OMAM Finishing chapter 3

Today you finished chapter 3 in Of Mice and Men.  Then you worked on the 2nd half of the questions.  I expect that tomorrow you will come in having read the entire chapter and have all 20 questions finished (10 from yesterday and 10 from today).

PART 2 Questions for Chapter Three of Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men

1.      What are you feeling as Candy surrenders his dog?  Based on your own feelings and experiences, what do you think Candy was feeling and thinking?  How about Carlson, or the other men listening and waiting? 

2. What does Candy do that lets readers know how he feels? 
3. Do you think Carlson put too much pressure on Candy to let him shoot his dog?  Was it unfair?  Did Carlson do what was best for the dog?  Did he do what was best for Candy?   
4. Why would Candy want to join George and Lennie in trying to achieve that dream of owning their own little place?  (
5. What is Candy’s offer, and in what way does Candy’s offer affect George and Lennie’s dream?   
6. Why does Candy say he should have shot his dog himself? 
7. Why is Lennie still smiling when Curley enters the bunk area?  Why does Curley think Lennie is smiling? 
8. Why does Lennie not let go when George tells him to? 
9. After Lennie crushes Curley’s hand, Slim forces Curley to agree to say what about the incident, and how his hand got crushed? 
10. What is Lennie’s main concern about having crushed Curley’s hand? 

HOMEWORK:
Complete all 20 questions and come in prepared to talk about chapter 3

Of Mice and Men chapter 3 continued

Today you picked up in the novel where you left off.

You independently answered the following questions for the beginning of chapter 3:

Questions for Chapter Three of Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men

1. What does George reveal to Slim about his past with Lennie? 
2. Why did George play tricks on Lennie, and why did he stop playing those tricks? 
3. What story does George also confess to Slim?
4. Why do you suppose George tells Slim this story? 
5. What does Lennie try to get away with concealing when he comes back to the cabin? 
6. How does George react? 
7. What does Slim say when Lennie leaves? 

8.      What is implied about the stable buck’s relationship to the other ranch-hands by Carlson’s comment and also by his not being there with them in the bunkhouse?  What social factors are in conflict here? 

9. What does Carlson get Slim to promise, for Candy’s sake?  What does Carlson then persuade Candy to let him do? 

10.  Why is it that Slim’s agreeing with Carlson that the old dog should be shot finally persuades Candy to let Carlson shoot the dog?  

Class/Homework:

Continue to read chapter 3 up until the line "'I coulda told you that,' said George."

OMAM Chapter 2 test and reading

Today you took a test on chapter 2 for Of Mice and Men.

Then you read chapter 3 until the line "'I ain't,' said Slim, 'I'd drink it myself if I had, an I ain't got a gut ache neither.'"

Then you worked on your scenes with your lit circle.

HOMEWORK:
I need one copy of your group's finalized skit on MONDAY!

OMAM Chapter 2 questions

Today you began by answering the following questions on chapter 2 in your literature circle.  Each member is responsible to completing the assignment and I will collect an answer sheet from each person in the group:

Chapter 2 Reading Questions Of Mice and Men

Directions: On a separate sheet of paper, write out answers to the following questions.  You  do not have to embed, but please use complete sentences!

1.      What is the can that George finds and how does he react to finding it?  How does Candy explain the presence of the can of insecticide to put George’s mind at ease? 

2.      How does the boss dress and how does the boss’s clothing set him apart from everyone else? 

3.      What does George tell the boss about why they were late? 

4.      Why is the boss suspicious of George?  And what does he think George is doing to Lennie?

5.      What is Curley’s footwear?  Who wears something similar?

6.      What does Curley do to big guys and why? 

7.      What are your first impressions of Curley?

8.      What does George fear will happen concerning Curley and Lennie? 

9.      What advice does George give to Lennie about Curley?

10.  What does Curley’s wife mean when she says, “Nobody can’t blame a person for lookin’”?  

11.  How does Lennie react to her? 

12.  What are your first impressions of Slim? 

13.  What does Carlson suggest regarding what should be done with one of the puppies? 

14.  Do you think it’s a good idea for Slim to let Lennie have one of the newly born puppies for himself?  What do you think Lennie will do to the puppy? 

With any extra time, you worked with your group on the script.  Tomorrow you will have a test on Chapter 2 (9 matching people,  11 identifying who said the quote)

Due Monday: a finalized, typed version of your group's script

We did not meet today

Today we did not meet; instead we had C Period from 8-9:15am.

Tomorrow we will reconvene by discussing and answering some reading questions on chapter 2.

I will also go over with you the items to prepare for that will be on your test on chapter 2 on Friday.

Remember: your precept script is due to me, typed and finalized, by Monday, December 15th.

Monday and Tuesday

Yesterday we had MASS and did not meet.

Today we continued with OMAM and read through chapter 2.

Plan on taking a quiz on Chapter 2 on Friday.

NO HOMEWORK TONIGHT!

