Mon. Nov. 30, 2015: Comma usage and Test Prep

Today, we continued examining the comma rules (rules 3 and 4).

You will have a reading comprehension exam on Wednesday. To prepare for it, be sure you understand the steps to reading actively (omit page numbers for paragraphs and the three sentence summary at the end but highlight relevant 5ws, changes in direction, unknown words and paraphrase in one or two words each paragraph or dialogue/idea stream).

I then discussed what is meant by process of elimination (how to approach a multiple choice exam by eliminating the throwaways, and then circling the one of the remaining two that you think is the right answer). I also discussed the importance of actively reading the questions in a test.

Finally, I gave you a list of words from the actual exam that you should define and familiarize yourself with. While you do get a dictionary, you don't want to have to waste too much time. The more you know the better.

Thurs. Nov. 26, 2015: Apostrophe Usage

Today, we discussed tricks to remember how to use/place apostrophes. The exercises were done in-class on the board. Students were also given a handout.

Tues. Nov. 24, 2015: Writing Completion

Today, you finished writing your report to the commander.

Fri. Nov. 20, 2015: Writing Class: Letter and Format

Today, you worked on creating a report to the commander written by the sniper (see earlier instructions). You need to save this in the school system. I am insisting that you meet with me before you print so that we can both be sure you are using the proper format.

Wed. Nov. 18, 2015: "The Sniper" Discussion and Major Assignment

Today, we discussed the short story "The Sniper."
We also went over the definition of irony and the three types (verbal, situational and dramatic).

I then gave you a major assignment. It is writing a report to the commander about the events of the day (in a business letter format). The due date for this assignment is Tuesday, November 24.

I have placed the assignment and a sheet explaining the business letter format in your portfolio if you were absent.

Mon. Nov. 16, 2015: "The Sniper" readings and questions

Today, you will be given the reading "The Sniper" by Liam O' Flaherty to actively read. Some of you are not meeting the basic objectives of active reading. Be sure to analyze the title first, then number the paragraphs, then read the first paragraph highlighting relevant Ws and unknown, unfamiliar words. After each paragraph, write a brief (a couple of words only) paraphrase in the margin.
Once you have finished a reading, write a three sentence summary on the last page (so you can easily recall a text).
You will also be given some questions to answer about this text. These are due (as are the active readings) for Wednesday.

Mon. Nov. 9, 2015: Reading an essay on "The Skating Party"

Today, you were to actively read the essay "The Unpleasant truth." This essay uses "The Skating Party as its source. You were to read it actively, looking for the thesis, main points, and evidence. As this was a draft, you also were to look critically for errors of grammar, spelling and mechanics and point these out. I suggest you use your "15 Common Errors" booklet if in doubt about a rule.

Thurs. Nov. 5, 2015: The Skating Party

Today, you were to have actively read the short story "The Skating Party." You were then given questions to answer about this text. Please be sure to do your best to consider your answers and their relevance. These should be done for Monday's class.

Tues. Nov. 3, 2015: Comma Usage

Today, we discussed comma usage rules (4). I used a Powerpoint to explain and also gave you a handout of the rules. You then had to complete questions for each rule (also a handout). If you were not here, these are in your portfolio.
As a class, we did the exercises for 1 and 2. If you were not here, please do these and submit.
Remember: you can come in and check your portfolio at any time as long as you come in quietly and respectfully.

Parent-teacher interviews are tonight and tomorrow night from 7 to 9 pm. Please let parents know. Further, I will only be there until 8 tomorrow (Wed.). Please schedule with this in mind.