussion of The Bedford Reader, Ninth Edition (2006)--3 Selected Essays (Narration, Description, Combination Methods)
  • Final week for college essay peer editing and teacher conferencing
  • Towson Online Writing Support at http://www.towson.edu/ows
  • Oral in-class reading and discussion of two paired texts--Sara Teasdale's "Guenevere" and Alfred, Lord Tennyson's Idylls of the King (Guinevere)
  • Additional readings from the Victorian Age in Adventures in English Literature anthology: Robert Browning, Matthew Arnold, Thomas Hardy, A.E. Housman, Charles Dickens, and Oscar Wilde

English 12 Honors~Period 2~Literary Analysis of British and American Literature, Application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model, Collegiate Writing with 6+1 Writing Traits, Creative Writing, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the SAT and the AP Language and Composition Exam, and MLA Research

  • Brief Junior/Senior Meeting on Monday during Period 2
  • The Official SAT Question of the Day at http://apps.collegeboard.com/qotd/question.do
  • Continued application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model and "Talking to the Text" in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1962) by Ken Kesey
  • Class discussion and analysis of novel--Part 1
  • SAT Multiple Choice Practice--Wednesday, October 1
  • Cuckoo's Nest Essay Test (100 pts.) on Part 1--Monday, October 6
  • College Essay Models; Rubric; Organizational Patterns
  • College Essay Rough Draft (50 pts.) due for peer editing on Tuesday, October 7
  • Towson Online Writing Support at http://www.towson.edu/ows
  • HW Reading--Cuckoo's Nest, Part 2

Friday, September 19, 2008

Week of September 22, 2008

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 3, 4A, 4B~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research
  • College Essay Peer Editing and Teacher Conferencing
  • Towson Online Writing Support at http://www.towson.edu/ows
  • Schedule due date for College Essay Final Draft (200 pts.)
  • Matching Objective Quiz (100 pts.) on The Victorian Age--Wednesday 9/24
  • Tennyson PowerPoint and Notes
  • Tennyson Poems--"The Lady of Shalott," "The Eagle," "Tears, Idle Tears," "Crossing the Bar"; Selections from In Memoriam and from Idylls of the King (Guinevere)
  • The Bedford Reader, Ninth Edition (2006) Essays (Narration, Description, Combination Methods)--"Fish Cheeks" (1987) by Amy Tan; "Fly-Fishing for Doctors" (1998) by Ethan Canin; and "Once More to the Lake" (1941) by E.B. White


English 12 Honors~Period 2~Literary Analysis of British and American Literature, Application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model, Collegiate Writing with 6+1 Writing Traits, Creative Writing, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the SAT and the AP Language and Composition Exam, and MLA Research

  • The Official SAT Question of the Day at http://apps.collegeboard.com/qotd/question.do
  • Continued application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model and "Talking to the Text" in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1962) by Ken Kesey
  • Class discussion and analysis of novel
  • Cuckoo's Nest Matching Objective Quiz (100 pts.) Tuesday 9/23 on Characters; Organization/Sections/Sequence of Events; Imagery; Flashbacks to The Dalles; Vocabulary; Point of View/Narrator
  • College Essay Models; Rubric; Organizational Patterns
  • Schedule due date for College Essay Rough Draft (50 pts.)
  • Towson Online Writing Support at http://www.towson.edu/ows
  • Homework--Read and annotate pages 98 to 138 of novel (Conclusion of Part 1) for Friday 9/26

Friday, September 12, 2008

Week of September 15, 2008

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 3, 4A, 4B~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research

  • College Essay Activities: "Moments to Remember" Writing Prompts A to D due (100 pts.)
  • College Essay Rough Draft (50 pts.) due Monday 9/15
  • Peer Editing and Teacher Conferencing
  • Intro to Victorian Lit and Alfred, Lord Tennyson
  • Relevance to Jude the Obscure (1895) by Thomas Hardy
  • Adventures in English Literature, Pegasus Edition Readings, Notes, Discussion-- "The Victorian Age 1832-1900": pgs. 599 to 621
  • Overview of http://www.victorianweb.org
  • Written response to Matthew Arnold Quote: "wandering between two worlds, one dead,/ The other powerless to be born" (616).
  • Tennyson PowerPoint
  • Tennyson Poems