OMAM

Today we read Of Mice and Men together (until the part where the old man is discussing Curly the boss's son).

Then you worked on answering the following questions for chapter 1:

Chapter 1

1) Look at the way both Lennie and George are first described. How is this initial description fitting when we find out more about each man?

2) Is the relationship between George and Lennie one of friendship, or does George only feel obligated to take care of Lennie? What evidence can you find to support either conclusion?

3) Why does Lennie have the dead mouse? Why does George take it away?

4) What happened at the last place where Lennie and George worked?


5) Describe the dream George and Lennie share for their future. Why is it so important to both men? 

Tomorrow:

• Chapter 1 questions are due.
• You will have a short quiz on chapter 1.
• You will have the remainder of the hour to work in your precept groups.

Of Mice and Men

Tuesday and Wednesday items:

On Tuesday I gave you a character sheet so we can track physical and behavioral characteristics. I also gave you a sheet with possible topics of an essay you will write following the reading of the novel.  We discussed annotating and how best to do it.

As of Wednesday we have read up to "Sure I can, George.  Hide in the brush till you come and get me." (page 9 or 10 depending on the version you have).

We concluded Monday and Tuesday by adding annotated notes and information to our character sheet.
If you have been paying attention, you should do well on the quiz you will have on Friday!

Of Mice and Men Webquest

This Webquest is DUE this WEDNESDAY!

Answer the following questions.
 You can use the following methods.  You can copy the questions on a Google Doc or a Word Doc and answer the question underneath.  If you are not copying the question, you will need to write complete sentences:

1. GOOGLE DOC: if you are planning to type and print this Webquest, Google Docs is a platform that travels with you anywhere without the need of a flashdrive!  Make sure you have a means to print it though; if you do not, use option #2
2. HANDWRITING THE ANSWERS

STEINBECK AND SALINAS VALLEY 
Use these links:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salinas_Valley(Salinas Valley)
http://sits.sjsu.edu/context/biographical/in-depth/index.html (Steinbeck and Salinas)
http://www.history.com/topics/great-depression(Great Depression)
http://www.history.com/topics/hoovervilles(Hoovervilles and The Great Depression)
1.What are the geographical features of the Salinas valley in California?
2.What kinds of jobs are available here?
3.What was John Steinbeck’s relationship to the Salinas Valley?
4.What was the Great Depression?
5.What were some of the causes of the Great Depression
6.What were Hoovervilles?

 MIGRANT WORKERS
Use these links:
http://1.usa.gov/12jVuBm
http://www.pbs.org/now/politics/migrants.html" (At the bottom of the page MIGRANT PATH TODAY)
7. Who were the migrant workers and how were they affected by the Great Depression?
8.Do migrant workers exist today? Where? What kinds of jobs do they have?

 THE MENTALLY DISABLED
Use these links:
http://kidshealth.org/kid/health_problems/birth_defect/mental_retardation.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mental_disorder
9.What is a mental disability and how does it affect a person's everyday life?
10.What are some of the difficulties in caring for a mentally disabled person?
11.What is the role of friendship in caring for the mentally disabled? (Use what you have read and your own thoughts on being a friend).

Of Mice and Men

Please bring OF Mice and Men on Monday!  We need to begin reading it!

Thank you :)  Have a great Thanksgiving!

The Giver

Today we began watching "The Giver"--the end of the year novel we read last year now turned into a movie.  We will continue to watch it Friday and next Monday.

CONTINUE WORKING ON your Precept Project!

Precept Project Work

Today was your last day working in your groups before we go to Thanksgiving Break. Thursday, Friday, and Monday we will watch "The Giver".

Precept Work Day

Today you worked on developing your scene again.

I have changed some due dates:

The final typed script is now due December 15th (a Monday).
Your skit should be ready to be performed or viewed on video January 5th.

Tomorrow we will be using the auditorium space so that groups who are ready can rehearse.

Precept Project Group Work

Today, Tuesday, and Wednesday will be Precept Project Group work days.  However, you will still need to bring in Of Mice and Men for credit TOMORROW!!

Thursday, Friday, and next Tuesday we will be watching "The Giver" the movie of the book that we read at the end of last year.

Your work days should include work in the following areas:

• script writing
• scene direction writing
• rehearsals

I have moved the due date for all performances (live and video) until after Christmas break.  This will give you plenty of time to record and rehearse.  Remember: the script must be memorized!

HOMEWORK:

• Continue working on your part of the Precept Project
• Bring in Of Mice and Men TOMORROW for 5 points!

Precept Project Group Work

Today you continued to work in your group on your Precept Project.  If I have had to ask you to stay in your group, your grade will go down.  Please make sure you are working on the task at hand and NOT visiting with other groups or doing other work.

HOMEWORK:
Get a copy of Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck.  NEEDED by Tuesday for credit.

To clarify: The characterization sheet is NOT due until we see your performance.

Precept Project

Today you worked in your groups on your precept project.  I gave you some more information.  If you were absent I have a handout to give you.  Please see me when you return.

