The Daily Digest

Senior English
Mon/Tues, Feb 22/23
1)
Vocab: Borrow and copy notes.
2)
Hamlet, cont: See me at the start of class on the day you return to get
your paragraph (Does Hamlet love Ophelia?) stamped with the heart stamp.
3)
We worked with and acted out the break-up scene between Hamlet and
Ophelia. To make-up for what you missed, write a description of how you would
stage this scene (1/2-1 page). Justify your decisions with specifics from the
scene. Turn this in.
4)
Soliloquy work: We each received one of the soliloquies from Act III. Read
your soliloquy (available in the absent work folder) and then write two things on
the back: a) write a 3-5 sentence summary of the soliloquy; b) choose the line
that you think is most importantquote it and explain why you think it is
important (3-5 sentences).
5)
HW: Soliloquy work.
Thur/Fri, Feb 18/19
1)
Vocab: Borrow and copy notes.
2)
Hamlet, cont: I stamped the Hamphlet for II.ii and the vocab/notes for To
be or not to be soliloquy with the happy star stamp. See me at the start of
class on the day of your return to get your stamp.
3)
Hamlet, discussion: We had a kiva discussion about what Hamlet means in
his to be or not to be soliloquy. If you have missed 3 or fewer discussions this
semester, no make-up is required; if you have missed 4 or more discussions this
semester, see me for a make-up opportunity.
4)
Hamlet & Ophelia: We got into groups and began analyzing this scene where
Hamlet seems to be breaking up with Ophelia. You should read pp. 1522-1524.
Decide whether you think Hamlet loves Ophelia or not (and vice versa). Dont
forget to use your footnotes! They are very helpful.
5)
HW:
A3proud winners of the 3rd quarter vocabulary speed challenge: None.
B5, B6, B7: Write a paragraph explaining whether Hamlet loves Ophelia or not.
Use at least one quotation to support your claim.
Tues/Wed, Feb 16/17
1)
Vocab: Copy down the six new words (syllogism, premise, incessant,
masticate, ineradicable, demeanor).
2)
Hamlet, cont: We watched different film versions of the O what a rogue
am I soliloquy and took notes as we compared/contrasted them. The notes go
on the bottom of the note sheet we were working on last class (Hamlet II.ii). To
make-up for this, you can watch some scenes on-line (maybe on Youtube?) and
then write a paragraph describing the one you liked best and why OR you can
write a paragraph explaining how YOU would film this soliloquy. Include details,

of course. (The paragraph will go underneath the important lines on the note
sheet.)
3)
Read the beginning of Act III, scene 1 (pp. 1519-1522). Do a Hamphlet
over it (this will be IN PLACE of the Hamphlet the class is doing for homework
tonight over II.iiso be sure you dont do 2 Hamphlets tonight).
4)
To be or not to be: Borrow and copy vocab notes and pick-up bright pink
hand-out. Borrow and copy notes.
5)
HW: Hamphlet over Hamlet II.ii.
Thur/Fri, Feb 11/12
1)
Vocab quiz: Sign-up on the wall (or e-mail me) to schedule your make-up
quiz. Your two options are Wed, Feb 17th at 2:40 and Thurs, Feb. 18th at 7:00
a.m.
2)
When you return from your absence, show me your Rogue sheet so you
can get a tiger stamp.
3)
We continued work on Hamlet II.ii. To make-up for what you missed, read
that scene and then do a Hamphlet. You can pick-up a new Hamphlet from the
absent work folder, or you can use your old one to look at the questions and then
you can write your responses on a separate sheet of paper. Include quotations
(with line #s from our anthology) to support your points. Turn this in. The
Hamphlet will make-up for the presentations we did today in class.
4)
Notes on performances: Borrow and copy notes (Hamlet II.ii).
5)
HW: None.
Tues/Wed, Feb 9/10
1)
Vocab: Look up the last two words. We have a quiz next class.
2)
We continued our work on Act II, scene 2. To make-up for what you missed,
read that scene and then do a Hamphlet. You can pick-up a new Hamphlet from
the absent work folder, or you can use your old one to look at the questions and
then you can write your responses on a separate sheet of paper. Include
quotations (with line #s from our anthology) to support your points. Turn this in.
(When you get it back, you will staple it to the Rogue half-sheet in lieu of a
stamp.)
3)
HW: Read Hamlets soliloquy (p. 1517-1518); answer the questions on the
half-sheet (available in absent work folder and on Edline).
Fri/Mon, Feb 5/8
1)
Vocab: Borrow and copy notes.
2)
Hamlet, cont: Today we discussed Act II, scene 1. Read those scenes. To
make-up for the acting we did in class today, write a short letter from Ophelia
to her (imaginary) best friend explaining how Hamlet has been acting and how
that makes her (Ophelia) feel.
3)
HW: Do a Hamphlet over Act I.v and/or Act II.1.
A3: We turned in our writing folders today.
B5, B6: We turned in our writing folders today.
B7: We turned in our notebooks today.
Wed/Thurs, Feb 3/4

1)

