Week of December 16th, 2013

"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." - William Butler Yeats

The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.

Enjoy the Holiday Break!  Time with family and friends are gifts we are given all year long...cherish the moments and memories made.  Have a Happy and Healthy New Year!
 

Academic English 9: Students will  be modernizing 10 lines/dialogue for Act IV into today's vernacular.  They will also be working on creating a Prologue for Act IV.  The Prologue must be in sonnet form:  14 lines in iambic pentameter and have a rhyme scheme following the Prologue from Act I which includes a couplet-the resolution to the problem posed in the first 12 lines. Hard copies of both assignments will be due at the beginning of class on Wednesday, December 17th.  Act V will be completed by Friday.

Practical English 10: Students are reading and analyzing the structure of the fairytale.  They will need to identify and apply the elements of fairytale writing in order to re-create a Grimm's fairytale for the modern reader.  The rewritten fairytale will be due on Friday, December 20th.

English 11: Students are finishing up The Crucible this week.  A quiz on Act III will be given on Monday, December 16th. There will be a Reading Assessment Check on Wednesday, December 18th for Act III. On their return from break, there will be a Quiz and a Reading Assessment for Act IV.

Public Speaking: Persuasive Speeches commence this week.  There will be conferencing and work will begin on the Final Speech which will be due after the Holiday break.  The final speech, the Reflective Speech will be due on January

Week of December 9th, 2013

"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." - William Butler Yeats

The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.

 

Academic English 9: The students will complete Act IV of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. They will be responsible for reading, comprehending, analyzing, and applying the literary elements and devices used by Shakespeare to show the flaws of human nature and how society influences individuals. Act IV Notes and Study Guide will be due on Monday, December 16th Next week, students will continue writing the tragedy in a modernized vernacular version to demonstrate comprehension of content and form.

Practical English 10: Students will finish the presentations of their Demonstrative Speeches. Effective communication is necessary in our daily lives to function. Being able to give instruction is a relevant skill that every person should have.  Students will be introduced to Creative Writing through the Fairytale.  They will be required to modernize a Grimm Fairytale.  They will comprehend the importance of tone and point of view through storytelling.
English 11: A Reading Assessment Check, a Character Chart check, and a Study Guide check will be given for Act III of The Crucible on Monday, December 16th. The abuse of power, morality, sacrifice, and relevancy need to be discussed in order for the meaning of the play to be understood.

Public Speaking: Students will be finalizing their Persuasive Speeches this week.  The Visual Aid will be due by December 11th. Students should be ready to Practice their speeches on December 12th. Persuasive Speeches will commence on December 16th. Preparation for the Final Speech will begin on December 18th.

Week of December 3rd, 2013

"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." - William Butler Yeats

The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.

Academic English 9: The students will complete Act III of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. They will be responsible for reading, comprehending, analyzing, and applying the literary elements and devices used by Shakespeare to show the flaws of human nature and how society influences individuals. Act III Notes and Study Guide will be due on Friday, December 6th  Next week, students will continue writing the tragedy in a modernized vernacular version to demonstrate comprehension of content and form.

Practial English 10: Students will be presenting their Demonstrative Speeches.  Effective communication is necessary in our daily lives to function.  Being able to give instruction is a relevant skill that every person should have. 

English 11: A Reading Assessment Check, a Character Chart check, and a Study Guide check will be given for Act II of The Crucible on Friday, December 6th. The abuse of power, morality, sacrifice, and relevancy need to be discussed in order for the meaning of the play to be understood.

Public Speaking: Students will need to complete the process of speech preparation necessary for the utilization of good public speaking skills. Research will need to be completed by Thanksgiving Break. The Outline will be due on December 5th. The Rough Draft will be due on December 9th. The Visual Aid will be due by December 11th. Students should be ready to Practice their speeches on December 12th. Persuasive Speeches will commence on December 16th. Preparation for the Final Speech will begin on December 18th.

Week of November 25th, 2013

"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." - William Butler Yeats

The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving.  Embrace time with family and friends.  Create lasting memories.

Academic English 9:  Students will analyze and dissect Act II of Romeo and Juliet.  They will be responsible for creating a modernized version of Act II.  Students will work in pairs to produce a relevant rewrite with the application of iambic pentameter, rhyme, and metaphor in an 8 line verse/dialogue which will be due on Wednesday, 11/27.  They will be responsible for handing in an exit ticket at the end of class on 11/25 where they will need to identify a motif and demonstrate its significance in the play.  On Tuesday, 11/26, there will be a reading, notes, and study guide check.

Practical 10:  Students will be working on the Demonstrative Speech.  They will be responsible for an outline, podium cards, and the required materials to instruct the class on "how to" do something.  Instructional speaking and writing are required for effective communication in our daily lives. Speeches will commence on the day they return from break.

English 11:  Students will review Vocabulary Unit 7 for the test on Tuesday, 11/26.  Author's purpose and tone of The Crucible will be discussed.  The abuse of power, morality, sacrifice, and relevancy need to be discussed in order for the meaning of the play to be understood.

Public Speaking:  Students will continue to work on their Persuasive Speeches.  Logical arguments on fact, value, or policy need to be utilized.  References to sources need to be incorporated in their speech. Their visual aids should be used to help the audience follow their argument.  It is necessary for the students to rehearse/practice their speeches ahead of the due date.   Podium Cards are required.  Speeches will commence on December 16th.

