Mr. McCormick’s Webpage

The Mission of Haddam-Killingworth High School is to provide a personalized

and collective experience through which students are challenged to develop the

knowledge, skills, and work ethic to contribute to a global society.

“In nature there are neither rewards nor punishments, just consequences.”-J. Cousteau

“Proper preparation prevents poor performance.” –P. Broaca

“No one is ever condemned by fate to a state of ignorance; we condemn ourselves when we procrastinate.” - A. Camus

“You can’t always get what you want, but if you try sometimes, you just might find,

you get what you need.” –M. P. Jagger & K. Richards

DAILY HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENTS in Mr. McCormick's ENGLISH CLASSES:

PERIOD 2 (B) - SPEECH & DEBATE 15 (SENIOR ENGLISH ELECTIVE): (2nd Semester)

M-3/19 thru F-3/30: Students are presenting their debates and producing ALRR’s on their own views relative to the issues in those various debates.

M-2/13 thru F-2/17: Students have selected debate topics and are working in small groups on research so that they can complete the Constructive Stage of their individual debates.

M-2/6: Finished film & distributed potential list of debate topics for student consideration/input on topic choice/selection.

Tu-2/1 thru F-2/3: Class watched D. Washington’s film The Great Debaters in class in preparation for the debate portion of the class.

1/30: Last Day of 1^st Semester.

PERIOD 3 (C) – AP ENGLISH 49 (SENIOR HONORS ENGLISH ELECTIVE): (2nd Semester)

W-3/21 thru W-3/28: Read pages 225 thru 324 in K. Kesey’s novel One Flew over the Cuckoo’s Nest for W-3/28 and prepare class notes for the instructor for those pages (notes for that novel that focus on items related to characters (1), important events/situations/occurrences (2), & important quotes/passages (3); always be alert for items like tone, point of view, foreshadowing, theme, & other literary elements in the reading each night.

M-2/6: Discussed WesU field trip from Friday, 2/3, and then distributed & briefly discussed the books/handouts for the next 3 WesU HSHP field trips in March.

Tu-2/1 thru F-2/3: Class finished its dramatic reading/discussion of Sophocles’ play Antigone & attended a HSHP (@ WesU) lecture/film on the play w/ Prof. A. S. Mazak @ Russell House.

1/30: Last Day of 1^st Semester.

PERIOD 4 (D) - SPEECH & DEBATE 15 (SENIOR ENGLISH ELECTIVE): (2nd Semester)

M-3/19 thru F-3/30: Students are presenting their debates and producing ALRR’s on their own views relative to the issues in those various debates.

M-2/13 thru F-2/17: Students have selected debate topics and are working in small groups on research so that they can complete the Constructive Stage of their individual debates.

M-2/6: Finished film & distributed potential list of debate topics for student consideration/input on topic choice/selection.

Tu-2/1 thru F-2/3: Class watched D. Washington’s film The Great Debaters in class in preparation for the debate portion of the class.

1/30: Last Day of 1^st Semester.

PERIOD 6 (F) – FRESHMEN ENGLISH 15 (SURVEY ENGLISH CLASS): (2nd Semester)

Tu-3/27: Read pages 103-127 in E. Hemingway’s novella The Old Man & the Sea for Fri., 3/23; please take notes on important information (characters, events/occurrences, quotes/passages) that might be of help on a quiz as students will be allowed to use notes on quizzes on their readings!

M-3/26: Read pages 81-103 in E. Hemingway’s novella The Old Man & the Sea for Tues., 3/27; please take notes on important information (characters, events/occurrences, quotes/passages) that might be of help on a quiz as students will be allowed to use notes on quizzes on their readings!

F-3/23: Read pages 52-81 in E. Hemingway’s novella The Old Man & the Sea for Fri., 3/23; please take notes on important information (characters, events/occurrences, quotes/passages) that might be of help on a quiz as students will be allowed to use notes on quizzes on their readings!E. Hemingway’s novella The Old Man & the Sea for Fri., 3/26; please take notes on important information (characters, events/occurrences, quotes/passages) that might be of help on a quiz as students will be allowed to use notes on quizzes on their readings!

W-3/21: Read pages 27 thru 52 in E. Hemingway’s novella The Old Man & the Sea for Fri., 3/23; please take notes on important information (characters, events/occurrences, quotes/passages) that might be of help on a quiz as students will be allowed to use notes on quizzes on their readings!

F-3/9: Students should read the next 25-30 pages in their independent reading books for Monday, 3/11 (up to approx. page 200-205).

Th-3/8: Students should read the next 25-30 pages in their independent reading books for tomorrow, F-3/9 (up to approx. page 175-180).

W-3/7: Students should read the next 25-30 pages in their independent reading books for tomorrow, Th-3/8 (up to approx. page 150-155).

Tu-3/6: Students should read the next 25-30 pages in their independent reading books for tomorrow, W-3/7 (up to approx. page 125-130).

M-3/5: Students should read the next 25 pages in their independent reading books for tomorrow, Tu-3/5 (up to approx. page 100-105).

M-2/13 thru W-2/15: Class began work on another CAPT-exercise (short story) “The Moustache” and answered questions #1, #2, & #4 on that story.

M-2/6: Class began work on another CAPT-exercise (short story) “Farewell to Violet” and answered questions #1 & #3 on that story.

Tu-2/1 thru F-2/3: Class completed in class work on a CAPT-exercise (short story) “Amanda & the Wounded Birds” and answered questions #1-4 on that story.

1/30: Last Day of 1^st Semester.

PERIOD 7 (G) - SPEECH & DEBATE 15 (SENIOR ENGLISH ELECTIVE): (1st Semester)

M-3/19 thru F-3/30: Students are presenting their debates and producing ALRR’s on their own views relative to the issues in those various debates.

M-2/13 thru F-2/17: Students have selected debate topics and are working in small groups on research so that they can complete the Constructive Stage of their individual debates.

M-2/6: Finished film & distributed potential list of debate topics for student consideration/input on topic choice/selection.

Tu-2/1 thru F-2/3: Class watched D. Washington’s film The Great Debaters in class in preparation for the debate portion of the class.

1/30: Last Day of 1^st Semester.

PERIOD 2 (B) - SPEECH & DEBATE 15 (SENIOR ENGLISH ELECTIVE): (1st Semester)

Exams.

TU-1/17: Due to a delayed opening on a half-day (Prof. Development), students were given their exam topics one full week in advance: 3-3:30min speech on a theme of their own creation using any 6-8 quotes (+ 2 of their own= 8-10 total) from the Quotes’ Packet handout distributed in class today.

W-1/11 & F-1/13: Class began Humorous Anecdote/Story speeches in class; there is no class on Th-1/11, as it is dropped as per the current schedule. Three day weekend (MLK Day) is this weekend; no new homework for the long weekend.

M-1/9 &Tu-1/10: Class reviewed the Exam schedule, got background info on the Humorous Anecdote/Story speech, and the resumed with retrospective speeches. Humorous speeches will begin on W-1/11 or Th-1/12 depending on when the class is dropped due to the schedule.

F-1/6: Class finished New Year’s Resolutions speeches, & then began the first couple of 2011 News Retrospective speeches (see Tu-1/3 entry).

W-1/4: Class began New Year’s Resolutions Speeches today; 13 down – 5 to go. Class does not meet on Thursday, 1/6, as it is dropped as per the current schedule.

Tu-1/3: Students began work on two upcoming speeches: 1) Identify 3 New Year’s Resolutions/new goals for the upcoming year (2012) that you would like to accomplish (Due Wed., 1/4); & 2) Identify 3-4 major (important) news items (global, national, local) from 2011 & explain their significance in a speech (Due Friday, 1/6).

Tu-12/20 thru F-12/23: Students completed “Holiday/Winter Traditions/Experiences/Memories” Speeches & participated in the Holiday Show telethon. No new homework over the Winter Break; Happy Holidays! M-12/19: Class began “Holiday/Winter Traditions/Experiences/Memories” Speeches today; speeches were postponed until Tuesday/Wednesday watched a documentary (DVD) aimed at enabling students to appreciate the things that they have at this particular time of year.

F-12/16: Class concluded Letters of Appreciation Speeches, then began preparation work for the Holiday/Winter Traditions/Experiences/Memories Speeches which will be due on M-12/19. W-12/14: Finished ALRR#10 presentations; then class began “Letter of Appreciation” speeches, which we will conclude on F-12/16. Class does not meet tomorrow as it is dropped as per current schedule. Tu-12/13: Began ALRR#10 presentations; then began work on “Letter of Appreciation” Speech that will be delivered tomorrow, 12/14. M-12/12: Finished up poetry presentations; began work on ALRR#10 which needs to be ready for tomorrow, Tu-12/13.

F-12/9: Class resumed poetry presentations; will need to finish up on Monday. W-12/7: Class began their presentations (7 down, 12 to go) which will resume on F-12/9. Tu-12/6: Students began to do prep work (in Media Ctr.) for poetry presentations which will begin during the next class (on either Wed. or Thurs. of this week.) Mon-12/5: Students began ALRR#9 speeches in class today; will continue tomorrow. Students were instructed to bring a copy of a poem to class tomorrow (min. 14-20 lines on a topic of their own choice) for a presentation to be worked out in class on Tues. 12/6.

F-12/2: Students will complete ALRR#9 (see entry below) for Mon. 12/5. Have a good weekend! M-11/28 thru Th-12/1: Students will create & develop a “Demonstration” Speech for presentation to the class; speech should be tightly focused on a singular action/event, be 3-5 minutes in length, be written out in a detailed outline format, & engage your audience. ALRR#9 (A reaction to 3-4 of your peers’ “Demo” presentations) will follow immediately on the heels of this assignment!

M-11/21 thru W-11/23: Class began “Thanksgiving Memories/Experiences” Speeches; speech presentations will run thru Wed. 11/23.

F-11/18: Students began ALRR#7 presentations. Next speech assignment (for Monday 11/21): Create a 2-3 minute speech that highlights the 3 most memorable experiences (or traditions) that have been a part of your Thanksgiving Holiday gatherings up to this point in your lives. (2-3 minutes in length/2-3 pages in length) W-11/16: Students completed all but one of their presentations; ALRR#8 is due on Friday, 11/18. Tu-11/15: Students began “Quote” presentations today. We got thru 9; 9 to go. ALRR#8 (based on student’s reactions to 3 of their peers’ quotes – 1-1.5 pages in length) is due as soon as class is finished with the presentations. M-11/14: Students were instructed to (A) select a meaningful quote [1 complete thought/1-3 sentence(s)], (B) provide background/context on the quote, (C) explain its meaning/significance, (D) & then explain how the quote provides/has meaning/importance in your own life. Assignment is due for the next class meeting period – Tu-11/15.

