Thursday, April 2, 2009
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Soph Lit:
Today we listened to the U2 song Shadows and Tall Trees- the same title as CH 7.
We worked on the following "scenes"
The Hunt
Piggy's Glasses
Fire on the Mountain
The Beast
No HW- Best of luck on the last day of MCAS!!!! Remember- always end in greatness.
We worked on the following "scenes"
The Hunt
Piggy's Glasses
Fire on the Mountain
The Beast
No HW- Best of luck on the last day of MCAS!!!! Remember- always end in greatness.
Monday, March 30, 2009
MCAS Tip #3
Relax and go to bed at a reasonable hour the night before the test.
The MCAS test is designed to measure general knowledge skills and achievement. There is no specific information that you have to learn or can study to prepare for it. Rather, interpreting information provided and understanding basic principles and how to apply them are the keys to success on the test. In reality, all the time you have spent in classes at school and doing lesson assignments and practice problems at home represents your study and preparation efforts for the MCAS test
Try and mentally review the major books that you have read Freshman and Soph year. You will most likely have a general writing prompt that may call on you to use a novel or a character as the basis of your writing.
Relax the night before the test. Watch television, play a game of Halo, read a novel, socialize with your friends, or do something else you find relaxing. Then go to sleep at your usual bedtime to make sure you get sufficient rest. Do not go to bed early. If you do, you probably won't be tired and will only end up lying awake thinking (and worrying) about the test! And that will only make it more difficult for you to perform well the next day. Relaxing ensures you will be ready to put forth your best effort at exam time. Make sure you get a solid night sleep for the three days preceding the test. One night of good solid sleep will help- 3 days will make you recharged and ready to rock.
Eat a carbohydrate based meal. My suggestion- a big bowl of pasta. You want energy that will not burn out in the morning.
Have a solid breakfast- even if you normally skip it as many teenagers will do. Avoid energy that you will burn through fast. Slow and steady always wins the race :-)
Be confident! Positive attitude has been proven to lead to improved scores. Tantasqua has prepared you well, and you WILL do a great job!
The MCAS test is designed to measure general knowledge skills and achievement. There is no specific information that you have to learn or can study to prepare for it. Rather, interpreting information provided and understanding basic principles and how to apply them are the keys to success on the test. In reality, all the time you have spent in classes at school and doing lesson assignments and practice problems at home represents your study and preparation efforts for the MCAS test
Try and mentally review the major books that you have read Freshman and Soph year. You will most likely have a general writing prompt that may call on you to use a novel or a character as the basis of your writing.
Relax the night before the test. Watch television, play a game of Halo, read a novel, socialize with your friends, or do something else you find relaxing. Then go to sleep at your usual bedtime to make sure you get sufficient rest. Do not go to bed early. If you do, you probably won't be tired and will only end up lying awake thinking (and worrying) about the test! And that will only make it more difficult for you to perform well the next day. Relaxing ensures you will be ready to put forth your best effort at exam time. Make sure you get a solid night sleep for the three days preceding the test. One night of good solid sleep will help- 3 days will make you recharged and ready to rock.
Eat a carbohydrate based meal. My suggestion- a big bowl of pasta. You want energy that will not burn out in the morning.
Have a solid breakfast- even if you normally skip it as many teenagers will do. Avoid energy that you will burn through fast. Slow and steady always wins the race :-)
Be confident! Positive attitude has been proven to lead to improved scores. Tantasqua has prepared you well, and you WILL do a great job!
Friday, March 27, 2009
MCAS Tip #2
As you read through the passage, try to form an idea of the overall purpose of the text and make a note of what and where detailed facts (which invariably are included) are located.
For Word Meaning multiple choice questions, if you do not know the meaning of the word, try to choose a definition by making an inference based on the context in which the word is used.
For Supporting Idea multiple choice questions, never rely on your memory or what "sounds right" when choosing your answer. These questions ask about unimportant facts presented in a stream of piddling details. Since these are the types of thing that one tends to ignore or forget while reading, the people who write the test take advantage of this tendency and purposely include tricky answers. Remember that this is a comprehension test -- not a memory test -- so always refer to the text.