English 12 Honors~Period 2~Literary Analysis of British and American Literature, Application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model, Collegiate Writing with 6+1 Writing Traits, Creative Writing, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the SAT and the AP Language and Composition Exam, and MLA Research

  • College Essay Activities: "Moments to Remember" In-Class Writing Prompts A to D due (100 pts.); Models; Rubric; Sample CHS Essays
  • Continued Application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model and "Talking to the Text" in
    One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1962) by Ken Kesey
  • Homework--Read and annotate pages 39 to 98 for Wednesday 9/17
  • Schedule Cuckoo's Nest Objective Quiz on Characters, Plot, and Setting
  • SAT Multiple Choice; Follow-up analysis and discussion
  • Class discussion/analysis of novel
  • Group Topics: Characters; Organization/Sections/Sequence of Events; Imagery; Flashbacks to The Dalles; Vocabulary; Point of View/Narrator

Friday, September 5, 2008

Week of September 8, 2008

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 3, 4A, 4B~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research
  • English Academic Support Day--Wednesday 9/10
  • College Essay Activities: "Moments to Remember" In-Class Writing Prompts (100 pts.); Analysis of Models from Literary Calvalcade; Generic Rubric; Sample CHS Essays
  • Complete Prompts B and D for Homework
  • College Essay Rough Draft (50 pts.) due Monday 9/15
  • Intro to Victorian Lit and Alfred, Lord Tennyson
  • Tennyson PowerPoint
  • Relevance to Jude the Obscure (1895) by Thomas Hardy; Reading Schedule
  • Class of 2008 Course Brochures

English 12 Honors~Period 2~Literary Analysis of British and American Literature, Application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model, Collegiate Writing with 6+1 Writing Traits, Creative Writing, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the SAT and the AP Language and Composition Exam, and MLA Research

  • English Academic Support Day--Wednesday 9/10
  • College Essay Activities: "Moments to Remember" In-Class Writing Prompts (100 pts.); Models; Rubric; Sample CHS Essays
  • Introductory Essay (100 pts.) due Friday 9/12
  • Continued Application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model and "Talking to the Text"
  • Ken Kesey and One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1962) Homework--Read and annotate pages 25 to 39 for Monday 9/8
  • Secondary Reading Survey
  • SAT Multiple Choice; Follow-up Analysis and Discussion

Saturday, August 30, 2008

Week of September 1, 2008

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 3, 4A, 4B~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research
  • Back-to-School Night--Sept. 3
  • Guidance/Administration Visits to Senior English Classes
  • Introductory Essay Assignment (100) due Tuesday 9/2
  • Discussion in Groups of Sample College Essay Topics
  • Class of 2008 Course Brochures
  • Analysis of "Ulysses" by Tennyson
  • Intro to Victorian Lit and Alfred, Lord Tennyson
  • Relevance to Jude the Obscure (1895) by Thomas Hardy; Reading Schedule
  • College Essay Activities: "Moments to Remember" In-Class Writing Prompts; Models from Literary Calvalcade; Rubric; Sample CHS Essays


English 12 Honors~Period 2~Literary Analysis of British and American Literature, Application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model, Collegiate Writing with 6+1 Writing Traits, Creative Writing, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the SAT and the AP Language and Composition Exam, and MLA Research

  • Back-to-School Night--Sept. 3
  • Guidance/Administration Visits to Senior English Classes
  • Reading Survey
  • Into and Rationale for the Reading Apprenticeship Model
  • Ken Kesey and One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1962); Reading Schedule
  • Demonstration of "Talking to the Text"
  • SAT Multiple Choice; Follow-up Analysis and Discussion
  • College Essay Activities: "Moments to Remember" In-Class Writing Prompts; Models; Rubric; Sample CHS Essays

Saturday, August 23, 2008

Week of August 25, 2008

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 3, 4A, 4B~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research

  • Welcome and Introductions
  • Course Overview, Policies, Expectations
  • Class of 2008 Course Brochures
  • "Postcards from the Edge" Assignment (50); HW due Friday 8/29
  • Analysis and discussion of "Blackberry Picking" by Seamus Heaney
  • Intro to the College Essay Unit; HW due Friday 8/29
  • Introductory Essay Assignment (100); HW due Tuesday 9/2
  • AP Multiple Choice; Follow-up Analysis and Discussion
  • Intro to Victorian Lit and Alfred, Lord Tennyson
  • Analysis of "Ulysses" by Tennyson
  • Relevance to Jude the Obscure (1895) by Thomas Hardy; Reading Schedule
  • Discussion in Groups of Sample College Essay Topics