Wonder questions 298-313 and test information

Today you began by working in your literature circles on the remaining questions and vocabulary for the book.  Following this I prompted you with some things to know for the test.  If you were on the field trip, you may want to look over the following:

• vocab and characters listed on the board earlier in the week (know what students earned which awards)
• August's dog's name
• what happened with the astronaut helmet
• the 4 qualities Mr. Tushman listed that define human beings
• a short response from you for this question: Seeing that we are all a work-in-progress and need to better ourselves, choose one of the qualities Mr. Tushman mentions that is a quality you would like to work on.  Explain why you chose this quality and what you will do to work on it.

Vocabulary:
commencement, verbosity, ruminating

Questions:

1. What was the main point Tushman was making in his speech?
2. What are the 4 qualities Tushman says define us as human beings?
3. Does August have hte traits mentioned? Provide examples showing these 4 traits.
4. List who received awards and what they're for.
5. Does August think others have difficulties greater than his?
6. How ha August grown as a person?
7. Why does August thank his mom?
8. Why does she thank him back?

Wonder questions pgs. 282-297; reading pages 298-313

Today you worked on answering questions and defining vocabulary words for pages 282-297:
Vocabulary
seismic
attribution

Questions

1. What were the 2 big changes that occurred because of the incident in the woods?
2. How has Julian been affected bu the incident?
3. Was August able to handle 5th grade academically?  Socially?
4. What happened to August's astronaut helmet?
5. How did August react to this (answer in #4)?
6. Why do you think Nate felt the helmet was bad for August?
7. What does Jack say he can win an award for?
8. Do you think August will earn an award?  If so, for what?

Then you had a chance to read the rest of the book: pages 298-313 and work in your groups by choosing a precept for your project.

HOMEWORK:

Read the items above.  Make sure you finish vocab, questions, and reading for today!

Wonder questions pages 268-281; reading pages 281-297

Today you took a test over parts 5, 6, & 7.

Then you worked on answering the following questions and defining the following words:

Vocabulary:

• schmuck
• aftermath
• cretinos (Portuguese use freetranslation.com)

Questions:

1. Why does August feel like he is underwater?
2. Find a simile on pages 271 and 272.
3. What would August say are the two most horrific days of his life?
4. Why are kids August doesn't know speaking to him now? (pg 275)
5. Who is the new character we meet in "Home"?
6. Besides playing with the puppy, what is nice about August's day off of school?

After the test I also rolled out the Wonder Precept Illustration assignment.  Your first deadline is Nov. 12/13 to come up with a precept your group would like to illustrate.

HOMEWORK

• Finish the above material
• Read pages 281-297

Wonder questions pages 250-267; reading pages 268-281

Today I gave you a little heads up to the test that you will take tomorrow.  You were also able to copy down the vocab and characters in case you didn't copy them yesterday.

Then you had time to work on today's questions from pages 250-267:

vocabulary

obsession

incantation

rappelled

questions

1. What happened when August tried to sleepover at Christopher's house?
2. Besdies his facial abnormality and Star Wars, what could August be known for?
3. What is Baboo?
4. Why didn't he let his mom put him to bed?  What does this tell us?
5. Find personification on page 256
6. Find hyperbole on page 258 (there are 3 examples!)
7. Has Maya gotten over the plague game?  How can you tell?
8. Why was August happy about the movie choice?
9. What did Henry warn the boys about?  Was he serious?
10. Who helped August get away from the group of bullies?
11. Why do you think he feels like he is underwater?

HOMEWORK:

• Prepare for the test
• Read pages 268-281
• Make sure you finished the vocab and questions above

Wonder pages 235-248 questions; read pages 250-267

Today I collected your work from last week on pages 158-234.  When you are completing questions for the story: organize yourself!  Do not make me guess the pages numbers for the questions!  Please and thank you :)

I also reminded you of our field trip to Meadow Brook on Nov. 24th to see "A Christmas Carol".  We are still in need of drivers and your permission slip and money turned in!  Make sure you do this ASAP!  I also gave out slips to those of you who lost your first one.

Finally I rolled out a project to you that I will give you full details on next week.  This project will be the final project for Wonder: In your literature circle group, you will choose a precept and create a script and skit to illustrate it.  Again, more details to come on this next week.

Your quiz over parts 5-8 will be on THURSDAY of this week.  Today I gave you the vocab and characters to know.  Tomorrow I will verbally prompt you on a few things so you won't be in the dark to the remaining items on the test.

HOMEWORK: Pages 235-248 questions and vocabulary.  Also, make sure you read pages 250-267:

• bungalow
• bittersweet (not the taste of candy!)

1. What lies did Miranda tell while away at camp?
2. Why did Miranda's lies make her popular?
3. Why does Miranda say she and Ella stopped being friends with Via?
4. What is the real reason Miranda stopped being friends with Via?
5. Find the idiom on page 240 ("School")
6. What does Miranda miss the most about Via's friendship?
7. Why does Miranda feel safer in Via's house than her own?
8. Do Miranda's boyfriend and friends seem like true friends? Explain.
9. What lie did Miranda tell Mr. Davenport?
10. Does Miranda truly care about the Pullman family?  How can we tell?
11. What does Via do that shows she is thankful to Miranda?