Vocab: Write down the new vocab words in your notebook (inevitable,
infallibility, integral, malleable, immutable, opaque). Also, borrow and copy notes
for two of these.
2)
We worked with Hamlet all period. To make-up for what you missed, read
Act I, scenes 4 and 5. Do a Hamphlet over those scenes. At the top of your
Hamphlet (on the inside) write in big letters: MAKE-UP FOR HAMLET I.v. After
you turn this in and get it back, it will go in your notebook, in notes and
journals in the place of HAMLET I.v notes (film clip comparisons).
3)
HW:
A3: writing folder is due Fri, Feb 5th.
B5: writing folder is due Mon, Feb 8th.
B6: we turned in our notebooks today; writing folder is due Mon, Feb 8 th.
B7: we turned in our writing folders today; notebooks are due on Mon, Feb 8 th.
Mon/Tues, Feb 1/2
1)
Vocab: See me ON THE DAY YOU RETURN FROM YOUR ABSENCE to get your
new vocab word. Look up the 5 parts, and return these to me by Feb. 9th.
2)
Essay feedback: From the absent work folder, pick up a feedback sheet.
Then, looking at the comments and listening to the recording on turnitin.com, fill
out the feedback sheet and make changes directly on the hard copy of your
essay. You will turn these in with your writing folder on Friday (A3) and Monday
(B-day).
3)
Writing folder: Pick up an index from the absent work folder; also pick up
your writing folder from the file cabinet. Assemble all items and write your
reflection.
4)
Hamphlets: We began discussing our Hamphlets and getting back to Hamlet
(finally!).
5)
HW: Writing folder (including essay feedback sheet/corrections and semester
reflection).
A3: We turned in our notebooks today; writing folder is due on Fri, Feb 5.
B5: We turned in our notebooks today; writing folder is due on Mon, Feb 8.
B6: Notebooks are due on Thursday; writing folder is due on Mon, Feb 8.
B7: Writing folder is due on Thursday; notebook is due on Mon, Feb 8.
SECOND SEMESTER ABOVE; FIRST SEMESTER BELOW
Fri/Mon, Jan 24/27
1)
Hamlet, cont: We read Act I, scenes 2-4. Read these and then do a
Hamphlet (available in absent work folder).
2)
HW: Organize notebook and study for finals.
Notebooks due Feb 1(A3), Feb 2 (B5), Feb 4 (B6), Feb 8 (B7); Hamphlets due
Feb 1st/2nd.
Wed/Thurs, Jan 20/21
1)
Vocab: Borrow and copy notes.
2)
Hamlet, cont: We read most of Act I, scene 2. To make-up for what you
missed, focus on King Claudius speech to Hamlet (the bottom of p. 1481 and
most of page 1482) and Hamlets soliloquy (p. 1483). Pretending that you are a

counselor who knows how Hamlet feels (based on his soliloquy), write a letter
(1/2-1 page long) to King Claudius telling him a better way to talk to Hamlet
(better than the way he did in his speech). Use specifics from the text.
3)
HW: Study for finals. Use your notebook and the study guide (on Edline).
Fri/Tues, Jan 15/19
1)
Vocab: Borrow and copy notes.
2)
A3 only: We turned in our essay packets (final paper, draft 2, draft 1,
outline, turnitin.com receipt). Be sure to get yours to me today (Jan 15) to avoid
late penalties. If you e-mail your essay to me, I will e-mail you back to let you
know that I received it.
3)
Hamlet, cont: Finish reading Act I, scene 1. Choose your three favorite
sentences from the scene. For each sentence, explain what you like about it. Be
specific (2-4 sentence response for each Shakespearean sentence). Turn this in
when you return from your absence.
4)
HW: Study for finals. Study guide is available on Edline.
Thur, Jan 14 (B-day only)
1)
Vocab: Copy the six new words (impalpable, derisive, diffident, impervious,
myopia, inimical); borrow and copy notes on two of them.
2)
Novel presentations: If you were supposed to be in the audience today, no
make-up required. If you were supposed to present today, then you needed to
inform your group and me ahead of time of your absence (see note on the
bottom of the assignment sheet). Make-up is arranged on a case-by-case basis.
3)
Oedipus essay: We turned in our essay packets (final paper, draft 2, draft 1,
outline, turnitin.com receipt). Be sure to get yours to me today (Jan 14) to avoid
late penalties. If you e-mail your essay to me, I will e-mail you back to let you
know that I received it.
4)
Hamlet, cont: Finish reading Act I, scene 1; look up the vocab words you
dont know and write them on our running list. Use this list to help you
understand what is happening in the scene.
5)
HW: Have a great weekend!
Wed, Jan 13 (A-day only)
1)
Vocab: Copy the six new words (impalpable, derisive, diffident, impervious,
myopia, inimical); borrow and copy notes on two of them.
2)
Novel presentations: If you were supposed to be in the audience today, no
make-up required. If you were supposed to present today, then you needed to
inform your group and me ahead of time of your absence (see note on the
bottom of the assignment sheet). Make-up is arranged on a case-by-case basis.
3)
Oedipus essay, draft 2: Be sure to see me at the start of class on the day
you return from your absence to get a giraffe stamp on your essay.
4)
The Unifying Device: Pick-up a blue sheet from the absent work folder. This
goes in the Writing Tips section of your notebook. Add a unifying device of
your own to your Oedipus essay. Also, revise your essay using all the other
writing tips in your notebook. Make handwritten changes directly on draft 2 so
that it is messy and your essay is improving (of course).

5)

HW: Oedipus essay: Make changes to draft 2, revise, edit; print final paper
and submit essay to turnitin.com. Final packet due on Thursday (turnitin.com
receipt, outline, draft 1, draft 2, final paper).