English 12 Honors~Period 2~Literary Analysis of British and American Literature, Application of the Reading Apprenticeship Model, Collegiate Writing with 6+1 Writing Traits, Creative Writing, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the SAT and the AP Language and Composition Exam, and MLA Research

  • Welcome and Introductions
  • Course Overview, Policies, Expectations
  • Class of 2007 Course Brochures
  • "Postcards from the Edge" Assignment (50); HW due Friday 8/29
  • Reading Survey
  • Into and Rationale for the Reading Apprenticeship Model
  • Intro to the College Essay Unit; HW due Friday 8/29
  • SAT Multiple Choice; Follow-up Analysis and Discussion
  • Intro to Ken Kesey and One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1962); Reading Schedule
  • Discussion in Groups of Sample College Essay Topics

Monday, August 11, 2008

August Morning

American Life in Poetry: August Morning

BY TED KOOSER, U.S. POET LAUREATE, 2004-2006

"William Carlos Williams, one of our country's most influential poets and a New Jersey physician, taught us to celebrate daily life. Here Albert Garcia offers us the simple pleasures and modest mysteries of a single summer day."


August Morning
by
Albert Garcia


It's ripe, the melon
by our sink.
Yellow,
bee-bitten, soft, it perfumes
the house too sweetly.
At five I wake, the air
mournful in its quiet.
My wife's eyes swim calmly
under their lids, her mouth and jaw
relaxed, different.
What is happening in the silence
of this house? Curtains
hang heavily from their rods.
Ficus leaves tremble
at my footsteps. Yet
the colors outside are perfect--
orange geranium, blue lobelia.
I wander from room to room
like a man in a museum:
wife, children, books, flowers,
melon. Such still air. Soon
the mid-morning breeze will float in
like tepid water, then hot.
How do I start this day,
I who am unsure
of how my life has happened
or how to proceed
amid this warm and steady sweetness?


Poem copyright (c) by Albert Garcia from his latest book Skunk Talk (Bear Starr Press, 2005) and originally published in Poetry East, No. 44. Reprinted by permission of the author. This weekly column is supported by The Poetry Foundation, The Library of Congress, and the Department of English at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.


Accessed from http://www.gotpoetry.com/News/article/sid=2721.html

Thursday, July 3, 2008

Heron Rises from the Dark, Summer Pond

by Mary Oliver

So heavy
is the long-necked,
long-bodied heron,
always it is a surprise
when her smoke-colored wings

open
and she turns
from the thick water,
from the black sticks

of the summer pond,
and slowly
rises into the air
and is gone.

Then, not for the first or the last time,
I take the deep breath
of happiness, and I think
how unlikely it is

that death is a hole in the ground,
how improbable
that ascension is not possible,
though everything seems so inert, so nailed

back into itself--
the muskrat and his lumpy lodge,
the turtle,
the fallen gate.

And especially it is wonderful
that the summers are long
and the ponds so dark and so many,
and therefore it isn't a miracle

but the common thing,
this decision,
this trailing of the long legs in the water,
this opening up of the heavy body

into a new life: see how the sudden
gray-blue sheets of her wings
strive toward the wind; see how the clasp of nothing
takes her in.

Thursday, June 5, 2008

Week of June 9, 2008

English 11 Honors~Periods 4A and 4B~Themes in American Literature, Daybook and Creative Writing, College Prep Composition with 6+1 Writing Traits, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the PSAT and SAT Tests, MLA Research Mastery
  • MLA Research Paper Unit--Fiction as Persuasion: Promoting Change in America (Choose an approved American author and work by that author to analyze); MLA Format & Parenthetical Documentation
  • Research paper final drafts and all prewriting materials (rubric, revised outline, edited rough draft, and works cited page) were due in class by Friday, June 6th of last week (400 pts.); Turnitin submissions will be accepted online until the evening of June 12th; please see Mrs. Polek in person for any individual concerns
  • Final exam review--VW Units 14 & 15; class discussion of Study Guide Essay Questions and literary elements in Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close novel
  • English portfolio update for senior year: Writing Progress Overview Chart for 07-08
  • HW--Independent reading of Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close (2005) by Jonathan Foer due for final exam essays
  • June 10--Period 4A Final Exam--Full day of school
    June 12--Period 4B Final Exam--School dismissed at 11:10 a.m.
  • Note to Juniors requesting college recommendation letters: please bring completed red folders to Mrs. Polek by Friday, June 13 at the latest
  • Please check TeacherEase for final grade updates: teachers' grades at CHS are due on Monday, June 16
  • Happy Summer, Everyone!

