Thursday, December 16, 2010

ACT 2 Vocabulary Quiz is FRIDAY!

Dear Juniors,

If you missed class, we completed the following:

1. I returned every student's "Hell, Fire and Damnation" assignment.
2. I also returned each student's Irony Essay.
3. We then read Act 2 Scene 2 in The Crucible. This is a scene that Arthur Miller did not include in the original production of the play. Since that time, many directors have not included the scene in their production, as it gives the audience feelings of pity and empathy for Abby.

4. We then watched ACT 2 on the film.
5. We then played Vocabulary Bingo using the words from ACT 2.


HOMEWORK:
1. VOCABULARY QUIZ for ACT 2.
  STUDY!

Monday, December 13, 2010

ACT 2 quiz was administered today!

Dear Juniors,

We completed the following today:
I collected everyone's flashcards and study guides at the beginning of class.

1. We took a few minutes and reviewed for your Act 2 quiz.
2. We took and then corrected the quiz.
3. We then obtained the themes for Act 2

Homework:
1. "Article #6" involves completing some research on the topic of "Cognitive Dissodence." Yes, that's right. Your "article" will actually be the information you obtain concerning this topic.You may use the Internet as your source, or you are welcome to use a psychology book. Please research "Cognitive Dissidence" and find a source that is a minimum of one page in length. Please annotate/notate it with a total of 7-10 annotations/notations and use all your colors. THIS IS DUE ON WED., DEC. 15th! Make sure you know how this psychological disorder relates to The Crucible.

2. Your vocabulary quiz for Act 2 will take place on Friday!

Cheers,
Crampton

Thursday, December 9, 2010

We completed ACT 2 in class!

Dear Juniors,

If you missed class, we completed the following:

1. We had an assembly today, so our class time was shorter than usual.  So, we obtained the themes for Act 2 and then we completed Act 2.
2. Everyone submitted Article #5.

Homework:
1. QUIZ on MONDAY covering Act 2. You will have quotes, aspects related to the characters, questions regarding events within the act, and questions from your study guide.
2. Create flashcards for your vocabulary words for ACT 2. The cards are due on MONDAY!

Enjoy your weekend!
Cheers,
Crampton

Monday, December 6, 2010

We continued with ACT 2

Dear Juniors,

If you missed class, this is what we accomplished:

1. Journal #7: "Crucible: Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned"
ALL OF YOU: Tell me what you think this quote means...."Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned." Justify your explanation. How does this quote relate to events within The Crucible?

GENTLEMEN: Please reflect on a moment in your 16 or 17 years of existence when you genuinely angered a female. Please tell me about the circumstances behind her fury. What was the final result?

LADIES: Please reflect on a moment when you have genuinely been angered by a male. Tell me why you were so angry. What happened? Please include specifics in your response.

2.  We continued by obtaining the themes associated with Act 2 for the section we had read up to that point.

3. We continued with reading ACT 2

HOMEWORK:
1. Article #5 is due on Thursday.
2. Complete study guide questions for Act 2
3. Review your vocabulary words.

Thursday, December 2, 2010

Can fear cause you to compromise your integrity?

Dear Juniors,

If you missed class today, we completed the following:

1. Journal #6: Crucible: "Paying the price for her silence"
             This article should have affected you! What emotions did you experience? What is your opinion regarding the young lady focused in the article? How can fear cause someone to compromise their integrity? How could she have watched the attack upon the counselor and DO NOTHING to stop it? Why do people choose NOT TO ACT in times when ACTION is needed most? Consider your own character. Would you sit back and watch or would you act. Don't tell me that it depends on the situation. Are you a "doer" or a "watcher?"

2.

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Act One Quiz

Dear Juniors,

If you missed class, we completed the following:

1. An explanation was given regarding your "Hell, Fire and Damnation Sermon" which is due on Tuesday, December 7th. I have included a copy of the assignment for you below. Please let me know if you have any questions.

Hell, Fire, and Damnation….
DUE DATE:________________
Explanation:
Now that you have a greater concept of the Puritan’s strict code, and Rev. Parris’ verbal abuse toward his congregation (hell, hell, and more hell), it is time for you to write your own “Hell, Fire, and Damnation” sermon. You may choose to have your sermon follow a 1692 Puritan theme, or it may follow a 21st century theme where you discuss aspects of your modern culture which you, as the preacher, feel will bring mankind closer to hell. Below, you will find two examples of past sermons. The first one is more of a modern day version, and the second follows the Puritan code. When I’ve given this assignment in the past, some of my students have chosen to mock aspects in our society that they believe would bring us towards “Hell.” If you want to make fun of something go ahead and do so
Example #1
            The gapes of hell are beckoning you, for you have sinned and the wrath of God echoes through the halls of Timpanogos High School. He will seek to destruction if you do not change your licentious and carnal ways. Cursed be your name, as you have afflicted a public display of affection upon the innocent. The naïve eyes of the innocent victims, see you touch, kiss and caress in the halls, thus causing God to boil with rage. Learn self-control, young sinners, or the Fiend will continue to taunt and tease you with lustful ways. Your evil thoughts must be removed. It is not wise to know your fellow classmates as you do. Gather the strength in yourself and reach out to heaven, or God will cut off your hand if you reach for your “lover” in the halls again, and force you to take an endless ice cold shower.  You must control your desires. This is your crucible, your test, to prove to god that you can overcome such a weakness. Search for the light of God. If not, Lucifer will drag you down to his fiery chaotic realm, where you will have a “red light” placed above your head forever.
Example #2
            The pit is prepared, the fire is made ready, the furnace is now hot ready to receive them who have altered from the path of the Lord. The flames of hell now rage and glow with excitement, as they await the unjust. You have the power to be forgiven and repent. Christ has thrown the door of mercy wide open, and stands at the door calling and crying with a loud voice to poor sinners; a say where many are flocking to him, and pressing into the kingdom of God. Many are daily coming from the east, west, north, and south; many that were very lately in the same miserable condition that you are in, are now in a happy state, with their hearts filled with love to him who has loved them, and washed them from their sins in his own blood, and rejoicing in hope of the glory of God. How awful is it to be left behind at such a day! To see so many others feasting, while you are perishing. If you do not come unto him, God will hold you over the pit of hell, much as one holds a spider, or some loathsome insect if the fire. Therefore, let everyone that is of Christ, awake and fly toward the redeemer before the fires of Hell burn your soul.
REQUIREMENTS:
1.Your sermon must be TYPED, DOUBLE SPACED, using 12 POINT.
2. Your sermon should be at least ¾ in length.
3. Please structure your paper using MLA format.
4. You may use PASSIVE voice for this assignment as it is not an academic essay.
5. You must include one connection to The Crucible.  Please identify the connection with italicized/bold type.
6. You must include a minimum of five vocabulary words from ACT 1 in your “sermon.” Please identify the vocabulary words through underlined/bold type.
2. We completed and graded the quiz for Act 1.
3. We then read the transcript from the trial of Sarah Good, one of the first individuals falsely accused of witchcraft in Salem.