F-11/12: No school – Veteran’s Day! Have a safe weekend! W-11/10: Class resumed “Issues Facing Voters” speeches from M-11/7. Tu-11/8: No School as district buildings are being used for local elections. See assignment from M-11/7. M-11/7: Class began their “Issues Facing Voters” Speeches; we got thru 6 of them. Speeches will be continued on Wednesday, 11/9, because there is no school on Tuesday, 11/8, due to local elections taking place in our district buildings tomorrow.

F-11/4: Class resumed the where it left off with the 10/31 assignment that it began on 11/2. Also please note the following weekend HWK assignment: Students are to prepare a 2:30-3:30min. (that’s 2-3pages) written speech dealing the following topic: “Identify the 3-4 most pressing issues facing voters [either @ the local, state, national, and/or international level(s)] in the upcoming Nov. 8 elections.” Presentations will begin on Monday, Nov.7! Th-11/3: Class did not meet today as it is dropped as per the current schedule; see assignment from the M-10/31 entry. W-11/2: Classes finally resumed on a half-day schedule; we picked up where we left off with the M-10/31 assignment. Tu-11/1: **Unfortunately school was cancelled due to Storm Albert; Assignment was pushed back until Wed., 11/2, when classes resumed. M-10/31: Students began ALRR#7 presentations today. **Unfortunately school was cancelled due to Storm Albert; Assignment was pushed back until Wed., 11/2, when classes resumed.

F-10/28: Finished the film The King’s Speech and allowed students to begin work on ALRR#7 which is due on Monday, 10/31. Th-10/27: Class did not meet today as it is dropped as per the current schedule; see assignment from W-10/26 entry! W-10/26: Students continued viewing & taking notes/answering questions on the film The King’s Speech in class; students will eventually write a “film review” as an “ALRR” speech for the end of the week (Th-10/27 or F-10/28). Tu-10/25: Students continued viewing & taking notes/answering questions on the film The King’s Speech in class; students will eventually write a “film review” as an “ALRR” speech for the end of the week (Th-10/27 or F-10/28). M-10/24: Students read an article by Dr. Frank Harris III on the First Amendment & Public Speaking, & then they began taking notes on/viewing the film The King’s Speech in class; students will eventually write a “film review” as an “ALRR” speech for the end of the week (Th-10/27 or F-10/28).

F-10/21: Class examined previews & attempted to recognize how film marketing agencies attempt to manipulate their audiences through the use of neuro-marketing & C-Scan techniques. No homework for this upcoming weekend; please read something dealing with current events to keep yourself mentally sharp, & be safe! Th-10/20: Class did not meet today as it is dropped as per the current schedule; see assignment from W-10/19 entry! Tu-10/18 & W-10/19: Student’s began presenting ALRR#6 in class. We got thru 16 today; 2 to go. M-10/17: ALRR#6 (on Morgan Spurlock’s documentary The Greatest Movie Ever Sold) is due tomorrow!

Tu-10/11 thru F-10/14: Classes were abbreviated all week due to Parent Teacher Conferences & PSAT Testing on Wednesday & Thursday; Class watched a documentary on Product Placement & Advertising in TV & Film. Students are responsible for completing ALRR#6 on the documentary for Monday, 10/17. M-10/10: Columbus Day – Off.

F-10/7: Students resumed with ALRR#5 presentations. Th-10/6: Class is dropped today & does not meet as per the schedule. Tu-10/4 & W-10/5: Students began “Fast Forward” Speeches and were informed that ALRR#5 is due Wed. 10/5. Class completed the “FF” speeches & began ALRR#5 presentations. M-10/3: Students were assigned their next speech – a “Fast Forward” speech; students were told that they would be “Fast-Forwarded” 20-25 years into the future. In a 2-2.5 minute speech, students need to communicate reasonable speculation re: their occupational status, personal/interpersonal relationship status, & possible interesting accomplishments they may have achieved by that point in their lives. Speech is due tomorrow, Tuesday, 10/4.

F-9/30: Begin ALRR#4 presentations in class. No new/additional homework for this upcoming weekend; please read something dealing with current events to keep yourself mentally sharp, & be safe! Th-9/29: No school – Religious Holiday; see assignment from Mon. – Wed.’s entries! Tu-9/27 & W-9/28: Class finished ALRR#3 & began “The Most Valuable Learning Experience” speeches in class; those speeches will continue into Wednesday’s (& possibly Friday’s) class. Class was advised that ALRR#4 is due on Friday, 9/30. M-9/26: Class began work on ALRR’s from Friday (a half day) & were asked to write their next major speech: 1.25-2.5 page essay on “What has been the most valuable learning experience in your life to date, and what individual helped to guide you to the lesson(s) you gained from that experience?” Assignment is due tomorrow, Tuesday, 9/27.

W-9/21 thru F-9/23: Class will present their “ALRR’s” (#3) in class on Friday, 9/23 & M-9/26 (if necessary); see 9/12 & 9/13 entries for specifics on “ALRR’s.” No new/additional homework for this upcoming weekend; please read something dealing with current events to keep yourself mentally sharp, & be safe! M-9/19 thru Th-9/22: Presentations begin tomorrow (& continue thru Thursday/Friday of this week) on your “Shoebox/Paper Bag” Speech (5 items that provide insight as to who you are as a person); speeches are due Tu-9/20 (1-2 page, “Outline” format is due @ the beginning of class tomorrow).

F-9/16 & M-9/19: Class will present their “ALRR’s” in class today & on M-9/19 (see 2 previous entries for specifics on “ALRR’s”). No new/additional homework for this weekend; please read something & be safe! Tu-9/13 thru Th-9/14: The class will be presenting “The Most Pressing Issue” speeches & may need (depending on what day the class gets dropped in the weekly schedule) to use part of Th-9/15’s class to conclude those speeches. Class has also been advised that they will be responsible for completing 2 “ALRR’s” (see M-9/12 entry for full explanation) by the end of class on F-9/16. M-9/12: Begin thinking about the types of things that you heard today as you in listened to your peers’ speeches (active listening); identify a topic/idea which you could/would like to write about for your first “Active Listening Reaction Response (ALRR),” In-Class, writing assignment (75-125 words/1-2 pages, hand-written essay) which you will be required to complete during class tomorrow.

Friday 9/9: No new homework today; but be sure that you’ve finished JE #2; & enjoy your weekend. ALSO: Get Teacher Copy of Classroom Policy & the Language/Arts (English) Department Manual Form signed by your parent/guardian and return it to Instructor by Monday, 9/12; Get specific supplies for this class by Monday, 9/12. Have a nice weekend!

Th-9/8: Write Journal Essay (JE) #2 (2-3 pages/175-250 words & should be hand-written) on the following topic: “Identify the most pressing issue facing folks 18-25 years of age in our culture today?” Be sure to explain the issue thoroughly & to use examples to help your audience understand the points that you are trying to convey to them.

W-9/7: Write Journal Essay (JE) #1 (1-2 pages/90-150 words & should be hand-written) on the following topic: Identify a strange yet useful/helpful item(thing) that is basically helpful/beneficial to human beings in some way…then, explain how it is both useful & beneficial. Be prepared to deliver that speech on Thursday, 9/9. ALSO: Get Teacher Copy of Classroom Policy & the Language/Arts (English) Department Manual Form signed by your parent/guardian and return it to Instructor by Monday, 9/12; Get specific supplies for this class by Monday, 9/12.

Tu-9/6: Write a brief Introductory Speech (1-2 pages/75-125 words & should be hand-written) in which you explain/discuss the following items: 1) “Why you are taking this particular class/what you hope to get out of this course?”; 2) Identify one particular skill/talent/capability/strength that you have and wouldn’t mind sharing with the other members of the class; Be prepared to handle questions from the instructor regarding your speech in front of the class. ALSO: Get Teacher Copy of Classroom Policy & the Language/Arts (English) Department Manual Form signed by your parent/guardian and return it to Instructor by Monday, 9/12; Get specific supplies for this class by Monday, 9/12.

PERIOD 3 (C) – AP ENGLISH 49 (SENIOR HONORS ENGLISH ELECTIVE): (1st Semester)

Th-1/12 & F-1/13: Class began a dramatic reading (in class) of Sophocles’ play Oedipus Rex.

W-1/11: Class completed an AP-style essay on allusions in J. Steinbeck’s novel The Moon is Down.

Tu-1/10: Class was dropped today as per the current schedule.

F-1/6 & M-1/9: Class began viewing the original 1942 film version of The Moon is Down.

W-1/4 & Th-1/5: Class began work/background history on J. Steinbeck’s The Moon is Down.

Th-12/22 & F-12/23: Class completed the in-class writing assignment related to Crimes of the Heart & participated in the Holiday Telethon for Charity. Class was asked to read J. Steinbeck’s novella The Moon is Down for W-1/4 and to complete a 3-4 page packet for that novel that focuses on items related to characters (1), important events/situations/occurrences (2), & important quotes/passages (3); always be alert for items like tone, point of view, foreshadowing, theme, & other literary elements in the reading each night.

M-12/19 & W-12/21: Final discussion on play; AP-style question pending for Th-12/22 is “At what realization does each of the 3 major characters in the play arrive (by the end of the novel), and what is Henley trying to say to her audience by ending the play the way that she does?” In-Class Essay is for Th-12/22.

Th-12/15 & F-12/16: Finished the play; asked students to write (a paragraph or two) about their perspective on what Henley is trying to do/say by ending the play the way she does.

W-12/14: Class watched Act I & part of Act 2 of Henley’s screenplay on videotape to solidify understanding of the text. Class needs to finish the play for M-12/19.

M-12/12: Class continued its dramatic reading of Crimes of the Heart, pages 41-76. No class tomorrow as it is dropped as per the current schedule.

F-12/9: Class began Beth Henley’s play Crimes of the Heart, pages 2-41 for the weekend.

Th-12/8: Class took AP-Style evaluation on The God of Small Things – 55 minute timed, in class, writing evaluation.

M-12/5 thru W-12/7: Novel Discussion in advance of Thursday’s In Class “AP-style” essay on the novel; we will begin the evaluation tomorrow.

