Monday, December 12, 2011

Semester II

Week Nineteen
(January 2-6)

I will present Chapters 1, 2, and 3 when we begin our study of Jane Eyre upon our return from Winter Break.  I do, however, believe that to understand the initial discussion, you should peruse the first three chapters as well.  Highlighting and annotating are mandatory as we study this novel.  I am including the first word list; I thought if time permits, you might want to wrtie the following words on a flashcard:
front side - the word and the parts of speech
back side - a synonym and a practice sentence for any word that you do not understand

List I                                     
vignette                                  
ghastly                                   
visage                                    
antipathy                                
sallowness                             
impudence                             
ignominy                                
turbid                                    
acrid                                      
captious                                 
opprobrium                            
ire                                         
bourne                                   
preternatural                          
embolden                              
debase                                  
genteel                                  
forlorn                                   
chastise                                 
execration                             
desist                                    
hiatus                                    
usury                                     
poltroon                                
benefactress                          

List II
tenor, sequester, gait, multiplicity, traverse, inanition, refectory, quell, inclement, slattern, truculent, perfidious, infamy, malady, ferret, soporific, ostensible, redundancy, salient, cachinnate, conjecture, gregarious, salubrious, enigmatic, sardonic

List III
lugubrious, harangue, sonorous, culpable, charlatan, inextricable, fastidious, sanguine, doff, quail, predominate, skepticism, exultation, coercion, hypochondriac, impediment, aperture, intractable, clad,  austere, scrupulous, relinquish, enunciate, surmise, lacerate

Sunday, December 4, 2011

Week Sixteen

This Week at a Glance
(December 5-9)

Objectives
To demonstrate mastery of the writing process
To review units that were taught this semester

Monday
the final exam (the essay)

Tuesday - Friday
study sessions daily

Reminders
Review themes and the components of a detective novel in preparation for the final exam essay. (The Hound of the Baskervilles)
Bring study materials daily; students will not be allowed to go to the locker or to other classrooms to retrieve materials.
I will be available daily during class to assist students if individualized assistance is required.

Sunday, November 27, 2011

Week Fifteen

This Week at a Glance
(November 28-December 2)
Objectives
To identify and distinguish between adjective, adverb, and noun subordinate clauses
To review final exam units

Monday - Friday
adjective, adverb, and noun clauses
final exam material (review)

Reminders
Bring the GUM workbook to class everyday.
The final exam essay will be given on Monday, December 5, 2011; the prompt will focus on The Hound of the Baskervilles.
See the handout that I gave prior to the Thanksgiving break; it outlines the date and time of each exam.
Check the blog daily; I will update the objective portion of the final by giving the number of items that will be given on each section of the exam.

The Objective Portion of the Final Exam
Vocabulary (50)
The Eight Parts of Speech
Sentence Parts and Patterns
Subordinate Clauses
The Odyssey (An episode will be attached to the exam; it is an episode that was not included during the study of The Odyssey.)
A Short Story (A short story will be attached to the exam; it is one that was not included in the short story unit during the first six weeks.)


Sunday, November 13, 2011

Weeks Thirteen and Fourteen

This Week at a Glance
(November 14-22)
Objectives
To demonstrate an understanding of vocabulary appropriate to grade level
To become familiar with the components of a detective novel
To understand and utilize the skills of observation and deduction
To recount details of the plot
To identify subordinate clauses
To identify and distinguish between adjective, adverb, and noun clauses

Themes (The Hound of the Baskervilles)
Most people are observant and tend not to see the obvious.
Greed can corrupt a person.
Fear and superstition often obscure (hide) the truth.
Honesty and integrity triumph (reign) over dishonesty and deceit.
Strong emotions can lead one to do things for the wrong reasons.

Components of a Detective Novel
problem
clues
red herring - a misleading clue or something that diverts one's attention from the real problem or culprit
suspect(s)
resolution

Monday - Friday
student-led discussions (The Hound of the Baskervilles)
subordinate clauses
Homework (Monday)
Read, highlight and annotate Chapters 13, 14, and 15.
Homework (Friday)
Study plot, themes, components, and the vocabulary that was listed on last week's post.

(November 21 and 22)
Monday
major test - The Hound of the Baskervilles
Tuesday
DVD - The Hound of the Baskervilles

Reminders
It is not necessary to bring the GUM   book until I remind you in class.
I am available on Fridays during lunch for tutorials and make up work.
There will be a major test (The Hound of the Baskervilles) on Monday, November 21, 2011.