MASS

We did not meet today due to All-Schools Mass. We will resume tomorrow. I have pushed the test date back. Make sure you come prepared having finished everything that was listed on Friday's blog entry.

Wonder questions pages 217-234; reading pages 236-248

Today you began by completing the vocabulary and questions for pages 217-234:

Vocabulary:

• flubbed

Questions:

1. Why are Via and her mom shocked when August calls them liars?  What were they lying about?
2. Find the hyperbole on pages 222.
3. The loss of a pet is hard for anyone.  Why might it be particularly hard for August?
4. How has Daisy's death put things in perspective for the family?
5. What do we learn about Miranda's family? ("Understudy")
6. What excuse does Miranda give for not performing in the play?  Who takes her place?
7. Why do you think August started to feel weird after the show?

HOMEWORK:

Read pages 236-248

Wednesdsay's Test, classwork, and homework

Today you began by taking a test on parts 3-4 of Wonder.
Then you worked on the following vocabulary and questions from pages 206-216.

Vocabulary
•psyched
•audiology
•bionic
•taciturn
Questions
1.What did August's mom say when she said "like seeks like"?
2.What were some of the ways Jack and August were being bullied?
3.When did most of the boys become neutral in the war? What was the last straw?
4.Why can't August have normal hearing aids?
5.Why doesn't Via want her parents to come to the show?

HOMEWORK:
Read pages 217-234

Wonder questions pages 180-204; reading pages 206-216

Today Mrs. Hardey went over the test that you will take tomorrow (Wednesday).  Make sure you are prepared!

Next you worked on questions and vocabulary for pages 180-204:

Vocabulary

• tics
• fluke
• monologues
• spitefully
• gravelly
• spry

Questions

1. What project does Jack want to do?  What is the project August finally decides they will do?
2. What is August's dog's full name?
3. Who is Justin?
4. What does Justin's silver case carry?
5. How does Justin describe Via as being different from other girls?
6. Why had Justin's tics stopped by the time he left?
7. What play are Justin, Miranda, and Via trying out for?  What parts are they awarded?
8. What does Via say the ladybug is a sign of?
9. Find the personification on page 199.
10. How does Justin feel about Via? ("Bird"--pay close attention on how he reacts to Via and what he says to her).

HOMEWORK: Read pages 206-216

Wonder questions pages 158-179; reading pages 180-204

Today I explained that the following will be included on the test you will take Wednesday:

Vocabulary
horrific, syndrome, illuminate, potential, retrospect, stringent, protocol, hypocrite, zydeco band

Characters
Summer, Jack, Savanna, Jamie, Veronica, Ms. Rubin, Julian, Miles, Melissa Albans (look at her last name to help you), John Will (look at his last name to help you), Charlotte, Justin

Then you worked on today's work; vocabulary and questions from pages 158-179

Vocabulary
retrospect, stringent, protocol, prejudicial, hypocrite, zydeco band

Questions

1. What do we learn about Julian's family?
2. What do Julian's mom's emails say about her character?  Does she have a legitimate concern?
3. What does Charlotte think about the rumors Julian is spreading?
4. What does Charlotte's mom have to say about it?
5. Why is Jack a total hypocrite? ("Why I Didn't Sit with August...")
6. Explain how August makes a problem into a joke. ("Sides")

HOMEWORK:

• Begin studying the vocab and characters for Wednesday's test!  I suggested making flashcards!
• Make sure to finish vocabulary and questions for pages 158-179
• Read pages 180-204

Wonder pages 139-157; homework pages 158-179

Today in class you read pages 139-157 in class and then worked on the following questions and vocabulary:

Vocabulary:

• sympathetic
• potential

Questions:

1. Why did Jack change his mind about meeting August?
2. What are the 4 things Jack mentions in "Four Things"?
3. List at least 4 reasons you are friends with your friends.
4. Who does Jack blame for their friendship ending?
5. What did Jack name his sled?
6. "Fortune Favors the Bold": What does Jack want to write about?  Why doesn't he write about it?  What does he end up writing about?
7. What do Jack's parents do for a living?
8. Where did the sled come from?
9. Name the science teacher.
10. How does Jack feel after realizing what he's done?
11. What happened when Julian made fun of him?
12. Find a simile on page 155.

HOMEWORK:

Read pages 158-179

Quiz over part 2 and questions for pages 127-137

Today you took a quiz over part 2 at the beginning of the hour.
 
Then you worked on answering questions and looking up vocabulary for pages 127-138.

Here are the questions and vocabulary in case you were unable to finish in class.

