We had an engaging and quick-paced class once again today. Students are working well and we are accomplishing so much. We can all be proud of ourselves.
Quick Write
I asked students to respond to a prompt about the concept and word “solace”. They were to think about a time they received solace when they went through a difficult time. What was it? Today’s writing led to some rich discussion and reflection.
Word of the Day
“Denouement” is the word of the day today–appropriate because we have recently finished our latest novel. It means the resolution of a plot following its climax; the wrapping up or outcome of any complex series of events–especially in literature/film/theater. It can also mean the unraveling of understanding the details underlying arguments between friends.
The etymology is fromLatin=nodus=knot; French=+de=”untying of a knot” (1752).
Students were asked to “make it stick” in their brains by answering a question about the denouement of the plot of their recent novels. Was it satisfying?
Writing
The final drafts of the Extended Definition or Classification Essay were due this week, and we're on to the next essay -- a Comparison/Contrast Essay. For the rest of the essays that they will write for Writing 2, students will write a Pre-Write, Rough Draft, and Final Draft. I have the Pre-Write "due" next week because I want students to take the week to plan and research for their essays. However, they don't have to hand in the pre-writes until they hand in the rough drafts, which will be on December 1 (3 weeks from this week.)
Grammar
This week's Grammar discussion centered on Indicative and Subjunctive moods of verbs. We have been examining different aspects of verbs–phrases (prepositional, gerunds, infinitives and participle. We have considered voice–passive/active. Today we looked at mood–indicative and subjunctive. We watched a video and took notes together (Extra credit opportunity!). Students can finish the notes at home while watch the video for those extra credit points. Subjunctive worksheet is due next week.
Literature
Due to circumstances beyond my control, we had to re-take the My Antonia Final Test here in class. This time on paper. While it is not my preference to take precious class time to take a test, I do want to ensure students are interacting with the text and have a good handle on the material.
The class was assigned to read the opening paragraphs of Giants on the Earth and an excerpt of The Grapes of Wrath for next week. They are to answer discussion questions on those readings before class next week.
Homework
Ext. Def/Class. Rough Draft (if not done)
Ext. Def/Class. Final Draft (if not done)
First Five Corrections (if not done)
Comparison/Contrast Essay Pre-Write (work on for 11/17; due with RD 12/1)
Giants on the Earth & Writing Assign.
The Grapes of Wrath & Discussion question
Subjunctive Worksheet, video and Extra Credit Notes
Links for this Week
About the Comparison/Contrast Essay
Enjoy the changing of the season!
Warmly,
Amanda Gonsalves aka Mrs. G
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