Sunday, November 6, 2011

Week Twelve

This Week at a Glance
(November 7-11)
Objectives
To demonstrate an understanding of vocabulary appropriate to grade level
To become familiar with the components of a detective novel
To understand and utilize the skills of observation and deduction
To recount a detailed discussion of the plot (student-led presentations)
To demonstrate an understanding of close reading and answer higher-level thinking questions (Laying the Foundation)

Monday
Vocabulary Quiz #3 (The Odyssey)
Homework - Define the following words:  slovenly, conjecture, tempestuous, prosaic, indignation, interminable, gesticulations, discreet, coherent, apparition,  vehemence, dapper, solicitation, elucidate, jaunty, alias, and immersed

Major Themes in The Hound of the Baskervilles
Most people are unobservant and tend not to see the obvious.
Greed can corrupt a person.
Fear and superstition often obscure (hide) the truth.
Honesty and integrity triumph (reign) over dishonesty and deceit.
Strong emotions can lead one to do things for the wrong reasons.

The Components of a Detective Novel
problem
clues
red herring ( a misleading clue or something that diverts one's attention from the real problem or culprit)
suspects
resolution

Tuesday - Friday
The Hound of the Baskervilles
audio - Chapter 1 "Sherlock Holmes"
discussion (highlight and annotate during the discussion)
Homework 
Read, highlight, and annotate Chapters 2 and 3 on November 7, 2011.
Read, highlight, and annotate Chapters 4, 5, and 6 on November 8, 2011.
Read, highlight, and annotate Chapters 7, 8, and 9 on November 9, 2011.
Read, highlight, and annotate Chapters 10, 11, and 12 on November 10, 2011.

Reminders
Bring the novel to class everyday; unannounced reading checks will be given.
Write copious notes on paper for each chapter until the novels arrive. 




Sunday, October 23, 2011

Weeks Ten and Eleven

Weeks Ten and Eleven at a Glance
(October 24-November 4)

Objectives
To identify and demonstrate an understanding of an epic hero
To demonstrate an understanding of vocabulary appropriate to grade level
To analyze the development of the characters in "Homecoming" of Homer's The Odyssey
To engage students in activities that develop higher-level thinking skills (student presentations)
To identify and interpret literary devices and techniques in The Odyssey
To identify an understanding of plot (sequence of events) in each episode of The Odyssey

Monday
major test - the parts and patterns of a sentence and Vocabulary Lesson 2 (The Odyssey)
Homework - Continue reading episodes in The Odyssey.
Tuesday - Friday
The Odyssey (student presentations)
Friday's homework -
Review background information (the bullet sheet), themes, plot, and literary devices/techniques.
                                 

Week Eleven 
Objectives
To demonstrate an understanding of the writing process
To demonstrate an understanding of vocabulary appropriate to grade level
To identify the components of a mystery novel (problem, clues, investigation of possible culprit(s) based on evidence, resolution)  (The Hound of the Baskervilles)
To identify and distinguish between gerunds, infinitives, and participles

Monday
major test - The Odyssey (Plot Strand III)
Tuesday - Friday
the writing process (The Odyssey)
The Hound of the Baskervilles
gerunds, infinitives, and participles
Homework
Read and annotate daily.
Bring the GUM book daily.
The Reading Schedule
The Hound of the Baskervilles
Chapter - audio (in class)  Chapter 1
November 1                     Chapters 2 and 3
November 3                     Chapters 4, 5, and 6
November 7                     Chapters 7, 8, and 9
November 9                     Chapters 10, 11, and 12
November 11                   Chapters 13, 14, and 15
Homework (Friday)
Study plot and characters (The Hound of the Baskervilles).
Reminders
Meet in the library for the Laying the Foundation test on Wednesday, October 26, 2011. (Periods 2, 5, 6, and 7)
The second summer read menu (one course) is due on Monday, October 31, 2011.
Bring the GUM book daily during week eleven.
Annotate Hound on the day that the reading is assigned; define words that you do not understand as you read the novel.
There will be a major test (The Hound of the Baskervilles) on Monday, November 14, 2011,(tentative date).


Sunday, October 9, 2011

Weeks Eight and Nine

This Week at a Glance
(October 10-14)
Objectives
See last week's objectives and themes.