Week of November 18th, 2013

"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." - William Butler Yeats

The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.

Academic English 9:   The students will complete Act II of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. They will be responsible for reading, comprehending, analyzing, and applying the literary elements and devices used by Shakespeare to show the flaws of human nature and how society influences individuals.  Act II Notes and Study Guide will be due on Monday, November 25th.  Next week, students will continue writing the tragedy in a modernized vernacular version to demonstrate comprehension of content and form.

Practical English 10:  Students will complete writing the Movie Review.  They will summarize and critique the movie.  The students will need to evaluate the movie and use persuasion to inform the reader of the reasons why the movie is a success or a failure.  It is necessary for them to use specific details to support their response.  Students will be responsible for all of the parts of the writing process:  brainstorming, outlining (using their worksheets), rough draft, editing, and a final copy.

General English 11:  Students will take a Quiz on Act I of The Crucible.  A Reading Assessment Check, a Character Chart check, and a Study Guide check will be given.  They will view Act I of The Crucible and a discussion comparing/contrasting the play and the DVD will follow.  Vocabulary Unit 6 Test will be given on Thursday, November 21st.  Vocabulary Unit 7 will be assigned.  The Vocabulary Squares will be due on Friday, November 22nd.  There will be a Vocabulary Review on Monday and a Test on Tuesday, November 26th.

Public Speaking: Students will need to complete the process of speech preparation necessary for the utilization of good public speaking skills. Research will need to be completed by Thanksgiving Break.  The Outline will be due on December 3rd.  The Rough Draft will be due on December 9th. The Visual Aid will be due by December 11th.  Students should be ready to Practice their speeches on December 12th.  Persuasive Speeches will commence on December 16th.  Preparation for the Final Speech will begin on December 18th.

Week of November 11th, 2013

"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." - William Butler Yeats

The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.

Academic English 9:  The students will complete Act I of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. They will be responsible for reading, comprehending, analyzing, and applying the literary elements and devices used by Shakespeare to show the flaws of human nature and how society influences individuals.  Act I Notes and Study Guide will be due on Tuesday, November 12th.  Students will begin writing the play in a modernized vernacular version to demonstrate comprehension of content and form.

Practical English 10:  Students will be responsible for identifying, analyzing, and applying the elements of the movie review through the viewing, evaluating, and critiquing of a movie. Their use of persuasion and opinion will be necessary for completion of the written review. Students will be required to use active voice.

English 11:   Students will begin reading Arthur Miller's The Crucible. They will be responsible for completing an accompanying study guide to help with their comprehension. Discussion will be necessary for application of relevant issues found in the play. Their study of the Salem Witch Trials, Puritanism, and McCarthyism will aid in understanding themes of individualism, conformity, and the abuse of power. Vocabulary 6 Test on Friday.  Students should be able to answer the following question:  Why is discipline better than punishment?

Public Speaking:   Students will be responsible for reading and taking notes on the Persuasive Speech from their textbook in preparation for the third speech. They will need to complete the process of speech preparation necessary for the utilization of good public speaking skills. Research will aid in the process of picking a topic. Students will need to pick a topic and convince the audience to "do something".  Fact and Policy Worksheets due on Monday, November 11th.  Chapter 17 notes due on Tuesday, November 12th.

Week of November 4th, 2013

"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." - William Butler Yeats

The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.

Academic English 9: Students worked on Vocabulary Unit 3 and Sentence Structure last week.  They will begin reading William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.  The realization of classic literature as being relevant demonstrates how human nature has not changed.  The students will be responsible for reading, comprehending, analyzing, and applying the literary elements and devices used by Shakespeare to show the flaws of human nature and how society influences individuals.

Practical English 10:  Students presented documentaries and analyzed Vocabulary last week.  Students will create a movie review.  They will be responsible for identifying, analyzing, and applying the elements of the movie review through the viewing, evaluating, and critiquing of a movie.  Their use of persuasion and opinion will be necessary for completion of the written review.  Students will be required to use active voice.

English 11:  Students completed persuasive writing projects.  They were responsible for picking 1 of 3 options (Political Cartoon, Editorial, or Print Advertisement) of Persuasive Writing found in the Newspaper.  Students will begin reading Arthur Miller's The Crucible.  They will be responsible for completing an accompanying study guide to help with their comprehension.  Discussion will be necessary for application of relevant issues found in the play.  Their study of the Salem Witch Trials, Puritanism, and McCarthyism will aid in understanding themes of individualism, conformity, and the abuse of power.  Vocabulary 6 Squares Worksheet is due on Wednesday. 

Public Speaking:  Informative Speeches were presented last week.  Thank you for the excellent work!  Students will be responsible for reading and taking notes on the Persuasive Speech from their textbook in preparation for the third speech.  They will need to complete the process of speech preparation necessary for the utilization of good public speaking skills. Research will aid in the process of picking a topic.  Students will need to pick a topic and convince the audience to "do something".

Week of October 21st. 2013

"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." - William Butler Yeats

The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.

