Dear Sophomores,
Thank you for you hard work thus far this week. Tomorrow (Thurs. 9/29) you will demonstrate your understanding of the Rhetorical Triangle and how a writer makes specific stylistic choices to convey their message. You are also incorporating all of these techniques and strategies into your own creative and reflective mini memoirs. This is for the memoir No Tears for Frankie.
I will be attaching a link to the Memoir Rubric shortly. It is your right to be assessed well in our class. As mentioned, you will be turning in your final memoir piece or pieces in the next few weeks. The expectation is that you are using your WRG feedback and editing, correcting, and changing to make your work as effective as possible - making sure you are hitting all components of memoir writing. No dates have been given - but you can expect a due date next week. You will have a choice in what you chose to submit for me to assess.
Other assessments for the unit will be a unit test in which you will using the RT, analyzing, and making sure you are using all the academic language and diction we have been studying accordingly.
You will also be assessed on your growth as a writer. Similar to the diagnostic writing you did the first week (Nature piece by Buchner) - you will have the opportunity to show how you have grown as a writer throughout the memoir unit.
Please expect for me to collect your Interactive Notebooks very soon. It will be a very informal check to see that you are writing, working and note-taking on your own terms - being genuine to yourself as a student in the class.
Your in-class attentiveness and group participation are always under critique - please own it.
Come and speak with me if you are concerned or have any questions.
Progress grades close on Friday 10/14.
I am looking very forward to the Author's Chair this Friday. Sign up to share any drafts of mini-memoirs, poems, free-writes, etc. Some of you will be asked to share.
Samakosky
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Monday, September 26, 2011
Additional Info for Week #4
Hello Sophomores!
Thanks for your patience. We ran out of time today in some of our classes so here is what you must complete for HW tonight. You will be with your RRG tomorrow.
* Read, take notes for "Scar Tissue" excerpt. We did this in class. Write a paragraph of analysis - see below for mentor text. Do your best to include all aspects of the Rhetorical Triangle, use textual evidence to support your observations. Type this or write this in your NB (left side) - make sure to label your work correctly. THIS MUST BE YOUR OWN WORK.
* Read/Annotate "No Tears for Frankie". Please note this is ONLY one sided. The backside is another piece we will look at on another occasion. With this piece - you should jot down notes using the RT schemata. This means note the rhetor, audience, subject, context, etc... Provide some evidence of diction or syntax that works well for you. What sylistic devices does the author use to shed her perspective?
* The more you extract on your own - the more authentic your conversations will be tomorrow.
* See below for my own analysis of the "Scar Tissue" piece.
WRITE ON!
Samakosky
Sample Analysis:
Thanks for your patience. We ran out of time today in some of our classes so here is what you must complete for HW tonight. You will be with your RRG tomorrow.
* Read, take notes for "Scar Tissue" excerpt. We did this in class. Write a paragraph of analysis - see below for mentor text. Do your best to include all aspects of the Rhetorical Triangle, use textual evidence to support your observations. Type this or write this in your NB (left side) - make sure to label your work correctly. THIS MUST BE YOUR OWN WORK.
* Read/Annotate "No Tears for Frankie". Please note this is ONLY one sided. The backside is another piece we will look at on another occasion. With this piece - you should jot down notes using the RT schemata. This means note the rhetor, audience, subject, context, etc... Provide some evidence of diction or syntax that works well for you. What sylistic devices does the author use to shed her perspective?
* The more you extract on your own - the more authentic your conversations will be tomorrow.
* See below for my own analysis of the "Scar Tissue" piece.
WRITE ON!
Samakosky
Sample Analysis:
In the memoir (genre) excerpt from Scar Tissue, RHCP frontman (Persona)Anthony Keidis reminces and reflects about his abrupt and haste decision of contentment as his bandmates reluctantly asked him to leave the band. (Purpose) Midst tension and self destruction, Keidis is seemingly okay with his struggles, content with his friends decision, and his choice to abuse drugs rather than to make music. (Context) Keidis’ love and intention for his musical family is evident, but his battle with sobrtiety leads him to amicably abandon his brotherly fellowship, and with that his choice to accept his departure on his own terms. (Message)
Keidis’ tone is reflective and apologetic, and thus the mood is quite somber. (Diction) Especially for those who love and appreciate the band, (Audience) and also for those who know the trials and tribulations of Keidis. His realization and use of time placement, puts the reader in the rehearsal studio with the band. The inclusion of dialogue allows the reader to feel that they are sitting in on this intimate break-up,that appears to be sad, regretful, and timely. “You guys are right. I apologize for not contributing…it’s a crying shame, but I understand completely.” The last line is purposefully impactful because of it brevity and its placement. On its own, just like Keidis, just like the band, the reader, the line is abandoned.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Week #4
Hello Sophomores!
