Week of 10 October 2017

"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 12:  Why do we need heroes?  Is it more important to win or to take a stand?

Students will read a variety of poems based on heroism and war.  They will be asked to identify the importance of word choice (diction) and tone for interpretation.  Students will create a thesis statement (for a compare/contrast essay) and an outline to analyze and interpret the tone and message of the poet towards heroism in war (sacrifice/success).  Poetic devices will be identified and discussed.  They will then be asked to create an argumentative essay utilizing the variety of poems read from Unit 1. Students will be asked to write a complete essay on heroic traits and show whether it is more important to win or to take a stand.

English 11:  What is the meaning of Freedom?

Students will continue to read informational texts on the Founders of the Constitution.  Students will be asked to respond to the text by identifying any unknown vocabulary, highlighting, asking questions and applying relevancy through connections.  Students have been given a Constitution packet that includes a chart for research on a particular founder, ideals found in the Constitution, and Argument outlines.  The packet, along with the rubric will help guide students as they create  the Founders PowerPoint with a perspective.

Public Speaking:  How do basic speaking and listening skills help us to communicate?

Students will work on their Introductory Speeches which will begin on Thursday, 10/12. There will be peer critiquing and discussion.  Chapters 10 & 12 are due on 10/17.  Chapters 11, 13, and 14 are due on 10/20.  One-to-one conferencing  for the Introductory Speech will begin on Monday, 10/16.

Keystone Literature Workshop:  How does my interaction with the text provoke thinking and
                                                      response?

Students will learn word dissection and analysis.  They have been asked to create a board game using word parts.  Students, working cooperatively will write instructions, create boards and board pieces, play, and learn affixes and roots through experience and application. They have been given a rubric. Word dissection, analysis, and vocabulary in concept are necessary tools to respond to the text.