Monday
Vocabulary Quiz #1 (The Odyssey)
Homework
Read and prepare "Land of the Dead," "The Sirens," Scylla and Charybdis," and  "The Cattle of the Sun God."

Tuesday - Friday
student presentations
parts of a sentence (predicate nominatives and predicate adjectives)
parts of a sentence (direct objects and indirect objects)
Homework (daily)
Study the parts of a sentence and prepare episodes.  (The Odyssey)
Study plot, characters, and literary/techniques (The Odyssey).

Next Week at a Glance
(October 17-21)
Monday
major test (Plot Strand II) The Odyssey
Tuesday - Friday
student presentations
Homework (daily)
Read and prepare "Father and Son," "Argos." "The Suitors," "Penelope." "The Challenge," "Odysseus' Revenge." and "Penelope Tests Odysseus."
Review the parts of a sentence.
Homework (Thursday)
Study Vocabulary Lesson #2.

Reminders
Consider entering the Scholastic Writing Contest; entry forms are available online.
There will be a major test (Plot Strand II - The Odyssey on Monday, October 17, 2011.  Study background information, characters, and literary devices/techniques.
Vocabulary Quiz #2 (The Odyssey) will be given on Friday, October 21, 2011.
There will be a major test (the parts of a sentence) on Monday, October 24, 2011. (tentative)
There will be a major test (Plot Strand III on Monday, October 31, 2011. (tentative)
Vocabulary Quiz #3 will be given on Friday, October 28, 2011.

Vocabulary Lesson #2 for Week Nine             
adversary                                                 
avowal
breach
chide
cleft                                                          
consent
convey                                                             
disdain
divers                                                     
dote                                                        
entice
exquisite
flawless
fodder
foreboding
fury
glade
kinsmen
regale
snare
stealth
succumb
tactic
treachery
vile

Vocabulary Lesson #3 for Week Ten
abominable (a)            
ardor (b)
avail  (c)                   
azure  (d)                   
bewitch (e)                 
blanch (ab)                  
cauldron  (ac)             
chaos  (ad)                   
commandeer  (ae)        
dire  (abc)                     
dwindle  (abd)               
flay  (abe)                    
gallant  (bc)                 
justify  (cd)                  
lurk  (de)                    
maelstrom  (ace)
parch  (a)
peril  (b)
quest  (c)
remnant  (d)
summon (e)
supplicate (ab)
trance  (ac)
travail  (ad)
tumult  (ae)

Sunday, October 2, 2011

Week Seven

This Week at a Glance
(October 3-7)

Objectives
To demonstrate an understanding of vocabulary appropriate to grade level
To identify and demonstrate an understanding of an epic hero
To analyze the development of the characters in Homer's The Odyssey
To engage students in activities that develop higher-level thinking and solving skills (student presentations)
To identify and interpret literary devices and techniques in The Odyssey
To demonstrate an understanding of the plot (sequence of events) in each episode of The Odyssey
To identify and distinguish between the parts and patterns of a sentence (See last week's objectives that outline each part and pattern.)

Themes in The Odyssey
Respect for the gods is essential to survival.
There is moral justice in the world in that wrongdoing is eventually punished.
Self-control or the ability to restrain one's emotions and appetites is an essential quality in a civilized person.
A person must show courage and cleverness to overcome obstacles and achieve goals.
Odysseus is adamant throughout The Odyssey about his great love for home (Ithaca).

Monday
"A Goddess Intervenes"
Conclude final details for student presentations.
the parts and patterns of a sentence (Pages 36 and 37)
Homework
Plan to present "Calypso, the Sweet Nymph" and "I am Laertes' Son."
Write each vocabulary word, the part(s) of speech, a synonym or definition, and an original sentence.

Tuesday
student presentations
sentence parts and patterns (Page 44)
Homework
Plan to present "The Lotus Eaters" and "The Cyclops."

Wednesday
student presentations
sentence parts and patterns (Page 45)
vocabulary (clarify problems and/or concerns)
Homework
Plan to present "Circe, the Grace of the Witch."
Review vocabulary words and the sentence parts ( s, lv, av, pn, and pa).

Thursday
student presentation
sentence parts (Pages 48 and 49
Homework
Prepare "The Land of the Dead" (Hades).

Friday
student presentation
sentence parts and patterns
Homework
Study vocabulary.