Friday, May 30, 2008

Week of June 2, 2008

English 11 Honors~Periods 4A and 4B~Themes in American Literature, Daybook and Creative Writing, College Prep Composition with 6+1 Writing Traits, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the PSAT and SAT Tests, MLA Research Mastery
  • MLA Research Paper Unit--Fiction as Persuasion: Promoting Change in America (Choose an approved American author and work by that author to analyze); MLA Format & Parenthetical Documentation
  • Rough draft due for peer editing early this week (50 pts.)
  • Final drafts and all prewriting materials (rubric, revised outline, edited rough draft, and works cited page) are due in class by Friday, June 6th (400 pts.). Turnitin submissions will be accepted online until June 10th. Please see Mrs. Polek in person for any individual concerns.
  • Introduction of VW Units 14 & 15; homework exercises assigned (60 pts.)
  • Final exam review--VW Units 14 & 15; class discussion of Study Guide Questions and literary elements in Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close novel
  • English portfolio update for senior year: Writing Progress Overview Chart 07-08
  • HW--Independent reading of Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close (2005) by Jonathan Foer due for final exam essays
  • June 10--Period 4A Final Exam--Full day of school
  • June 12--Period 4B Final Exam--School dismissed at 11:10 a.m.

Note to Juniors requesting college recommendation letters: please bring completed red folders to Mrs. Polek by Friday, June 13 at the latest.

Friday, May 23, 2008

Week of May 26, 2008

English 11 Honors~Periods 4A and 4B~Themes in American Literature, Daybook and Creative Writing, College Prep Composition with 6+1 Writing Traits, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the PSAT and SAT Tests, MLA Research Mastery
  • MLA Research Paper Unit--Fiction as Persuasion: Promoting Change in America (Choose an approved American author and work by that author to analyze)
  • Independent study and research relating to topic selected
  • Typed outline due (50 pts.); rough draft due for peer editing (50 pts.)
  • In-Class American Literature Anthology Readings
  • MLA Format & Documentation Instruction
  • Introduction of VW Units 14 & 15; homework exercises assigned (60 pts.)
  • HW--Independent reading of Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close (2005) by Jonathan Foer due for final exam in June

Thursday, May 15, 2008

May 19, 2008

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 2 and 3~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research
  • Senior Exams--May 14, 19, & 20
  • CHS Graduation 2008--May 22
English 11 Honors~Periods 4A and 4B~Themes in American Literature, Daybook and Creative Writing, College Prep Composition with 6+1 Writing Traits, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the PSAT and SAT Tests, MLA Research Mastery
  • HSA Testing--May 19 to 22
  • MLA Research Paper Unit--Fiction as Persuasion: Promoting Change in America (Choose an approved American author and work by that author to analyze)
  • Independent study and research relating to topic selected
  • Thesis Statement due (50 pts.); Preliminary Outline due (50 pts.)
  • In-Class American Literature Anthology Readings
  • VW Units 12 & 13 Tests (100 pts. @)
  • MLA Format & Documentation Instruction
  • HW--Independent reading of Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close (2005) by Jonathan Foer due for final exam in June

Friday, May 9, 2008

Week of May 12, 2008

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 2 and 3~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research

  • AP Testing--May 5-16
  • Independent reading of The Things They Carried (1990) by Tim O'Brien due for comprehension test (200 pts.)
  • Independent completion of 12AP/GT Course Brochure (200 pts.)
  • Independent completion of Final Student Reflection (200 pts.)
  • Senior Exams--May 14, 19, & 20
  • CHS Graduation 2008--May 22


English 11 Honors~Periods 4A and 4B~Themes in American Literature, Daybook and Creative Writing, College Prep Composition with 6+1 Writing Traits, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the PSAT and SAT Tests, MLA Research Mastery