For Thematic Summary multiple choice questions, look for answer choices that capture the main idea or overall topic. Avoid the trap of selecting answer choices that repeat a detail or fact appearing in the passage.
For Generalization multiple choice questions, look for answers that reflect a logical conclusion that might be drawn from the facts presented by the reading. Eliminate from consideration any answers summarizing the main idea of the passage or expressing a conclusion directly stated within the text.
Back-up your answer to every Open Response question with details, facts, and examples appearing in the passage. Even if you do not write the ideal answer, doing this will earn you partial credit.
For Word Meaning multiple choice questions, if you do not know the meaning of the word, try to choose a definition by making an inference based on the context in which the word is used.
For Supporting Idea multiple choice questions, never rely on your memory or what "sounds right" when choosing your answer. These questions ask about unimportant facts presented in a stream of piddling details. Since these are the types of thing that one tends to ignore or forget while reading, the people who write the test take advantage of this tendency and purposely include tricky answers. Remember that this is a comprehension test -- not a memory test -- so always refer to the text.
For Thematic Summary multiple choice questions, look for answer choices that capture the main idea or overall topic. Avoid the trap of selecting answer choices that repeat a detail or fact appearing in the passage.
For Generalization multiple choice questions, look for answers that reflect a logical conclusion that might be drawn from the facts presented by the reading. Eliminate from consideration any answers summarizing the main idea of the passage or expressing a conclusion directly stated within the text.
Back-up your answer to every Open Response question with details, facts, and examples appearing in the passage. Even if you do not write the ideal answer, doing this will earn you partial credit.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
MCAS Tip #1
In General:
Remember that your success largely depends on your ability to present relevant and persuasive arguments related to your opinion or position on the writing prompt topic.
Write down everything, documenting your development process. Even if your essay is poor, showing your thought process and progression from rough ideas to finished essay will earn points.
During the First Session:
Write down a concise, direct, and clear statement of your opinion or position on the essay topic.
Brainstorm, writing down ideas for arguments you might present to support or justify your opinion.
Identify and write down examples, facts, or details that bolster each of these arguments.
Select the three or four arguments that seem the strongest or most persuasive.
Think about how to order and link the arguments you select, numbering them and writing down notes on key transitional phrases or ideas.
Write down a summarizing and concluding statement.
Write a quick first draft of your essay beginning with your position statement, followed by your arguments connected with transition statements and in the planned order, and ending with a summary and conclusion paragraph.
During the Final Session:
Focus on strengthening arguments, connections and transitions, and the concluding paragraph.
Refine your sentence structures and diction, and check your punctuation, capitalization, and adherence to rules of grammar and usage.
Remember that your success largely depends on your ability to present relevant and persuasive arguments related to your opinion or position on the writing prompt topic.
Write down everything, documenting your development process. Even if your essay is poor, showing your thought process and progression from rough ideas to finished essay will earn points.
During the First Session:
Write down a concise, direct, and clear statement of your opinion or position on the essay topic.
Brainstorm, writing down ideas for arguments you might present to support or justify your opinion.
Identify and write down examples, facts, or details that bolster each of these arguments.
Select the three or four arguments that seem the strongest or most persuasive.
Think about how to order and link the arguments you select, numbering them and writing down notes on key transitional phrases or ideas.
Write down a summarizing and concluding statement.
Write a quick first draft of your essay beginning with your position statement, followed by your arguments connected with transition statements and in the planned order, and ending with a summary and conclusion paragraph.
During the Final Session:
Focus on strengthening arguments, connections and transitions, and the concluding paragraph.
Refine your sentence structures and diction, and check your punctuation, capitalization, and adherence to rules of grammar and usage.
WOS:
Today in class we examined terms that we use everyday that come directly from Shakespeare's plays. We also shared examples of satire, and argued what makes real good satire. Many of you brought in political satire which was interesting.
Next we put together fictional cast lists for 12th Night, and debated your selections. My fav. from today: Adam Sandler playing the fool. That would just be killer.
Friday we will be doing a writing assignment based on She's the Man. Don't forget the popcorn....
Next we put together fictional cast lists for 12th Night, and debated your selections. My fav. from today: Adam Sandler playing the fool. That would just be killer.