Vocabulary:

• horrific
• illuminate
• syndrome
• dramatic
• oath

Questions:

1. What new facts do we learn about Summer in "Warning: This Kid Is Rated R"?
2. Create a large Venn Diagram entitled How Do They See August.  You must have two points for each character individually and you must have at least 2 points that overlap.  Challenge: Can you think of more than the required points?
3. Why does Jack's mom want him to help on August's tour?
4. Why did Veronica make the kids leave the ice cream shop?
5. What did Jamie think about August?
6. Find a simile on page 137.

Tomorrow's Quiz

Please be prepared to take your quiz over Part Two: Via.

Also, be prepared to turn in your answers for the questions of pages 68-126.

Wonder questions/vocab from pages 119-126

Vocabulary: plague, vibe, artifact

Questions:

1. What are kids at school calling August?
2. How does Summer see August? (INFER)
3. What is something Summer has not been happy abou tthis year?
4. Do you think Summer and Julian would make a good couple?  Why/why not? (INFER)
5. What did Summer lie to Savannah about?
6. Why was August being rude to Summer at lunch?

Tomorrow we will not meet because your first grade buddies will be here.

I did review with you the information you will need to know for the test on VIA that you will take Thursday.  Please prepare yourself adequately.

HOMEWORK:

• Finish the vocab and questions above
• Study for Thursday's test using our in-class review notes from today.
• Read pages 127-137

Wonder questions page 97-117

Today I showed you an essay that worked well.  Make sure your writing is a reflective process; look over my comments so you understand my feedback.  If you still don't understand, you MUST see me!  I am available--all you need to do is ask!

Then you worked on questions and vocabulary for the reading you worked on over the weekend:

Vocabulary

• SoHo
• meticulously
• spitefully
• babushkas
• immerses
• emphatically

Questions

1. Why do you think Isabel was standing outside August's door?
2. Why does Isabel cut August's grapes in half?
3. Find the idiom on page 101.
4. Find the simile/idiom on page 103.
5. Is August's condition common?  Explain how you know.
6. Does Via plan to have children of her own?
7. What happened to Via's friendship with Miranda and Ella?
8. Why was August so upset (pages 111-113)?
9. How does Via make him feel better?
10. Do you agree with Via's advice on how August should handle his situation with Jack? Why?

HOMEWORK:

Make sure the above is completed

Read pages 119-126

Wonder: Part One Test

Today you took the test on part one of Wonder.

Following the test you worked on yesterday's board work (see below) and then you read pages 97-117.

Vocabulary:

• heyday
• splay
• instinctively
• whims

Questions:

1. What does Via say about Daisy?
2. At the end of "Tour of the Galaxy" Via ends with a foreshadowing remark.  What is it?
3. Find 1 metaphor on page 82 and one on page 83.
4. Why didn't Via play with Lily after she met August?
5. Use http://www.freetranslation.com/ to translate the following phrases from Portuguese to English
• menina querida
• tu es meu tudo
6. Find the similes on pages 87 & 88.
7. Compare what is happening between Via and her friends and what happened Bryon and Mark in That Was Then, This Is Now. 

HOMEWORK:

Finish the vocabulary, questions, and reading listed above.

Review for Part One Test and essay passback

Today we had a shortened hour.

With our time I gave you some tips and tricks to use to study for the test.
Then I gave your essays back.  When you began working independently I spoke to you about your essay if you wanted a conference.  I plan on showing you some good examples to follow.  Think about the grade you received as a starting grade and making changes in the next essay so your scores go up!

Finally, with time remaining, you worked on questions for the pages you read in Wonder: pgs 81-96.

Vocabulary:

• heyday
• splay
• instinctively
• whims

Questions:

1. What does Via say about Daisy?
2. At the end of "Tour of the Galaxy" Via ends with a foreshadowing remark.  What is it?
3. Find 1 metaphor on page 82 and one on page 83.
4. Why didn't Via play with Lily after she met August?
5. Use http://www.freetranslation.com/ to translate the following phrases from Portuguese to English
• menina querida
• tu es meu tudo
6. Find the similes on pages 87 & 88.
7. Compare what is happening between Via and her friends and what happened Bryon and Mark in That Was Then, This Is Now. 

HOMEWORK:

I will give you time after the test tomorrow to work on the vocabulary and questions above.  (It is NOT homework).

I would like you to concentrate on studying for your test and writing a rough draft of the essay answer you need to provide in class tomorrow!

Wonder questions and vocabulary for pages 68-80; reading pages 81-96

Today we corrected and I collected questions from pages 57-67.

Then you worked in your lit circle to answer the following questions and define the vocabulary from this past weekend's reading:

VOCABULARY

• phobia
• aversion

QUESTIONS

1. Do Summer and August seem like good friends?  Use evidence to support your answer.
2. What text-to-self connection did August make?
3. Why is Halloween August's favorite holiday?
4. What does August wear to school for Halloween?
5. Many scenes in this book teach lessons to us as readers.  Discuss a scene in the book you found valuable.  What lesson(s) did you learn from it?