Tues, Jan 12 (B-day only)

1)
Vocab quiz: Sign-up on the wall (or e-mail me) for your make-up quiz. Your
two options are Wed, Jan 20 at 2:40 pm and Thurs, Jan 21 at 7:00 a.m.
2)
Novel presentations: If you were supposed to be in the audience today, no
make-up required. If you were supposed to present today, then you needed to
inform your group and me ahead of time of your absence (see note on the
bottom of the assignment sheet). Make-up is arranged on a case-by-case basis.
3)
Oedipus essay, draft 2: Be sure to see me on the day you return from your
absence, at the start of class, to get a Giraffe stamp on your essay.
4)
The Unifying Device: Pick-up a blue sheet from the absent work folder. This
goes in Writing Tips section of your notebook. Add a unifying device of your
own to your OEDIPUS essay. Also, revise your essay using all the other writing
tips in your notebook. Make handwritten changes directly on draft 2 so that it is
messy and your essay is improving. Note: B6 didnt get to the unifying device
yet but should still revise the essay.
5)
HW: Presentations (continued on Thursday); Oedipus essay: Make changes
to draft 2, revise, edit; print final paper and submit essay to turnitin.com. Final
packet due on Thursday (turnitin.com receipt, outline, draft 1, draft 2, final
paper).
Mon, Jan 11 (A-day only)
1)
Vocab quiz: Sign-up on the wall (or e-mail me) for your make-up quiz. Your
two options are Wed, Jan 20 at 2:40 pm and Thurs, Jan 21 at 7:00 a.m.
2)
Novel presentations: If you were supposed to be in the audience today, no
make-up required. If you were supposed to present today, then you needed to
inform your group and me ahead of time of your absence (see note on the
bottom of the assignment sheet). Make-up is arranged on a case-by-case basis.
3)
Oedipus essay, draft 1: Be sure to see me on the day you return from your
absence, at the start of class, to get a Homework stamp on your essay.
4)
Essay sharing: Follow this process as you begin the revision process.
a) Read your essay. As you read, write ONE question PER PARAGRAPH in the
right-hand margin. Go for open-ended (rather than YES/NO questions). Each
one will be a question that you want the answer to Here are some example
questions:
---How do I make my intro more interesting? It seems too direct and boring.
---What can I do to my thesis to make it more important and substantial?
---Im worried that my long quotes arent done correctly. What do I need to
change?
b) Next you need to read your paper aloud to another human being. Ask your
questions, and listen to that persons answers. In your handwriting (your
listener should NOT touch your paper or write on it!!!), write the listeners
response to your question underneath your question.
c) Use your listeners feedback to create draft 2.
d) Draft 2 is due next class.

e)

HW: Presentations (continued on Wednesday); essay, draft 2: due on

Wednesday. (Final essay and packet is due on Friday!)

Friday, Jan 8 (B-day only)

1)
Vocab: Look up the last two wordsquiz next class.
2)
Novel planning: We worked, for the last time, in our groups to prepare for
our presentations, which are happening next week. Connect with your group and
be sure to do your part!
3)
Oedipus essay, draft 1: Be sure to see me on the day you return from your
absence, at the start of class, to get a Homework stamp on your essay.
4)
Essay sharing: Follow this process as you begin the revision process.
a) Read your essay. As you read, write ONE question PER PARAGRAPH in the
right-hand margin. Go for open-ended (rather than YES/NO questions).
Each one will be a question that you want the answer to Here are some
example questions:
i.
How do I make my intro more interesting? It seems too direct
and boring.
ii.
What can I do to my thesis to make it more important and
substantial?
iii.
Im worried that my long quotes arent done correctly. What do I
need to change?
b) Next you need to read yoru paper aloud to another human being. Ask your
questions, and listen to that persons answers. In your handwriting (your
listener should NOT touch your paper or write on it!!!), write the listeners
response to your question underneath your question.
c) Use your listeners feedback to create draft 2.
5) Hamlet: We continued our work with Act I, scene 1. You can catch up when
you return.
6) HW: Presentations (begin on Tuesday); essay, draft 2: due on Tuesday.
(Final essay and packet is due on Thursday!)
Thursday, Jan 7 (A-day only)
1)
Vocab: Look up the last two wordsquiz next class.
2)
Novel planning: We worked in our groups to prepare for our presentations,
which are happening next week. Connect with your group!
3)
Hamlet: We started reading the play. You can catch-up with that next class,
but you need to borrow and copy notes: Hamlet, Act I, Scene 1, vocab.
4)
HW: Oedipus essay, draft #1 (due Monday, Jan 11); novel presentations
(Jan 11).

B-day only

Wed, Jan 6 (
)
1)
Vocab: Borrow and copy notes.
2)
Novel presentation work: We worked in our groups to prepare for our
presentations, which are happening next week. Connect with your group!
3)
Hamlet: We started reading the play. You can catch-up with that next class,
but you need to borrow and copy notes: Hamlet, Act I, Scene 1, vocab.
4)
HW: Oedipus essay, draft #1 (due Friday, Jan 8); novel presentations (Jan
12).

Wed, Jan 6 (A-day only)

1)
Vocab: Borrow and copy notes.
2)
Oedipus paper: See me at the start of class on the day you return for your
apple stamp; borrow and copy notes called Writing about Oedipus, which will
go in your notebook, writing tips section. Begin writing the first draft of your
essay.
3)
HW: Oedipus essay, draft #1 (due Monday, Jan 11); novel presentations
(Jan 11).
Tues, Jan 5 (B-day)
1)
Vocab: Copy the six new words (impetuous, amity, pestilent, dearth,
specious, inscrutable). Borrow and copy notes for 2 of them.
2)
Oedipus paper: See me at the start of class on the day you return for your
apple stamp; borrow and copy notes called Writing about Oedipus, which will
go in your notebook, writing tips section. Begin writing the first draft of your
essay.
3)
Novel presentation work: We worked in our groups to prepare for our
presentations, which are happening next week.
4)
HW: Oedipus essay, draft #1 (due Friday, Jan 8); novel presentations (Jan
12).
Dec 18 (A3)
1)
Copy the new vocab words (impetuous, pestilent, amity, dearth, specious,
inscrutable). Borrow notes for 2 of them.
2)
We finished reading Oedipus. We discussed the tragic elements of Oedipus
and began our outlines for the essay. See essay explanation on Edline and write
your outline (include topic sentences for all body paragraphs and one piece of
evidence for each paragraph).
3)
We met with our novel groups and created our task analyses. You need to
coordinate with your group.
4)
HW: Essay outline (Jan 5).
Dec 16/17
1)
Vocab quiz: Sign-up on the wall (or via e-mail) for your make-up
opportunity. Your two choices are Wed, Jan 6th at 2:40 and Thur, Jan 7th at 7:00
a.m.
2)
Novel discussion: Today we talked about the ending of our novels and
planned our presentations. To make-up, please do the following:
a) When you return, show me your novel with your sticky-notes;
b) Turn in your answer to prompt #3;
c) Talk to me before vacation about the presentations we will be doing in
January.
3)
Period A3 only: We continued reading Oedipus, getting to p. 48. Read to p.
48 and do loggle #5.
4)
B5, B6, B7 only: We discussed the tragic elements of Oedipus and began our
outlines for the essay. See essay explanation on Edline and write your outline
(include topic sentences for all body paragraphs and one piece of evidence for
each paragraph).