F-12/2: Continue reading & note-taking on A. Roy’s novel, Ch. 18-20, pp. 288-321, (Notes are due on Mon., 12/5) Th-12/1: Continue reading & note-taking on A. Roy’s novel, Ch. 14-17, pp. 254-287, (Notes are due on Mon., 12/5.) W-11/30: Continue reading & note-taking on A. Roy’s novel, Ch. 12-13, pp. 217-253, (Notes are due on Fri., 12/2.) Tu-11/29: Class did not meet today as it was dropped as per the current schedule; please refer to M-11/21 entry! M-11/28: Continue reading & note-taking on A. Roy’s novel, Ch. 9-11, pp. 178-216, (Notes are due on Wed., 11/30.) Reading Reminder: continue to focus your notes on items related to characters (1), important events/situations/occurrences (2), & important quotes/passages (3); always be alert for items like tone, point of view, foreshadowing, theme, & other literary elements in the reading each night. [Be prepared to explain/answer questions on the reading(s) @ anytime (see/refer to class. W-11/23: Continue reading & note-taking on A. Roy’s novel, Ch. 5-8, pp. 118-177, (Notes are due on Mon., 11/28.) Reading Reminder: continue to focus your notes on items related to characters (1), important events/situations/occurrences (2), & important quotes/passages (3); always be alert for items like tone, point of view, foreshadowing, theme, & other literary elements in the reading each night. F-11/18: Begin reading & note-taking on A. Roy’s The God of Small Things, Ch.1 &2, pp. 3-83 for M-11/21 (1^st Set of Notes are due then also); you will read approx. 35-50+ pages per night. Reading Reminder: continue to focus your notes on items related to characters (1), important events/situations/occurrences (2), & important quotes/passages (3); always be alert for items like tone, point of view, foreshadowing, theme, & other literary elements in the reading each night.

W-11/16 & Th-11/17: Students read & shared their reaction essays with their peers on Wed.; students selected their best written piece and produced an AP-style essay in class on Thurs. No Hwk tonight; we’ll begin a new novel tomorrow. Tu-11/15: Class did not meet today as it was dropped as per the current schedule; see assignment from M-11/14!

M-11/14: Students were instructed to write a 2^nd reaction essay which focuses on an event/occurrence in the 2^nd half of ATSS (pp. 300-415) and have it ready for W-11/16 (2-3 pages in length).

M-10/31 & Tu-11/1 thru 11/15: Continue reading & note-taking on K. Hosseini’s A Thousand Splendid Sons, Part I, Ch.10-15, pp. 62-104 (1^st Set of Notes [pp.3-104] are due on W-11/2); W-11/2: Pt.2, Ch.16-21, pp.107-153; Th-11/3: Pt.2, Ch. 22-26, pp. 154-195; F-11/4 (weekend): Pt.3, Ch. 27-36, pp. 199-272; M-11/7 & Tu-11/8: Pt.3, Ch.37-42, pp.273-327; W-11/9 & Th-11/10 (3-Day Weekend-F 11/11/11 is Vet.’s Day): Ch.43-51, pp. 328-415; M-11/14, Tu-11/15, W-11/16: Novel Review & Evaluation(s).

F-10/28: Begin reading & note-taking on K. Hosseini’s A Thousand Splendid Sons, Part I, Ch.1-9, pp. 3-61 (1^st Set of Notes are due on Wednesday, 11/2); you will read approx. 35-50+ pages per night – Novel Due Monday, 11/15! Reading Reminder: continue to focus your notes on items related to characters (1), important events/situations/occurrences (2), & important quotes/passages (3); always be alert for items like tone, point of view, foreshadowing, theme, & other literary elements in the reading each night. [Be prepared to explain/answer questions on the reading(s) @ anytime (see/refer to class policy Item#8); there may also be opportunities to use your hand-written notes/observations on certain evaluations/assessments as I believe in allowing students who prepare properly to help themselves occasionally.]

W-10/19 thru W-10/26: Continue reading & note-taking in Z.N. Hurston’s Their Eyes Were Watching God; you will read approx. 35-50+ pages per night – Novel Due Wednesday, 10/26. Reading assignments are as follows: W-10/19: Ch. 5 & 6, pp.51-75; Th-10/20: Ch. 7-10, pp.75-99; F-10/21(weekend): Ch. 11-17, pp.100-153; M-10/24: Ch.18-20, pp.154-194; W-10/26: Novel Review & Novel Evaluation(s). [Be prepared to explain/answer questions on the reading(s) @ anytime (see/refer to class policy Item#8); there may also be opportunities to use your hand-written notes/observations on certain evaluations/assessments as I believe in allowing students who prepare properly to help themselves occasionally.]

M-10/17: Begin reading & note-taking on Z.N. Hurston’s Their Eyes Were Watching God, Ch.1-5, pp. 1-50 (1^st Set of Notes are due on Wednesday, 10/19); you will read approx. 35-50+ pages per night – Novel Due Wednesday, 10/26! Reading Reminder: continue to focus your notes on items related to characters (1), important events/situations/occurrences (2), & important quotes/passages (3); always be alert for items like tone, point of view, foreshadowing, theme, & other literary elements in the reading each night. [Be prepared to explain/answer questions on the reading(s) @ anytime (see/refer to class policy Item#8); there may also be opportunities to use your hand-written notes/observations on certain evaluations/assessments as I believe in allowing students who prepare properly to help themselves occasionally.]

F-10/14: Novel Review & Evaluation!

W-10/12 & Th-10/13: Students were instructed to read pages 434-502 (Vol. III, Ch. 8-12) in Jane Eyre and to complete the required notes (see 9/30 entry for specifics re: notes), which will be collected on Friday, 10/14.

Tu-10/11: Students were instructed to read pages 401-433 (Vol. III, Ch. 5-7) in Jane Eyre and to complete the required notes (see 9/30 entry for specifics re: notes), which will be collected on Friday, 10/14.

Th-10/6 & F-10/7 (Columbus Day weekend): Students were instructed to read pages 221-400 (Vol. II, Ch. 4 thru Vol.III, Ch. 4) in Jane Eyre and to complete the required notes (see 9/30 entry for specifics re: notes), which will be collected on Tuesday, 10/11.

W-10/5: Students were instructed to read pages 185-220 (Vol. II, Ch.2-3) & to complete the required notes on that section in Jane Eyre (see 9/30 entry for specifics re: notes), which will be collected on Thursday, 10/6. Students were also instructed to bring notes for use on a sample AP writing section; in-class evaluation(s) are on Thursday, 10/6 & Friday, 10/7.

M-10/3 & Tu-10/4: Students completed another section of the AP Diagnostic Test (from 2004 released test) #20-45 in test packet pages 22-27. Students were also instructed to read pages 97-184 in Jane Eyre and to complete the required notes (see 9/30 entry for specifics re: notes), which will be collected on Wednesday, 10/5. Students were also instructed to bring notes for use on a sample AP writing section; in-class evaluation on Wednesday, 10/5.

F-9/30: (Weekend) Begin reading & taking notes on C. Bronte’s Jane Eyre, Vol. I: Ch. 1-9, pp. 13-96(2-3 pages of notes are due on Mon.10/3; you will read approx. 35-50+ pages per night – Novel Due Wednesday, 10/12. Reading Reminder: continue to focus your notes on items related to characters (1), important events/situations/occurrences (2), & important quotes/passages (3); always be alert for items like tone, point of view, foreshadowing, theme, & other literary elements in the reading each night. [Be prepared to explain/answer questions on the reading(s) @ anytime (see/refer to class policy Item#8). There may also be opportunities to use your hand-written notes/observations on certain evaluations/assessments as I believe in allowing students who prepare properly to help themselves occasionally.

W-9/21 thru F-9/30: Continue reading & taking notes on M. Shelley’s Frankenstein; you will read approx. 35-50+ pages per night – Novel Due Friday, 9/30. Reading assignments are as follows: W-9/21: pp.22-55; Th-9/22: pp.56-86; F-9/23(weekend): pp.87-134; M-9/26 & Tu-9/27: pp.135-177; W-9/28: pp.178-206; Th-9/29 & F-9/30: Novel Review & then Novel Evaluation(s). Stay up to date with your novel notes, & always be prepared for unannounced quizzes (see Class Policy item#8)!

M-9/19 & Tu-9/20: Begin reading & taking notes on M. Shelley’s Frankenstein, pp. vii-xix (Diane Johnson’s Introduction), pp. xxi-xxviii (Author’s Introduction & Preface), then pp.1-21; you will read approx. 35-50+ pages per night – Novel Due Friday, 9/30. Reading Reminder: continue to focus your notes on items related to characters (1), important events/situations/occurrences (2), & important quotes/passages (3); always be alert for items like tone, point of view, foreshadowing, theme, & other literary elements in the reading each night. [Be prepared to explain/answer questions on the reading(s) @ anytime (see/refer to class policy Item#8). There may also be opportunities to use your hand-written notes/observations on certain evaluations/assessments as I believe in allowing students who prepare properly to help themselves occasionally.

***Special note from class on 9/9 & thru the conclusion of “Les Miz” unit: as per our class viewing/discussion on F-9/9, please consider watching the rest of the BBC documentary on The Romantics: Liberty (2005) as an educational enrichment experience that will undoubtedly help AP students improve their understanding of the contributions that the romantic poets & writers made to modern literature. During class we viewed approx.24 min. of that video; approximately 35 min. of material remains. Please consider watching the rest of that documentary on YouTube in two or three 10-15 min. chunks/segments at your own pace or as your schedule permits. An understanding of how romanticism reshaped western literature is crucial to an understanding of/appreciation for the types of literature that we have today; some literary critics even go so far as to suggest that it is the most important influence on the literature we currently have/create today. The series attempts to bring to life the invaluable contributions of poets like Blake, Wordsworth, Coleridge, & Shelley, and writers like Diderot & Rousseau (& later writers like Hugo, Dickens, Bronte, Austen, etc…) to the new social/cultural movement that would eventually come to be known as romanticism.

***Special note from class on 9/7: as per our class discussion on W-9/7, please be sure to focus your “note-taking” work (1-3 pages per reading segment) on items concerning (1) Character(s); (2) Important(significant) events/occurrences/situations or experiences in the literary work (3 to 5 examples); (3) Important passages &/or quotes from that literary work (3 to 5 examples). Such focused notes should enable the student to plan for evaluations in the present & those in the future (on the AP Exam in May).