HOMEWORK:
1. "Hell, Fire and Damnation Sermon" is due on Tuesday, December 7th.
2. Article of the Week #4 is due on Friday.

Sunday, November 28, 2010

Welcome back, Juniors

Dear Juniors,
I hope you had a relaxing Thanksgiving break. If you missed class, we completed the following in class:

1. We watched ACT 1 of The Crucible.
2. We then completed the questions for ACT 1 on your study guide.
3. We continued with identifying the different themes located within Act 1.

HOMEWORK:
1. QUIZ on WED. covering ACT 1. The quiz has several parts. PART 1: You must identify the characters referenced from the given quote. PART 2: You must identify the character that is speaking. PART 3: You will be given several questions pertaining to events within ACT 1. PART 4: You must identify the six themes within the play, and then include an example from ACT 1 which illustrates the specified theme.

STUDY! STUDY! STUDY! STUDY! STUDY! STUDY! STUDY! STUDY! STUDY! STUDY!

2. ARTICLE #4 is due on Friday. Please include 7-10 annotations/notations/page/using ALL your colors.

PRACTICE QUIZ: For each question correctly answered on the practice quiz, 1/2 point of extra-credit will be added to your official quiz score.
Directions: Identify the speaker for the following quotes.

1."Goody Proctor is a gossiping liar." _________________
2. "What constitutes the reading of strange books, Mr. Hale?" _______________
3.  "Here is the invisible world. In this book, the Devil stands stripped of all his brute disguises."
_____________________
4. "Why am I constantly persecuted here? I am not use to this poverty. I left a thifty business in the Barbados." _________________
5.  "I think she'll wake when she tires of it." ________________
6. "That tract is in my bounds. My bounds, sir. It stands clear in my grandfather's will that everything from the north pasture on wards is......" ___________________
7.  "Witchery is a hang'in error like they done in Boston two year ago. We'll only be whipped for the danc'in." ________________
8. "I know it, sir. I sent my child--she should learn from Tituba who murdered her sisters." __________
9. "The Devil is precise; the marks of his presence are definite as stone, and I must tell you all that I shall not proceed unless you are prepared to believe me." ________________
10. "Abby, put it out of mind. I'll not be coming for you more." _____________________

I look forward to seeing you on Wed.
Cheers,
Crampton

Monday, November 22, 2010

We completed ACT 1 of THE CRUCIBLE today in class!

Dear Juniors,

If you missed class, we completed the following:

1. Everyone submitted their "Irony Essay Revision."
2. We then continued with ACT 1. As we read we answered the questions on your study guide pertaining to  ACT 1. We also obtained quotes from Act 1 that correspond to the six themes within The Crucible.

WELL DONE with reading the play with emotion, cute kids. I am proud of you!

HOMEWORK:
1. NONE! Enjoy your Thanksgiving holiday; I look forward to seeing you in a week.

Cheers,
Crampton

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

BULLYING!

Dear Juniors,

If you missed class, we completed the following:

1. We reviewed some problems you had in your "Irony Essays." I then returned the essays to their "owners." Please obtain the information you missed.

2. Journal #5 "Crucible: Bullying"
                 According to "Article #3" why do individuals bully? What causes individual to not report instances of bullying? What questions did you ask regarding the article? Have you experienced bullying? What were the circumstances? Do you know individuals that have been bullied? What happened? Did you do anything to stop the bullying? Are you guilty of "bullying" if you witness it occur, and do nothing to stop it?

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

We had a slight "GLITCH" in the schedule today....

Dear Juniors,

What did we do in class, Crampton?

1. Everyone received a copy of Article #3, which is due on THURSDAY. Please annotate using red and then ONE OTHER COLOR of your choice  (Annotate/notate 8-10/page). I realize that the final page of the article is only two paragraphs in length, but you can easily include 2-3 annotations/notations for the final page.  IF YOU MISSED CLASS, I have placed several copies of the article outside the room on the bulletin board.

2. Each student received a copy of the "Crucible Study Guide" and a copy of the "Crucible Theme Sheet." We will use these in class as we progress through the play.

3. We completed vocabulary for ACT 1. Please obtain the definitions from someone else in class. We will begin reading the play on THURSDAY.

p.s. Our "glitch" involved having to attend an orientation concerning "Internet Scams." All junior English classes were required to attend this meeting. It is valuable for you; however, it took an hour to complete.

I look forward to seeing you on Thursday!

Friday, November 12, 2010

False Accusations....

Dear Juniors,

If you missed class today, we completed the following:

1. Journal #4: "Crucible: False Accusations"
           In your opinion, why are people considered guilty before any evidence exists that proves otherwise? The student in "Article #2" was not guilty; yet, everyone assumed that he had "committed the crime." Have you ever been falsely accused of a "crime that you did not commit?" Tell me about it. What were the circumstances behind the accusations. What was the outcome. I hope it was positive for you!