Academic English 9:  There were great discussions on evaluating and critiquing work this past week.  Students have given and received constructive criticism which has helped them identify the need for purpose/focus of their work.  Organization was deemed necessary for effective communication.  Simple grammatical errors should have been picked up through their own proofreading.  Creation is a process...which takes work!  There will be an essay test on Night.  The essay will need to identify and use the literary elements and devices discussed.  The relevancy of the novel in the 21st century will need to be supported.  Vocabulary Unit 4 will be assigned.  Reading in context through the identification of subject/verb agreement and the identification of prepositional phrases will be required.  There will be a Vocabulary Test on Tuesday, November 29th.

Practical English 10:  Finalizing the documentaries is required for presentation on Thursday and Friday of this week.

English 11:  Students will read and analyze "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" in order to set the stage for The Crucible.  The  use of fear and intimidation (abuse of power) has been used throughout history and is relevant today.  What legacy will our students leave the next generation?  Vocabulary Unit 5 Sentences due on Friday 10/25.

Public Speaking: Students will continue work on the Informative Speech.  They will be required to identify purpose, complete an outline, utilize their sources, produce a works cited page, write a rough draft,  create a visual aid, and write podium cards.  Speeches will commence on 10/28.  All due dates for the process of speech writing have been given to the students.

Week of October 14th, 2013

"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." - William Butler Yeats

The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively. 

 

Academic English 9:  Students will be responsible for participating in the final guided discussion of the novel, Night.  They will responsible for identifying and applying the literary devices discussed in class (characterization, symbols, foreshadowing, theme).  The purpose of the discussion is aimed at understanding the meaning of the author's message and its relevancy in today's world.  Through the knowledge of the time period, comprehension of the novel, and application of the literary devices, the student should recognize and understand the relevancy of the major theme. Parallels to The Boy in Striped Pajamas will be part of the discussion.  Wednesday and Thursday:  Active listening and viewing on the part of the audience, supporting evidence, and constructive criticism are all necessary when evaluating work. The students will need to apply all of these skills when critiquing the documentaries. These skills should be applied to the editing of their own work, demonstrating the importance of the process of creation.

Practical 10:  Students will continue work on the documentary.  They will use technology to create a documentary on a topic of their choice.  The students will be responsible for presenting the documentary where they will need to identify purpose, show organizational skills, use facts, and apply inference. 

English 11:  Students will be reading and responding to the text on McCarthyism.  The introduction through informational text will aid them in the comprehension of the play, The Crucible. The play's relevancy requires knowledge of the time period in which it was written.  There will be a discussion on fear and its repercussions.

Public Speaking:  Students will continue work on the Informative Speech.  They will be required to identify purpose, complete an outline, utilize their sources, produce a works cited page, write a rough draft,  create a visual aid, and write podium cards.  Speeches will commence on 10/28.  All due dates for the process of speech writing have been given to the students.

Week of October 7th, 2013

"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." - William Butler Yeats

The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.

9th Grade Academic: Students will be responsible for participating in the guided discussion of the novel, Night.  They will responsible for identifying and applying the literary devices discussed in class.  The purpose of the discussion is aimed at understanding the meaning of the author's message.  Through the knowledge of the time period, comprehension of the novel, and application of the literary devices, the student should recognize and understand the relevancy of the major theme.  Active listening and viewing on the part of the audience, supporting evidence, and constructive criticism are all necessary when evaluating work. The students will need to apply all of these skills when critiquing the documentaries. These skills should be applied to the editing of their own work, demonstrating the importance of the process of creation.

Practical 10:  Students will be creating documentaries.  They will be applying the elements of the documentary through the utilization of technology.  Students will be able to identify the difference between perspective and bias while fulfilling the requirements of the documentary. 

English 11:  Students will be reading and responding to the text on Puritanism and The Salem Witch Trials.  The introduction through informational text will aid them in the comprehension of the play, The Crucible. The play's relevancy requires knowledge of the time period in which it was written.  There will be a discussion on fear and its repercussions. Vocabulary Unit 4 definitions will be due on Wednesday.  Completion of the sentences are due on Friday, 10/11.

Public Speaking:  Students will be required to have a topic approved for their Informative Speeches by Tuesday, 10/8.  They will be required to commit to their topics through research.  Their research will need to be used to support their speeches.  Students will be required to hand in outlines, rough drafts, MLA citations, and a visual aid.  Speeches will commence during the week of 10/28.

Week of September 23, 2013

"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." - William Butler Yeats

The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.

 Academic English 9:  Students will review Vocabulary Unit 2.  They will be required to apply vocabulary in context.  Students will also be identifying subject and verbs.  They will be able to identify phrases and subordinate clauses to aid them with the identification of subject and verb in the independent clause.  Through this identification they will be able to analyze sentence structure to help them with their writing.  The viewing of The Boy in Striped Pajamas will begin.  They will analyze and apply literary devices through the visual medium with teacher facilitation.  Students will be required to read and analyze Elie Wiesel's Night as they read on their own.  The novel due date is October 7th.

Practical 10:   Students will be required to complete an Annotated Bibliography.  Students will learn to research, validate, summarize, and critique their sources.  They will be required to use these sources to write an argumentative essay based on one of the articles from The New York Times Upfront Magazine.  The assignment is due by Friday, 9/27.