Friday we will be doing a writing assignment based on She's the Man. Don't forget the popcorn....
Soph Lit:
HW: Please read ch7 in LotF.
Today in class we worked on MCAs prompt, and how to answer questions based on poetry.
Today in class we worked on MCAs prompt, and how to answer questions based on poetry.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Soph Lit:
Today in class you were asked to "survive" using only what you had with you in class, and the random survival guide that I distributed. I had you write about how you would use the guide that you were given to survive.
Next, we looked at the MCAS questions that you answered yesterday. I asked those with an 88 or above to comment on their strategies. We brainstormed on the following:
1. Underline main ideas as you read.
2. Put the question into simpiler language.
3. Cross out the answers that you are sure are wrong.
4. If you have time, go back to any questions that you are not sure of
The questions that you will face fall into a few main catergories- which is important to understand.
You will be asked recall questions that test your comprehension.
You will be asked for context questions
You will be asked questions that will ask you to refer to the story, and devise a logical answer.
Remember to beat your adversisary, you must completly understand them.
Next, we looked at the MCAS questions that you answered yesterday. I asked those with an 88 or above to comment on their strategies. We brainstormed on the following:
1. Underline main ideas as you read.
2. Put the question into simpiler language.
3. Cross out the answers that you are sure are wrong.
4. If you have time, go back to any questions that you are not sure of
The questions that you will face fall into a few main catergories- which is important to understand.
You will be asked recall questions that test your comprehension.
You will be asked for context questions
You will be asked questions that will ask you to refer to the story, and devise a logical answer.
Remember to beat your adversisary, you must completly understand them.
WOS:
HW: Please bring in a written or musical example of sarcasm. 12th Night made you all laugh today when you began to see the inuendo....ah...teenagers :-)
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Brit Lit:
Today in class we worked in small groups making up a "death of Duncan" scene. My fav one from this morning: Group #5 and their 007 spy inspired scene. Always end in greatness, and you did.
Soph Lit:
HW: Read Ch 5 and finish your survival guides.
Today in class we worked on some last minute MCAS prep. If anyone would like some extra take home practice questions, please see me.
Today in class we worked on some last minute MCAS prep. If anyone would like some extra take home practice questions, please see me.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Brit Lit:
Today we started Act 2 in Macbeth. Why do you think that Shakespeare often leaves out the best scenes of the play? Be thinking of what Duncan's death scene would look like, as you will be putting together this "lost scene" on Tuesday.
Anyone missing the quiz from Friday, I am after school on Tuesday for makeups. Try and do it then while it still is fresh in your head.
Anyone missing the quiz from Friday, I am after school on Tuesday for makeups. Try and do it then while it still is fresh in your head.
Soph Lit:
Today in class we researched information for our survival guides. Please remember that these are due Wed.
Later in the week, we are going to put some of our reading on pause and work on some last minute MCAS strategies. Not the most exciting thing in the world to do, but I guarentee that it will help you April 1st.
Later in the week, we are going to put some of our reading on pause and work on some last minute MCAS strategies. Not the most exciting thing in the world to do, but I guarentee that it will help you April 1st.
WOS:
If music be the food of love, play on,
Give me excess of it, that surfeiting,
The appetite may sicken, and so die
That strain again! It had a dying fall.
Act 1.1 (104)
Give me excess of it, that surfeiting,
The appetite may sicken, and so die
That strain again! It had a dying fall.
Act 1.1 (104)
Friday, March 20, 2009
Magic Will Rock Tantasqua...
Reminder: There will be a great fundraiser at school this weekend. Sat. night at 7:00, You will be blown away by the mind numbing magic of performers Frankie D, and Jason. Tickets are available only at the door for $5, with all proceeds going to the Three Cups of Tea imitative. Come out to support the cause and see a great show!
Soph Lit:
Today in class we had a quiz on Ch 1-4 in LOTF. After, we discussed Religious imagery, and symbols in the novel. Please continue to look at the following as you read- Simon, and how he could be compared to a symbol of Jesus; The symbolic use of nature in the novel, paying specific attention to the use of light; The title of the chapters.
We ended class watching 20 minutes of The Simpson's in an episode which parodies the novel quite well.