2. We completed and corrected our "Introductory Quiz" to The Crucible.

3. We then learned more about the characters in Act 1 of the play, and we selected parts to begin reading the play. Yes, we will begin on TUESDAY!


HOMEWORK:1. None

Enjoy your weekend

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

We completed the introductory information covering the Puritan culture today in class!

Dear Juniors,

If you missed class, we completed the following:

1. We finished the visual presentations regarding the Puritan culture. If you missed class, please make sure you obtain this information from another student. The information is located on the white handout entitled "Introductory Information on The Crucible."

2. We practiced having "fun" with the STOCKS!

3. We watched a movie clip concerning Arthur Miller and his development of the play.

HOMEWORK:
1. Plan on a QUIZ covering the introductory information on Friday.
2. Article #2 is also due on Friday.

I will see you soon!
Cheers,
Crampton

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Why Innocent People Commit to Crimes

Dear Juniors,

If you missed class we completed the following:

1. Journal #3: "Crucible: Why Innocent People Confess to Crimes"

Please divide your paper horizontally into three sections. Please label each section in the following way: Part1, Part 2 and Part 3.

Part 1: Please respond to the following question. In three to four sentences identify how the article entitled "Why Innocent People Confess to Crimes" relate to events within The Crucible. I realize that you haven't started the play; however, you know enough from our class discussions that you can fully answer the above question.

Part 2: Did you ask any questions for your notations? Basically, did you annotate using RED, my young friends? What questions did you ask? List them for Part 2.

Part 3: What were your impressions regarding Det. Davis' discussion with you? Can you answer any of the questions you asked for Part 2? If so, do so now. If not, did any questions arise while you listened to Det. Davis?

HOMEWORK:
1. Please read, annotate and notate "Article #2" concerning a high school falsely accused of slander towards a teacher. Please include 11-15 annotates/notations/page. Use all the colors!

Thursday, November 4, 2010

The CRUCIBLE visuals today in class...

Dear Juniors,

If you missed class today, we completed the following:

1. I returned the responses for your "Interactive Crucible" assignment. We reviewed your answers.

2. Everyone submitted their research assignment concerning The Crucible.  Each topic group then worked together concerning the creation of a visual associated with their specific topic. If you missed class, you will not be able to make up the visual participation points, but please submit your research assignment to me as soon as you return to school.

3. The visuals will be used in class next week in order to assist you with developing greater schema concerning The Crucible.

HOMEWORK:
1. Please read "Crucible: Article of the Week #1" for Monday. Please identify 11-15 annotations/notations, and then notate using ALL the colors.

Enjoy your weekend! I look forward to seeing you on Monday!

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

THE CRUCIBLE continued....

Dear Juniors,

1. PLEASE REMEMBER THAT YOUR RESEARCH assignment is due on Thursday. Allow me to remind you of the requirements:
  • 1. A list of the points concerning your specific topic that you found interesting.
  • 2. An include annotated/notated (10-15) copy of the source I gave you.
  • 3. An included annotated/notated copy of the additional source you found via the Internet.
  • 4. Works Citation page indicating your sources (Remember that I gave you the citation information for the source I shared with you in class. You must reference both sources.)
2. We completed the "Story Synopsis" that you received last class period. Please make sure you obtain this information from another student.

3. We watched a clip from Monte Python and the Holy Grail concerning witches. You had a journal entry concerning the clip;

Journal #2:
 Crucible: How does the clip from Monte Python relate to events within The Crucible?

4. We then went to the writing lab where we participated in an interactive website regarding the Salem witch trials of 1692. If you missed class, you will need to complete the exercise involving the website at home. The following is the address: www.nationalgeographic.com/features/97/salem/
In order to complete the assignment associated with the website please respond to the following. Print off a copy of your responses in association with the interactive web page.

Instructions: Please read through the "Introduction" on the website.
                      Please read through the "Prologue" and answer the following questions:

1. According to 1 Peter5:8. Satan can find representation in what animal?
2. In your opinion, why does this animal seem a fitting metaphor for the devil?
3. What kind of town was Salem?
4. What divisive issue plagued the town of Salem?
5. In 1689 who was the first religious lead in Salem?
6. Why did so many villagers despise the reverend?
7. Who mesmerized Betty and Abigail with exciting stories?
8. Identify the three women initially accused of witchcraft?
9. What did Tituba tell the villagers?

Now clip on "Experience the Trials." Proceed through this interactive activity to have a concept for what Salem was like in 1692.  In a well developed paragraph, indicate your thoughts and feelings regarding what you read. You may use first person pronouns in your response.

I look forward to seeing you on Thursday!
Cheers,
Crampton

Monday, October 25, 2010

You shared your "favorite and least favorite" short stories with me....

Dear Juniors,

If you missed class, we completed the following:

1. We submitted the "Five Paragraph Essay Revision" assignment.
2. We submitted "Article of the Week #7" and had a great discussion regarding your impression concerning the article.

3. Journal #10 "Favorite and Least Favorite Short Stories"
              Identify your favorite short story and your least favorite short story. Justify your reasons for both choices, beyond the fact that "I just like it" or "I just don't like it." Thoroughly explain WHY you like/dislike the stories that you did.

4. Journal #11 "Inja, the Dog"
              Students watched a short film entitled "Inja." I asked students to identify Dramatic and Situational Irony examples found within the film, and then justify their responses.

HOMEWORK:1. Remember that your FINAL EXAM for SHORT STORIES is due on WED. YOU must have TWO copies of your essay when you come to class, and your essay must be SAVED TO A USB, so that you can edit it during class.
2. Remember that your JOURNAL ENTRIES are due on WEDNESDAY.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Friday, October 22, 2010

Your FINAL EXAM was introduced to you today...October 21st, 2010!