English 11:    Students will read and analyze an article on Manifest Destiny.  They will be required to identify and discuss the main points of the article.  They will be required to support a thesis through an essay based on the information in the article.  Students will be required to identify and apply the literary devices of denotation and connotation to understand the importance of perspective and word choice. They will then use the elements of the myth, the information from the article, and their analysis to create a unique myth to tell of the loss of their heritage. This narrative writing assignment transitions to the next unit on Puritanism.  Vocabulary Unit 2 worksheets due on Wednesday, 9/25.  Sentences and review will be on Friday, 9/27.

Public Speaking:  Students will be responsible for reading and analyzing the necessary elements of good speech writing.  They will be required to apply these to the Informative Speech.

Chapter 10 due Tuesday, 9/24
Chapter 11 due Thursday, 9/26
Chapters 12 & 13 due Monday, 9/30
Chapter 14 due Wednesday, 10/2
Chapter 15 due Friday 10/4
JFK Critique due Monday 10/7

Week of September 16th, 2013

"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." - William Butler Yeats

The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively. 

9th Grade Academic English:  Students will be continue to create a documentary in a medium of their choice.  They are learning to find and use valid sources, apply MLA format, and identify and apply the elements of the documentary. Class time will be given until the end of the period on Wednesday; however, the project will not be due until Friday, 9/20.  The use and abuse of power is the focus/theme of this unit.  The project will allow students to have information and insight of the time period for understanding and analysis of The Boy in Striped Pajamas and Night.  Vocabulary Unit 2 definitions, breakdowns, and sentences will be due on Friday, September 20th.  The grammar usage focus will continue to be subject/verb agreement.

Practical 10:  Students will be required to complete an annotation on Monday, 9/16.  They will learn MLA citation to be used on the Annotation Assignment.  Students will learn to research, validate, summarize, and critique their sources.  They will be required to use these sources to write an argumentative essay based on one of the articles from The New York Times Upfront Magazine.  The assignment is due by Friday, 9/20.
Vocabulary Unit 2 has been assigned.

English 11:  Students have identified and discussed elements of Native American Myths.  They have participated in the discussion of relevancy to modern literature, specifically superheroes, recognizing the similarities of genres and identifying and applying man's need to make sense of himself and the world around him.  Students will look at the importance of culture and its contribution to history through the reading and analysis of the informational article on the oral tradition of storytelling and the written literature of Native Americans.  They will be required to identify and discuss the main points of the article.  They will then use the elements of the myth, the information from the article, and their analysis to create a unique myth to tell of the loss of their heritage. Vocabulary Unit 2 has been assigned.

Public Speaking:  Students have viewed, analyzed and critiqued Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech.  They will be responsible for completing outlines, podium cards, conferencing, and practice, all in preparation for their Introductory Speech to be delivered at the end of this week.  The goal is to prepare students for speaking well in public which is a necessary skill for success in and out of the classroom.

Critiques due 9/16
Outlines due by 9/17
Chapter 7 Notes due 9/18
Podium Cards due by 9/17
Practices begin on 9/17 and  9/18
Speeches commence on 9/19

Week of September 9th, 2013

"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." - William Butler Yeats

The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively. 

Academic English 9:  Students will be researching the Holocaust and WWII for application to the Documentary Project.  Through research, they will identify and use valid, reliable sources. They will learn the elements of informational text and the Documentary.  In pairs, students will be required to create a documentary in a medium of their choice.  The use and abuse of power is the focus/theme of this unit.  The project will allow students to have information and insight of the time period for understanding and analysis of The Boy in Striped Pajamas and Night.

Practical English 10: Students will read and analyze  informational text.  They will be required to respond to the text on the worksheet.  Students will identify elements of the Argumentative Research Essay.  They will research, argue, and support a side.  They will use correct MLA citation, create annotations, focus on subject/verb agreement and present tense, as well as diction and connotation.  Vocabulary List 2 will be distributed.  Students will be required to complete worksheets for Wednesday, 9/11.  There will be a Vocabulary List 2 Test on Friday, 9/13.

English 11:  Students will be working on the Native American Myth.  They will read, analyze, and respond to "The Turtle's Back" and "Grizzlies Stand Upright".  Students will be required to respond to the myths on worksheets.  Vocabulary List 2 will be reviewed. Students will be required to complete sentences for Friday, 9/13.

Public Speaking:   Students have learned the importance of integrity, audience, topic, and purpose through the reading of the text and discussion.  They will be responsible for completing outlines, podium cards, conferencing, and practice, all in preparation for their Introductory Speech to be delivered next week.  The goal is to prepare students for speaking well in public which is a necessary skill for success in and out of the classroom.

Chapter 5 Notes due 9/11
Topics due by 9/12
Outlines due by 9/16
Chapter 7 Notes due 9/17
Podium Cards due by 9/17
Practices begin on 9/17 and  9/18
Speeches commence on 9/19

Week of September 2, 213

"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." - William Butler Yeats

The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.

Academic English 9: Students have been learning the origin of words and how the affixes affect meaning and function of vocabulary. Their expansion of knowledge on word analysis will help them to master and utilize the vocabulary they are required to learn. Their assessment begins with a formal test on Unit 1 on Thursday, 9/5 but their application and mastery of vocabulary will continue with each new unit and when they apply it to their critical reading skills in literature throughout the year.  Student will also be required to identify the subject and verb for each sentence from the test.  Dissection of the sentences will help with their reading and writing, improving both. 

