Weeks of March 7th and 14th, 2016

"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. 

English 11: Students have been working on Vocabulary Unit 5.  They will required to define, analyze, and apply vocabulary.  There will be a test on Tuesday, March 8th.  They will read an excerpt from Poor Richard's Almanack. Students will identify and discuss the elements of an aphorism.  They will then interpret aphorisms, apply them to the 13 virtues identified from the Autobiography, and create 10 virtues for today's society and an aphorism for each.  Students will then be introduced to Thomas Jefferson for analysis of the Declaration of Independence.

Practical English 11:  Students have been working on Vocabulary Unit 2.   They will required to define, analyze, and apply vocabulary.  There will be a test following a review on Thursday, March 10th.  Students will respond to an article on Puritanism.  They will then read, analyze, and respond to a sermon written by Jonathon Edwards.  Identifying elements of cultural beliefs through the literature is necessary for meaning.  Students will then read, analyze, and respond to an informational article on the Salem Witch Trials in preparation for the drama, The Crucible.

YES Period 4: Students have been working on a letter of persuasion.  Identifying strengths and weaknesses of character are important for self awareness and growth.  They will then be required to create resumes.  Students will then begin the unit on Teamwork.

YES Periods 7 & 8:  Students have been developing Math skills.  They have completed exercises and assignments to improve their basic Math skills.  They will be completing exercises and assignments to develop and improve their language skills.  One of the requirements of the YES course is to pass the TABE test.  They will also be working on the unit of Health and Safety.