Dear Juniors,

If you missed class today, we completed the following:
1. Your final exam for short stories was explained. I have indicated the four options below; however, please pick up the handout detailing your exam when you return to class on Monday. YOUR FINAL is due ON WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 27th. PLEASE SAVE YOUR ESSAY TO YOUR ENGLISH USB, and HAVE TWO COPIES of the ESSAY with you on Wednesday! PLEASE BRING THE USB with you TO CLASS ON WEDNESDAY! You have four options for the test:

OPTION #1:
Select one film from the list below and write a five paragraph essay discussing the THREE DIFFERENT TYPES of IRONY found within the film you select. Each body paragraph would focus on a different example of irony found within the film. You must assume that your reader has NO SCHEMA on the film, nor your topic; consequently, you will need to thoroughly explain events within the film.
    • The Others
    • Watcher in the Woods
    • The Village
    • The Sixth Sense
    • What Lies Beneath
    • The Illustionist
    • The Prestigue
    • Lady in White
    • Salt
OPTION #2:
Select one film from the above list and discuss ONE TYPE of IRONY found within the movie. Each body paragraph would pertain to three examples of the one type of irony found within the film.

OPTION #3:
Select three different short stories we have discussed, and write a five paragraph essay where you review ONE ASPECT of IRONY found within the different stories. For example, you may elect to discuss verbal irony found within "The Landlady," "The Birthmark," and "The Dinner Party." Each body paragraph would pertain to a specific short story and the verbal irony (or the irony you select) found within it.

OPTION #4:
Select ONE TYPE OF IRONY found within ONE SHORT STORY, and write a five paragraph essay where you discuss that particular type of irony. For example, you may select to discuss VERBAL IRONY found within "The Landlady." Each body paragraph would pertain to an example of Verbal Irony found within the short story.

2. We identified all of the elements of irony in each short story. Visit with someone else in class to obtain this information.

3. I helped everyone write the introductory paragraph for their essay.

4. We read "The Wife's Story" together in class. While we read we completed Journal #9, "Inferences in "The Wife's Story"
As we read "The Wife's Story," please make inferences based upon the specific lines of text given to you.

NOTE: "The Wife's Story" is an exceptional tale, as you are "tricked" into believing something that is completely different than the reality behind what is actually taking place in the story.

4. We reviewed your journal entries, as those are also due on Wednesday, October 27th. You will have eleven entries total. We started working on Journal #10 in class, but we did not complete it. You will completed Journal #11 in class on Monday.
Journal #10 "Favorite vs. Least Favorite"
Identify your favorite and your least favorite short story. Explain your choices to me. Please go beyond "I just like it," and "I don't like." Tell me WHY for both stories, my young friends.

HOMEWORK:
1. Please remember that your Article #7 is due on Monday. You are annotating/notating with blue and purple; 5-8 annotations/notations/page.
2. Your Five Paragraph Essay revision is also due on Monday. Please remember to bring your first draft with you to class, as I need to make sure that you have completed your revisions.
3. START WORKING on your FINAL EXAM for short stories.

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

We completed "The Birthmark," "Story of an Hour," and started on "The Wife's Story" in class!

Dear Juniors,

Welcome back from Fall Break; I hope you had an enjoyable vacation.

What did we do in class, Crampton?
1. We completed reading and discussing "The Birthmark" by Nathaniel Hawthorne
2. We read another short story entitled "Story of an Hour" by Kate Chopin.
       While we read the story, students worked on Journal #8 entitled "Inference within Story of an  Hour." As I read the story, we made "educated predictions" about what was going to happen and why certain events took place.
3. We then started another short story entitled "The Wife's Story." We did not complete this in class, but I ask that you DON'T read it home, as it is better to review it together.

HOMEWORK:
1. Revision for your Five Paragraph Essay is due on Monday, October 26th. I returned the essays today in class.
2. Article of the Week #7 is due on Monday, October 26th. Please annotate/notate (5-8/page) using BLUE and PURPLE. The article is entitled "Why Boys don't read Chick Books."

NOTE:
Please DO NOT miss class on Thursday, as I will explain your final exam to you!

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

We completed (well, almost) "The Birthmark" today in class!

Dear Juniors,

I sincerely hope you have a relaxing "Fall Break." Remember that upon your return, you only have TWO WEEKS prior to the end of first term. WOW! Time flies when one is having fun!

 This is what we accomplished in class (October 13, 2010):

Journal #7: "CLONING vs. "THE BIRTHMARK"
                Please return to the green sheet that we worked on together last class period. Refer to the themes that we discussed. Choose one of the themes, and justify why "Article #6" relates to that particular theme. In addition, share your insights regarding cloning.  Answer the article's question, "Is cloning good or bad?"

2. We reviewed and submitted the vocabulary words that students identified as needing clarification. Well done, I am proud of you!

3. We then continued with "The Birthmark." Hawthorne uses elevated language and themes, so we started reading page 6 and then stopped on page 9 (for A1). I ask that you don't finish at home, but read up to where your class ended. We will complete the story together in class.

Enjoy your holiday, my young friends.

Cheers,
Crampton

Monday, October 11, 2010

Themes, Irony and Symbols found in "The Birthmark"

Dear Juniors,

If you missed class today, we completed the following:

1. We discussed "Article of the Week #5." Students then submitted the article to me.
2. We then worked in our groups to develop a list of themes, symbols and aspects of irony associated with"The Birthmark." I gave each student a green handout where they recorded this information and then filed in in their notebook. Well done, everyone, as this was an effective way to obtain a significant amount of information in a short amount of time.