W-9/7 thru W-9/21: Continue reading & note-taking in V. Hugo’s Les Miserables; you will read approx. 35-50+ pages per night – Novel Due Friday, 9/16. Reading assignments are as follows: W-9/7: pp.40-89; Th-9/8: pp.90-141; F-9/9(weekend): pp.141-219; M-9/12: pp.219-258; Tu-9/13: pp.258-300; W-9/14: pp.301-340; Th-9/15 & F-9/16: pp.340-400; M-9/19: Novel Review; Tu-9/20 & W-9/21: Novel Evaluation(s). Bring AFTA, JLC, T2C, & GW to class for group discussions until further notice. Reading Reminder - focus on items like tone, point of view, foreshadowing & other literary elements; look for significant, quotes, situations, conversations, descriptions, events, etc., that are important for one reason or other in the reading each night. [Be prepared to explain/answer questions on the reading(s) @ anytime (see/refer to class policy Item#8); there may also be opportunities to use your hand-written notes/observations on certain evaluations/assessments as I believe in allowing students who prepare properly to help themselves occasionally.] ALSO: Get Teacher Copy of Classroom Policy & the Language/Arts (English) Department Manual Form signed by your parent/guardian and return it to Instructor by Monday, 9/12; Get specific supplies for this class by Monday, 9/12.

Tu-9/6: Begin reading & note-taking on V. Hugo’s Les Miserables, pp. 1-39; you will read approx. 35-50+ pages per night – Novel Due Friday, 9/16. Bring AFTA, JLC, T2C, & GW to class daily for group discussions until further notice. Reading Reminder - focus on items like tone, point of view, foreshadowing & other literary elements; look for significant, quotes, situations, conversations, descriptions, events, etc., that are important for one reason or other in the reading each night. [Be prepared to explain/answer questions on the reading(s) @ anytime (see/refer to class policy Item#8); there may also be opportunities to use your hand-written notes/observations on certain evaluations/assessments as I believe in allowing students who prepare properly to help themselves occasionally.] ALSO: Get Teacher Copy of Classroom Policy & the Language/Arts (English) Department Manual Form signed by your parent/guardian and return it to Instructor by Monday, 9/12; Get specific supplies for this class by Monday, 9/12.

PERIOD 4 (D) - SPEECH & DEBATE 15 (SENIOR ENGLISH ELECTIVE): (1st Semester)

Tu-1/17: Due to a delayed opening on a half-day (Prof. Development), students were given their exam topics one full week in advance: 3-3:30min speech on a theme of their own creation using any 6-8 quotes (+ 2 of their own= 8-10 total) from the Quotes’ Packet handout distributed in class today.

Th-1/12 & F-1/13: Class began Humorous Anecdote/Story speeches in class. Three day weekend (MLK Day) is this weekend; no new homework for the long weekend.

W-1/11: Class did not meet today as per the current schedule.

F-1/6: Class finished New Year’s Resolutions speeches, & then began the first couple of 2011 News Retrospective speeches (see Tu-1/3 entry).

W-1/4: Class does not meet. Th-1/5: Class began New Year’s Resolutions Speeches today; __? down – __ to go.

M-12/19: Class began “Holiday/Winter Traditions/Experiences/Memories” Speeches today; speeches were postponed until Tuesday/Wednesday watched a documentary (DVD) aimed at enabling students to appreciate the things that they have at this particular time of year.

F-12/16: Class concluded Letters of Appreciation Speeches, then began preparation work for the Holiday/Winter Traditions/Experiences/Memories Speeches which will be due on M-12/19.

W-12/14: Finished ALRR#10 presentations; then class began “Letter of Appreciation” speeches, which we will conclude on F-12/16. Class does not meet tomorrow as it is dropped as per current schedule.

Tu-12/13: Began ALRR#10 presentations; then began work on “Letter of Appreciation” Speech that will be delivered tomorrow, 12/14.

M-12/12: Finished up poetry presentations; began work on ALRR#10 which needs to be ready for tomorrow, Tu-12/13.

F-12/9: Class resumed poetry presentations; will need to finish up on Monday (13 down, 6 to go).

Th-12/8: Class began their poetry presentations today; we got 6 done, 13 to go.

W-12/7: Class does not meet today as it is dropped as per the current schedule.

Tu-12/6: Students began to do prep work (in Media Ctr.) for poetry presentations which will begin during the next class (on either Wed. or Thurs. of this week.)

Mon-12/5: Students began ALRR#9 speeches in class today; will continue tomorrow. Students were instructed to bring a copy of a poem to class tomorrow (min. 14-20 lines on a topic of their own choice) for a presentation to be worked out in class on Tues. 12/6.

F-12/2: Students will complete ALRR#9 (see entry below) for Mon. 12/5. Have a good weekend!

M-11/28 thru Th-12/1: Students will create & develop a “Demonstration” Speech for presentation to the class; speech should be tightly focused on a singular action/event, be 3-5 minutes in length, be written out in a detailed outline format, & engage your audience. ALRR#9 (A reaction to 3-4 of your peers’ “Demo” presentations) will follow immediately on the heels of this assignment!

M-11/21 thru W-11/23: Class began “Thanksgiving Memories/Experiences” Speeches; speech presentations will run thru Wed. 11/23.

Th-11/17: Students completed their “Quote” presentations (except for one) & were instructed to complete their ALRR#8 for F-11/18.

W-11/16: Class did not meet today as it was dropped as per the current schedule; refer to assignment from 11/15!

Tu-11/15: Students began “Quote” presentations today. We got thru 9; 9 to go. ALRR#8 (based on student’s reactions to 3 of their peers’ quotes – 1-1.5 pages in length) is due as soon as class is finished with the presentations.

M-11: Students were instructed to (A) select a meaningful quote [1 complete thought/1-3 sentence(s)], (B) provide background/context on the quote, (C) explain its meaning/significance, (D) & then explain how the quote provides/has meaning/importance in your own life. Assignment is due for the next class meeting period – Tu-11/15.

F-11/12: No school – Veteran’s Day! Have a safe weekend!

Th-11/11: Class did not meet today as it is dropped as per the current schedule; see assignment from M-11/7!

W-11/10: Class resumed “Issues Facing Voters” speeches from M-11/7.

Tu-11/8: No School as district buildings are being used for local elections. See assignment from M-11/7.

M-11/7: Class began their “Issues Facing Voters” Speeches; we got thru 6 of them. Speeches will be continued on Wednesday, 11/9, because there is no school on Tuesday, 11/8, due to local elections taking place in our district buildings tomorrow.

F-11/4: Class resumed the where it left off with the 10/31 assignment that it began on 11/3. Also please note the following weekend HWK assignment: Students are to prepare a 2:30-3:30min. (that’s 2-3pages) written speech dealing the following topic: “Identify the 3-4 most pressing issues facing voters [either @ the local, state, national, and/or international level(s)] in the upcoming Nov. 8 elections.” Presentations will begin on Monday, Nov.7!

Th-11/3:. Classes finally resumed on a half-day schedule; we picked up where we left off with the M-10/31 assignment.

W-11/2: Class did not meet today as it is dropped as per the current schedule; see assignment from the M-10/31 entry.

Tu-11/1: **Unfortunately school was cancelled due to Storm Albert; Assignment was pushed back until Wed., 11/2, when classes resumed.

M-10/31: **Unfortunately school was cancelled due to Storm Albert; Assignment was pushed back until Wed., 11/2, when classes resumed.

M-10/31: Students began ALRR#7 presentations today.

F-10/28: Finished the film The King’s Speech and allowed students to begin work on ALRR#7 which is due on Monday, 10/31.

Th-10/27: Students continued viewing & taking notes/answering questions on the film The King’s Speech in class; students will eventually write a “film review” as an “ALRR” speech for the end of the week (Th-10/27 or F-10/28). not meet today as it is dropped as per the current schedule; see assignment from W-10/26 entry!

W-10/26: Class did not meet today as it is dropped as per the current schedule; see assignment from W-10/26 entry!

Tu-10/25: Students continued viewing & taking notes/answering questions on the film The King’s Speech in class; students will eventually write a “film review” as an “ALRR” speech for the end of the week (Th-10/27 or F-10/28).

M-10/24: Students read an article by Dr. Frank Harris III on the First Amendment & Public Speaking, & then they began taking notes on/viewing the film The King’s Speech in class; students will eventually write a “film review” as an “ALRR” speech for the end of the week (Th-10/27 or F-10/28).

Th-10/20: Class did not meet today as it is dropped as per the current schedule; see assignment from W-10/19 entry!

Tu-10/18 & W-10/19: Student’s began presenting ALRR#6 in class. We got thru 16 today; 2 to go.

M-10/18: ALRR#6 (on Morgan Spurlock’s documentary The Greatest Movie Ever Sold) is due tomorrow!

Th-10/6 & F-10/7: Students finished their “FF” speeches & began their ALRR#5 presentations.

Tu-10/4 & W-10/5: Students began “Fast Forward” Speeches and were informed that ALRR#5 is due Wed. 10/5.

M-10/3: Students were assigned their next speech – a “Fast Forward” speech; students were told that they would be “Fast-Forwarded” 20-25 years into the future. In a 2-2.5 minute speech, students need to communicate reasonable speculation re: their occupational status, personal/interpersonal relationship status, & possible interesting accomplishments they may have achieved by that point in their lives. Speech is due tomorrow, Tuesday, 10/4.

F-9/30: Begin ALRR#4 presentations in class. No new/additional homework for this upcoming weekend; please read something dealing with current events to keep yourself mentally sharp, & be safe!

Th-9/29: No school – Religious Holiday; see assignment from Mon. – Wed.’s entries!

Tu-9/27 & W-9/28: Class finished ALRR#3 & began “The Most Valuable Learning Experience” speeches in class; those speeches will continue into Wednesday’s (& possibly Friday’s) class. Class was advised that ALRR#4 is due on Friday, 9/30.

M-9/26: Class began work on ALRR’s from Friday (a half day) & were asked to write their next major speech: 1.25-2.5 page essay on “What has been the most valuable learning experience in your life to date, and what individual helped to guide you to the lesson(s) you gained from that experience?” Assignment is due tomorrow, Tuesday, 9/27.

M-9/19 thru Th-9/22: Presentations begin tomorrow (& continue thru Thursday/Friday of this week) on your “Shoebox/Paper Bag” Speech (5 items that provide insight as to who you are as a person); speeches are due Tu-9/20 (1-2 page, “Outline” format is due @ the beginning of class tomorrow).

Tu-9/13 thru Th-9/14: The class will be presenting “The most pressing issue” speeches & may need (depending on what day the class gets dropped in the weekly schedule) to use part of Th-9/15’s class to conclude those speeches. Class has also been advised that they will be responsible for completing 2 “ALRR’s” (see M-9/12 entry for full explanation) by the end of class on F-9/16.

M-9/12: Begin thinking about the types of things that you heard today as you in listened to your peers’ speeches (active listening); identify a topic/idea which you could/would like to write about for your first “Active Listening Reaction Response (ALRR),” In-Class, writing assignment (75-125 words/1-2 pages, hand-written essay) which you will be required to complete during class tomorrow.