  • AP Testing--May 5-16
  • MLA Research Paper--Fiction as Persuasion: Promoting Change in America (Choose an approved American author and work by that author to analyze)
  • Independent study and research relating to topic selected
  • Thesis Statements (50 pts.) due this week
  • In-Class American Literature Anthology Readings
  • VW Units 12 & 13 exercises due (60 pts.) for correction and review
  • MLA Format & Documentation Instruction
  • HW--Independent reading of Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close (2005) by Jonathan Foer due for final exam in June

Friday, May 2, 2008

Week of May 5, 2008

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 2 and 3~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research

  • AP Testing--May 5-16
  • English Literature & Composition AP Exam--Thursday, May 8
  • Independent AP English Review
  • Independent reading of The Things They Carried (1990) by Tim O'Brien due for comprehension test (200 pts.)
  • Independent completion of 12AP/GT Course Brochure (200 pts.)
  • Independent completion of Final Student Reflection (200 pts.)
  • Senior Exams--May 14, 19, & 20
  • CHS Graduation 2008--May 22

English 11 Honors~Periods 4A and 4B~Themes in American Literature, Daybook and Creative Writing, College Prep Composition with 6+1 Writing Traits, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the PSAT and SAT Tests, MLA Research Mastery

  • AP Testing--May 5-16
  • The Scarlet Letter (1850) Characterization/Quotes/Symbols/Themes chart (100 pts.) due day of final test; completion of final test on The Scarlet Letter in 4A class only--Wednesday, 4.07.08 (Quotes & Essays--100)
  • MLA Research Paper Topics & Academic Sources (50 pts.) due--Fiction as Persuasion: Promoting Change in America (Choose an approved American author and work by that author to analyze)
  • Writing Effective Thesis Statements
  • In-Class American Literature Anthology Readings
  • VW Tests--Units 10 & 11--Students should check 11H course calendars for revised dates determined by each class last week
  • VW Units 12 & 13 Introduction
  • HW--Independent reading of Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close (2005) by Jonathan Foer due for final exam in June

Friday, April 25, 2008

Week of April 28, 2008

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 2 and 3~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research

  • Modern Narrative Technique Unit
  • Beloved, Toni Morrison, and Circular Narrative Technique discussion & activities--Margaret Garner, "Runagate, Runagate" by Robert Hayden, "124" HW Writing Prompt (50 pts.)
  • AP English Review for AP English Lit & Comp Exam
  • Independent reading of The Things They Carried (1990) by Tim O'Brien due 5.06.08


English 11 Honors~Periods 4A and 4B~Themes in American Literature, Daybook and Creative Writing, College Prep Composition with 6+1 Writing Traits, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the PSAT and SAT Tests, MLA Research Mastery

  • The Scarlet Letter (1850) Characterization/Quotes/Symbols/Themes chart (100 pts.) due day of final test
  • Final Test on The Scarlet Letter (200 pts.)--4B on Friday, 5.02.08; 4A on Tuesday, 4.29.08 (Objective--100) and Wednesday, 4.07.08 (Quotes & Essays--100)
  • College Visions Day--4B on Wednesday, 4.30.08; 4A on Thursday, 5.01.08
  • MLA Research Paper Topics & Academic Sources (50 pts.) due--Fiction as Persuasion: Promoting Change in America (Choose an approved American author and work by that author to analyze)
  • Review of VW Units 10 & 11
  • HW--Begin independent reading of Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close (2005) by Jonathan Foer due for final exam in June

Friday, April 18, 2008

Week of April 21, 2008

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 2 and 3~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research

  • Modern Narrative Technique Unit
  • A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man (1916), James Joyce, and Stream of Consciousness discussion & activities
  • Tuesday 4.22.08--Beloved (1987) by Toni Morrison objective test on independent reading (200 pts.)
  • Beloved, Toni Morrison, and Circular Narrative Technique discussion & activities

English 11 Honors~Periods 4A and 4B~Themes in American Literature, Daybook and Creative Writing, College Prep Composition with 6+1 Writing Traits, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the PSAT and SAT Tests, MLA Research Mastery

  • The Scarlet Letter (1850) in-class discussion & activities--Characterization, Quotes, Symbolism, and Themes in the novel
  • The Scarlet Letter video (1979), WGBH Educational Foundation
  • MLA Research Paper Topics due this week--Fiction as Persuasion: Promoting Change in America (Choose an approved American author and work by that author to analyze)
  • VW Unit 10 Intro & homework exercises
  • HW--Independent reading of The Scarlet Letter, Chapters 20 to 24
  • Final test on The Scarlet Letter (200 pts.) to be scheduled