5)

HW: Loggle #5 (A3 only); create outline for Oedipus paper (A3: due Jan 5;
B5-7: due Jan 4)

Dec 14/15
1)
Vocab: Look up the last two words. We have a quiz next class.
2)
Oedipus, cont: Read as much as your class read (see chart below) and do
Loggle #4:
A3: pp. 26-29.
B5: p. 26-end (p. 56).
B6: p. 26-end (p. 56).
B7: p. 26-end (p. 56).
3)
HW: Loggle #4due next class; tragic novel (continue sticky notes; finish
reading the novel; answer the final prompt)due next class.
Dec 10/11
1)
Vocab: Borrow and copy notes.
2)
Oedipus, pt 2: We broke up the chorus into 5 chunks and began working
with those chunks. You should read pp. 27-31 (to do your loggle #3 on). You
can join a group when you return.
3)
Lens quiz: See me to set-up a time to complete your lens quiz (must be
completed before winter break).
4)
HW: Loggle #3 (due Dec 14/15); tragic novel (continue sticky notes; finish
reading the novel; answer the final prompt), (due Dec 16/17).
Dec 8/9
1)
Vocab: Begin by copying the six new words: perusal, extremity, cleave,
malefaction, impious and consummation. Then borrow and copy notes on two of
them.
2)
Novel discussion #2: To make-up for the discussion you missed, answer two
different prompts from the second set (different from the ones you already did).
Turn in all four when you return from your absence. Also, remember to show me
your sticky notes on the day you return (start of class).
3)
Oedipus, cont: Read pp. 10-26 of Oedipus. Do your second loggle in
response to those pages.
4)
HW:
a) Loggle #2 (due Thurs/Fri);
b) Prepare for lens quiz (Thurs/Fri);
c) Novel: continue sticky notes; finish reading the novel; answer the final
prompt (Dec 16/17).
Dec 4/7
1)
Vocab quiz: Sign-up on the wall (or e-mail me) for your preferred make-up
quiz time. Your two options are Friday, Dec 11 at 2:40 and Thurs, Dec 10 at
7:10.
2)
OEDIPUS, cont: Read lines 1-100 and do your first Loggle (Google doc log).
Share with me.
3)
HW: Read 2nd section of your tragic novel. Finish the two prompts (must by
typed) and be sure youve annotated a bunch of sticky notes.

Dec 2/3
1)
Vocab: Look up the last two words. Prepare for quiz (Friday/Monday).
2)
Intro to tragedy: Borrow and copy notes.
3)
Oedipus: Read first 150 lines.
4)
Check to make sure you received the Oedipus Log from me via Google
docs. Let me know if you didnt. Make a copy and put your name on it.
5)
HW: Continue reading your novel. Check Edline for the second set of
prompts. Second section (with sticky-notes and write-up) is due Dec 8/9.
Nov 30/Dec 1
1)
Vocab: Copy the six new words (imprecation, temerity, circumscribe, usurp,
clemency, harbinger). Borrow and copy notes.
2)
Lens presentations, cont: Borrow and copy notes. (If you were supposed to
present and you were absent, you of course talked to me in advance about
make-up opportunities!)
3)
Novel talks: On the day you return, show me your novel (with sticky-notes)
and turn in your write-up of 2 prompts. To make-up for the discussion you
missed, answer 2 more of the prompts and turn those in.
4)
HW: Continue reading your novel. Check Ed-line for the second set of
prompts. Second section (with sticky-notes and write-up) is due Dec 8/9.
Nov 19/20
1)
Vocab: See me to get your new vocab word. Look up all five parts, write
them down, and turn them in to me by Dec 3rd. Write down the six new words
(imprecation, circumscribe, clemency, usurp, harbinger, temerity) and borrow
and copy notes on the first two.
2)
Lens presentations, cont: Borrow and copy notes. (If you were supposed to
present and you were absent, you of course talked to me in advance about
make-up opportunities!)
3)
HW: Read part I of your tragic novel (see on-line schedule for pages and
deadlines), mark passages with post-it notes, and answer prompts (also on
Edline). And, most importantly, have a great Thanksgiving!!

Nov 17/18
1)
Vocab quiz: Sign-up on the wall (or e-mail me) with your preferred make-up
time. Your two options are Wed, Dec. 2 at 7:00 a.m. and Thur, Dec 3 at 3:20
(right after our PLC meetings).
2)
Lens presentations, cont: Borrow and copy notes. (If you were supposed to
present and you were absent, you of course talked to me in advance about
make-up opportunities!)
3)
HW: Read part I of your tragic novel (see on-line schedule for pages and
deadlines), mark passages with post-it notes, and prepare to answer prompts
(also on Edline).