Reminders
I am available on Fridays during lunch for tutorials and make up work.
There will be a vocabulary quiz on Monday, October 10, 2011.
Bring the GUM  book on the days indicated.
The student presentations will be graded on the following:
  • understanding of the plot
  • effectiveness of presentation, such as role-playing and narrative skills
  • visual and audio appropriateness, such as power point, posters, and music
Vocabulary 
contend, harried, valor, guile, muster, indifferent, prodigious, solitude,victuals, vessel, stoke, rogue, ravage, entreat, avenge,whim, appall, ponderous, dispatch, brace, ponder, hew, venture, cordial, and bellow

Sunday, September 25, 2011

Week Six

This Week at a Glance
(September 26-30)
Objectives
To demonstrate mastery of the elements and the literary devices/techniques in short stories
To identify and distinguish between the parts of a sentence
To identify the five sentence patterns (s-v)  (s-av-do)  (s-av-io-do)  (s-lv-pn)  (s-lv-pa) 
To demonstrate an understanding of vocabulary appropriate to grade level
To engage students in activities that develop higher-level thinking skills
To engage students in student-driven oral presentations (The Odyssey)
To identify and demonstrate an understanding of an epic hero
To analyze the development of the characters in Homer's The Odyssey
To identify and interpret literary devices and techniques in The Odyssey
To understand the plot in each episode of The Odyssey

Themes in The Odyssey
Respect for the gods is essential to survival.
There is moral justice in the world in that wrongdoing is eventually punished.
Self-control or the ability to restrain one's emotions and appetities is an essential quality in a civilized person.
A person must show courage and cleverness to overcome obstacles and achieve goals.

Monday
major test - the short story unit
Homework - Peruse the background information for Homer's The Odyssey (a handout).

Tuesday
video (The Greek Epic) and handout
Homework - Review the parts of a sentence.
Read and annotate "A Goddess Intervenes" and "Calypso, the Sweet Nymph."

Wednesday
sentence parts and patterns
Homework - none

Friday
The Odyssey Book I "A Goddess Intervenes"    Book V "Calypso, the Sweet Nymph"
Homework - Read and annotate "New Coasts" and "Poseidon's Son."

Reminders
Bring the GUM  (grammar workbook) to class on Wednesday.
Define words that you do not know as you read The Odyssey.
The Odyssey packets are ready for distribution.
Annotate as your read the episodes.
Unannounced reading checks will be given.
Sign the student-presentation sheet on Wednesday; the sheets are on the podium.
Consider using props and//or a power point, etc. when presenting the episodes.
I am available during lunch on Fridays for tutorials and make-up work.


Sunday, September 18, 2011

Week Five

This Week at a Glance
(September 19-23)

Objectives
To demonstrate an understanding of the use of words in context
To identify and demonstrate an understanding of the elements of a short story (theme, plot, setting, characterization, and point of view)
To identify the literary devcies and techniques in a short story
To write a literary review after reading each short story
To prepare a presentation of a short story in a group setting
To demonstrate an understanding of the writing process

Monday
major test (grammar)
Homework 
Be prepared to present "The Scarlet Ibis" and "The Necklace."
Review Vocabulary Words #61-95 and complete flashcards.  The flashcards are optional.

Tuesday
short story presentations continued
Highlight the vocabulary words that you do not understand; I will address your concerns during the class period.
Homework
Read "The Open Window" and complete a literary review.

Wednesday
short story presentation ("The Open Window")
Homework
Write concerns that you have about the plot and/or literary devices and techniques for all of the short stories.

Thursday
short story concerns
the writing process -  (Brainstorm things in which you believe and reread at least one of the "I Believe" essays in the handout that I issued during the first week of school.)
Homework
Check to make certain that you have the "Form Rules for Writing Compositions" in your notebook.
Study Vocabulary Words 61-95.

Friday
Vocabulary Quiz #4
Homework
Study plot and literary techniques for all of the short stories; there are five of them.

Reminders
Keep the "Form Rules for Writing Compositions" in your notebook daily.
Vocabulary Quiz #4 will be given on Friday, September 23, 2011.
Major Test #1 (The Short Story Unit) will be given on Monday, September 26, 2011.
Progress reports will be given on Tuesday, September 20, 2011.
  


Sunday, September 11, 2011

Week Four

           This Week at a Glance
            (September 12-September 16)



Objectives
To understand and demonstrate an understanding of the use of words in context
To identify and demonstrate an understanding of the elements of a short story (theme, plot, setting, characterization, and point of view
To identify literary devices and techniques in each short story
To write a literary review after each story
To prepare a presentation of a short story in a group setting
To identify the parts of speech
To demonstrate an understanding of the writing process

Monday
Vocabulary Quiz #3 + flashcards
Homework
Read "The Scarlet Ibis" and complete Literary Review #3.
Be prepared to present Literary Review #1.