As we close out September and our first month together - I am so glad to see the focus and effort and willingness from all of you to work at the advanced level that you are capable of. We will continue to push ourselves to read, write, think critically, analyze, all the while familiarizing ourselves with specific stylistic devices that good authors CHOOSE to use and then incorporating them ourselves. Keep interacting with your Notebooks! All ideas, edits, re-writes, notes, comments, reminders, work improvement must be kept in your Notebooks.
This week we continue our Memoir unit. We will be working in Reading Response Groups (RRG) and continuing to experiment with the Rhetorical Triangle (RT) to help us navigate through our readings while recognizing author intention. The following schedule lets you know what to expect each day this week.
Monday - Memoir Notes, RRG, Various texts, Rhetorical Triangle activity in your NB
HW - Read/Annotate No Tears For Frankie
Tuesday - RRG, Strip Club Activity, NTFF Analysis and Rhetorical Triangle (in NB)
Wednesday - Independent Reading (Bring Your Book), Netbooks, Independent Writing
Thursday - TBD (possible WRG)
Friday - Author Chair
* Please note that ALL of your work is process work and is graded for participation, completion, and authenticity. Notebooks WILL be collected the week of October 3rd.
* Upcoming grades - Memoir Unit Test, End of Unit Written Diagnostic Test (this will feature analysis, rhetorical triangle, and an in-class write). You will also complete your Memoir (2-3 pages), along with a reflection on your writing. More information to come.
* Tutoring is available upon request. Please speak with me on your own time if I can assist you with any aspect of our class. Whether it be reading selections, rhetorical triangle/analysis, or your own writing - help is ALWAYS available for you.
* Open House is Thurs. 10/6.
Please continue to work hard. Your voice MUST be heard in our classroom. Participation in class, WRG, and RRG is key to your growth as a reader and writer in our classroom community. You classmates and I always look forward to your comments and what you bring and contribute to the discussion.
Here is to a successful week!
Samakosky
As we close out September and our first month together - I am so glad to see the focus and effort and willingness from all of you to work at the advanced level that you are capable of. We will continue to push ourselves to read, write, think critically, analyze, all the while familiarizing ourselves with specific stylistic devices that good authors CHOOSE to use and then incorporating them ourselves. Keep interacting with your Notebooks! All ideas, edits, re-writes, notes, comments, reminders, work improvement must be kept in your Notebooks.
This week we continue our Memoir unit. We will be working in Reading Response Groups (RRG) and continuing to experiment with the Rhetorical Triangle (RT) to help us navigate through our readings while recognizing author intention. The following schedule lets you know what to expect each day this week.
Monday - Memoir Notes, RRG, Various texts, Rhetorical Triangle activity in your NB
HW - Read/Annotate No Tears For Frankie
Tuesday - RRG, Strip Club Activity, NTFF Analysis and Rhetorical Triangle (in NB)
Wednesday - Independent Reading (Bring Your Book), Netbooks, Independent Writing
Thursday - TBD (possible WRG)
Friday - Author Chair
* Please note that ALL of your work is process work and is graded for participation, completion, and authenticity. Notebooks WILL be collected the week of October 3rd.
* Upcoming grades - Memoir Unit Test, End of Unit Written Diagnostic Test (this will feature analysis, rhetorical triangle, and an in-class write). You will also complete your Memoir (2-3 pages), along with a reflection on your writing. More information to come.
* Tutoring is available upon request. Please speak with me on your own time if I can assist you with any aspect of our class. Whether it be reading selections, rhetorical triangle/analysis, or your own writing - help is ALWAYS available for you.
* Open House is Thurs. 10/6.
Please continue to work hard. Your voice MUST be heard in our classroom. Participation in class, WRG, and RRG is key to your growth as a reader and writer in our classroom community. You classmates and I always look forward to your comments and what you bring and contribute to the discussion.
Here is to a successful week!
Samakosky
Monday, September 19, 2011
Week #3
Hello Sophomores,
Here is your weekly update. I have been so proud of the work and in-class discussion. Last week's Author's Chair was a huge success. We will continue to share and provide a forum and voice for all of the amazing writing that is taking place. Please read the following reminders and updates. Make sure you are doing your work and staying involved in the class. You are being assessed on your participation and contribution ALL the time.
Independent Reading Selection is needed for Tuesday. You will be given time each week to read the book of your choice. I suggest reading a memoir while we are studying memoir. You will receive credit for having your book with you.
Gear Up will also be paying us a visit on Tuesday.
They will have a ton of valuable information. Be present. Ask questions. Be involved.