Nov 13/16
1)
Vocab: Look up the last two words.
2)
Book check-out: Go the library and check-out a copy of Oedipus and of
either Cry, The Beloved Country or Things Fall Apart. Check Edline for reading
schedule and assignments.
3)
Lens presentations, cont: Borrow and copy notes. (If you were supposed
to present and you were absent, you of course talked to me in advance about
make-up opportunities!)
4)
HW: Study for vocab quiz; begin tragic novel, marking passages and
preparing to answer the prompts (on Edline).
Nov 10/12
1)
Vocab: Borrow and copy notes.
2)
Lens presentations (Feminist, Political): Borrow and copy notes. (If you
were supposed to present and you were absent, you of course talked to me in
advance about make-up opportunities!)
3)
HW: Check-out information on Edline about your outside novel choices (Cry,
the Beloved Country or Things Fall Apart) and choose one by next class. We will
go to the library and check them out together on Friday/Monday.
Nov 5/9
1)
A3: We turned in our notebooks.
2)
Midterm: If you have an excused midterm, see me or e-mail me ASAP to
set-up your make-up exam. All exams must be on or before Friday, Nov. 13th.
3)
HW: Lens presentation prep (and notebooks in B-day classes).
Nov 3/4
1)
Vocab: Borrow and copy notes.
2)
We watched the final section of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon: You are
responsible for the ending of the film: You can ask a classmate for a summary or
you can get a copy from Netflix, etc.
3)
Brief discussion: No make-up required.
4)
HW: Study for midterm (next class) and prepare for lens presentations
(these begin on Nov 10/12).
Oct 30/Nov 2
5)
Vocab: Copy the six new vocab words into your notes (tenable, volition,
irascible, tenantless, gibber, precurse).
6)
Allegory of the Cave discussion: First, borrow and copy notes on Plato.
Second, if you have missed more than 3 class discussions, then write a -1 page
explaining how Platos allegory applies to Siddhartha. Turn this in to make-up for
the discussion.
7)
Lens work, cont: Talk to your group to find out what you need to do to get
ready for your lesson.
8)
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon: You are responsible for the second 25
minutes of the film: You can ask a classmate for a summary or you can get a
copy from Netflix, etc.
9)
HW:

a)
b)
c)

Read Shoveling Snow with Buddha (available in absent-work folder).

Work on lens presentation.
Study for midterm.

Oct 28/29
1)
Vocab quiz: Sign-up on the wall (or e-mail me) to take your make-up quiz.
Your two options are Wed, Nov 4 at 2:40 or Thurs, Nov 5 at 7:00 a.m.
2)
Lens: We continued lesson planning with our groups. Talk to your group to
find out what you need to do to help.
3)
We went over a schedule for the next few weeks (including that we have a
midterm on Nov 5/9). Ask a classmate for notes.
4)
We took some brief notes about Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. Pick-up
note sheet from the absent bulletin board; borrow and copy notes. Also, you are
responsible for the first 25 minutes of the film: You can ask a classmate for a
summary or you can get a copy from Netflix, etc.
5)
HW:
a) Lens work;
b) Read Platos Allegory of the Cave (in absent work folder and due Oct
30/Nov 2);
c) Begin preparing for midterm (Nov 5/9). Your notebook is the perfect place
to find notes to study!
Oct 26/27
1)
Vocab: Look up the last two words (quiz next time).
2)
Metamorphosis discussion: If you have missed 3 or fewer discussions, you
dont need to do this make-up activity: Write a 1/2 -1 page explaining what
Kafka-esque is and how The Metamorphosis fits this adjective. Use at least
three quotes from the story to support your points.
3)
Lens work: We worked in our groups to apply our lens to Metamorphosis
and to begin lesson planning for our teaching day. Ask your group for details.
Also, show me your HW (list of elements) so you can get a skinny cat stamp.
4)
Lens work: Continue to think about how your lens applies to
Metamorphosis. Also, revise your Google Doc (lens applied to your poem) as
necessary.
Oct 22/23
1)
Vocab: Borrow and copy notes.
2)
HW paragraph (lens summary): Show me yours at the start of class on the
day you return so that you can get a stamp (kitty). Then file it in your notebook
(notes & journals).
3)
Lens work: We met with our groups and analyzed some poetry. Then we
typed a paragraph which shows our understanding of how to apply the lens to a
piece of literature. If you were absent for this, then you need to read the poem
The Red Wheelbarrow (available on my Edline page) and write a one-paragraph
explanation of the poem as viewed through your lens. Turn this in when you
return.
4)
Metamorphosis: We continued discussing what Kafka-esque means.
When you return, pick-up the half sheet of questions from the absent work
folder. We will discuss these next class.

5)

HW:
If you were present, Share your groups analysis of the poem with me (A3:
by Saturday night; B5-B7: by Sunday at 5:00 pm). If you were absent, turn
in your analysis of Red Wheelbarrow when you return.
b) Make a list of ELEMENTS in Metamorphosis to which you can apply your
lens. This is pre-writing work, so it doesnt need to be in paragraph form or
completely figured out. But it should be about a page worth of notes.
a)

