26 August

English 11

Really fantastic day today as we worked through three texts and understood the importance of reading closely, determining main ideas, and focusing on key language. We finished our work with Jefferson's "Declaration of Independence" before going on to the Preamble to the US Constitution and Bill of Rights. Our reading work focused on determining main idea, understanding key words, and seeing the tone implicit in the language. I'm really pleased with the work that we put up.

After that, we closed class with some writing and personal reflection where I asked you about the values we should use as we center our class community. I'll take a look at what you wrote in a bit and we'll start with these ideas on Wednesday as we write our classroom norms and guiding principles together.

Other than that work on Wednesday, we will also have a small reading test. This will not be for a grade. It's just a diagnostic to see where you are coming in the door. Come to class with a charged laptop next class. Your test is computer based. It'll be a pretty simple day to end our week together. See you on Wednesday!

Beginning Week 2 - 31 August and 1 September

AP Language

Kicking off Week 2 we're focused on writing and our skills for the AP Examination. Like I said, it's a beast, but if we know the beast and is weaknesses, then we can slay it with style. Today we discussed the finer side of argumentative writing, the essential elements of an outline, and how you'll be assessed for this question on the examination.

For tonight, be sure to complete and submit your "dirty outline". I don't want a full essay - just the planning. The assignment is posted here for you to submit via Google Docs. Next class we'll be having a working day, so be ready to be productive! Details to come!

English 10

Today in class we spent time with Malala Yousafzai. We read a speech, thought about her main ideas, and considered some of the conflicts driving that document. Tonight, I want you to continue to learn about her and think about who she is as a person. Watch the video linked on Schoology and think about these two ideas:

1. What does the interview help you to learn about Malala as a person?

2. How does this help you to understand the idea of culture clash in action?

Don't forget to find and complete the syllabus form - it's available for you in the first post on Schoology. If there is anything missing, be sure to check on those assignments as soon as you can!