Friday 9/9: Write Journal Essay (JE) #2 (2-3 pages/175-250 words & should be hand-written) on the following topic: “Identify the most pressing issue facing folks 18-25 years of age in our culture today?” Be sure to explain the issue thoroughly & to use examples to help your audience understand the points that you are trying to convey to them. ALSO: Get Teacher Copy of Classroom Policy & the Language/Arts (English) Department Manual Form signed by your parent/guardian and return it to Instructor by Monday, 9/12; Get specific supplies for this class by Monday, 9/12. Have a nice weekend!

Th-9/7: Write Journal Essay #1 (1-2 pages/90-150 words & should be hand-written) on the following topic: Identify a strange yet useful/helpful item(thing) that is basically helpful/beneficial to human beings in some way…then, explain how it is both useful & beneficial. Be prepared to deliver that speech on Friday, 9/9. ALSO: Get Teacher Copy of Classroom Policy & the Language/Arts (English) Department Manual Form signed by your parent/guardian and return it to Instructor by Monday, 9/12; Get specific supplies for this class by Monday, 9/12.

Wed-9/7: Class did not meet today as per the schedule.

PERIOD 6 (F) – FRESHMEN ENGLISH 15 (SURVEY ENGLISH CLASS): (1st Semester)

Tu-1/17: Due to a delayed opening on a half-day (Prof. Development), students were given time to in 20 min. classes to complete work from the long weekend (F-1/13). See assignment from Friday below!

F-1/13: Students continued work in Of Mice & Men; assignment for tonight is to read & take notes on pages 99-108 (Ch. 6) in that text for M-1/16 & Tu-1/17. Complete 35 vocabulary (definitions, sentences, & A.T. List) for Wed. 1/17! Homework will count as a Quiz grade. Long weekend (MLK Day) is coming up this weekend.

W-1/11 & Th-1/12: Students will continue to work on Of Mice & Men; assignment for tonight is to read & take notes on pages 84-98 (Ch. 5) in that text for F-1/13.

Tu-1/10: Students continued work in Of Mice & Men; assignment for tonight is to read & take notes on pages 79-83 (Ch. 4) in that text for W-1/11.

M-1/9: Students continued work in Of Mice & Men; assignment for tonight is to read & take notes on pages 66-78 (Ch. 4) in that text for Tu-1/10.

F-1/6: Students continued work in Of Mice & Men; assignment for tonight is to read & take notes on pages 38-65 (Ch. 3) in that text for M-1/9.

W-1/4: Students continued work in Of Mice & Men; assignment for tonight is to read & take notes on pages 17-37 (Ch. 2) in that text for F-1/6 (There is no class on Th-1/5).

Tu-1/3: Students began reading J. Steinbeck’s Of Mice & Men; assignment for tonight is to read & take notes on pages 9-16 in that text.

W-12/21 thru F-12/23: Students read and completed an Allusion Analysis on O. Henry’s short story “The Gift of the Magi.”

Tu-12/20: Students revised CAPT Question #4 & are to complete #3 for tomorrow (2/3rds of a written response is expected).

M-12/19: Students revised CAPT Question #2 & were instructed to complete CAPT Question #4 for class tomorrow.

F-12/16: Students were asked to complete CAPT question #2 on CAPT Exercise “100 Bucks of Happy” for class on Monday, 12/19.

Tu-12/13 & W-12/14: Class completed an in-class essay test on figurative language in W. Gibson’s play The Miracle Worker. Class was instructed to read S. B. Pfeffer’s short story “A Hundred Bucks of Happy” for class on Friday 12/16. Class does not meet tomorrow as it is dropped as per the current schedule.

M-12/12: Class reviewed elements of figurative language & theme and should prepare for an evaluation on that MW material for tomorrow.

F-12/9: Class took vocabulary evaluation; students were instructed to study the elements (definitions) of Figurative Language for an evaluation on next Tuesday.

Th-12/8: Class did not meet as it was dropped as per the current schedule.

W-12/7: Moved Vocabulary Evaluation to Friday, 12/9; reviewed important aspects of play (MW) in preparation/advance of a test on the play.

Tu-12/6: Students watched all of Act 3 on DVD as an aid in understanding the play. Students need to study the 25 MW vocabulary words in advance of an evaluation tomorrow (see info from M-12/5 entry *** re: associative tools & original sentences).

M-12/5: Finish MW Act 3 Questions #5, 7 & 8; study for a vocabulary evaluation on Wed. 12/7 (25 MW words) – ***create an “associative tool” list and an original list of sentences which can be used as a test/quiz aid. Evaluation will be on Wed. 12/7.

F-12/2: Finish reading the play – Miracle Worker - & answer the following questions (#1-4, 6, 8 & 9) on the class handout at the end of Act 3; this work will be treated as a take-home quiz!. Please also begin to study the 25 vocabulary words from the play as there may be a quiz on Monday, 12/5.

Th-12/1: Class did not meet today as it is dropped as per the current schedule.

W-11/30: Students will read & take notes on pages 83-103 in the Miracle Worker play text for Friday, 12/2.

Tu-11/29: Students were asked to complete a 6-Question Take-Home Quiz from Acts I & II of the Miracle Worker for tomorrow, 11/30.

M-11/28: Students will be sure that they have completed the assignment from 11/23 for class tomorrow.

W-11/23: Students will finish the remainder of their vocabulary words (approx. 25 definitions & 25 sentences), read pp. 62-83 in the play, and answer Questions#1-6, & #9 on the Act II handout sheet that was provided in class today; assignment should be completed for Mon., 11/28. Have a good Thanksgiving break!

Tu-11/22: Students worked on the nine Act#1 questions from the play in class; students were asked to read pp. 51-62 in the play, answer question #9 tonight in a complete paragraph, & complete the 12-15 sentences for the next installment of their MW vocabulary for tomorrow.

M-11/21: Students watched segments of the play on DVD that corresponded with the reading that had done to date. Students were asked to complete vocabulary work (15 voc. words – provide 15 definitions & 15 sentences for those words) & to read and take notes on pp.38-51 in the play text itself for tomorrow.

F-11/18: Class read/took notes on the first 21 pages of the play. Students were asked to read & take notes on pp. 22-38 over the weekend.

Th-11/17: Class did not meet today as it was dropped as per the current schedule; see assignment from W-11/16!

W-11/16: Students finished a background videotape (& worksheet) on Helen Keller’s life, and were asked to read pp.7-21 in Gibson’s play.

M-11/14 & Tu-11/15: Instructor wrapped up unit on Short Story Elements & introduced background information on W. Gibson’s play The Miracle Worker. Students are supposed to read the 1^st 4-5 pages of the play’s text for Homework tonight.

F-11/12: No school – Veteran’s Day! Have a safe weekend!

Th-11/11: Class did not meet today as it is dropped as per the current schedule; see assignment from M-11/7! No new homework for the weekend!

W-11/10: Class resumed & completed Short Story Evaluations from Monday, 11/7.

Tu-11/8: No School as district buildings are being used for local elections. See assignment from M-11/7.

M-11/7: Students began their evaluation (which will be completed on Wed.) & were instructed to read J. Thurber’s short story “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” (pp.152-156 in their blue UL texts) and complete 5?’s on page 156-7 for Wednesday.

F-11/4: Class discussed W-11/2 assignment in preparation for M & W’s evaluations.

Th-11/3: Class did not meet today as it is dropped as per the current schedule; see W-11/2 assignment & come prepared for Friday’s evaluation.

W-11/2: Classes finally resumed on a half-day schedule; we picked up where we left off with the M-10/31 assignment; students were asked to read J. Stuart’s short story “Split Cherry Tree” pp.54-62, & were asked to answer questions #1-7 on pages 62-63: Major Short Story Test has been moved back to Friday, 11/4.

Tu-11/1: **Unfortunately school was cancelled due to Storm Albert; Assignment was pushed back until Wed., 11/2, when classes resumed.

M-10/31: **Unfortunately school was cancelled due to Storm Albert; Assignment was pushed back until Wed., 11/2, when classes resumed.

F-10/28: Study all short story notes for a major evaluation on M-10/31 & Tu-11/1.

Tu-10/25 thru F-10/28: Read G. Maupassant’s short story “The Necklace” (pp. 139-144 in the Understanding Literature textbook & answer Study Questions #1-5, 7 & 8 on page 144-5 in your notebooks – that assignment will be collected & graded as a quiz on Friday, 10/28!) Note: I am available for “XTRA-HELP” on during lunch/activity period & after school if you need it! Remember – “No one is ever condemned by fate to a state of ignorance; we condemn ourselves when we procrastinate.” - A. Camus

M-10/24: Students need to study both short stories from W-10/19 & F-10/21 as their will be an evaluation on those two short stories in the next 2-3 days!

F-10/21: Students turned in the Poe questions W-10/19 & reviewed Short Story Evaluation in class today; students were also instructed to complete the following assignment For Monday, 10/24: Read R. Dahl’s short story “Beware of the Dog” (pp. 86-93 in Understanding Lit. textbook & answer Study Questions #1-6 on page 84 in your notebooks – that assignment will be collected & graded as a quiz on Monday, 10/24! Note: I am available for “XTRA-HELP” on M-10/24 during lunch & after school if you need it! Remember – “No one is ever condemned by fate to a state of ignorance; we condemn ourselves when we procrastinate.” - A. Camus

Th-10/20: Class did not meet today as it is dropped as per the current schedule; see assignment from W-10/19 entry!

W-10/19: Students took Short Story Evaluation in class today; students were also instructed to complete the following assignment For Friday, 10/21: Read E.A. Poe’s short story “The Tell-Tale Heart” (pp. 81-84 in Understanding Lit. textbook & answer Study Questions #1-8 on page 84 in your notebooks – that assignment will be collected & graded as a quiz on Friday! Note: I am available for “XTRA-HELP” on W-10/19, Th-10/20, & F-10/21 during lunch & after school if you need it! Remember – “No one is ever condemned by fate to a state of ignorance; we condemn ourselves when we procrastinate.” - A. Camus

Tu-10/18: Students were allowed to ask questions & complete a study guide on the 4 short stories (“Monkey’s Paw,” “Most Dangerous Game,” “Mother in Mannville,” & “Interlopers”) that we have done to date. That evaluation will be an open notebook/textbook evaluation; students need to prepare properly for this major evaluation!

M-10/17: Students received a “Word Usage/Grammar/Parts of Speech,” & were told to begin preparation for a test/quiz on the four short stories that we’ve read to date: (“Monkey’s Paw,” “Most Dangerous Game,” “Mother in Mannville,” & “Interlopers”)!

F-10/14: Students will study for a quiz on short stories & on grammar for Monday, 10/17.