Tuesday
discussion ("The Scarlet Ibis")
student presentations (Short Story #1)
Homework
Review nouns, pronouns, verbs, and adverbs in the GUM  book. Pages 2, 5, 8, 14, 17, and 19  It is not necessary to write/complete the exercises; just read  them.  We will write/complete them in the classroom.
Be prepared to present Literary Review #2.

Wednesday
student presentations (Short Story #2)
a written activity (nouns, pronouns, verbs, and adverbs)
Homework
Review adjectives, prepositions, coordinating conjunctions, and interjections. Pages 10, 22, 23, and 24
It is not necessary to write the exercises; just read them.  We will write/complete them in the classroom.
Read "The Necklace" and prepare a literary review.
Be prepared to present Literary Review #3.

Thursday
discussion ("The Necklace")
student presentations (Short Story #3)
a written activity (adjectives, prepositions, coordinating conjunctions, and interjections)
Homework
Review the handout (Form Rules for Writing Compositions).

Friday
student presentations (Short Story #4)
the writing process
Homework
Study the eight parts of speech.

Reminders
Bring the grammar workbook to class on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.
Bring the literature book to class on Tuesday and Thursday.  Peruse the activities that are planned for this week; bring the literature everyday if you think that you will need it.
The Form Rules for Writing Compositions should be in your notebook at all times.
There will be a major test (the eight parts of speech) on Monday, September 19, 2011.
There will be a major short story test on Monday, September 26, 2011.

Friday, September 2, 2011

Week Three (September 6-9)

This Week at a Glance
(September 6-September 9)
Objectives
To understand and demonstrate the use of words in context
(i.e.) The students were confused by the lengthy, opaque answer the teacher gave, and they had to get additonal help to understand it.
To read and analyze a short story about a character who changes places with the "other class" (Rainsford)
To identify setting
To put events in sequential order
To identify and demonstrate an understanding of the elements of a short story (theme, plot, setting, characterization, and point of view
To identify literary devices and techniques in each short story.
To write a literary review after reading each short story - I will demonstrate the proper format and model the first one for you.
To identify the parts of a sentence (subject, linking verb, action verb, direct object, indirect object, predicate nominative, and predicate adjective)

Tuesday
Vocabulary Quiz #2 (Words 1-30)
Check flashcards.
Homework
Read "The Most Dangerous Game" and complete a literary review.
Vocabulary Lesson #3  (Words 31-60)

Wednesday
Check each student's literary review.
Discuss "The Most Dangerous Game."
Homework 
Study Vocabulary Words 31-60.
Read "The Cask of Amontillado" and complete a literary review.

Thursday
photo day
Discuss "The Cask of Amontillado."
Homework 
Review the parts of a sentence in the GUM workbook.

Friday
parts of a sentence
Homework 
Study Vocabulary Words (31-60).

Reminders
Bring the GUM to class on Thursday and Friday.
Bring the literature book to class on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.
Remember to make flashcards for each vocabulary lesson if you would like to earn extra points.  If you do not remember the format, please see me.
i.e. 
the front  -  the word and the part of speech
the back  -  a synonym or definition and an original sentence using the vocabulary word
Vocabulary Quiz #3 will be given on Monday, September 12, 2011.


Sunday, August 28, 2011

Next Week at a Glance (August 29-September 2)

Next Week at a Glance
(August 29 - September 2)

Objectives
To understand and demonstrate the use of words in context
To identify and respond to attitudes expressed by other writers
To demonstrate an understanding and proficiency of the writing process
To identify and demonstrate an understanding of the elements of the short story (theme, plot, setting, characterization, and point of view
To write a literary review after reading each short ( I will demonstrate and proper format and model the first one for you.)

Monday
Vocabulary Quiz #1
Assign Vocabulary Quiz #2 "The Most Dangerous Game"
Homework - Read essays (a handout).

Tuesday
Discuss essays.
Go over check list of beliefs, state why you agree or disagree.
Homework - Begin studying Vocabulary Lesson #2.

Wednesday
a group activity (Charlie Brown lessons)  Divide in groups to share stories, discuss why the group members agree, and decide if the story merits belief.