HOMEWORK:

Read pages 81-96

Start reviewing for Friday's test.

The following will be matching sections on your test on Friday:

Vocab for Friday's test:

ordinary, cleft palate, hysterical, hindsight, obnoxious, schlep, precept, stampede, morality, aversion

Characters for Friday's test:

August, Isabel, Nate, Mr. Browne, Mrs. Garcia, Mr. Tushman, Jack Will, Julian, Charlotte

Wonder collecting of work and questions for 57-67

Today I collected the following items: Drummer Boy of Shiloh questions, Wonder worksheet, and Wonder questions/vocabulary pages 3-56.  Before I collected everything, I went over the answers to the last two sets of questions.

Then you worked in your book club groups on the questions and vocabulary for pages 57-67.

VOCABULARY:

• dachshund
• Sumerians
• deeds
• monuments
• morality

Questions

1. Why do you think August cut his braid?
2. Why was Via upset that August cut his braid?
3. Why does August choose to compare himself to a wookie?
4. Why is August able to joke with Jack about his facial anomaly?
5. Do you agree with what August wrote about his precept?
6. Find the idiom on page 67.  Write is down for #6

HOMEWORK

Read pages 68-80.  This will close out Part One: August.  We will prepare to take a quiz over part one next week.  

Wonder: questions for pages 41-56

With our short time together, I got you to work right away.

VOCABULARY:

• Wall Street
• apprentice
• precept
• motto
• alignment

QUESTIONS:

1. Why does Julian make a comment to Ms. Petosa about pursuing her dream?  (character motivation)
2. What is the simile on page 43?
3. What is the most important thing according to Mr. Browne?
4. What does Mr. Browne's precept mean to you?
5. Do you agree with it?  Why?
6. Why do you think Summer came to sit with August?
7. What did August rate his first day of school?  Do you think this is a good rating in August's mind?  Why?

HOMEWORK:
Read pages 57-67

I will also be collecting the following items tomorrow!  Come prepared!

• Drummer Boy of Shiloh questions
• Wonder "Questions to Consider" worksheet
• questions and vocabulary for pages 3-56

Wonder discussing pages 3-14 and questions for pages 15-40

Today we discussed the questions you answered on pages 3-14.  Then you were assigned questions and vocabulary that went with your reading from last night (pgs. 15-40).  You worked in your groups and were able to discuss the book.

Here are the questions and vocabulary:

QUESTIONS

1. Can you find the line of sarcasm on page 16? Write it down.
2. Can you find the line with the hyperbole on page 20? Write it down.
3. Why does Julian seems afraid to touch August?  How would this make August feel?
4. Compare and contrast the way Julian, Charlotte, and Jack treat August.
5. Does August want to goto school?
6. Why were Isabel's (mom's) cheeks red after she heard about the tour?
7. Can you find the line wit a metaphor on page 35?  Write it down.
8. Can you find hte line with personification on page 39?  Write it down.
9. Based on his behavior in class, what kind of student do you think Auggie will be?

VOCABULARY

• schlep
• diva
• hindsight

CLASS/HOMEWORK:

Read pages 41-56

Wonder questions (pg 3-14) and reading pg (15-40)

Today you worked on reviewing and practicing your comprehension for pages 3-14 and defined words from this section.  I split you into reading groups and you were all very productive!  NICE JOB!

With time remaining, you were to read pages 15-40.

HOMEWORK:
Read pages 15-40

Tomorrow I will correct with you and collect your answers for pgs. 3-14.  Make sure they are all done.

VOCABULARY:

• ordinary
• extraordinary
• cleft palate
• anomaly
• hysterical

QUESTIONS

1. What is August's one wish?
2. How does August know Via doesn't see him as ordinary?
3. What grade will August be entering?
4. What did his mother do as a career?
5. How old is Via?
6. What did August's mom say she noticed about him the first time she saw him?
7. How are the Kellers different from August's parents?
8. How are the Kellers similar to August's parents?
9. Who is the principal at August's new school?

Wonder pages 3-14

Today we began with Wonder thinking about some questions in general.  You were given some "questions to consider" and asked to write at least 3 sentence responses to each question.

After answering you broke into groups of 2 or 3 and discussed your answers.

Then you began working with the story by reading pages 3-14.

HOMEWORK:
Read pages 3-14 in Wonder

MW test--WONDER on MONDAY!

Today you took your Miracle Worker test.

After the test you worked on finished the Drummer Boy of Shiloh questions from the orange text book on page 197 (2 recall--your choice, 2 interpret--your choice, Analyze, Synthesize, Evaluate).  Following the directions for answering questions I gave to you at the beginning of the year.

HOMEWORK:

• Finish the Drummer Boy of Shiloh questions if you did not finish them in class
• Bring Wonder by RJ Palacio on MONDAY!

MIRACLE WORKER TEST TOMORROW and ESSAY DUE TOMORROW!

Remember that your Miracle Worker test is tomorrow!