Oct 20/21
1)
Vocab: Borrow and copy notes.
2)
Borrow and copy notes on last couple of montage presentations (some
classes already finished this).
3)
Critical lens HW from last class: When you return from your absence, show
me your marked and highlighted packet. Then read the second packet:
a) Formalist: anthology, p. 2178.
b) Psychological: anthology, p. 2192;
c) Mythological: anthology, p.2196;
d) Feminist: anthology, p. 2204;
e) Political (sociological): anthology, p. 2200;
f) Philosophical: See me for packet;
g) Moral: See me for packet.
4)
Metamorphosis, cont: Do a journal entry on Metamorphosis, and put it
on the same paper as the first two writings about Metamorphosis. Answer both
of these prompts:
a) As Gregor goes downhill in the story, his family seems to go uphill. Why is
this? What does this trend suggest in terms of the theme of the story?
b) There is a great disparity between the TONE of the story and EVENTS that
happen. What is the effect on the reader of this strange separation?
5)
We watched a short film called Doodlebug by Christopher Nolan. You can
find it on the Internet and watch it. Consider how it connects to
Metamorphosis.
6)
We read five miniature stories by Kafka and are discussing his common
style, theme, tone, and ending. Pick up a copy of the stories from the absent
work folder and read them. Try to define that it means to be Kafkaesque (in
the style of Kafka).
7)
HW: Write one paragraph in which you define your critical lens and explain
either its central tenets or how it is applied.
Oct 16/19
1)
New vocab: Copy the new list into your notebook (gambol, requite, brazen,
dispatch, galling, felicitous).
2)
Siddhartha: We finished and shared our Siddhartha montages. To make-up
for what you missed, write a one-page explanation of EITHER what your group
was going to draw or what you would draw if this were an individual project.
Then explain how your montage picture fits with an important theme of the book
(include 2 or 3 quotes). Be sure that you are not re-telling the plot of the novel.
Focus instead on ideas and insights about life, humanity, enlightenment,
happiness, etc. (After you turn this in and get it back, file it in your journal right
behind your Siddhartha Conclusion notesthis will make up for the notes we

took in class as well as for your participation in the group project and
presentation).
3)
Introduction to critical lenses: See me to find out which group youre in and
to pick-up your packet.
4)
HW: Read your critical packet and mark it by UNDERLINING or
HIGHLIGHTING and taking marginal notes.
Oct 13/15
1)
Vocab quiz: Sign-up on the wall (or e-mail me) for your preferred make-up
time. Your options are Wed, Oct. 21 at 2:40 and Thurs, Oct. 22 at 7:05 a.m.
2)
Metamorphosis, pt. 2 discussion: If you have missed fewer than 3
discussions, no make-up is required. If you have missed more than three, then
please write -1 page analysis of the food that Grete shares with Gregor. What
might this meal symbolize? What is important in the scene? Turn this in for
credit. When you get it back, put it in your journal next to your other
Metamorphosis notes.
3)
Siddhartha montage: We began working on a group project. You can catchup when you return.
4)
HW: Finish reading The Metamorphosis.
Oct 8/12
1)
Vocab: Look up the last two words. We have a quiz next class!
2)
We turned in our essays. If you were absent, remember that I need to have
your essay on the day it is due, whether you e-mail it to me or have a friend
drop it off. If you e-mail it to me, I will send you back an e-mail to let you know I
received it. Thanks!
3)
Metamorphosis, pt I: Write a journal about part I. First, make a list of
what you know about Gregor. In addition to events that happen to and around
him, include personality traits, likes, dislikes, etc. Second, make a list of
qualities you might be feeling if you were to describe yourself as feeling like a
bug. Third, write a few sentences with your prediction for the storys ending.
This goes in the Notes and Journals section of your notebook.
4)
Siddhartha discussion: If you have missed three or fewer discussions this
semester, you are excused from this make-up assignment: Answer two of the
following questions with at least page (typed) each. Turn this in to the basket:
a) What is the importance of Siddharthas son? How does he change the novel
and contribute to its theme(s)?
b) What is the importance of Vasudeva being a ferry man? How does his
occupation work symbolically with his role in the novel?
c) Siddhartha says Govinda is too much of a seeker. How is this true? Does
this apply to any situation besides the seeking of enlightenment?
5)
HW: Read part 2 of The Metamorphosis.
Oct 6/7
1)
Vocab: Borrow and copy notes.
2)
Application essay: When you return from your absence, show me draft #4
(star stamp) with your underlining and word replacements (abstract vs.
concrete language) so I can record some points for you.

3)

4)
5)

6)
7)

Application essay next step: We discussed editing. Spend some time editing
your essay. Check for errors in grammar, punctuation, capitalization, etc. Check
paper formatting, such as double-spacing and MLA heading. Then print your final
and perfect essay!
OM notes: Borrow and copy OM notes. Put in your notebook.
Journalwrite for 10 minutes on the following 2 questions:
a) Could Siddhartha have found enlightenment next to a freeway rather than a
river? Explain.
b) Discuss the importance, significance, and/or symbolism of ONE of these
items: i) the kiss Siddhartha gives Govinda (p. 149-150); ii) the stone (p.
145); iii) time and the river (106-07).
Discussion of Siddhartha: We will continue this discussion next class, so if
you were absent, be sure to be an especially active participant next time!
HW:
a) Final application essay is due next class (Oct 8/12) and must include all the
prep work (draft 4 [with star stamp]; draft 3 [with questions and answers in
right-hand margin]; draft 2 [with monster stamp]; and pre-writing [attached
to your prompts]).
b) Read part I of The Metamorphosis, found on p. 318 in your anthology
(checked-out at registration).

Oct 2/5
1)
Vocab: Borrow and copy notes.
2)
We performed our bob-and-wheels. File your bob-and-wheel in the Notes &
Journals section of 3-ring notebook.
3)
We talked about concrete vs. abstract language. Borrow and copy notes
(Writing Tips). In class we underlined at least 4 words in our essays that could
be more concrete and/or specific. Then we wrote in better replacements.
Homework is to go through the paper looking for more places where individual
words can be improved. Draft #4 should be messy with changes by
Tuesday/Wednesday.
4)
Draft #4 essay check: see me at the start of class on Tuesday/Wednesday to
get your happy star stamp.
5)
We talked about enlightenment.
6)
We began taking notes on Om. Catch-up when you return.
7)
HW: Make draft 4 of your essay messy as you revise individual word choice
(final packet is due Oct 8/12); finish reading Siddhartha.
Sept 30/Oct 1
1)
Vocab: Copy down the six new words (boon, calumny, descry, impugn, ken, supplication).
2)
Siddhartha, ch. 5-8
a)
Write a journal (1/2-1 page) on love in Siddhartha. Consider these questions:
i) What kinds of love does Siddhartha experience?
ii)
What is the highest, best, or purest form of love? Why? Does he experience that one?
iii)
Are he and Kamala really incapable of love? How so?
iv)
How important is love to our growth as people? Consider the role of the one who loves
as well as the beloved.
b)
Discussion: If you have missed more than 3 discussions this semester, see me for a makeup opportunity.
3)
Essay review:

A)

Read your paper (draft 3). As you read, write ONE question PER PARAGRAPH in the
right-hand margin. This will be a question that you want the answer to. Here are
some examples to show you the type of question I mean:
1) I tried to add lots of description. Do you think this paragraph shows or tells more?
How can I improve it?
2) My prompt asks me to describe a trait in myself that I am proud of. In my first
draft, Mrs. Aalberg said that my answer didnt fit that prompt. How does this
paragraph fit that idea of a trait Im proud of?
3) What do you learn about me based on this paragraph? What kind of person do I
seem to be?
4) Is this a strong front-door entry? How could it be better?
B) Next you need to read your paper aloud to another human being. Ask your
questions, and listen to that persons answer. In your own handwriting (your listener
shouldnt touch your paper!), write the response to your question underneath your
question.
C) Use your listeners feedback to create a new and improved draft (#4).
4)

When you return from your absence, show me draft 2 or 3 with the highlighted additions of
VOICE.
5)
HW: Essay #4 (Oct 2/5); final essay (Oct 8/12); finish Siddhartha (Oct 6/7).
Sept 28/29
1)
Vocab quiz: Sign-up on the wall (or e-mail me) with your preferred make-up quiz time. Your
two options are Monday, Oct 5th at 2:40 and Thursday, Oct 8 at 7:05.
2)
Draft 2: Turn in your marked-up draft 2 (marked with sentence variety underlining).
3)
We finished our bob-and-wheels.
4)
Video: Watch the video about Buddha from my website. As you watch, take notes on the
left-hand side of a t-chart. List biographical facts about the Buddha. The video goes very, very
fast, so we watched it twice during class (its only about 2-minutes long). After you have a long
list (15-30 facts) in your t-chart, then fill in the right-hand side with facts about Siddhartha that
match those about the Buddha. For example, across from left a life of royalty, you can write,
left his high-caste family of Brahmin. Once you have both sides filled, turn the paper to the
back. Make a list of reasons why Hesse, our author, might have done this. In other words, how do
the similarities between Siddhartha and the Buddha enhance the reading of the novel? The title
of these notes is Buddha and Siddhartha; it goes in the notes and journals section of your
notebook.
5)
Writing tip: Voicewe took notes on seven ways to add voice to our writing. Borrow and
copy notes (PowerPoint available on my website). You need to try at least three of these
(especially the allusion!!) in your next draft. Once you have completed the two steps of creating
lots of sentence variation and adding voice to draft 2, create and print draft 3 of your application
essay. It is due next class.
6)
HW: Draft 3 of application essay and Siddhartha, ch. 5-8 are due next class (Sept 30/Oct
1).
Sept 24/25
1)
Vocab:Look up the last two words. We have a quiz next class.
2)
Pick-up a copy of The River of Dreams, a song by Billy Joel (available in absent work folder
or you can Google it). If you have missed more than three discussions this semester, then for
make-up you should write a paragraph explaining how the song relates to Siddharthas journey
so far.
3)
I stamped draft 2 of the application essay: show me yours the day you return from your
absence so you can get a monster stamp. =)
4)
Writing tip on Sentence Variety: Watch my video on Edline, take notes, and learn! (You can
also borrow and copy notes from someone).
5)
HW:
a)
Work on sentence variety in your essay. Writing directly on draft 2, add two basic
statements and then underline them once (you may underline pre-existing ones); then add
two periodic sentences and underline them with a wavy line (you may wavy-underline preexisting ones); then add two strung-along sentences and double underline them (you may