Th-10/13: Class does not meet today as it is dropped from the schedule (see normal weekly class meeting schedule) today.

W-10/12: Class did not meet today due to a re-vamped schedule that allowed for PSAT Testing/Parent Conferences.

Tu-10/11: Students were asked to identify the conflicts in the first 4 short stories that we have read (“Monkey’s Paw,” “Beware of the Dog,” “Mother in Manneville,” & “Interlopers”) & to cite evidence (from the actual stories) that support their answers, and to identify the protagonist & and antagonist in each story also. Work is to be submitted to instructor & will be graded as a take-home quiz.

M-10/10: No school – Columbus Day – OFF.

F-10/7: Students were asked to read Saki’s short story “The Interlopers” on pages 76-80 & answer Study Questions #1-9, & the following inferential question, “What does the word ‘Interloper’ mean? Is there a ‘double meaning’ that might be associated with it? What is the importance of the ‘twist’ that occurs at the end of the story?” (on page 80) in their blue literature text for Tuesday, 10/11.

Th-10/6: Class was dropped & did not meet today as per the schedule; please see 10/3, 4, & 5 entries for your assigned work.

W-10/5: Students took a quiz on parts of speech/word use in a written passage. Students were asked to complete Questions #5-8 on page 54 for M.K. Rawlings’ short story “A Mother in Manneville”; in addition, they must complete the “Flat/Round” Character question in column #2 on page 54, as well as the inferential question “Why do people lie?” & how does that question relate to M.K. Rawling’s short story? Answer should be in paragraph form (5-8 sentences in length).
Tu-10-4: Students examined strategies for studying the 8 Parts of Speech & study tips for understanding CONFLICT in any piece of literature. Students were then asked to read M.K. Rawlings’ short story “A Mother in Manneville” on pages 48-53, & answer Study Questions #1-4 on page 54 in their blue literature text for tomorrow, Wednesday, 10/5.

M-10/3: Students finished Friday’s quiz on the vocabulary & R. Connell’s short story & were instructed to study for a possible quiz tomorrow.

F-9/30: Study “Most Dangerous Game” vocabulary words for a 2^nd quiz on Mon. 10/3; continue to study the 8 Parts of Speech for an evaluation on Mon. 10/3 or Tues. 10/4. Please read something dealing with current events to keep yourself mentally sharp, & be safe; enjoy your weekend!

Th-9/29: No school: religious holiday.

W-9/28: Study for a vocabulary quiz (13 words from “The Most Dangerous Game”) & an “IWQ” evaluation on “The Most Dangerous Game.”

Tu-9/27: Please provide a definition, part of speech, a synonym, a sentence in context (from the actual story itself), and an original sentence (of your creation with at least 12-15 words in it) for the 13 words (located on the blackboard) from R. Connell’s short story “The Most Dangerous Game.” The 13 Vocabulary Words are as follows: tangible, palpable, malign, condone, naïve, debacle, haggard, venerable, solicit, imprudent, affable, amenities, zealous)

M-9/26: Students took a diagnostic grammar assessment & turned in their 15 questions on R. Connell’s short story “The Most Dangerous Game.” Students were assigned the task of coming up with 5 inferential questions from that story, & then answer those questions in 4-7 sentence paragraphs. Assignment is due Tuesday, 9/27.

W-9/21 thru F-9/23: Class reviewed the questions on the *IWQ* from 9/20 to insure that students grasped the concepts re: what is expected of them as HS readers & were introduced to the ideas (literary elements) re: irony & its use in short stories. Students will read R. Connell’s short story “The Most Dangerous Game” (pp.11-25) & will complete the following questions (in complete sentences) re: the story on pp.25-26: Study Questions #1-7; Thinking About Conflict Questions #1 & 2; & the Thinking about Foreshadowing question (10 total); the assignment is due M-9/26. Students have 5 days to complete the assignment, & should not wait to the Sunday @ 10pm to get started on this work! Students are also responsible for coming up with/developing 5 general questions about the story that (once they are answered) will enable them to do well on their test on that short story. (P.S. The Instructor is available for extra-help on Th-9/22 & F-9/23 @ lunch & after school should students need assistance w/ the material. Remember – “No one is ever condemned by fate to a state of ignorance; we condemn ourselves when we procrastinate.” - A. Camus.) Students should also study for a Test on the Parts of Speech on F-9/23!

Tu-9/20: Student took an “open book/open notebook,” *Inferential Writing Quiz* (*IWQ* - 5 questions total) on W.W. Jacobs’ short story “The Monkey’s Paw.” Homework due tomorrow, 9/21: identify & write up 10 Questions on the 8 Parts of Speech – 10 Specific Questions that addresses the following issue: “What don’t you know about the 8 Parts of Speech that you know you will need to know in order to do well on the 8 Parts of Speech Evaluation?”

M-9/19: Students need to prepare for a quiz on W.W. Jacobs’ short story “The Monkey’s Paw” & one on parts of speech.

F-9/16: Read W.W. Jacobs’ short story “The Monkey’s Paw” in the Understanding Literature (UL) textbook (pp.2-9) & complete questions #1-5 on p.9; answer all questions in complete sentences (please be thorough & specific) on a separate sheet of paper as it will be collected & graded. This assignment is due @ the beginning of class on Monday, 9/19.

Th-9/15: Class does not meet today because it is dropped as per the weekly schedule. Please be sure to refer to & complete the assignment from W-9/15. Be ready for a quiz on Parts of Speech!

W-9/14: Complete the Diagnostic Test Exercise on pages 341-342 on a separate sheet of paper as it will be graded. Study for a quiz on the 8 Parts of Speech on Friday, 9/16.

Tu-9/13: Using your Parts of Speech work from the previous evening, create 8 “quality” sentences which feature one of the 8 parts of speech in the sentences that you’ve created. Study for a quiz on the 8 Parts of Speech on Wednesday, 9/14, & Thursday, 9/15.

M-9/12: Please prepare (by writing them out in your notebook) a definition for each of the 8 parts of speech in the English language. Be prepared to identify those parts of speech in writing samples (quiz) provided in class tomorrow (Hint: prepare for a quiz on that information!)

F-9/9: Be sure to that the 1st draft of the “Letter to your English Instructor” is complete; then edit that document for form, grammar, & content, and then be sure to produce a “Final Draft” (may be hand-written or typed) of that essay/letter for class on Monday, 9/12 (Be advised that Assignments that are turned in late will suffer a two (2) letter grade penalty per day – as per the class policy).

Th-9/8: Class did not meet today as per the schedule; finish 1^st Draft of your “Letter to your English Instructor” for the beginning of class tomorrow.

Tu-9/6 & W-9/7: Read “Class Policy” & “The HKHS English Department Language/Arts Manual,” get them signed, & return it to the instructor by M-9/12; get supplies for this class (see/refer to Class Policy item #4) by M-9/12. Write the “Introductory Letter to Your English Instructor” (2-3 page, hand-written essay) that is due @ the beginning of class on Thursday, 9/8. Supplementing the class discussion today, that letter needs to include/address the following items: 1) Paragraph 1* (*4-7 sentences) – General info on you, where you are from, & what your family is like; 2) Paragraph 2*- General info on your interests/activities/sports/hobbies (either inside or outside of school), etc.; 3) Paragraph 3*- General info on the aspects &/or subjects that you really enjoy in school; 4) Paragraph 4*- General info on your strengths & weaknesses in English; 5) Paragraph 5*- General info on what goals you may have for this upcoming school year; 6) Paragraph 6*(Optional)- General info on any special/relevant information/skill(s)/capabilities/items that may help the instructor get to know you a better. ALSO: Get Teacher Copy of Classroom Policy & the Language/Arts (English) Department Manual Form signed by your parent/guardian and return it to Instructor by Monday, 9/12; Get specific supplies for this class by Monday, 9/12.

PERIOD 7 (G) - SPEECH & DEBATE 15 (SENIOR ENGLISH ELECTIVE): (1st Semester)

W-1/18: Due to a delayed opening on a half-day (Prof. Development), students were given their exam topics one full week in advance: 3-3:30min speech on a theme of their own creation using any 6-8 quotes (+ 2 of their own= 8-10 total) from the Quotes’ Packet handout distributed in class today

Tu-1/17: Class did not meet today as per the current schedule.

Th-1/12 & F-1/13: Class began Humorous Anecdote/Story speeches in class; there is no class on W-1/11, as it is dropped as per the current schedule. Three day weekend (MLK Day) is this weekend; no new homework for the long weekend.

F-1/6: Class finished New Year’s Resolutions speeches, & then began the first couple of 2011 News Retrospective speeches (see Tu-1/3 entry).

Th-1/5: Class began New Year’s Resolutions Speeches today; __? down – __ to go.

W-1/3: Students began work on two upcoming speeches: 1) Identify 3 New Year’s Resolutions/new goals for the upcoming year (2012) that you would like to accomplish (Due Wed., 1/4); & 2) Identify 3-4 major (important) news items (global, national, local) from 2011 & explain their significance in a speech (Due Friday, 1/6).

Tu-12/20 thru F-12/23: Students completed “Holiday/Winter Traditions/Experiences/Memories” Speeches & participated in the Holiday Show telethon. No new homework over the Winter Break; Happy Holidays! M-12/19: Class began “Holiday/Winter Traditions/Experiences/Memories” Speeches today. Class got thru 6 speeches; 16 to go; we will resume work on Wednesday.. No class tomorrow as it is dropped due to the current schedule.

F-12/9: Class resumed poetry presentations; will need to finish up on Monday; we got ___ done; still have ____ to go. Th-12/8: Students began poetry presentations today; we got 7 done, 14 to go. W-12/7: Students began to do prep work (in Media Ctr.) for poetry presentations which will begin during the next class (on either Wed. or Thurs. of this week.) Tu-12/6: Class did not meet today as it is dropped as per the current schedule. Mon-12/5: Students began ALRR#9 speeches in class today; will continue tomorrow. Students were instructed to bring a copy of a poem to class tomorrow (min. 14-20 lines on a topic of their own choice) for a presentation to be worked out in class on Tues. 12/6.

F-11/18: Students began ALRR#7 presentations. Next speech assignment (for Monday 11/21): Create a 2-3 minute speech that highlights the 3 most memorable experiences (or traditions) that have been a part of your Thanksgiving Holiday gatherings up to this point in your lives. (2-3 minutes in length/2-3 pages in length) Th-11/17: Class finished speech presentations & began work on ALRR#8 which is due tomorrow. W-11/16: Class began their “Quote” speech presentations; class got through 11-12 of them; speeches will resume tomorrow & ALRR#8 will be due on F-11/18. Tu-11/15: Class did not meet today as it is dropped as per the current schedule; see assignment from M-11/14! No new homework for the weekend M-11/14: Students were instructed to (A) select a meaningful quote [1 complete thought/1-3 sentence(s)], (B) provide background/context on the quote, (C) explain its meaning/significance, (D) & then explain how the quote provides/has meaning/importance in your own life. Assignment is due for the next class meeting period – Tu-11/15.