HW- Research your survival guides. Continue thinking about the question: Are people inherently evil?
My class let's you understand the literary world around you, as well as the jokes in a Simpson's episode.
We ended class watching 20 minutes of The Simpson's in an episode which parodies the novel quite well.
HW- Research your survival guides. Continue thinking about the question: Are people inherently evil?
My class let's you understand the literary world around you, as well as the jokes in a Simpson's episode.
WOS:
Today in class we looked at the four types of irony: Dramatic, tragic, situational, and historical. Next I asked you to come up with a scene showing each. Please begin to think about how each could be applied to 12th Night.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Can music make you smarter?
The Mozart effect:
A set of research results that indicate that listening to Mozart's music may induce a short-term improvement on the performance of certain kinds of mental tasks known as "spatial-temporal reasoning;"
Popularized versions of the theory, which suggest that "listening to Mozart makes you smarter", or that early childhood exposure to classical music has a beneficial effect on mental development
A set of research results that indicate that listening to Mozart's music may induce a short-term improvement on the performance of certain kinds of mental tasks known as "spatial-temporal reasoning;"
Popularized versions of the theory, which suggest that "listening to Mozart makes you smarter", or that early childhood exposure to classical music has a beneficial effect on mental development
Soph Lit:
Please continue to work on your survival guides. Also, you will have a quiz on CH 1-4 in LOTF. Please look over those chapters and be ready.
Brit Lit:
Reminder: Please make sure that your lines are ready for class Friday. Try some classical music tonight- it may help stick it to your head.
Parent/teacher Night
Parent teacher night is from 6:30-8:30 tonight. Please encourage you parents/guardians to come out. I would love to meet them :-)
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Working together: learning timing, improv, and what it means to succeed as a group...
My job is way too much fun at times....
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Love
Let's just forget that I read love notes given to me in 8th grade. Please remember that I did it for your education. Public humiliation in a lame attempt to gain your interest in language... I try not to have many regrets, but I do regret opening myself up so much and exposing my prepubescent heart in front of class. Let's just never mention that again and pretend that it did not happen :-)
Monday, March 16, 2009
Limericks - The form
Limericks consist of five anapaestic lines.
Lines 1, 2, and 5 of Limericks have seven to ten syllables and rhyme with one another.
Lines 3 and 4 of Limericks have five to seven syllables and also rhyme with each other.
Lines 1, 2, and 5 of Limericks have seven to ten syllables and rhyme with one another.
Lines 3 and 4 of Limericks have five to seven syllables and also rhyme with each other.
Soph Lit:
Today we recreated a plane crash in class. I played sound effects, and narrated the action. After we "crashed" and pulled ourselves from the burning carnage, we found ourselves on the peaceful shore of a deserted island- alone with no adults.... Things seemed very peaceful until the nightfall, when we became very aware that at the center of the island was a uncharted jungle. Somehow we made it through the long night, and discovered a way to get a fire started. I asked you to record this in a journal. If you were absent, please see me to fully explain this assignment.
Tonight we enter a similar world in the novel Lord of the Flies. By the way, you always underline the title of the book- but this is not an option in the tools that I have in making this post. While we are on the subject- you NEVER underline your OWN title.
HW: Read CH 1-2. Please expect a quiz. In class Tuesday we will begin work on our survival guides. Luke is going to love this assignment- guaranteed.... All hail the Conch. The conch is power. There is nothing without order....
Tonight we enter a similar world in the novel Lord of the Flies. By the way, you always underline the title of the book- but this is not an option in the tools that I have in making this post. While we are on the subject- you NEVER underline your OWN title.
HW: Read CH 1-2. Please expect a quiz. In class Tuesday we will begin work on our survival guides. Luke is going to love this assignment- guaranteed.... All hail the Conch. The conch is power. There is nothing without order....
Brit Lit:
Macbeth:
To-morrow, and to-morrow, and to-morrow,
Creeps in this petty pace from day to day,
To the last syllable of recorded time;
And all our yesterdays have lighted fools
The way to dusty death. Out, out, brief candle!
Life's but a walking shadow, a poor player,
That struts and frets his hour upon the stage,
And then is heard no more. It is a tale
Told by an idiot, full of sound and fury,
Signifying nothing.