HOMEWORK:
1. Please read 1/2 of "The Birthmark" (read to the bottom of page five). The page ends with the following text "".....a race as ephemeral as itself."
2. As you read the first 1/2 of the short story please annotate for VOCABULARY. Make a list of the words that you do not understand, and then please define the words. I ask that you type your list and include the definitions with the list. This is due on Wed. I ask that you identify a minimum of 2-3 words/page.
3. Please annotate/notate "Article of the Week" #6 entitled "Is Cloning Good or Bad?" This is due on Wed. I have placed several copies of the article outside the room.

Hang in there, cute kids, as your "Fall Break" is almost here.
Cheers.
Crampton

Thursday, October 7, 2010

THE BIRTHMARK was introduced to you today, October 7th, 2010

Dear Juniors,

Today we started our introduction on "The Birthmark," a short story by Nathaniel Hawthorne.

1. We obtained information about Hawthorne and then I shared a Power Point Presentation concerning "The Short Story." Please obtain this information from someone else in class.

2. We then went to the lab in order to complete some research. Each student had one of the following words assigned to them: IRONY, SYMBOLISM. and THEME.

If you missed class, PLEASE see me BEFORE Monday, so that I can give you one of the words.

Your assignment is to research irony, symbolism and theme in association with "THE BIRTHMARK." You are to locate an Internet source that pertains to one of the three elements, annotate it concerning irony, theme or symbolism, and then create a list detailing the irony, aspects of symbolism and the themes found within "The Birthmark." I have included a student example below:

Phillip Johns                                                                                                                  John 1

Mrs. Crampton

Junior English

10/02/2001

Themes found within “The Birthmark”



  1. Theme: Man should not attempt to change or alter what God has created.
  2. Theme: The desire for perfection can lead to imperfection
  3. Theme: Flaws give mankind a reason to seek for growth. If mankind possesses no flaws then they can not progress.
  4. Theme:  Science does not have a place in creation.
  Please remember to include a Works Cited page indicating your source.

HOMEWORK:
1. Don't forget to complete Article of the Week #5 for Monday.
2. Please locate an Internet source detailing THEME, SYMBOLISM and IRONY for Monday.
3. From that information, please create a list of the Themes, Symbols and aspect of Irony associated with "The Birthmark." Please note the example above.

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

"The Landlandy" was our focus for today!

Dear Juniors,

I hope you enjoyed "The Landlady" by Roald Dahl. If you missed class, please make sure you collect a copy of this short story located outside the room.

WHAT DID WE DO IN CLASS TODAY, CRAMPTON?

1. We took a reading quiz over "The Interlopers."
2. We then learned a little more about Roald Dahl, the author of "The Land Lady" and "Beware of the Dog," your reading assignment for Thursday.
3. We read "The Land Lady" in class.  IT IS SUCH AN AMAZING SHORT STORY!

HOMEWORK:
1. Please read, annotate and notate the Article of the Week #5 for Monday, October 11th. Please annotate using ALL THE COLORS, my young friends.
2. Please read "Beware of the Dog" for Thursday. Plan on a reading quiz.

Cheers,
Crampton

Monday, October 4, 2010

Hi, Juniors!

Dear Juniors,
I hope you enjoy your weekend! I am sure you're wondering what we did in class today? We completed the following:

1. We watched a Madonna music video entitled "Oh, Father" for Journal Entry #5
As you watch the video , please list everything you consider a symbol. In addition, define what you think that symbol represents.

NOTE: If you missed class, then you can come during a Flex session to make up the entry.

2. We reviewed "The Open Window" by Saki
3. We recorded some information regarding Saki's past on the "Author's Corner" sheet.
4. We took the quiz covering "The Open Window" and started grading it in class (we completed grading it for A4).

HOMEWORK:
1. Remember that your Article of the Week #4 is due on Tuesday.
2. Please read "The Interlopers" by Saki for Tuesday. Copies are available for you outside the room.
3. Plan on a reading quiz over the short story.

I look forward to seeing you on Tuesday.
Cheers,
Crampton

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

We had a visitor today in class...Rosie!


Dear Juniors,

We completed the following today in class:

1. Journal #3 "Afghan Woman Punished"
                Tell me how this article made you feel and why you experienced those emotions. List five of your total questions that you consider the strongest. Basically, which of your questions, in your opinion, would cause another individual to think about, or even question, events indicated within the article.

2. We then completed another journal entry entitled Journal #4" : Times of Crisis. This entry is different than others as it has three questions to it:
                 1. How do you handle dangerous situations that could cause panic? Do you act or react? Do you consider yourself a calm individual, especially concerning aspects that might cause pandemonium, or would you say that you have a more "stressed" and "anxious" type of character?
                  2. We then read the short story "The Dinner Party."
                  3. Then we answered the next question for the Journal #4.  According to one character      within "The Dinner Party," women have a tendency to over react in times of crisis. Tell me why this belief is ironic, especially regarding events within the story.
                  4. Our guest then "revealed" herself. We then responded to the third part of the journal entry. If you had known that Rosie was in the room, prior to our discussion, would your reaction to entering the room have been any different? Would there have been a "crisis" with you? Explain.

3. I then introduced the short story called "The Open Window" by Saki. Each student was given a handout entitled "Meet the Author" where I gave information concerning Saki. Prior to reading each short story, I will give you information regarding the author.

4. We then discussed the title of the work....."The Open Window," as it is highly symbolic.

5. Finally, we watched a video clip by Madanna entitled "Oh, Father." The music video is highly symbolic.

6. Students completed their final Journal Entry of the day (Journal #5: "Madonna's symbols") As you watch the music video, record all the symbols used and what they represent.

HOMEWORK:
1. Remember that your Five Paragraph Essay revision is due on Friday.
2. I gave each student their "Article of the Week #4" entitled  "One Day your Pants May Power Up Your Ipod." The annotations and notations for this article are up to you, but you must select only one color!  Five  to Eight annotations/notations/page and this is due on Tuesday, October 5th.
3. Please read  "The Open Window" for Friday....Plan on a quiz.

Monday, September 27, 2010

Re-evaluate your Five Paragraph Essays, my young friends!