F-11/12: No school – Veteran’s Day! Have a safe weekend! Th-11/11: Class did not meet today as it is dropped as per the current schedule; see assignment from M-11/7! W-11/10: Class resumed “Issues Facing Voters” speeches from M-11/7. Tu-11/8: No School as district buildings are being used for local elections. See assignment from M-11/7. M-11/7: Class were given extra time to refine their “Issues Facing Voters” Speeches because the instructor had to attend a “Webinar” on the new CCE exams to be instituted in the next few years. Speeches will actually begin on Wednesday, 11/9, because there is no school on Tuesday, 11/8, due to local elections taking place in our district buildings tomorrow.

F-11/4: Class resumed the where it left off with the 10/31 assignment that it began on 11/2. Also please note the following weekend HWK assignment: Students are to prepare a 2:30-3:30min. (that’s 2-3pages) written speech dealing the following topic: “Identify the 3-4 most pressing issues facing voters [either @ the local, state, national, and/or international level(s)] in the upcoming Nov. 8 elections.” Presentations will begin on Monday, Nov.7! Th-11/3: Class resumed the where it left off with the 10/31 assignment that it began on 11/2. W-11/2: Classes finally resumed on a half-day schedule; we picked up where we left off with the M-10/31 assignment. Tu-11/1: **Unfortunately school was cancelled due to Storm Albert; Assignment was pushed back until Wed., 11/2, when classes resumed. M-10/31: Students began ALRR#7 presentations today. **Unfortunately school was cancelled due to Storm Albert; Assignment was pushed back until Wed., 11/2, when classes resumed.

F-10/28: Finished the film The King’s Speech and allowed students to begin work on ALRR#7 which is due on Monday, 10/31. Th-10/27: Students continued viewing & taking notes/answering questions on the film The King’s Speech in class; students will eventually write a “film review” as an “ALRR” speech for the end of the week (Th-10/27 or F-10/28). W-10/26: Students continued viewing & taking notes/answering questions on the film The King’s Speech in class; students will eventually write a “film review” as an “ALRR” speech for the end of the week (Th-10/27 or F-10/28). Tu-10/25: S Class did not meet today as it is dropped as per the current schedule; see assignment from W-10/26 entry! M-10/24: Students read an article by Dr. Frank Harris III on the First Amendment & Public Speaking, & then they began taking notes on/viewing the film The King’s Speech in class; students will eventually write a “film review” as an “ALRR” speech for the end of the week (Th-10/27 or F-10/28).

F-10/21: Class examined previews & attempted to recognize how film marketing agencies attempt to manipulate their audiences through the use of neuro-marketing & C-Scan techniques. No homework for this upcoming weekend; please read something dealing with current events to keep yourself mentally sharp, & be safe! W-10/19 & Th-10/20: Student’s began presenting ALRR#6 in class. Tu-10/18: Class did not meet today as it is dropped as per the current schedule; see assignment from M-10/18 entry! M-10/17: ALRR#6 (on Morgan Spurlock’s documentary The Greatest Movie Ever Sold) is due tomorrow!

Th-10/6 & F-10/7: Students finished their “FF” speeches & began their ALRR#5 presentations. W-10/5: Students began their ”FF” speeches/presentations; students were also informed that next ALRR#5 is due on Friday, 10/7. Tu-10/4: Class was dropped & did not meet today as per the schedule. M-10/3: Students were assigned their next speech – a “Fast Forward” speech; students were told that they would be “Fast-Forwarded” 20-25 years into the future. In a 2-2.5 minute speech, students need to communicate reasonable speculation re: their occupational status, personal/interpersonal relationship status, & possible interesting accomplishments they may have achieved by that point in their lives. Speech is due tomorrow, Tuesday, 10/4.

W-9/21 thru F-9/23: Class will present their “ALRR’s” (#3) in class Friday, 9/23 & M-9/26 (if necessary); see 9/12 & 9/13 entries for specifics on “ALRR’s.” No new/additional homework for this upcoming weekend; please read something dealing with current events to keep yourself mentally sharp, & be safe! M-9/19 thru Th-9/22: Presentations begin tomorrow (& continue thru Thursday/Friday of this week) on your “Shoebox/Paper Bag” Speech (5 items that provide insight as to who you are as a person); speeches are due Tu-9/20 (1-2 page, “Outline” format is due @ the beginning of class tomorrow).

F-9/16 & M-9/19: Class will present their “ALRR’s” in class today & on M-9/19 (see 2 previous entries for specifics on “ALRR’s”). No new/additional homework for this weekend; please read something & be safe! Tu-9/13 thru Th-9/14: The class will be presenting “The most pressing issue” speeches & may need (depending on what day the class gets dropped in the weekly schedule) to use part of Th-9/15’s class to conclude those speeches. Class has also been advised that they will be responsible for completing 2 “ALRR’s” (see M-9/12 entry for full explanation) by the end of class on F-9/16. M-9/12: Begin thinking about the types of things that you heard today as you in listened to your peers’ speeches (active listening); identify a topic/idea which you could/would like to write about for your first “Active Listening Reaction Response (ALRR),” In-Class, writing assignment (75-125 words/1-2 pages, hand-written essay) which you will be required to complete during class tomorrow.

Friday 9/9: No new homework today, but be sure that you have written JE#2 (see 9/8 assignment), & enjoy your weekend. ALSO: Get Teacher Copy of Classroom Policy & the Language/Arts (English) Department Manual Form signed by your parent/guardian and return it to Instructor by Monday, 9/12; Get specific supplies for this class by Monday, 9/12. Have a nice weekend! Th-9/8: Write Journal Essay (JE) #2 (2-3 pages/175-250 words & should be hand-written) on the following topic: “Identify the most pressing issue facing folks 18-25 years of age in our culture today?” Be sure to explain the issue thoroughly & to use examples to help your audience understand the points that you are trying to convey to them. W-9/7: Write Journal Essay #1 (1-2 pages/90-150 words & should be hand-written) on the following topic: Identify a strange yet useful/helpful item(thing) that is basically helpful/beneficial to human beings in some way…then, explain how it is both useful & beneficial. Be prepared to deliver that speech on Thursday, 9/9. ALSO: Get Teacher Copy of Classroom Policy & the Language/Arts (English) Department Manual Form signed by your parent/guardian and return it to Instructor by Monday, 9/12; Get specific supplies for this class by Monday, 9/12. Tu-9/6: Write a brief Introductory Speech (1-2 pages/75-125 words & should be hand-written) in which you explain/discuss the following items: 1) “Why you are taking this particular class/what you hope to get out of this course?”; 2) Identify one particular skill/talent/capability/strength that you have and wouldn’t mind sharing with the other members of the class; Be prepared to handle questions from the instructor regarding your speech in front of the class. ALSO: Get Teacher Copy of Classroom Policy & the Language/Arts (English) Department Manual Form signed by your parent/guardian and return it to Instructor by Monday, 9/12; Get specific supplies for this class by Monday, 9/12. ALSO: Get Teacher Copy of Classroom Policy & the Language/Arts (English) Department Manual Form signed by your parent/guardian and return it to Instructor by Monday, 9/12; Get specific supplies for this class by Monday, 9/12.

PERIOD 1 (A) - SPEECH & DEBATE 15 (SENIOR ENGLISH ELECTIVE): (4^th Quarter)

*SPECIAL NOTE*: Since we are only 3-4 weeks away from the end of the 2010-2011 School Year, it is important for students to be diligent in checking not only this website, but also their Classroll accounts as grades really do matter in this course! Be sure to make an appointment to meet with the Instructor to see if you are eligible to submit “Make-Up” work, &, if you are eligible, be sure to submit it ASAP so you can realize “Partial Credit” for your “LATE WORK!”

M-6/13 thru F-6/17: Exams Begin. A Period’s Exam is on Th-6/16 & runs from 9:50-11:50am.

F-6/10: Students will watch some pre-taped final speeches from previous years in advance of next week’s final exams.

Tu-6/7 & Th-9: Students will have time to prepare their finals speeches which will take place next week.

M-6/6: Senior Class Outing (1^st of 2 Outings); a portion of this class will not be in school today.

Tu-5/31 thru F-6/3: Continued the 2^nd Round of Debates on new topics; note that each debate takes between 1 &1 ½ class periods. Also gave out Final Exam topics 2 weeks in advance of the exams.

M-5/23 thru F-5/27: Began the 2^nd Round of Debates on new topics; note that each debate takes between 1 &1 ½ class periods.

M-5/16 thru F-5/20: Began the 2^nd Round of Debates on new topics; note that each debate takes between 1 &1 ½ class periods.

M-5/9 thru F-5/13: Wrapping up the last debate of the 1^st round & students will have 1 week to prepare for their 2^nd round of debates!

M-5/2 thru F-5/6: Debates continue (All 4 stages create situations in which each debate takes between 1 1/4 & 1 ½ periods)

M-4/25 thru F-4/29: Debates continue (All 4 stages create situations in which each debate takes between 1 1/4 & 1 ½ periods)

F-4/15: Began 2^nd Debate today; will continue this debate after April break on M-4/25.

Th-4/14: No class today as per the schedule.

W-4/13: Concluded 1^st debate; will begin the 2^nd debate (NCAA & the payment of collegiate athletes) will begin on Friday, 4/15.

Tu-4/12: 1^st debate (concerning the decrease in the alcoholic consumption age) began; part 2 of that debate will continue tomorrow.

M-4/11: Debates begin tomorrow!

PERIOD 3 (C) – AP ENGLISH 49 (SENIOR HONORS ENGLISH ELECTIVE): (4^th Quarter)

M-6/13 thru F-6/17: Exams Begin. C Period’s Exam is on W-6/15 & runs from 9:50-11:50am.

W-6/8 thru F-6/10: Essay Test on TGST & MW begins & concludes on Friday!

Tu-6/7: Class does not meet today as per the schedule.

M-6/6: Senior Class Outing (1^st of 2 Outings); a portion of this class will not be in school today. Students in the class will view a film that further reinforces A. Roy’s novel & is called Monsoon Wedding.

Th-6/2 & F-6/3: Major Evaluation on A. Roy’s novel The God of Small Things. Evaluation Postponed so that students could finish watching, analyzing, & taking notes on the film Monsoon Wedding.