Practical English 10:  Students will be completing a Diagnostic Review of Grammar to help identify their weaknesses and strengths.  They will then be focusing on areas of needed improvement.  Subject and Verb agreement will be the focus content area for grammar through the reading of Informational Text.  Students will be required to analyze and respond to the text.  They will be participating in a short debate on the topic of Privacy.  There will be a Vocabulary 1 Test on Friday, September 6. 

English 11:  Students will be completing a Diagnostic Review of Grammar to help identify their weaknesses and strengths. Students will be starting Native American Myths this week.  They will be required to identify and apply elements of myths through reading and discussion.  Students will be introduced to the project of creating their own myths using the loss of their culture as a basis.  There will be a Vocabulary Unit 1 test on Friday, September 6.

Public Speaking: Students are learning how to reach their audience as a speaker. They have been reading and discussing correct methods to use when giving a speech. They have also learned that good public speaking skills include actively listening to one's audience. They will be required to analyze and evaluate one of the greatest speeches of all time by Martin Luther King Jr. The goal is for students to use what they have learned in their first introductory speech.

Week of August 26th, 2013

I hope everyone had a restful, enjoyable summer!  I want to begin the year by thanking you for the privilege of teaching at North Schuylkill. I would like to continue your success in school with a motivating and challenging year in the English classroom. 

"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." - William Butler Yeats

The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.

Academic English 9:   Students will be introduced to the expectations of the class on Monday.  Students will begin with Vocabulary Unit 1.  They will be responsible for identifying affixes and root words to help them decipher words in context.  Students will be required to apply knowledge of the vocabulary in context.  Vocabulary Unit 1 Test will be on Wednesday, September 4th. They will then work on honing their informational reading and note taking skills. 

10th Grade Practical:  Students will be introduced to the expectations of the class on Monday.  Students will begin with Vocabulary Unit 1.  They will be responsible for accurately defining and applying vocabulary.  There will be a worksheet due on Thursday, August 29th.  The worksheet will be graded.  There will be a Diagnostic Review in Grammar which will be due on Friday, August 30th.

English 11:  Students will be introduced to the expectations of the class on Monday.  Students will begin with Vocabulary Unit 1.  They will be responsible for accurately defining and applying vocabulary.  There will be a worksheet due on Thursday, August 29th.  The worksheet will be graded.

Public Speaking:  Students will be introduced to the expectations of the class on Monday.  In the beginning, students will be required to read, comprehend and take notes on the text, preparing them for the requirements of Public Speaking, which includes the utilization of research skills that they will need for the semester. They will be responsible for participating in a discussion on the Reading Assignments on the due date.

Reading Assignment 1 due on 8/29
Reading Assignment 2 due on 9/3

Week of May 27, 2013

 The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.

9th Grade English & 9th Grade Academic:  The following units will be on the Final Exam:

Romeo & Juliet
Great Expectations
Poetry
Vocabulary
Sentence Structure and Usage

Good Luck!

11th Grade Practical:  The following units will be on the Final Exam:

Research Paper
Grammar:  Parts of Speech & Sentence Structure
Vocabulary

Good Luck!

12th Grade Practical: Congratulations to all of my Seniors!  Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your lives!  You are the reason I teach, and you will be missed!  The future looks bright!

Week of May 13, 2013

9th Grade English: Students will continue working on the Poetry/Song Book.  They will be responsible for applying poetical elements, creating 2 original poems, and producing a book format.  The project will be due on Friday, May 20th.

9th Grade Academic: Students will continue working on Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.  They will be responsible for reading and analyzing the tragedy.

11th Grade Practical:  Students will be completing their Research Papers.

12th Grade Practical: Students will need to complete a Letter of Reconsideration and a Letter of Complaint.  They will review grammar and usage in preparation for the final.

Week of May 6, 2013

The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.

9th Grade English: Students will be working on Poetry/Song Books.  They will be required to identify 10 poetic devices from songs, write a paragraph about song choice, and create 2 original poems.

9th Grade Academic:  Students will be working in Literature Circles for Romeo and Juliet.  Each student will be assigned a job for participation in the group.  They will be responsible for reading, comprehending, analyzing, applying, and relating to the tragedy.

11th Grade Practical:   Students will continue work on Research Papers.  They will also be reviewing for Keystone Exams.

12th Grade Practical:   Students will be reviewing the rules of grammar and applying them to aid in the honing of their writing skills.  There will be a Vocabulary 4A Squares due on Wednesday, 5/7.

Week of April 29, 2013

The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.

9th Grade English& 9th Grade Academic: Students will respond to a writing prompt for Great Expectations on relevancy.  They will begin work on poems by Robert Frost, Langston Hughes, Edgar Allan Poe, and William Shakespeare. Students will be able to identify poetic structure and apply poetic devices.

11th Grade Practical:  In order for students to be prepared for the Keystone Exams in May, they will respond to questions on reading for meaning, analyzing and interpreting literature, analyzing and interpreting non-fiction.