Friday, April 11, 2008

Week of April 14, 2008

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 2 and 3~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research

  • Monday 4.14.08--A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man by James Joyce objective test on independent reading (200 pts.)
  • Modern Narrative Technique Unit begins
  • James Joyce and Stream of Consciousness discussion & activities
  • Holistic grading of anonymous student AP literary analysis essays--2007 Question 2 on excerpt from Dalton Trumbo's novel Johnny Got His Gun (1939)
  • HW--Independent reading of Beloved by Toni Morrison for 4.22.08 (200 pts.)
  • English AP Brochure (200 pts.) assigned
  • Final Senior Reflection (200 pts.) assigned

English 11 Honors~Periods 4A and 4B~Themes in American Literature, Daybook and Creative Writing, College Prep Composition with 6+1 Writing Traits, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the PSAT and SAT Tests, MLA Research Mastery

  • Thursday 4.17.08 (4B); Wednesday 4.16.08 (4A)--Test on Ch. 13-19 of The Scarlet Letter
  • The Scarlet Letter in-class discussion and activities--Characterization, Quotes, Symbolism, and Themes in the novel
  • MLA Research Paper Overview--Guidelines, topics, assignment chunks for 11 Honors
  • Thursday 4.17.08 (4B); Friday 4.18.08 (4A)--Test on VW Unit 9 (100 pts.)
  • HW--Independent reading of The Scarlet Letter, Chapters 20 to 24

Thursday, April 3, 2008

Week of April 7, 2008

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 2 and 3~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research
  • 4th Quarter begins
  • Monday, April 7--Reading Day in lieu of Academic Support Day Wednesday
  • Tuesday & Wednesday--Finish AP Literary Research Presentations & Student Study Guides (200 pts.); bulletin board graphic related to research paper (50 pts.)
  • Independent reading of A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man by James Joyce due for objective assessment on Monday, April 14 (200 pts.)--Modern Narrative Technique Unit
  • James Joyce and Stream of Consciousness discussion & activities begin
  • Friday, just for fun--"The Reduced Shakespeare" DVD of Hamlet

English 11 Honors~Periods 4A and 4B~Themes in American Literature, Daybook and Creative Writing, College Prep Composition with 6+1 Writing Traits, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the PSAT and SAT Tests, MLA Research Mastery

  • 4th Quarter begins
  • The Scarlet Letter in-class discussion and activities--Characterization, Quotes, Symbolism, and Themes in the novel
  • In-class readings from Adventures in American Literature anthology--The Beginnings of the American Tradition (to 1760)
  • Followup practice of VW Unit 9 vocabulary
  • This year's LAST Academic Support Day in English--Wednesday, April 9
  • HW--Junior RESUME Writing Unit--second and FINAL revision due Tuesday and Wednesday (25 pts.)
  • HW--Independent reading of The Scarlet Letter, Chapters 13 to 19

Friday, March 28, 2008

Week of March 31, 2008

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 2 and 3~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research

  • AP Literary Research Presentations & Student Study Guides (200 pts.); bulletin board graphic related to research paper (50 pts.)
  • Independent reading of A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man by James Joyce due for in-class assessment on Monday, April 14 (200 pts.)--Modern Narrative Technique Unit
  • Assignment Calendar issued 4.03.08 for Fourth Quarter
  • April 4--End of 3rd Quarter

English 11 Honors~Periods 4A and 4B~Themes in American Literature, Daybook and Creative Writing, College Prep Composition with 6+1 Writing Traits, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the PSAT and SAT Tests, MLA Research Mastery

  • The Scarlet Letter Summary Test on Chapters 9 to 12 due in 4A on Wednesday and in 4B on Tuesday (100 pts.)
  • Class discussion and activities--Characterization, Symbolism, and Themes in the novel
  • Independent reading of The Scarlet Letter, Chapters 13 to 19
  • Introduction of VW Unit 9 and homework exercises (30 pts.)
  • Junior RESUME Writing Unit--final drafts due (50 pts.)
  • April 4--End of 3rd Quarter

Thursday, March 13, 2008

Week of March 24, 2008

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 2 and 3~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research