W-6/1: Collected TGST notes & reviewed for a major evaluation on the novel (TGST) which will take place on Th-6/2!

Tu-5/31: Class did not meet today as per the schedule. TGST notes are due on W-6/1!!!

M-5/30: Memorial Day; No School!

Th-5/26 & F-5/27: Read & take notes on pp. 252-321 in A. Roy’s The God of Small Things for Tu-5/31 as there will be a quiz on the reading. HANDED OUT FINAL EXAM REVIEW GUIDES A FULL 2 WEEKS IN ADVANCE OF THAT EXAM!

W-5/25: Read & take notes on pp. 217-251 in A. Roy’s The God of Small Things for Th-5/26 as there will be a quiz on the reading.

M-5/23 & Tu-5/24: Read & take notes on pp. 179-216 in A. Roy’s The God of Small Things for W-5/25 as there will be a quiz on the reading.

Th-5/19 & F-5/20: Read & take notes on pp. 119-177 in A. Roy’s The God of Small Things for M-5/23 as there will be a quiz on the reading.

W-5/18: Read & take notes on pp. 84-117 in A. Roy’s The God of Small Things.

M-5/16 & Tu-5/17: See reading assignment from F-5/13!

M-5/9 thru F-5/13: AP Testing & read & take notes on pages 1-83 in A. Roy’s novel The God of Small Things for W-5/18.

M-5/2 thru F-5/6: AP English Test Prep Review; test is on Thursday of this week.

F-4/29: Read & take notes on Act V in Shakespeare’s Othello.

Th-4/28: Read & take notes on Act IV in Shakespeare’s Othello.

W-4/27: Read & take notes on Act III in Shakespeare’s Othello.

Tu-4/26: Class does not meet today as per the schedule.

M-4/25: Read & take notes on Acts I & II in Shakespeare’s Othello.

F-4/15: Field Trip to Wesleyan University for the HSHP lecture. Students will finish their reading (& note-taking) on M. Shelley’s Frankenstein for M-2/25; students will also complete their 2^nd AP Practice test for M-4/25.

Th-4/14: Finished Hamlet test today.

W-4/13: Began Hamlet test today.

Tu-4/12: No class today as per the schedule.

M-4/11: Hamlet test on Wednesday!

PERIOD 4 (D) – JUNIOR ENGLISH 11 (JUNIOR SURVEY COURSE): (4^th Quarter)

M-6/13 thru F-6/17: Exams Begin. D Period’s Exam is on W-6/15 & runs from 7:30-9:30am.

Th-6/2 & F-6/3: Students received their final exam review sheets a full 12 days before their actual exams. Students also began to view the film Conspiracy Theory as it has a series of direct connections to J.D. Salinger’s novel The Catcher in the Rye; there will be a question on the final exam which asks students to make connections between the film & the novel.

Tu 5/31 & W-6/1: Study for a major evaluation on J.D. Salinger’s novel The Catcher in the Rye on Th-6/2!

M-5/30: Memorial Day – No School! CITR Projects (Detailed Outlines) are due on Tu-5/31; No Projects will be accepted late or for partial credit!!!

Th-5/26 & F-5/27: Students are to read & take notes on pages 180-214 in J.D. Salinger’s Catcher in the Rye for Tu-5/31 as there will be a quiz on the material on that date! CITR Projects (Detailed Outlines) are due on Tu-5/31; No Projects will be accepted late or for partial credit!!!

Tu-5/24 & W-5/25: Students are to read & take notes on pages 157-180 in J.D. Salinger’s Catcher in the Rye for Th-5/26 as there will be a quiz on the material on that date! CITR Projects (Detailed Outlines) are due on Tu-5/31; No Projects will be accepted late or for partial credit!!!

M-5/23: Students are to read & take notes on pages 141-157 in J.D. Salinger’s Catcher in the Rye (CITR) for Tu-5/24 as there will be a quiz on the material on that date! CITR Projects (Detailed Outlines) are due on Tu-5/31; No Projects will be accepted late or for partial credit!!!

Th-5/19 & F-5/20: Students are to read & take notes on pages 123-141 in J.D. Salinger’s Catcher in the Rye for M-5/23 as there will be a quiz on the material on that date!

Tu-5/17 & W-5/18: Students are to read & take notes on pages 98-122 in J.D. Salinger’s Catcher in the Rye as there will be a quiz on the material on Thursday, 5/19!

M-5/16: Students are to read & take notes on pages 76-98 in J.D. Salinger’s Catcher in the Rye as there will be a quiz on the material on Tuesday, 5/17!

Th-5/12 & F-5/13: Students are to read & take notes on pages 35-76 in J.D. Salinger’s Catcher in the Rye as there will be a quiz on the material on Monday, 5/16!

W-5/11: No class today as per the schedule; see 5/9 & 5/10 assignments!

M-5/9 & Tu-5/10: Students watched a film, Scotland,PA, which is closely tied in to Shakespeare’s MacBeth; students were also told to read & take notes on pages 1-35 in J.D. Salinger’s Catcher in the Rye as there will be a quiz on the material on Thursday, 5/12!

Th-5/5 & F-5/6: Students will continue to work on the MacBeth Essay test!

W-5/4: No class today as per the schedule.

Tu-5/3: Oedipus/MacBeth Test! Students were allowed to finish their vocabulary tests from yesterday after an unfortunate & unanticipated time issue arose during the class period. Students then began work on MacBeth Essay test!

M-5/2: Vocabulary Test; study for Oedipus/MacBeth Test! Due to an unfortunate & unanticipated time issue during the class period, students will be allowed to finish the vocabulary test during class tomorrow, & then they will begin work on the MacBeth Essay test!

F-4/29: Vocabulary Quiz! Create a 63 word A.T. List for the 63 vocabulary words & 40 sentences (comprised of at least 12-14 words per sentence) from the 63 words on that list. Study for a vocabulary test on Monday, 5/2, and a major unit test on Oedipus/MacBeth (Elements of Tragedy) on Tuesday, 5/3.

Th-4/28: Part 2 of the MacBeth essay test. (Postponed until a viewing of the film MacBeth is complete. New assignment: complete Vocabulary worksheet for the 63 words taken from Oedipus & MacBeth, which will count as a quiz when it is submitted on F-4/29.)

W-4/27: No class as per the schedule.

Tu-4/26: Part 1 of the MacBeth Essay test. (Postponed until a viewing of the film MacBeth is complete. New assignment: complete questions #2 thru #6 on the Tragic Hero Handouts – separate sheets of paper – Will count as a quiz when they are submitted on Th-4/28.)

4/25: 49 Questions from Acts I thru V are due (counts as a test grade) today; Review for the MacBeth essay test.

Sun-4/24: Answer Act 5 questions #1-10.

Sat-4/23: Read & take notes on Act V (pp.173-205 - odd only)

F-4/22: Answer Act #4 questions #1-10.

Th-4/21: Read & take notes on Act IV (pp.133-171 - odd only)

W-4/20: Answer Act #3 questions #1-10.

Tu-4/19: Read & take notes on Act III (pp.93-131 - odd only)

M-4/18: Read Act II & Answer Act II questions #1-10. (pp.63-91)

Sat-4/16 & Sun-4/17: Read Act I (pp.21-61) in MacBeth, and answer the Act #1 questions (#1-3, 5-10)

F-4/15: Reviewed Oedipus & prepared for an evaluation on that Greek play.

Th-4/14: No class today as per the schedule.

W-4/13: Read Oedipus in class.

Tu-4/12: Read & take notes on Oedipus pp.55-75!

M-4/11: Read & take notes on Oedipus pp.75-93

PERIOD 5 (E) – JUNIOR ENGLISH 11 (JUNIOR SURVEY COURSE): (4^th Quarter)

M-6/13 thru M-6/20: Exams Begin. E Period’s Exam is on M-6/20 & runs from 7:30-9:30am.

Tu 5/31 & W-6/1: Study for a major evaluation on J.D. Salinger’s novel The Catcher in the Rye on Th-6/2!

M-5/30: Memorial Day – No School! CITR Projects (Detailed Outlines) are due on Tu-5/31; No Projects will be accepted late or for partial credit!!!

M-5/23: Students are to read & take notes on pages 141-157 in J.D. Salinger’s Catcher in the Rye (CITR) for Tu-5/24 as there will be a quiz on the material on that date! CITR Projects (Detailed Outlines) are due on Tu-5/31; No Projects will be accepted late or for partial credit!!!

Th-5/19 & F-5/20: Students are to read & take notes on pages 123-141 in J.D. Salinger’s Catcher in the Rye for M-5/23 as there will be a quiz on the material on that date!

Tu-5/17 & W-5/18: Students are to read & take notes on pages 98-122 in J.D. Salinger’s Catcher in the Rye as there will be a quiz on the material on Thursday, 5/19!

M-5/16: Students are to read & take notes on pages 76-98 in J.D. Salinger’s Catcher in the Rye as there will be a quiz on the material on Tuesday, 5/17!

Th-5/12 & F-5/13: Students are to read & take notes on pages 35-76 in J.D. Salinger’s Catcher in the Rye as there will be a quiz on the material on Monday, 5/16!

W-5/11: No class today as per the schedule; see 5/9 & 5/10 assignments!

Th-5/5 & F-5/6: Students will continue to work on the MacBeth Essay test!

W-5/4: No class today as per the schedule.

W-4/27: No class as per the schedule.

M-4/25: 49 Questions from Acts I thru V are due (counts as a test grade) today; Review for the MacBeth essay test.

Sun-4/24: Answer Act 5 questions #1-10.

Sat-4/23: Read & take notes on Act V (pp.173-205 - odd only)

F-4/22: Answer Act #4 questions #1-10.

Th-4/21: Read & take notes on Act IV (pp.133-171 - odd only)

W-4/20: Answer Act #3 questions #1-10.

Tu-4/19: Read & take notes on Act III (pp.93-131 - odd only)

M-4/18: Read Act II (pp.63-91) & Answer Act II questions #1-10.

Sat-4/16 & Sun-4/17: Read Act I (pp.21-61) in MacBeth, and answer the Act #1 questions (#1-3, 5-10)

F-4/15: Reviewed Oedipus & prepared for an evaluation on that Greek play.

Th-4/14: No class today as per the schedule.

Tu-4/12: Read & take notes on Oedipus pp.75-93!

M-4/11: Read & take notes on Oedipus pp.55-75!

PERIOD 7 (G) - SPEECH & DEBATE 15 (SENIOR ENGLISH ELECTIVE): (4^th Quarter)

M-6/13 thru F-6/17: Exams Begin. G Period’s Exam is on M-6/13 & runs from 7:30-9:30am.