12th Grade Practical:  Final Copy of the Research Paper must be handed in no later than Monday, 4/29. Students will be reviewing the rules of grammar and applying them to aid in the honing of their writing skills.  There will be a Vocabulary Worksheet/Review and a Test for Unit 3B.

Week of April 22, 2013

 The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively
 
9th Grade English & 9th Grade Academic: Students will complete work on Great Expectations this week.  They will be required to have read and to have taken notes on the last chapters in order for completion of the novel.  Students will identify literary elements and apply literary devices , analyze writing style, and apply meaning for relevancy.

11th Grade Practical: In order for students to be prepared for the Keystone Exams in May, they will respond to questions on reading for meaning, analyzing and interpreting literature, analyzing and interpreting non-fiction.

 12th Grade Practical: Students will complete the Final Draft of the Research Paper.  They will proofread and edit and apply correct MLA format.  There will be a review of Vocabulary Unit 3B on Friday.   

Week of April 15, 2013

The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.

9th Grade English & 9th Grade Academic:   Vocabulary Unit 9 & Sentence Structure test on 4/17
Students will continue working on Great Expectations.  They will be required to have read and to have taken notes on the assigned chapters in order to discuss the novel.  Students will be identifying literary elements and applying literary devices for meaning.  They will need to identify and comprehend the author's use of satire for purpose and theme.


11th Grade Practical:  In order for students to be prepared for the Keystone Exams in May, they will respond and discuss the application of literary devices in a variety of mediums.  They will distinguish the differences between interpretation and inference and apply the correct format for response to the application of literary devices in the chosen medium.  Students will be required to identify a literary device, choose an example in a medium, and the format and organization of a written response.

12th Grade Practical: Vocabulary Unit Test 3A.  Vocabulary 3B will be assigned.  PSSA Re-takes on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

Week of April 8, 2013

The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.
 

9th Grade English & 9th Grade Academic:   Students will continue working on Great Expectations.  They will be required to have read and to have taken notes on the assigned chapters in order to discuss the novel.  Students will be identifying literary elements and applying literary devices for meaning.  They will need to identify and comprehend the author's use of satire for purpose and theme.

11th Grade Practical:   Students will respond and discuss the application of literary devices in a variety of mediums.  They will distinguish the differences between interpretation and inference and apply the correct format for response to the application of literary devices in the chosen medium.  Students will be required to identify a literary device, choose an example in a medium, and the format and organization of a written response.

12th Grade Practical:  Students will continue working on the Research Paper.  The Rough Draft of the paper is due on Thursday, April 11th.  They will need to include correct MLA format, parenthetical citation, and a works cited page.  The final draft of the paper is due on April 25th.  Vocabulary worksheets for Unit 3A will be due on Wednesday, April 10th.  There will be a review on Thursday followed by a Vocabulary Test on Friday, April 12th.

Week of April 1, 2013

The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.


I hope everyone enjoyed the break!  Happy Spring!
9th Grade English & 9th Grade Academic:  Students will continue work on Great Expectations.  Students will be focusing on analyzing the application of literary elements and devices for meaning and relevancy.  Allusion, symbols, characterization, conflict, climax and resolution, foreshadowing, and figurative language will be the focus elements and devices of Dickens' satiric novel.  As they read, students should be taking notes, applying marginal references, and completing the study guide.

11th Grade Practical:  Students will continue work on the Research Paper.

12th Grade Practical:  Students will be working on the Rough Draft of the Research Paper.  They will also be working on Vocabulary3A on Friday. 

Week of March 18th, 2013

 The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.

9th Grade English:  Students will complete Vocabulary Unit 8.  They will be required to understand the meaning in context.  They will also need to dissect sentences, identifying subject and verb, as well as phrases and clauses.  The Vocabulary test will be on Wednesday, March 20th.  We will begin the novel, Great Expectations, on Thursday, March 21st.  They will be required to read, comprehend, and apply literary elements and devices.  They will be reading for meaning.

9th Grade Academic English: Students will review the meanings and application of the words for Vocabulary Unit 8.  They will be required to analyze sentence structure by identifying phrases and subordinate clauses.  They will differentiate between interpretation and inference through the discussion of the novel.  The discussion will focus on the author's purpose and meaning through the use of literary devices (characterization, symbols, allusion, foreshadowing, figurative language).

11th Grade Practical: Students will begin the process of research.  They will differentiate between analytical and argumentative papers.  Students will be required to pick a specific topic, locate valid sources, and create a thesis.  There will be a vocabulary review on Thursday, March 21 in preparation for the test on Friday, March 22nd.
 
12th Grade Practical:  Students will continue work on their research paper.  The  note taking, citations, and tentative outline are due no later than Monday, March 18th.  Final outlines will be due by Wednesday, March 20th.  There will be a Vocabulary test on Unit 2B on Friday, March 22nd.

Week of March 11, 2013

 The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.
9th Grade English & 9th Grade Academic:  Students will be completing the Infomercial/Persuasive Project.  Vocabulary Unit 8 definitions, dissections, and sentences due on 3/15.  Academic only--Notes and Study Guides for the novel due on 3/15

11th Grade Practical: Students will be completing their Documentary Projects.  There will be a quiz on Vocabulary Unit 2A on Thursday, 3/14.  Students will begin work on Vocabulary 2B.