These are assignments you have completed/turned in:
1) World View
2) 6 Word Memoir
3) Materials Check
4) Diagnostic Writing
5) Partner Interview Poem (typed, two-copies)
We are well underway in our Notebooks. Please take notes in class, as well as record ideas, thoughts, brainstorms, and quickwrites on the LEFT side of your notebook. I will be checking/collecting these the week of October 3rd. However, please remember that the work we do is for YOU. The quality and consistency of your analysis, note-taking, and organization is facilitated by what we do in class - but it is OWNED by you. Take ownership.
This week we are reading the Eminem memoir excerpt from The Way I Am. We are analyzing for memoir text features and seeking out specific techniques and devices that the writer chooses to use and the effect it has on the reader. We will be covering the following:
1) Vocabulary and Terminology - powerpoint/notes in class
2) The Rhetorical Triangle - handout
3) Literary Analysis - handout
4) Incorporating new techniques/strategies into our own writing.
5) Writing Response Groups for peer feedback (scheduled for Thursday)
6) Netbooks (gmail accounts and online survey) - this may be pushed to next week.
Please stay on top of your work. If you have any questions, please come and speak with me either before school, after school, or at lunch. I will do my best to assist you.
Have a good week!
Samakosky
Here is your weekly update. I have been so proud of the work and in-class discussion. Last week's Author's Chair was a huge success. We will continue to share and provide a forum and voice for all of the amazing writing that is taking place. Please read the following reminders and updates. Make sure you are doing your work and staying involved in the class. You are being assessed on your participation and contribution ALL the time.
Independent Reading Selection is needed for Tuesday. You will be given time each week to read the book of your choice. I suggest reading a memoir while we are studying memoir. You will receive credit for having your book with you.
Gear Up will also be paying us a visit on Tuesday.
They will have a ton of valuable information. Be present. Ask questions. Be involved.
These are assignments you have completed/turned in:
1) World View
2) 6 Word Memoir
3) Materials Check
4) Diagnostic Writing
5) Partner Interview Poem (typed, two-copies)
We are well underway in our Notebooks. Please take notes in class, as well as record ideas, thoughts, brainstorms, and quickwrites on the LEFT side of your notebook. I will be checking/collecting these the week of October 3rd. However, please remember that the work we do is for YOU. The quality and consistency of your analysis, note-taking, and organization is facilitated by what we do in class - but it is OWNED by you. Take ownership.
This week we are reading the Eminem memoir excerpt from The Way I Am. We are analyzing for memoir text features and seeking out specific techniques and devices that the writer chooses to use and the effect it has on the reader. We will be covering the following:
1) Vocabulary and Terminology - powerpoint/notes in class
2) The Rhetorical Triangle - handout
3) Literary Analysis - handout
4) Incorporating new techniques/strategies into our own writing.
5) Writing Response Groups for peer feedback (scheduled for Thursday)
6) Netbooks (gmail accounts and online survey) - this may be pushed to next week.
Please stay on top of your work. If you have any questions, please come and speak with me either before school, after school, or at lunch. I will do my best to assist you.
Have a good week!
Samakosky
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Week #2 - Are you on board?
Hello Sophomores!
Here it is - post #2. Thank you so much for your patience. You can count on weekly updates for now. So please check the blog - I will remind you in class. As we move on and I get more comfortable - you can expect updates to occur more frequently. I have been so impressed with your focus, behavior, and diligence. I know that this will be a well-written year for all of us.
* You will notice a Student Data form that I will want you to fill out. Please wait for those instructions.
Here is a quick review with some of the work we have already done.
* World Views - these will be returned to you soon.
* We've discussed Memoir, purpose, word choice, literary devices and why we should respect and honor others voices. We will add to these notes.
* We have completed our Six Word Memoirs - many of us still have to present. We will do so.
* You did a great job on your Diagnostic writing - I am reading and responding and you will get those back shortly. I expect you to keep you returned work in the folder you will be given in class.
* We are now underway in our Notebooks. Please continue to set up your NB correctly. You can begin adding to your lists - golden lines, writing patterns, good reads, etc...
* Computer contracts are DUE. Did you turn yours in? We will be using our netbooks shortly.
This is what we are currently working on this week. You will see due dates.
* Partner Interview Poem - due on Mon. 9/19. You must type it and you will need TWO copies. We will be presenting these. If you choose to do a video or a song...please clear this with me.
* Eminem Video - how to engage in conversation and ask more in depth questions to assist with you own interview process. Also, a nice little warm up for the Eminem memoir we will work with next week.
* Gmail account. Do you have yours? Please see the link under New Students if you still need to do so. This is due by Friday 9/16. You can email me once you have it.
* Our first Author's Chair is this Friday. I will be asking some of you to read and present. Our principal, Ms. Samilson, may be coming by to visit. I expect you to be on your best behavior.
* Is your Notebook good to go? If you still need assistance with set-up, please come and see me immediately. We will add to our notes.