Macbeth Act 5, scene 5, 19–28
Your assignment today: Please memorize the above text. You will be reciting these in class this Friday.
To-morrow, and to-morrow, and to-morrow,
Creeps in this petty pace from day to day,
To the last syllable of recorded time;
And all our yesterdays have lighted fools
The way to dusty death. Out, out, brief candle!
Life's but a walking shadow, a poor player,
That struts and frets his hour upon the stage,
And then is heard no more. It is a tale
Told by an idiot, full of sound and fury,
Signifying nothing.
Macbeth Act 5, scene 5, 19–28
Your assignment today: Please memorize the above text. You will be reciting these in class this Friday.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Soph Lit
Final typed version of your papers are due Monday. Please have both your 1st draft, as well as your final copy ready to pass in.
If any of you get stuck, I will be checking my school email this weekend, so please feel free to email me if you need help.
If any of you get stuck, I will be checking my school email this weekend, so please feel free to email me if you need help.
Wos:
Please make sure you touch base with your groups and are ready for Monday or Tuesday. Please report to class first. Have a great 3 day :-)
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Word O' the Week
Alogotrophy: [al-uh-gah-truh-fee]
Excessive nutrition to any one part of the body resulting in deformity.
Excessive nutrition to any one part of the body resulting in deformity.
Soph Lit
Writing Assignment: Animal Farm, Ten Years After
Directions: Ten years have past since the last page of the novel. Origional animals have died, but not all of their ideas. Describe the new farm. Have the animals come closer to creating a true communistic state? Like history, have events repeated themselves? How are the events of the 1st revolution recorded and remembered? Have facts been changed to benefit specific animals. Has greed once again contaminated the Marxist philosophy?
Requirements:
Your paper must be typed and have at least 250 words
Directions: Ten years have past since the last page of the novel. Origional animals have died, but not all of their ideas. Describe the new farm. Have the animals come closer to creating a true communistic state? Like history, have events repeated themselves? How are the events of the 1st revolution recorded and remembered? Have facts been changed to benefit specific animals. Has greed once again contaminated the Marxist philosophy?
Requirements:
Your paper must be typed and have at least 250 words
Monday, March 9, 2009
Brit Lit:
Don't know what a whipersnapper yonker is. You will tomorrow. Shakespearean insults are coming...
WOS
I met your demands, and wish to thank you for the safe return of Master Chief. I applaud your creativity and wit during his "ordeal."
Pictures to follow.... Poor Master Chief was returned in a dress. Strangely, he finds it somewhat liberating and expressed his fondness of this new softer side. Full body armor gets real old after awhile...
Mini papers- I only had papers from about 50% of you. Please email them tonight by 4 for full credit, or bring them to class Tues. A reminder that you loose 10 point each late day.
Pictures to follow.... Poor Master Chief was returned in a dress. Strangely, he finds it somewhat liberating and expressed his fondness of this new softer side. Full body armor gets real old after awhile...
Mini papers- I only had papers from about 50% of you. Please email them tonight by 4 for full credit, or bring them to class Tues. A reminder that you loose 10 point each late day.
Soph Lit
HW- please finish the book tonight. We will finish the movie in class after we have a quick quiz on the ending.
I also gave your next writing assignment. The 1st draft is due Wed, and the final Paper (typed) is due Monday.
We will be playing a new review game on wed, and have a test on the novel this Thursday.
Busy week!
I also gave your next writing assignment. The 1st draft is due Wed, and the final Paper (typed) is due Monday.
We will be playing a new review game on wed, and have a test on the novel this Thursday.
Busy week!
Friday, March 6, 2009
I would have rather been at school...
Sorry that I was out today. My daughter was sick, and I had to stay home with her. I will see you on Monday- and to the group responsible for Master Chief's abduction- yes I will have your donut demands on Monday.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Soph Lit:
Today in class we looked at how propaganda is being used in Animal Farm. We completed popaganda sheets documenting this.
We also looked at some political speeches in history and tried to identify what they were doing "behind the scenes..."
HW CH 8, and study for vocab.