12th Grade Practical:  Students will be working on the Research Paper.  They will be tested on Vocabulary Unit 2A on Thursday, 3/14.

Week of March 4, 2013

 The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.
9th Grade English & 9th Grade Academic: Students will be working on the infomercial.  They will be responsible for applying persuasive techniques, demonstrating knowledge of their audience, and utilizing their product.  The projects will be due no later than 3/10.

11th Grade Practical: Students will be working on the documentary.  They will be responsible for creating a documentary which demonstrates: knowledge of topic, application of theme, logical order, and citations.  Vocabulary Unit 2A Words will be distributed.  They will be responsible for definitions, synonyms and antonyms, and application through the creation of a sentence where the word must be used according to its part of speech.

12th Grade Practical:  Students will continue work on the research paper.  They will be responsible for creating a thesis.  They will ask questions and look for answers.  They will continue to read and take notes from their sources.  Their first 5 citations and notes will be due on Thursday, 3/7.  Vocabulary 2A Worksheet is due on 3/6.  Vocabulary Quiz 2A will be on Friday, 3/8. 

Week of February 25, 2013

 The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.

9th Grade English & 9th Grade Academic English: Students will begin work on the Persuasive Writing Assignment.  They will apply persuasive techniques to create an Infomercial.  They will begin by researching a product and a company during the British Industrial Revolution.  They will need to find valid sources and research culture.  They will compile notes, apply persuasive techniques, knowledge of audience, product, and company, work cooperatively, and utilize technology to produce the modern-day format of the Infomercial.  The knowledge gained will help them to apply meaning to the novel by Charles Dickens, Great Expectations.

11th Grade Practical: Students will continue work on the Documentary.  They will research their topic/person to create the informational format of the Documentary.  They will need to find valid sources, compile notes, apply information to the documentary format, credit their sources, work cooperatively, and utilize technology to produce the Documentary.  The themes found in The Crucible from their Literature class will need to be applied, understanding the relevancy of meaning throughout history, and in current times. 

12th Grade Practical:  Students will be engaged in the process of research.  They will locate valid/reliable sources, compile notes, make a claim, create a thesis, argue a claim, credit their sources, make a connection, apply relevancy, and utilize technology. 

Week of February 18, 2013

 The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.

9th Grade English & 9th Academic English:  Students will continue applying vocabulary, reading in context, and dissecting sentences.  There will be a Vocabulary Unit 7 Test on Thursday, February 21st.  The students will be introduced to the next written project.  The project will focus on purpose and audience.  They will be creating commercials and advertisements for a product that was produced during the 19th century.  They will be utilizing technology in order to complete the project.

11th Practical:  Students will be working on the documentary.  They will be responsible for utilizing technology, applying information and techniques.  The focus of the documentary is the comprehension of power and individualism.  They will have the opportunity to apply these themes to the informational medium that they have chosen. 

12th Grade Practical: Students will be working on a response to the writing prompt on the Archetypal Hero.  They will be responsible for applying writing skills,  grammar usage skills, and  incorporating grammar.  There will be an introduction to the Research Paper. On Thursday and Friday, they will be given the necessary requirements for the paper.  

Week of February 4, 2013

The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.

9th Grade English & 9th Grade Academic:  Students will demonstrate their knowledge of literature, vocabulary, and usage by responding to a prompt.  They will need to apply the literature for support of their thesis, write in active voice and apply vocabulary.  There will be a test on Vocabulary Unit 6 on Wednesday, February 6th.  They will be assessed on word knowledge and application and will need to identify all  phrases and clauses.

11th Grade Practical:  In order to establish the importance of the literature, many writing prompts will be based on the readings, time periods, and themes.  Students will be required to respond to a writing prompt on "McCarthyism" as a parallel to The Crucible.  They will be responsible for applying critical thinking skills to support their answer to the writing prompt.  They will  also need to include a strong thesis, demonstrate correct subject/verb agreement, and incorporate vocabulary.  There will be a Vocabulary Unit 1 Test on Wednesday, February 6th.  On Thursday, students will be required to answer a writing prompt relating to the Harlem Renaissance in celebration of Black History Month.  They will be need to include a strong thesis, supporting details, and correct subject/verb agreement.

12th Grade Practical:  Strong paragraph structure will be the focus so that we can work towards the creation of the essay.  The students will be responding to writing prompts on Anglo-Saxon poetry, Beowulf, and the Archetypal Hero, all subjects that are being taught in their Literature class.  The students will be required to have strong paragraph structure, use active voice and correct subject/verb agreement, support their thesis, and apply vocabulary from 1B. On Friday, students will be required to answer a writing prompt about African-American Heroes in celebration of Black History Month.

Week of January 28, 2013

The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers. Students are not only reading for comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole. Literature is also an example of good writing. The writing improves when a student reads. Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context. We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.


9th Grade English & 9th Grade Academic: Students will be reading and analyzing the Short Story. They will be responsible for applying the elements of the short story and identifying the author's use of literary devices.  At the conclusion of the story, students will be required to identify and support the author's message and its relevancy today.  The students will also be working on Vocabulary.  The vocabulary unit incorporates knowledge of the word from its origin to its definition and application.  The creation of sentences demonstrates knowledge and effective communication.  The review through sentence completion applies reading in context.  The application incorporates knowledge and utilization of grammar through sentence dissection. The students will also be required to respond to a writing prompt, demonstrating analysis of the relevancy of the literature, grammar usage, and vocabulary application.  There willbe a vocabulary test on Monday, February 4th.