double underline pre-existing ones); then add two combination sentences and underline
them with 2 straight lines and one wavy one (whew!)(you may mark pre-existing ones).
Due Sept 28/29.
b)
Read Siddhartha, ch. 5-8 (due Sept 30/Oct 1).
Sept 22/23
1)
Vocab: Borrow and copy notes.
2)
Application essay info: Check on turnitin.com for my feedback on your essay (draft 1).
Apply those changes to draft 2, which you will print and bring to class next time (Sept 24/25).
3)
We turned in our readings on Hinduism and Buddhism; you should, too.
4)
Mrs. Tyra from the counseling office came to discuss important senior year stuff. See your
counselor to get caught up.
5)
HW: Application essay, draft 2; Siddhartha, chapters 1-4 (up to p. 42).
Sept 18/21
1)
Vocab: Borrow and copy notes.
2)
Terms of Buddhism and Hinduism: Borrow and copy notes, which go into the Notes and
Journal section of your notebook.
3)
Bob and wheel work: Not much time for this, but we did a little. You can catch-up with your
group next time.
4)
HW:
a)
Application essay, draft 2 is due Sept 24/25. Use my feedback from turnitin.com to improve.
Be sure to follow the suggestions on the pink sheet for a powerful introduction.
b)
Siddhartha: Read part I (up to p. 42) by Sept 24/25.
c)
Read the hand-out on Buddhism/Hinduism. Show some kind of evidence of your reading,
such as highlighting, underlining, writing side-notes, etc. This is due next class (Sept 22/23).
Sept 16/17
1)
We turned in our receipts from turnitin.com.
2)
We copied the new vocab words from the board (benefactress, wane, tumult, tenacity,
chasm, meander).
3)
We went to the library and checked out copies of Siddhartha. You should, toopreferably on
your own time.
4)
We discussed Sir Gawain and the Green Knight in greater depth. Begin by borrowing and
copying the notes (which will go in the Notes and Journals section of your notebook). If you
have missed 3 or fewer discussions, no make-up activity is required. If you have missed 4 or
more discussions, see me for your make-up activity.
5)
We began creating our bob-and-wheels. We will continue next time, so you can catch-up at
that time.
6)
HW: Begin revising your essay. 2nd draft will be due next week (date not set yet).
Sept 14/15
1)
Vocab quiz: Sign-up on the wall (or e-mail me) for your preferred make-up quiz time; your
two options are Wed, Sept 23 at 2:40 pm or Thur, Sept 24 at 7:00 a.m.
2)
Application essay: We took notes on how to write strong introductions. Pick-up the advance
organizer from the absent work bulletin board, and then borrow and copy notes.
3)
We discussed the rough draft of the application essay. It is due to turnitin.com by the start
of class on Wed(A day) and Thurs (B day). Please check my website for Turnitin.com
information to get the class id# and the password so that you can sign-in to my class and
submit your work. After you have submitted your paper, print a receipt and bring that to class on
Wed/Thurs.
4)
We discussed Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. If you have missed 3 or fewer discussions
this semester, no make-up is required; if you have missed 4 or more already, see me for makeup options.
5)
HW: Submit rough draft of application essay to turnitin.com; bring receipt to class next
time.
Sept 10/11
1)
Vocab: Look up the last two words. We have a quiz next class.

2)

Notebooks: In periods A3 and B5, I checked off three-ring notebooks (show me yours when
you return) and we organized them. You need three dividers, labeled Notes and Journals,
Writing Tips, and Vocab. File all your class work into the three sections. The oldest materials
go on top. See me if you need help.
3)
Application essays:
a)
Show me your pre-writing so you can get a tiger stamp;
b)
Journal entry: Take 60 seconds to list as many quotes as you can that have good advice
about living (like Take time to smell the flowers along the way or When life gives you
lemons, make lemonade). Then choose your favorite and write for 5 minutes about what the
quote means to you, how its true, how it could make life better, etc.
c)
We read a sample college essay, evaluating its merits and deficits.
d)
Writing tip #1: Borrow and copy notes about the heart of the essay.
4)
Sir Gawain and the Green Knightwe started discussionmore next time.
5)
HW: Write draft one of your application essay (due Sept 16/17).
Sept 8/9
1)
Vocab: Borrow and copy notes.
2)
We turned in our homework--application essay prompts. Your next step is to do some prewriting, which you may do directly on the prompt HW page or on another sheet of paper (which
you will then staple to your prompt HW). Your pre-writing may be brainstorming, webbing,
listing, journaling, etc. You choose what works best for you, but you need to demonstrate at least
10 minutes worth of thinking/pondering/planning.
3)
Development of English notes: We watched a slide show about the development of English.
Watch the show (follow this link: https://www.educreations.com/lesson/view/english-languagegawain-final/10188496/?s=bpwAT7&ref=app) and take notes. These notes will become part of
your journal.
4)
Notebooks: In periods B6 and B7, I checked off three-ring notebooks (show me yours when
you return) and we organized them. You need three dividers, labeled Notes and Journals,
Writing Tips, and Vocab. File all your class work into the three sections. The oldest materials
go on top. See me if you need help.
5)
Journal: We considered the qualities/values of Gawain and of the Green Knight with a tchart. Basically, list 10-15 qualities for each character. Underneath the value t-chart, make a list
of values that you personally find important, such as honesty, beauty, intelligence, empathy, etc.
Write a paragraph about the one you think is most important and why. This work will also go in
your journal.
6)
HW:
a)
Finish reading Sir Gawain and the Green Knight;
b)
Do pre-writing for your application essay.
Sept 3/4
1)
2)
3)

4)
5)
6)

Vocab: Borrow and copy notes. (Our six words are: feint, fidelity, transient, insatiable,
equanimity, courtesan.)
Class procedures: We discussed a few locations in the room, such as the one-on-one
writing conference sign-up sheet, the Daily Digest, and the homework bubble on the whiteboard.
Look around and make sure you locate the tools you need. Ask me for help if you need it!
Application essay, first step: We talked about the application essay and getting started. You
need to find two possible prompts for your essay. Ideally, you will choose from a real-life source
(like the essay prompts for a college you hope to attend); you can also create your own prompt
and/or choose from my list of prompts on Edline. Once you find 2 prompts you are happy with,
type them up. Highlight your favorite one.
Fryes 4 archetypes and the Romance Cycle: Pick-up a green sheet from the absent-work
folder; borrow and copy notes.
Gawain: We discussed part I. Keep reading.
HW: Application essaytype 2 prompts and highlight your favorite one; Gawainread
part II.

Sept. 1/2

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

Intro to class: Borrow and copy notes.

Fill out a 3 x 5 card with this information: name, e-mail address (the one you
actually use), extra-curricular activities, medical or other important info. I should know about
you, what you hope to gain from the class). Turn this in.
Check-out my website; read the Class Procedures. Fill out the quiz you received
from me via e-mail. If you did not receive the quiz, then you need to e-mail me in a timely
manner so that I can get the quiz to you before the due date.
Do your first journal entry: I am a person who Finish the sentence with 15-30
phrases.
Vocab: See me to get your vocab word. Fill it out and return to me by Wed, Sept 9 th.
HW:
a) Read Class Procedures and take quiz;
b) Read part I only of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight (available in absent work folder);
c) Obtain a 3-ring notebook (JUST FOR THIS CLASS).