Thursday
a writing assignment - an essay (rough draft)

Friday
Finalize the writing assignment (final draft).
Homework - Study Vocabulary Lesson #2

Reminders
Peruse the classroom rules/procedures.
There will be a vocabulary quiz on Tuesday, September 6, 2011
The study of the short stories will begin next week.
Complete the literary review on the day that the reading is assigned.
Check the blog daily.

The Proper Heading
Bellaire Senior High School                                  Caitlyn Joubert
Pre-AP English I, Period _                                   August 29, 2011

Sunday, August 21, 2011

This Week at a Glance (August 22-26)

This Week at a Glance
(August 22 - August 26)

Objectives
To inform the students about the scope and sequence of the Pre-Advanced Placement English I curriculum
To acquaint the students and parents of the specific classroom rules and policies for Estelle Moore-Walker's Pre-Advanced Placement English I class
To participate in an activity that allows students to become acquainted with their peers
To understand and demonstrate the use of words in context
To demonstrate mastery of  the summer reading: The Three Musketeers and/or Emma
To demonstrate proficiency in grammar usage

Monday
Distribute handouts (scope/sequence and rules/policies.
the "Brown Bag It" assignment and demonstration
Homework - Detach, sign, and secure a parent's signature on the acknowledgement form (Page 4).

Tuesday
Finish "Brown Bag It" instructions if necessary.
Distribute Vocabulary Lesson #1.
Homework - Begin studying Vocabulary Lesson #1.

Wednesday
test (The Three Musketeers and Emma
Homework - Finalize "Brown Bag It" presentation.

Thursday
"Brown Bag It" presentations

Friday
"Brown Bag It" presentations continued
Homework - Study Vocabulary Lesson #1

Reminder
Vocabulary Quiz #1 will be given on Monday, August 29, 2011.

Friday, May 6, 2011

Next Week at a Glance

Next Week at a Glance
(May 9-13)

Objectives
To demonstrate an understanding of vocabulary appropriate to grade level
To understand the purpose of Rime and to understand how it affects meaning and tone
To identify the theme
To understand the lesson that Rime teaches

Monday
Vocabulary Quiz #8
Homework - Complete Lesson #9
Tuesday-Friday
The Rime of the Ancient Mariner
Thursday's Homework - Study Vocabulary Lesson 9
Friday's Homework -Study Vocabulary Lessons 7, 8, and 9; there will be a major test on Monday, May 16, 2011.

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

This Week at a Glance

This Week at a Glance
(May 2-6)
Objectives
To demonstrate an understanding of vocabulary appropriate to grade level
To identify and distinguish between literary devices and techniques (Laying the Foundation)
To identify and distinguish between autor's purpose (logical, ethical, and emotional appeal
To read and understand the plot and moral of The Rime of the Ancient Mariner

Monday
major test A Tale of Two Cities

Tuesday-Friday
Return tests and answer questions.
Verify grades with students.
Wednesday's Homework - Complete Lesson 8.
literary devices  and author's purpose (handouts)
The Rime of the Ancient Mariner
Thursday's Homework - Study Lesson 8; there will be a quiz on Friday, May 06, 2011.

Friday, April 29, 2011

Reminder
The major test for A Tale of Two Cities will be given on Monday, May 02, 2011.  Read closely, and study the word bank.  Close reading will ensure that you will be able to identify the speaker of the quotes.

Sunday, April 17, 2011

This Week at a Glance
April 18-21

Objectives
See objectives and themes dated the week of March 28, 2011.

Monday - Thursday
A Tale of Two Cities (discussion)
  • An unannounced Book the Second (Tale) quiz will be given this week.
  • As you read the novel, note concerns (parts that you do not understand), so I can address them.

Homework
  • Vocabulary Lesson 10
  •  The vocabulary is due on Wednesday, April 20, 2011. 
  •  Continue reading and summarizing; follow the reading schedule. Remember, the summaries are due on the day that the reading is assigned.

Reminder
Vocabulary Quiz #07 will be given on Monday, April 25, 2011.

Monday, March 28, 2011

This Week at a Glance
(March 28-April 1)

Objectives
To demonstrate an understanding of vocabulary appropriate to grade level
To demonstrate an understanding of background information, setting, point of view, and plot in A Tale of Two Cities
To identify the characters in A Tale of Two Cities
To draw conclusions based on the evidence presented
To make predictions
To summarize chapters in the novel
To connect the plot in the novel to everyday life

Themes
The power of love can heal and redeem.
Oppression often leads to revolution; which itself often leads to injustice and abuse.
Individuals' lives are often shaped by events over which they have no control.
Individuals' lives are often shaped by events that occur or people that they meet.