11th Grade Practical:  The students will be working on Vocabulary which will also be incorporated in their writing.  Students will be required to respond to a writing prompt on "McCarthyism" as a parallel to The Crucible.  They will be responsible for applying critical thinking skills to support their answer to the writing prompt.  They will  also need to include a strong thesis, demonstrate correct subject/verb agreement, and incorporate vocabulary.  There will be a Vocabulary Test on Friday, February 1st.

12th Grade Practical:  Strong paragraph structure will be the focus so that we can work towards the creation of the essay.  The students will be responding to writing prompts on Anglo-Saxon poetry, Beowulf, and the Archetypal Hero, all subjects that are being taught in their Literature class.  The students will be required to have strong paragraph structure, use active voice and correct subject/verb agreement, support their thesis, and apply vocabulary from 1A. A quiz on Vocabulary 1A will be on Friday, February 1st.

Week of January 21, 2013

  The goal of this English class is to produce critical thinkers.  Students are not only reading for  comprehension but for meaning and relevancy of the work as a whole.  Literature is also an example of good writing.  The writing improves when a student reads.  Vocabulary also improves because the student is learning to read in context.  We want successful students who can think critically and communicate effectively.

9th Grade & 9th Grade Academic:  Students will be reading and analyzing the Short Story. They will be responsible for applying the elements of the short story and identifying the author's use of literary devices.  At the conclusion of the story, students will be required to identify and support the author's message and its relevancy today.  The students will also be working on Vocabulary.  The vocabulary unit incorporates knowledge of the word from its origin to its definition and application.  The creation of sentences demonstrates knowledge and effective communication.  The review through sentence completion applies reading in context.  The application incorporates knowledge and utilization of grammar through sentence dissection.  

 All 9th Grade English classes will be on Vocabulary Unit 6

9th English:  "The Black Cat" and "The Most Dangerous Game"
9th Academic English:  "Bartleby the Scrivener" and "The Most Dangerous Game"


11th Practical:  The students will be working on Vocabulary.  The vocabulary unit incorporates knowledge of the word from its origin to its definition and application.  The creation of sentences demonstrates knowledge and effective communication.  The review through sentence completion applies reading in context.  The application incorporates knowledge and utilization of grammar through sentence dissection.

The students will be responsible for creating a documentary on the Puritans.  Through the production of the documentary, students will learn how to write for an informational  medium.  The required research will help them with the comprehension and analysis of The Crucible for their Literature class. This will be a group project and a due date will be forthcoming.

12th Grade Practical:  The students will begin work on Vocabulary Unit 1.  The students will be required to complete the assignment for Unit 1 List 1 which will include the definition and use of the word.  The Vocabulary assignment will be due on Monday, January 28.  They will also begin work on grammar.  Students will be required to demonstrate their knowledge in the foundations of grammar, beginning with the Parts of Speech.

The first writing assignment will be on problem-solving.  The students need to be able identify a problem and analyze it for solutions, a real world application necessary for success.  They will need to use logic and reason to support their thesis.  The writing assignment will be due on Friday, February 1st.

Week of January 14, 2013

9th Grade English & 9th Grade Academic:  Midterms will continue on Monday and Tuesday.  Students will be reviewing the Midterm in order to comprehend strengths and weaknesses which need to be addressed.  A comprehensive exam assesses what a student knows and how to apply the knowledge.  Interpretation and analysis are skills necessary for critical thinking.  The goal of English is to create critical thinkers who can use their skills for success in all academics and in life. 

Public Speaking:  Midterms will continue on Monday and Tuesday.  The Persuasive Speeches will finish on Thursday, January 17th.  Success in Persuasive Speaking relies on the responsibility of the student to use logic and reason to persuade the audience to DO something.  I look forward to their presentations and hope for the movement of the audience from apathy to one of action!   

Week of January 7, 2013

9th Grade English & 9th Grade Academic: Students will be concentrating on preparation for Midterm Exams.  Students will be responsible for demonstrating knowledge of literary elements and devices through application.  Interpretation and analysis of literature (short story and novel) will be assessed.  Usage in grammar will be a focus in order to increase their reading and writing skills.  Vocabulary will also be tested for reading in context. 

Public Speaking: Presentation of the Persuasive Speeches will commence on Monday, January 7, 2013.  A final exam demonstrating knowledge and application of rhetoric skills and techniques will be given.

The Midterm Exams are as follows:

Thursday, January 10:  Periods 1 and 2
Friday, January 11:  Periods 6 and 7
Monday, January 14:  Periods 3 and 4
Tuesday, January 15:  Period 5

Week of December 31, 2012

9th Grade English 9th Grade Academic: Students will be working on Vocabulary.  They will be responsible for analyzing and dissecting each word.  Usage of the word is necessary for learning and demonstrates comprehension in context. Sentences will be due by Friday 1/4.

Public Speaking: Students will be responsible for the Persuasive Speech.  They will need to have all of the components necessary to persuade their audience on their topic.  All speeches will be due on Monday 1/7.