What to expect next week!
* Next week we begin looking at a specific memoir - a selection by Eminem. It is awesome. We will analyze his style, word choice, voice, tone, message, purpose, etc...
* You will also begin experimenting with your own writing by using the Mentor Text (Eminem's piece) to play around with style and develop some new and fresh ideas.
* We will present our Partner Poems. You can expect a few each day. Please see above for requirements.
* You will also be introduced to your Writing Response Group. WRG's will help you with your writing and certainly establish our goals as a writing community. Get Ready!
This is a ton of information. Again, thanks for your patience. This info is ALL for you. Access it frequently.
It is a pleasure having you in class. Here is to a wonderful year!
Samakosky
Here it is - post #2. Thank you so much for your patience. You can count on weekly updates for now. So please check the blog - I will remind you in class. As we move on and I get more comfortable - you can expect updates to occur more frequently. I have been so impressed with your focus, behavior, and diligence. I know that this will be a well-written year for all of us.
* You will notice a Student Data form that I will want you to fill out. Please wait for those instructions.
Here is a quick review with some of the work we have already done.
* World Views - these will be returned to you soon.
* We've discussed Memoir, purpose, word choice, literary devices and why we should respect and honor others voices. We will add to these notes.
* We have completed our Six Word Memoirs - many of us still have to present. We will do so.
* You did a great job on your Diagnostic writing - I am reading and responding and you will get those back shortly. I expect you to keep you returned work in the folder you will be given in class.
* We are now underway in our Notebooks. Please continue to set up your NB correctly. You can begin adding to your lists - golden lines, writing patterns, good reads, etc...
* Computer contracts are DUE. Did you turn yours in? We will be using our netbooks shortly.
This is what we are currently working on this week. You will see due dates.
* Partner Interview Poem - due on Mon. 9/19. You must type it and you will need TWO copies. We will be presenting these. If you choose to do a video or a song...please clear this with me.
* Eminem Video - how to engage in conversation and ask more in depth questions to assist with you own interview process. Also, a nice little warm up for the Eminem memoir we will work with next week.
* Gmail account. Do you have yours? Please see the link under New Students if you still need to do so. This is due by Friday 9/16. You can email me once you have it.
* Our first Author's Chair is this Friday. I will be asking some of you to read and present. Our principal, Ms. Samilson, may be coming by to visit. I expect you to be on your best behavior.
* Is your Notebook good to go? If you still need assistance with set-up, please come and see me immediately. We will add to our notes.
What to expect next week!
* Next week we begin looking at a specific memoir - a selection by Eminem. It is awesome. We will analyze his style, word choice, voice, tone, message, purpose, etc...
* You will also begin experimenting with your own writing by using the Mentor Text (Eminem's piece) to play around with style and develop some new and fresh ideas.
* We will present our Partner Poems. You can expect a few each day. Please see above for requirements.
* You will also be introduced to your Writing Response Group. WRG's will help you with your writing and certainly establish our goals as a writing community. Get Ready!
This is a ton of information. Again, thanks for your patience. This info is ALL for you. Access it frequently.
It is a pleasure having you in class. Here is to a wonderful year!
Samakosky
Thursday, September 1, 2011
First Week Back!
Hello Students!
So begins a new school year for all of us. We are about to embark on a great adventure together - taking risks and pushing ourselves to learn new information; growing creatively as a community of readers, thinkers, and writers. I am very excited.
I am all about challenging you (and myself too) this year to do new activities and to think about our world in exciting and different ways. We will incorporate a lot of new technology (well...new to me) and I know you will rise to the occassion. Many of you will have lots to teach me. My first mission: the samakoskyplhs blog. Welcome!
I plan on posting homework, links, videos, resources, music, documents, handouts....basically everything to make your life easier and to provide you with every opportunity to be successful in our class this year. This is OUR year. We build the culture in our classroom by demonstrating respectful behavior. We will honor each others voice and perspective and as such - really honor ourselves as a creative unit.
Welcome to English Class.
So begins a new school year for all of us. We are about to embark on a great adventure together - taking risks and pushing ourselves to learn new information; growing creatively as a community of readers, thinkers, and writers. I am very excited.
I am all about challenging you (and myself too) this year to do new activities and to think about our world in exciting and different ways. We will incorporate a lot of new technology (well...new to me) and I know you will rise to the occassion. Many of you will have lots to teach me. My first mission: the samakoskyplhs blog. Welcome!
I plan on posting homework, links, videos, resources, music, documents, handouts....basically everything to make your life easier and to provide you with every opportunity to be successful in our class this year. This is OUR year. We build the culture in our classroom by demonstrating respectful behavior. We will honor each others voice and perspective and as such - really honor ourselves as a creative unit.
Welcome to English Class.
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