I also passed back a large chunk of work, so tonight would be a good night to ask your student how English is going. They have lots of things to share :-)
We also looked at some political speeches in history and tried to identify what they were doing "behind the scenes..."
HW CH 8, and study for vocab.
I also passed back a large chunk of work, so tonight would be a good night to ask your student how English is going. They have lots of things to share :-)
World of Shakespeare
HW:
One critic called this play "an anthology of madness." With the exception of Viola and Sabastian, everybody in the play exhibits some form of extreme behavior. Pick 3 characters and explain what separates him/her from the "norm."
1 Page typed- due Monday, or Friday if you want a HW free weekend....
One critic called this play "an anthology of madness." With the exception of Viola and Sabastian, everybody in the play exhibits some form of extreme behavior. Pick 3 characters and explain what separates him/her from the "norm."
1 Page typed- due Monday, or Friday if you want a HW free weekend....
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
World of Shakespeare
To the punk that is holding my doll, err...I mean action figure, be kind and respect the chief. He did at one point save the world and demands some respect for that. I await your conditions for his safe return....
Soph Lit:
HW- please read Ch 7, and define the words given today in class. We will be checking these in class Thursday.
Good job today finding propaganda examples. I still want more proof the Hitler wrote a book for school children...
Good job today finding propaganda examples. I still want more proof the Hitler wrote a book for school children...
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Word O' the Week
Aprosexia [a-pro-sex-ee-uh]: An abnormal inability to pay attention characterized by near-complete indifference to everything.
Soph Lit.
Today my class presented their propaganda projects. Nice job guys!
We also had a vocab quiz. At the end of class, they were asked to make a world, and list ten rules that could not be changed. It is harder than you think to rule...
I then took your new worlds and tried to disrupt them. We passed out your new rules, and tried to break your world while listening to the soft sounds of "God Save the Queen."
We also had a vocab quiz. At the end of class, they were asked to make a world, and list ten rules that could not be changed. It is harder than you think to rule...
I then took your new worlds and tried to disrupt them. We passed out your new rules, and tried to break your world while listening to the soft sounds of "God Save the Queen."
WOS
World of Shakespeare: You Act the Scene
We have spent a large portion of this course on the presentation of language. From our class discussions, you hopefully realize that Shakespeare spent all of his attention on the language of the play. He uses this in place of scenery, props, and elaborate sets. For this assignment you will use everything that we have learned about language on the stage, and present a selected scene in front of the class.
Directions: You are going to be divided into 4 groups. Each group is responsible for a scene in act three of 12th Night. Your task is to present your scene to the class in an entertaining fashion. Remember- this is a comedy, so we want to laugh.
You will be graded as a group by a provided set of rubrics. You need not memorize the lines, but you must be familiar enough so that there are no “dead spots.”
To assist each group, I present to you the coveted Bag O’ Tricks. Each group may use one of the following.
The Bag O’ Tricks: You may use only ONE of the following…
Let’s Play Make-up:
Use of face makeup to define each character. This can be as simple as stage make-up, to as elaborate as masks. Each character must be included.
Sound effects:
Use sounds to enhance the scene. Pick mood music that can also be used to enhance what is happening. You will become the John Williams for a day. Use at least 10 sound effects in your scene. Remember- think comedy!
Dress Up:
Each character must have a detailed costume that is used to help your audience understand the play. These can be set in the real time period, or modernized. While your words must stay true to the script, your costumes can allude to a different time and place. For example, you may choose to do your scene on an army base…
Video Backgrounds:
Behind your group on the stage, you will put together background video that matches your scene. The video that you put together must be used to enhance your scene. This will be difficult to do to scale perfectly.
We have spent a large portion of this course on the presentation of language. From our class discussions, you hopefully realize that Shakespeare spent all of his attention on the language of the play. He uses this in place of scenery, props, and elaborate sets. For this assignment you will use everything that we have learned about language on the stage, and present a selected scene in front of the class.
Directions: You are going to be divided into 4 groups. Each group is responsible for a scene in act three of 12th Night. Your task is to present your scene to the class in an entertaining fashion. Remember- this is a comedy, so we want to laugh.
You will be graded as a group by a provided set of rubrics. You need not memorize the lines, but you must be familiar enough so that there are no “dead spots.”