  • Anonymous, in-class AP essay (unannounced topic) (50 pts.)
  • Initial pair of fourth quarter novels (A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man by James Joyce and Beloved by Toni Morrison) assigned--Modern Narrative Technique Unit
  • Weeks of March 24 and 31--AP Literary Research Presentations & Student Study Guides (200 pts.); bulletin board graphic related to research paper (50 pts.)
  • April 4--End of 3rd Quarter

English 11 Honors~Periods 4A and 4B~Themes in American Literature, Daybook and Creative Writing, College Prep Composition with 6+1 Writing Traits, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the PSAT and SAT Tests, MLA Research Mastery

  • Independent reading of The Scarlet Letter for class discussion: Chapters 9 to 12 due in 4A on Thursday and in 4B on Friday
  • Junior RESUME Writing Unit--rough drafts due this week
  • VW Unit 8 Test (100 pts.)--Thursday and Friday
  • April 4--End of 3rd Quarter

Friday, March 7, 2008

Week of March 10, 2008

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 2 and 3~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research

  • March 10--Final research paper rough draft due for peer editing grade (100 pts.)
  • March 11 to 14--Hamlet in-class discussion (100 pts.)--Fishbowl Format
  • March 13 & 14--AP Independent Literary Research Paper due in class and to turnitin.com; paper will count for 4th Quarter (700 pts.): rubric, revised outline, and final draft
  • Fourth quarter novels available for signout this week--before Spring Break
  • Weeks of March 25 and 31--AP Presentations & Study Guides (200 pts.); bulletin board graphic related to research paper (50 pts.); anonymous, in-class AP essay (unannounced topic) (50 pts.)
  • April 4--End of 3rd Quarter
English 11 Honors~Periods 4A and 4B~Themes in American Literature, Daybook and Creative Writing, College Prep Composition with 6+1 Writing Traits, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the PSAT and SAT Tests, MLA Research Mastery
  • Finish PowerPoint presentations on The Puritan Influence in American Literature (100 pts.)
  • HW--Independent reading of The Scarlet Letter for class discussion: Chapters 1 to 8 due--4A class on 3.11.08 and 4B class on 3.12.08
  • In-class written summary of Ch. 1 to 8 (100 pts.)--4A class on 3.13.08 and 4B class on 3.14.08
  • Begin discussion of Junior RESUME Writing Unit--rough drafts due in class the week after Spring Break
  • Correction and followup of VW Unit 8
  • April 4--End of 3rd Quarter

Friday, February 29, 2008

Week of March 3, 2008

English 12 AP/GT~Periods 2 and 3~Literary Analysis of British and World Literature, Advanced Composition, Creative Writing, Preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, Independent Literary Criticism and MLA Research

  • ~Revised & Final AP Schedule posted 2.29.08~
  • AP multiple choice practice; sample holistic grading of actual AP essays
  • March 6 & 7--Research paper rough draft due for peer editing (100 pts.)
  • March 10--Anonymous, practice AP essay (50 pts.)
  • March 11 & 12--Hamlet in-class discussion (100 pts.)
  • March 13 & 14--AP Independent Literary Research Paper due in class and to turnitin.com; paper will count for 4th Quarter (700 pts.)
  • Weeks of March 25 and 31--AP Presentations & Study Guides (200 pts.); bulletin board graphic related to research paper (50 pts.)
  • April 4--End of 3rd Quarter

English 11 Honors~Periods 4A and 4B~Themes in American Literature, Daybook and Creative Writing, College Prep Composition with 6+1 Writing Traits, Vocabulary Study, Preparation for the PSAT and SAT Tests, MLA Research Mastery

  • Final test (matching characters, quotes, multiple choice--50 questions) on The Crucible (200 pts.)--4A on 3.03.08
  • Distribute The Scarlet Letter (1850) by Nathaniel Hawthorne and reading schedule
  • PowerPoint presentations on The Puritan Influence in American Literature (100 pts.) in 4A class on 3.05.08 and 3.07.08; 4B class on 3.04.08, 3.06.08, and 3.10.08
  • VW Unit 8 Introduction and homework exercises (30 pts.)
  • HW--Independent reading of The Scarlet Letter: Chapters 1 to 8 due--4A class on 3.11.08 and 4B class on 3.12.08; VW exercises for Unit 8
  • April 4--End of 3rd Quarter