Dear Juniors,

If you missed class today, we completed the following:

1. I returned your Five Paragraph Essays. We discussed the primary problem with them and that happens to be COMMENTARY. You need more green! Many of you include valid CONCRETE DETAIL, but fail to support your points. I gave each student the following examples. The first paragraph was written by one of you. It has valid points, but the student hasn't included enough support. Notice that the second paragraph has more support, specifically through quotes that corroborate the points.

Paragraph Examples
#1.
            Due to the pain that one feels during post surgery, scientists and doctors use new medicines to help patients through pain relief. However, many drugs fail to provide sufficient relief due to the weakness of the drugs. For example, Stephen Aaron, a middle-aged man from Salt Lake City, Utah, recently required back surgery. He received morphine to help cope with the pain he felt, however, the pain pushed through the medicine to a point where he found it almost unbearable. The drugs couldn't provide the relief he required, and unfortunately legalized marijuana isn't an option in Utah. Very few people react negatively to marijuana Allergic reaction reports seem to come up very seldom and far in between. These reasons help indicate why medical marijuana should become an option in all states.

#2  (with more commentary/support)

            Due to post surgery pain, medical professionals use new medicines to assist patients with pain relief. Unfortunately, many drugs fail to provide sufficient help. For example, Stephen Aaron, a middle-aged man from Salt Lake City, Utah, recently required back surgery. He received morphine to help cope with the strong post surgery discomfort; however, the morphine did not ease his pain. If current pain options cease to alleviate patient pain, then other avenues need consideration. According to one study conducted by the U.S. Society for Neuroscience, “Careful studies show marijuana directly interferes with pain signaling in the nervous system.. This insight may lead to a new class of pain killers. Patients suffering from spinal cord injuries and the ill effects of chemotherapy will find pain relief through the use of marijuana” (Joy, Stanley, and Benson). A second study sponsored by the Healthcare Regularly Agency (HRA) indicated that the 200 individuals used in the study “found the use of marijuana  most effective, particularly  regarding pain relief and improved sleep” (Armenteno). If Mr. Aaron had taken marijuana for his pain,  he would have recovered more quickly and experienced less side effects from the surgery. Unfortunately, the use of medical marijuana  creates a barrier in the state of Utah. Thirteen states and the District of Columbia permit the use of medical marijuana (Seimons). If approved throughout the United States, medical marijuana would decrease pain experienced by those recovering from surgery and other illnesses.

2. Remember that if you use information from another source that you MUST CITE THE SOURCE. I have included citation examples below using the MLA format. Go to www.uve/edu.org and input "MLA FORMAT." Print this off and place it in the "VOCAB./ MECHANICS" section of your notebook.

3. We completed the quiz for "The Chaser."

HOMEWORK:
1. Revise your five paragraph essay for Friday.
2. Article of the Week #3 is due on Wed.


Wednesday, September 22, 2010

What did we do in class today, Crampton?

Hi, Junior English Kids,

If you missed class today, we did the following:

STUDENTS SUBMITTED THEIR EVALUATION OF THE FIVE PARAGRAPH ESSAY that was given to them on Tuesday.

1. We reviewed Short Story terminology by looking at at short story entitled "The Alchemist." If you were in A4 on Tuesday, we started the story in class, and then finished it today (Thursday). We reviewed "Direct" and "Indirect" characterization, the different types of irony, foreshadowing, the purposes of a short story, and the different conflicts present in the short story genre

2. We watched a "Twilight Zone" movie entitled "The Chaser." I wanted each student to have a visual image of the short story that was used for their quiz.

3. After the film, each student took their short story quiz. Students were asked to use "The Chaser" in correlation with the questions on the quiz.

4. We corrected the quiz in class.

Monday, September 20, 2010

If you missed class on Tuesday, September 21st...SHAME! SHAME! SHAME!

Dear Juniors,

The following image relates to your "Article of the Week #3" that was given to you in class today. If you  missed class, please see me in order to obtain a copy.


I think you will more greatly appreciate the freedoms you possess as citizens of the United States of America after you read, annotate and notate the article. Please notate the article using only RED. So, your notations need to appear in the form of questions for this article. The notations for this article are due on Wednesday, September 29th.

2. Each student who submitted a Five Paragraph Essay on Friday received a peer's essay to edit and evaluate. This assignment is due on Thursday, September 23rd.

3. We started our discussion regarding "Short Story" elements. In order to obtain this information, please visit with me or a friend. We also reviewed the short story structure by making cookies; it was so much fun! Plan on a quiz covering the introductory information discussed in class today. You will need to familiarize yourself with irony, foreshadowing, the different types of characterization, the different types of characters, the purposes of short stories, the conflicts associated with short stories, and the short story structure. Good Luck!


Friday, September 17, 2010

If you missed Friday, September 17th...

Dear Juniors,

If you missed class today, we completed the following:

1. We attended the lab in order to type the green triangles for our five paragraph essays. Students in class submitted TWO COPIES of their essay to me. One copy included the green triangle, the other copy was stapled together and then given to me. We will use this copy at a later date.

2. IF YOU MISSED CLASS, YOU NEED TO SUBMIT TWO TYPED COPIES of your FIVE PARAGRAPH ESSAY on MONDAY!

HOMEWORK:
None, unless you missed class. I hope you have a wonderful weekend.

Cheers,
Crampton

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

WEDNESDAY, September 15th

Dear Junior English students,

If you missed class today, we completed the following:

1. JOURNAL #2 "In Defense of the Five Paragraph Essay."
                  Kerri Smith, the author of "article of the week #2" praises the "Five Paragraph Essay" format. Why does she say the five paragraph structure is so significant to students? Tell me what you thought of the article regarding ANY points of interest. Now,  my young friends, justify your English teacher's reasoning for actually beginning the year with the Five Paragraph Essay.