Monday
The Life of Charles Dickens
Homework Vocabulary Lesson 5 - Follow the directions that you were given previously; the vocabulary is due on Wednesday.
Tuesday Conclude The Life of Charles Dickens
Pronoun and Antecedent Agreement - Pages 507-509
Wednesday-Friday Bring a copy of A Tale of Two Cities to class.
Friday - Vocabulary Quiz #5

Reminder Bring a copy of Tale Of Two Cities to class everyday.

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Wednesday, March 09, 2011

An Update
You will need a Word Bank for some parts of Friday's quiz; I will provide a new one for you.

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

This Week at a Glance
(March 7-11)

Objectives
To demonstrate mastery of the plot and literary devices/techniques in Romeo and Juliet
To demonstrate an understanding of the writing process
To demonstrate an understanding of vocabulary appropriate to grade level
To identify and utilize appropriate pronoun/antecedent agreement and subject/verb agreement

Monday
major test Romeo and Juliet
Tuesday
Begin preparations for the Capulet Ball.
Take rough drafts home today, type (double space), and bring to class on Friday, March 11, 2011.
Wednesday
Vocabulary Quiz #3
Thursday and Friday
Bring the GUM book on Thursday and Friday.
pronoun/antecedent agreement and subject/verb agreement
Friday - Vocabulary Quiz (Lessons 1, 2, and 3)

Reminders
Bring the GUM book on Thursday and Friday.
Please plan to pay for A Tale of Two Cities by Friday, March 11, 2011.
Place your name on the sheet of paper on my desk; specify exactly how you plan to participate in the Capulet Ball by Wednesday, March 9, 2011. The festivity will take place on Friday, March 25, 2011.
Check the blog daily for updates.

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

This Week at a Glance
(February 21-25)

Objectives
To recognize the themese in Romeo and Juliet
To distinguish between literal and figurative devices
To analyze the characteristics of a Shakespearean tragedy
To interpret quotations, soliloques, and monologues
To recite/ role-play scenes from Romeo and Juliet
To demonstrate an understanding of vocabulary appropriate to grade level

Themes
Hate leads to a tragic end; love teaches peace, loyalty, and devotion.
Love can cause enemies to forget their differences.
Fate seems to guide people toward their destinies.
Lack of moderation can lead to tragedy.
Each individual must contribute to public order.

Monday-Friday
Bring the play to class everyday.
audio -listening and discussing + literary devices

The tentative date for the Romeo and Juliet test is Monday, March 7, 2011.
I am available every Friday for make up work/tutoring.

Monday, February 14, 2011

This Week at a Glance
(February14-18)

Objectives
To demonstrate an understanding of the writing process including in-text documentation and a Work Cited page
To incorporate syntax (sentence structure) in the writing process
To demonstrate an understanding of vocabulary appropriate to grade level

Monday - Wednesday
Continue the writing process.
Homework -Take the essay home and type it; the essay is due at the beginning of the period on
Thursday.
Thursday
Essays are due at the beginning of the period.
Homework - Study Vocabulary Lesson 3
Friday
Vocabulary Quiz 3

Tuesday, February 8, 2011

This Week at a Glance
(February 7-11)

Objectives
See last week's objectives.

Monday
major test (syntax) sentence structure
Homework - Vocabulary Lesson 3
Tuesday
TAKS practice
discuss the syntax (sentence stucture) test
Homework - Complete Vocabulary Lesson 3; follow last week's instructions.
The homework is due on Thursday, February 10, 2011.
Wednesday - Friday
TAKS (writing) open-ended responses
the writing process - Jane Eyre
Thursday's Homework -Study Vocabulary Lesson 1
Friday
Vocabulary Quiz #1

Thursday, February 3, 2011

Next Week at a Glance
(February 7-11)

Objectives
To demonstrate mastery of sentence structure (syntax)
To demonstrate an understanding of vocabulary appropriate to grade level
To write about theme (Jane Eyre)
To practice TAKS skills (objective and open-ended response
To demonstrate an understanding of the writing process (Writing About Theme)
To be familiar with the world of William Shakespeare

Monday
major test (Jane Eyre)
If time allows, review the TAKS readings.
Tuesday - Thursday
the writing process
TAKS
Friday
Vocabulary Quiz (Lesson 1)

Reminders
Bring the TAKS packet to class everyday.
Bring the "Form Rules for Writing Compositions" and the marker verbs to class everyday.
Check the blog daily for updates.