Your essay is also due.  Remember to bring the rubric as well.  Review my message about the essays that I posted on Monday and Tuesday of this week.

Miracle Worker and Editing Essays

Today we began by discussing the uniform policy.  Many people did not have on the correct socks today!  Please refer to your handbook:

• Boys: navy, white, or black SOLID color socks (no insignia/branding, no holiday/festive socks, etc.)
• Girls: navy, white, green socks or tights (no insignia/branding, no holiday/festive socks, etc.)
• I will issue demerits for those of you who cannot respect the dress code.

Next we got down to literary business.  We played a review game to get you ready for the test.  With time remaining I gave you a rubric and went over expectations for your essay.  We went over format and information to help you outline.  This should have been written on the back of your rubric.  Then you had two options: 1) peer edit your essay if you came prepared with a draft, 2) begin drafting if you did not bring in a draft.

HOMEWORK:

Complete your essay following the rubric and the points listed on yesterday's blog post.  This needs to be in class on Thursday NO EXCEPTIONS (unless you had some circumstances that prevented you from printing it out.  Such situations are only excusable with an email or written letter from your parents stating the issue.

Please use the ACTS from the play located at the right hand side of this blog if you need to refer to specific scenes for evidence.

Study the vocabulary and characters of the play to prepare for the scantron test on Thursday.

NEW INFORMATION:

Since progress report grades are due Friday I am going to use your Scantron grade only as the last grade for your progress report.  The essay will be a separate test grade and will be posted the following week.  So instead of one test grade = 100 points, it will be two test grades (Scantron = 55 and the essay = 45).  Please email me if you have questions.

Finished watching The Miracle Worker

Today we finished watching The Miracle Worker.

I also discussed some items for the test you will have Thursday. (I wanted it to be on Wednesday, but we have morning mass at the Shrine Church).

I mentioned the essay you will be writing on:
What makes Annie a Miracle Worker?

Things to consider while drafting tonight:

• What is a miracle?
• What obstacles/hardships did Annie have to overcome to become a miracle worker?

Necessities for the essay:

• introductory paragraph with thesis statement at the end of the intro.  (3 sentences or so).  Your thesis may be three points or not.  The organization of the number of body paragraphs is up to you
• body paragraphs with textual evidence to support.  The acts are on the side of this blog.
• conclusion: simply restate thesis (2 sentences)
• No 1st or 2nd person
• 150-250 words
• due Thursday when you walk in.  You will be unable to print it out on Thursday, so do not expect extra time.  If you have a special circumstance regarding technical difficulties, please have your mom or dad email or write me a note stating the circumstance so we can think of a solution.

We will review tomorrow in regards to the multiple choice portion of the test you will take Thursday.

HOMEWORK:

Create a rough draft of your essay so that you can workshop it tomorrow.

If you do not bring a rough draft in tomorrow, you will be starting it in class!

"The Drummer Boy of Shiloh" by Ray Bradbury

Since the internet was out today we had to switch up our activity.

You were assigned to read "The Drummer Boy of Shiloh" and answer the following questions on page 197:

• 2 recall questions (you choose from the 4 that are there)
• 2 interpret questions (you choose from the 4 that are there)
• analyze
• synthesize
• evaluate

Make sure to include textual evidence in your answers and follow the "rules for answering questions" that we wrote in our notebooks today.

NO HOMEWORK

Miracle Worker--the screen version of the play

Today we corrected the Act 3 worksheet.

After that we began watching the Anne Bancroft and Patty Duke version of The Miracle Worker.

NO HOMEWORK!
PLEASE BUY Wonder if you do not have it yet.  That is what we will be reading starting next week.

MIRACLE WORKER FINISHED!

Today we finished "The Miracle Worker"!  What a great ending!

After reading you did some work as a follow up to Act III.

For the remainder of the week we will watch the old black and white version starring Anne Bancroft and Patty Duke.  You may bring in a small snack during these days (no popcorn and no beverages).

HOMEWORK:
Finish any part of the worksheet that you were unable to complete.  Please use the link at the right side of the page under LINKS to reread Act III as needed.

Miracle Worker Act III

Today we collected work from Act 2 Scenes 7-9.

Then we read the majority of Act 3.  We will finish up tomorrow.  Be ready to read a little and complete some work tomorrow.

HOMEWORK:
None!

Miracle Worker Scenes 7-9

Today you received 2 worksheets for work covering Scenes 7 & 8 and Scene 9.

You worked on them for the shortened period today.

HOMEWORK:
Whatever you did not finish in class pertaining to the two worksheets.  Please use the play link to ACT II on the right hand side of this blog if you need to go back and reread.

Miracle Worker Act 2 Scenes 6-8

Today with our shortened period due to Mass, we read Act 2 Scenes 6-8.  Tomorrow plan on reading 9 and working with these scenes.

NO HOMEWORK TONIGHT!

Miracle Worker Quiz

Today you took a quiz on the Miracle Worker Act 1.

Following the quiz you read Act 2 Scene 6 on your own.  Then you completed the worksheet that covered Act 2 Scenes 4-6.