2. Everyone submitted their article of the week to me.

3. We worked in our groups to complete our individual parts and then compile the sections for a unite whole. Well done, guys!

4. We then looked at two five paragraph essay written by former students. The Odyssey essay is quite strong. The Alice in Wonderland is not.

HOMEWORK:

1. I believe you are ready to write your own five paragraph paper. We have practiced together, and you have practiced on your own! Please follow the instructions listed below. YOU NEED TO HAVE THE TRIANGLE ready for class on FRIDAY, as we will go to the lab for you to type your essay. I will place some triangles outside the door for those of you that missed class.

Final Five Paragraph Essay
Instructions and Prompts

Instructions:

1. Dear Juniors,
You will have the opportunity to “prove” that you understand how to write a strong five paragraph essay. I am asking that you select from one of the following prompts, triangle your work (in color), return with the triangle and then we will head to the writing lab for you to write your essay. Your triangle and your completed five paragraph essay are due by the end of the period on  _________________________.

2. To assist with your assignment, you may use any practice work we completed together in class. In addition, you may use any homework assignment you completed

PROMPTS:

  1. Does the use of performance enhancing drugs violate the “spirit of sports?” Is there an ethical difference between using performance enhancing drugs and using performing enhancing technologies in nutrition, training, and equipment? What are your views on this subject?

  1. Increasing reports of bullying can be partially attributed to the popularity of violent video games. The 2008 study “Grave Theft Childhood” reported that 60 % of middle aged school boys who played at least one mature-rated game hit or beat up someone, compared to 39% of boys that did not play mature-rated games. Video games often reward players for simulating violence, and thus enhance the learning of violent behaviors. What are your views on this topic?

  1. Should the words “under god” be included in the Pledge of Allegiance? Many individuals believe that school children are being coerced and the Pledge of Allegiance is a violation of church and state. The government should not be asking impressionable school children to affirm their allegiance to God at the same time that they are pledging their allegiance to the country. Indicate your views on this topic?

  1. Should felons be allowed the right to vote? If you are a convicted felon, why do we want people with that type of judgment selecting our representative? Barring felons from voting is one way society sends the message that committing a serious crime has serious consequences. Indicate your views on this topic?

  1. Should marijuana be a medical option? Evidence indicates that marijuana can relieve certain types of pain, nausea, vomiting and other symptoms caused by such illness as multiple sclerosis, cancer and AIDS, or by the harsh drugs sometimes used to treat them. Marijuana is less toxic than many drugs that physicians prescribe every day. Indicate your views on this topic.

  1. Social networking sites entice people to spend more time online and less time interacting face-to-face. The sites offer time wasting activities that supplant more productive activities. Indicate your views on this topic.


Take care, Juniors
Cheers,
Crampton

Dear English Students,

STOP MISSING CLASS, my fine young friends.

If you missed class on Monday, September 13th, we completed the following:

1. We worked in groups to compile and complete a five paragraph essay.
2. Each group member was asked to complete a section of a five paragraph essay.
                   a. One student wrote the Introduction and Body Paragraph #1
                   b. One student wrote Body Paragraph #2 and then will focus on editing the other parts on Wed.
                   c. One student wrote Body Paragraph #3 and the Concluding paragraph
3. Upon your return, I am happy to "guide you" through this process.
4. Each individual part is required in class on Wed., at which time we will work on organizing the parts in to a complete whole.

Cheers, Crampton

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

What did we do in class today, Crampton?

Dear Junior English Students,

"What did we do in class," you ask?
"Well, let me enlighten you!"

1. We completed your first journal entry. From now on you will experience a journal entry each class period.

JOURNAL ENTRY #1 entitled "Boy, 12, faces grown up murder charges"/ Article #1

Please use your annotated article to respond to the following journal prompt.

After reading and annotating the article, identify two points of interest from the article. In addition, indicate two points that you found confusing, and then two points that you found emotional. Tell me about those "colors." Basically, why were you interested, confused, and emotionally connected to the text?  Next, justify your opinion regarding the prosecution of minors as adults. I look forward to your response.

NOTE: We had a great discussion on the article. Well done, juniors!

2. I gave each student a copy of "Article of the Week #2" entitled "In defense of the five paragraph essay." For homework,  please annotate and notate the article with 7-10 annotations/page.

3. We practiced writing introductory and concluding paragraphs. Visit with with me about the structure for these paragraphs.

HOMEWORK:
1. Read "Article of the Week #2" and annotate/notate with 7-10 annotations/page. This assignment is due on Wed. Sept. 15

2. Complete the practice prompts for Introductory and Concluding paragraphs. PLEASE SEE ME IF YOU MISSED CLASS!

If you missed class on Tuesday, September 7th...

Dear Junior English Students,

If you missed class today, we completed the following:

1. I returned your colored practice paragraph and your "Where I stand." assignment.
2. We discussed your homework for the previous class period involving thesis statements. Remember that a THESIS STATEMENT is YOUR OPINION and THREE REASONS.
3. We then reviewed passive vs. active voice.
4. Finally, we selected one of the thesis statements you wrote for homework and then we "triangled" the three body paragraphs together in class.

HOMEWORK:
1. I asked students to write the three body paragraph that we triangled in class. This is due on Thursday!
2. Students were reminded that their annotated (7-10/page) article entitled "Boy, 12, faces grown up murder charges" is due on Thursday.


Please let me know if I can assist you in any way. A few of you are missing class, and this is a concern for me.

Cheers,
Crampton

Thursday, September 2, 2010

If you missed class on Thursday, September 2nd... SHAME on YOU!

Dear Junior English Students,

If you missed class today, we completed the following:

I explained your homework assignments to you:
1. I explained the "Article a Week" assignment. You will receive an article a week, usually on a Monday or a Tuesday, but the days may change.You are to annotate the article using particular colors: WHAT DOES ANNOTATE MEAN, Crampton? "ANNOTATE" means to underline text in order to strengthen understanding. "NOTATE" means to record information nex to text in order to strengthen understanding.