Friday, January 28, 2011

Next Week at a Glance
(January 31-February 4)

Objectives
To demonstrate mastery of characters and plot of Jane Eyre
To identify themes in Jane Eyre and find support of the themes in the novel
To identify and distinguish between simple, compound, complex, and compound-complex sentences
To demonstrate an understanding of vocabulary appropriate to grade level

Monday
major test (Jane Eyre)
Homework - Complete Vocabulary Lesson 2.
Bring the GUM book everyday.
Tuesday - Friday
sentence structure (simple, compound, complex, and compound-complex
Bring the sentence structure checklist everyday (a handout).
Thursday's Homework - Study Lesson 1
Friday
Vocabulary Quiz Lesson 1

Reminders
Vocabulary Lesson 1 will be given on Friday, February 04, 2011.
A major test will be given on Monday, February 07, 2011, (sentence structure)
Vocabulary Lesson 2 is due on Thursday, February 03, 2011; follow last week's instructions.
Keep the form rules for writing compositions in your notebook.

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Update (January 24-28)

There will be a major test (Jane Eyre) on Monday, January 31, 2011.
Vocabulary Lesson 1 will be given on Friday, February 04, 2011.

Monday, January 24, 2011

This Week at a Glance
(January 24-28)

Objectives
To identify and distinguish between simple, compound, complex, and compound complex sentences (syntax = sentence structure)
Sddtionally, see the objectives and themes dated January 4-7.

Monday
Vocabulary Quiz #3 (Jane Eyre)
Tuesday
spelling quiz (Vocabulary 1105-1134)
discussion (Jane Eyre)
distribute vocabulary (Words are Important)
Homework - Bring the GUM workbook to class.
Wednesday - Friday
Jane Eyre (discussion)
syntax (sentence structure)
Thursday's Homework - Vocabulary -Write each word, define each word, and write a sentence for ten of the twenty words. Ladies, write sentences for the even-numbered words. Gentlemen, write sentences for the odd-numbered words. Make certain that you use context clues in the sentences.
Friday's homework - Study Lesson 1

Reminders
If you are not planning to sign the list for purchase of A Tale of Two Cities, please purchase one, or let me know if you would like to borrow one.

Vocabulary Quizzes

Lesson 1 January 31, 2011
Lesson 2 January 7, 2011
Lesson 3 January 14, 2011

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

This Week at a Glance
(January 18-21)
See the objectives and themes for the Week of January 4-7.
Tuesday
Jane Eyre (Vocabulary Quiz #2)
Wednesday
spelling (Vocabulary 1075-1104)
TAKS practice in groups
discussion (Jane Eyre)
Thursday
discussion (themes, objectives, and plot summary)
Friday
discussing and viewing (Jane Eyre)

Monday, January 10, 2011

This Week at a Glance
(January 10-14)

Objectives
See last week's objectives.

Monday
Vocabulary Quiz #1 Jane Eyre
Homework - Study the spelling of Words 1044-1073 and continue reading. Follow the reading schedule.
Tuesday
spelling quiz (The quiz will include Vocabulary Words 1044-1073.)
Jane Eyre continued
Homework - Vocabulary Words 1074-1102 An activity sheet will be given to you on Tuesday.
Wednesday - Friday
Friday's Homework - Study vocabulary for Monday's quiz, and continue reading
Jane Eyre.

Reminders
Unannounced reading checks will be given; make certain that you read daily. I am available to answer questions or concerns daily. If you need to see me on Monday-Thursday, please schedule a time with me.

Wednesday, January 5, 2011

The Reading Schedule
Jane Eyre

Chapters 4 and 5 January 7
Chapters 6, 7, 8 January 10
Chapters 9, 10, 11 January 11
Chapters 12, 13, and 14 Janary 12
Chapters 15, 16, and 17 January 13
Chapters 18, 19, and 20 January 14
Chapters 21, 22, and 23 January 18
Chapters 24, 25, and 26 January 19
Chapters 27, 28, and 29 January 20
Chapters 30, 31, and 32 January 21
Chapters 33, 34, and 35 January 24
Chapter 36 January 25