You were also to finish the symbolism worksheet that you began working on yesterday.

HOMEWORK:
Finish the any of the items you were not able to finish today in class (Act 2 Scenes 4-6 wkst or the symbolism worksheet).
Both of these items will be collected tomorrow.

MW Act 2 Scenes 4 & 5

I collected the worksheet (Scenes 1 & 2) first thing this morning.

Then we read Act 2 Scenes 4 & 5.

After that you worked on symbolism in Act 1 of the Miracle Worker in small groups.

HOMEWORK:
Study for a quiz on Act ONE tomorrow.  Please study by looking over your worksheets from those scenes.

Miracle Worker Act 2 Scenes 2 & 3

Today we continued with The Miracle Worker and discussed points made by the characters.

With 15-20 minutes to spare, you were given some work that accompanies Scenes 1 & 2.

Homework:
Finish Act 2 Scene 1 & 2 worksheet.  Due beginning of the hour.
Use this link to help answer the questions Miracle Worker Act 2

Correcting and Collecting Work

Today we corrected and I collected the work you completed for Scenes 4-6 and 7&8.

After that we began reading ACT II of the play.

NO HOMEWORK FOR THIS WEEKEND! 

Miracle Worker Act I Scenes 4-8

Today was a solid work day.  At the end of the hour we discussed answers for Act I Scene 1-3.

If you did not finish the work from the two worksheets covering Scenes 4-8, it is your homework.

Please use this link so that you can reread parts of the play:

http://www.nexuslearning.net/books/holt_elementsoflit-3/collection%2012/The%20Miracle%20Worker%20Act%201%20P1.htm

HOMEWORK:
Finish the worksheets from today covering scenes 4-8.  Use the link above to reread Act I as needed.

Act I Scenes 7 & 8

Today we finished reading the remainder of the Miracle Worker, ACT I.

I collected the worksheet you were supposed to complete over Act I Scenes 1-3.  Some of you did not do your homework.  Please make sure this does not turn into a bad habit.  Those of you who did finish, I commend you on your efforts!  Well done!

With time remaining, you began work on Act I scenes 4-6.  This is not homework; we will continue working on it tomorrow in class.

NO HOMEWORK TONIGHT!

The Miracle Worker

Today we read Act I scenes 5, 6, & 7.

After reading you worked with a partner on the material that goes along with Act I scenes 1-3.

If you did not finish in class, it becomes your homework tonight.

A copy of the play can be found at this link:

MIRACLE WORKER ACT 1

HOMEWORK:
Finish The Miracle Worker worksheet for Act 1 Scenes 1-3.  Use the link above to finish it.

Act I Scene iv and v of the Miracle Worker

Today we read more of The Miracle Worker.  We continued to discuss and took notes on our character sheet.

NO HOMEWORK TONIGHT!
Make sure you by Wonder ASAP!

Beginning Miracle Worker

Today we began by you getting in groups and discussing the background information and anticipation ratings you gave regarding information about Helen Keller and Annie Sullivan and situations that we will read about.

After discussing you received a character sheet and a copy of Act I of The Miracle Worker.  I gave you some notes to take down before the play and during the play that you put on your character sheet.  We read through Act I scene i and part of scene ii.

HOMEWORK:
PLEASE purchase Wonder as this play will not take us very long to read.  You all have had plenty of notice to buy the book.  Make sure you are prepared.

That Was Then... Test

Today you took the That Was Then, This Is Now test.

After the test, you read some background information on Annie Sullivan and The Kellers in order to prepare to read The Miracle Worker.  You also answered some anticipation guide questions to help get you in the mindset to read the play.

HOMEWORK:
Please purchase Wonder if you have not yet done so.

That Was Then... Review

Today you had most of the hour to work on your review sheet and a review crossword puzzle. By completing these two assignments you will be well versed on the subject of the questions I will be asking.

 In addition I gave you a hint to the short essay question (5-7 sentences): Who says, "That was then, this is now"? (hint: 2 different characters say this at different times). What did each of these characters mean by it? Describe the scene and the tone the character is most likely using. I would mark these two pages in your book for easy reference tomorrow. (You may use the book on the test).

  HOMEWORK:

• Make sure your syllabus is signed.  It is worth 5 points tomorrow.  If you do not have it tomorrow, it will be worth 3 points on Wednesday.
• STUDY for your That Was Then, This Is Now test!
• Purchase Wonder if you have not done so yet.  We will be starting it very soon!

First Full Day!

Today we discussed the syllabus and you must have it signed and returned next Wednesday, Sept. 3rd.

Next you worked on a review sheet for That Was Then, This Is Now. We will finish this Tuesday when we return from Labor Day break.

HOMEWORK:
•Discuss syllabus with parents and get it signed by 9/3 (Wed.)
•Purchase WONDER if you have not purchased it yet. It will be the first novel we read after "The Miracle Worker".
•First TWT, TIN test next week