So.........Your first annotated article is due on Thursday, September 9th!
  • If you  find a section of text confusing then you would underline it using BROWN.
  • If you are able to make a connection ot your own life then you would underline that section of text using your PURPLE.
  • Another way to annotate is by asking QUESTIONS about the text. RED is the color you will use for this annotation.
  • If you come across a VOCABULARY word that you don't know use YELLOW!
  • If a piece of text touches you emotionally, then BLUE is the color for that annotation.
  • If a piece of writing is poetic to you, then use BLACK!
  • If text gives you a different perspective then GREEN is your annotation color.
  • ORANGE is the color you will use if you come across text that you find interesting.
Your homework is to read this article. and then annotate it with 7-10 annotations/page. In addition, you are to include a notation for each annotation.

2. We also practiced writing THESIS STATEMENTS in class. Remember that a THESIS is your opinion plus three valid reasons. We practiced thesis statements in class.

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

If you missed Tuesday, August 31st....Shame on you!

Dear Juniors,

Let me "enlighten" you on what we worked on today in class:

1. We "outlined" the five paragraph essay format using the COLOR CODING format.
2. Students recorded the following information on the Five Paragraph essay structure:

INTRODUCTORY Paragraph
Eye Catcher
Transition Sentence
THESIS statement with three defining points

BODY #1
Body Thesis/Topic Sentence
Commentary
Concrete Detail
Concrete Detail
Commentary
Concrete Detail
Concrete Detail
Concluding Sentence

BODY #2 and BODY #3 contain the same organization format

CONCLUDING Paragraph

3. We then "TRIANGLED" (an organization method) our ideas regarding why teenagers rarely eat a healthy breakfast.
4. As a group we wrote the color body paragraph for  "Why teenagers rarely eat a healthy breakfast. This was the outcome:

                Due to hectic schedules, many teenagers fail to eat a healthy breakfast. One reason for this pertain to the fact that the young people wake-up late. Late nights spent on homework can cause exhaustion, and therefore a lack of desire to eat. In addition, teens must work to pay for expenses and to assist their families. This, of course, adds to the fact that they are tired, and therefore not interested in eating a healthy meal. A second reason involves indolency on the teen's part. Lack of motivation to complete responsibilities takes place because students don't see a purpose with their "jobs." Therefore, laziness kicks in and teenagers fail to eat. The above points illustrate why teenagers struggle with eating a healthy breakfast.

HOMEWORK:
1. Complete a colored body paragraph choosing from the list below. Your paragraph needs to include the "triangle" and appear in color.

  • Divorce
  • Uniforms in secondary schools
  • Marrying young
  • Taking the ACT
  • Liposuction
  • Freedom
  • Racism
  • Year-Round school
  • Cell Phone Policy
  • ARC
I look forward to seeing you on Thursday.
Cheers,
Crampton

Sunday, August 29, 2010

If you missed class on Friday, August 27th.....

Dear Juniors,

We completed the following on Friday, August 27th:

1. Students submitted their Disclosure Documents (50 points).
2. Students submitted their "Where I stand/Introductions." (80 points)
3. A1 and A4 completed the writing and reading assessments in order to determine if their placement in junior English is accurate. I can have you take these when you return to class.
4. We reviewed some "Writing No-No's." Please cut and paste the following aspects into WORD and then place them in the "Vocab./Mechanics" section of your notebook.

NO-NO #1: The following words are called "Dead Words" and they should not be used in your formal writing work: got, get, very, a lot, cool, stuff, sort of, kind of, like, really, good, thing,and pretty.

NO-NO #2: Please avoid the use of SECOND PERSON when writing. Second person includes the following words: you, your, yourself, and  yours.

NO=NO #3: Avoid passive voice in formal writing. Active voice adds clarity, where as passive voice makes writing flat and dull. Passive voice uses the "be verbs" (is, was, were, be, been, being). For example, the following sentence uses passive voice: The check was cashed at the bank. It is not difficult to use the active voice in re-writing the sentence. Molly cashed her check at the bank.

NO-NO#4: Avoid redundant phrases such as In my opinion...., I believe that....., I think that....., I am going to write about.....

NO-NO #5: Avoid absolute terms such as never, always, everyone, all, always, none.

NO-NO #6: Make sure that your structure in writing is parallel. For example the following sentence is NOT parallel. Sarah loves playing volleyball, readying poetry, and to study history.  This sentence is easy to correct with by doing the following: Sarah loves playing volleyball, readking poetry, and studying history.

HOMEWORK:
You have no homework for Tuesday, August 31st.
Enjoy your weekend. I look foward to seeing you on Tuesday, August 31st.

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Welcome to Junior English!

Dear Junior English Students,

Welcome to "American Literature," otherwise known as "Junior English." I am so excited to work with you this year. Our study will pertain to American authors and their impact on society. You will have the opportunity to read exceptional pieces of literature that will effect change within your lives.

HOMEWORK for Friday, August 25th:
1. Remember to return your signed copy of the Disclosure Document
2. Remember to have your notebook organized and labeled with the following dividers (homework, handouts, notes, vocab./mechanics, and journal)
3. Remember that your "Where I stand" Introduction is also due on Friday.

Introductory Writing Prompt for Wednesday, August 25th

In relationship to your own abilities to write, to comprehend text, and to communicate overall, I ask that you respond to the following quote by Plato, "The direction in which education starts a man will determine his future life." Do you agree or disagree with Mr. Plato? Consider your desires regarding your educational goals and your goals for the future in junior English. Finally, consider your attitude towards learning.

I am significantly interested in your thoughts on the subject of education. Please write your name in the upper right hand corner, along with your period and seat #. Please do your best to structure your writing in an organized and thorough manner. You will have approximately 10 minutes to write your paragraph.

Cheers,
Crampton