To assist each group, I present to you the coveted Bag O’ Tricks. Each group may use one of the following.
The Bag O’ Tricks: You may use only ONE of the following…
Let’s Play Make-up:
Use of face makeup to define each character. This can be as simple as stage make-up, to as elaborate as masks. Each character must be included.
Sound effects:
Use sounds to enhance the scene. Pick mood music that can also be used to enhance what is happening. You will become the John Williams for a day. Use at least 10 sound effects in your scene. Remember- think comedy!
Dress Up:
Each character must have a detailed costume that is used to help your audience understand the play. These can be set in the real time period, or modernized. While your words must stay true to the script, your costumes can allude to a different time and place. For example, you may choose to do your scene on an army base…
Video Backgrounds:
Behind your group on the stage, you will put together background video that matches your scene. The video that you put together must be used to enhance your scene. This will be difficult to do to scale perfectly.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Friday, February 27, 2009
Into my head
I’m gunna be up for the next 20 hours
I miss my boyfriend
Never regret, just learn
Wow, I’m Creepy
Mexican santa
Is anyone asleep
The demented cartoon movie
Why do they call it white noise
Sliding around the corners
It is impossible to think about nothing
I still want that cheesecake
2nd time I planned it now
Only class I legitimately enjoy
How refreshed you feel
I want some…
Stupid formula
I’m gunna be up for the next 20 hours
I miss my boyfriend
Never regret, just learn
Wow, I’m Creepy
Mexican santa
Is anyone asleep
The demented cartoon movie
Why do they call it white noise
Sliding around the corners
It is impossible to think about nothing
I still want that cheesecake
2nd time I planned it now
Only class I legitimately enjoy
How refreshed you feel
I want some…
Stupid formula
Brit Lit:
Test on Monday. Today we played the review game, Who Wants to Win a Pizza Party. Please look over your notes from this game, notes that I have given, and make sure that you look over all that we have covered. Have a nice weekend.
Wos
Monday-
We do the exposition backwards from 12th Night....
I continue to get blank stares: Is he crazy, or just a real interesting teacher....
Talk about your 1st major writing assignment...
We do the exposition backwards from 12th Night....
I continue to get blank stares: Is he crazy, or just a real interesting teacher....
Talk about your 1st major writing assignment...
Soph Lit:
I pushed vocab to Monday (dead copy machine.) Also for Monday, your propaganda assignments are due. Today in class we talked about how this could be done. I suggested a new program by Microsoft the is in beta testing, and free to use: Soundsmith. Some of you may wish to use it for this...
No reading HW- makes sure you have read Ch 1,2,3,4,5 in A. Farm.
No reading HW- makes sure you have read Ch 1,2,3,4,5 in A. Farm.
Random Thoughts....
We did a free write in one of my classes to the sound of a washer and dryer. They had to think about nothing for 5 min. When I gave the signal, they had to write whatever came to them. I told them one line was fine. They all wrote a page. Each student gave permission to share, and I did not pick anything that would connect them to each line. It was like taking the pulse of the mind of 25 people....
Below is one random line, on a random grey Friday, on a random Feb day, at a random HS....
Dane Cooks little mini skits about laundry
It was hard to think about nothing
I hope this does not sound like I am depressed or something…
Even if I do turn lobster red
I am 17 today….
This is a big day to achieve what we deserve
Dice..in a tin can…
My parents made me delete my fbook
The sun roof had a leak so whenever it rained my car would fill up with dirty water
She’s the thin to my mint
RAD
I lie. I lie a lot.
I love Skittles
I don’t like the bad grade on my last quiz in here…
My stomach hurts
It sucked.
Thinking about nothing is harder than it seems…
Something+nothing=undefined
Don’t try idea does not seem applicable at present in my life, which is unfortunate.
If I could stop missing him I would
He had a strange look on his face
This week has gone by fast
I’m kinda cold
I miss him so much
I have to beat him one of these days
Rinse all the sea salt out of my hair
Her dad was cheating on her Mom
I want to talk to her
He is in a better place…
Below is one random line, on a random grey Friday, on a random Feb day, at a random HS....
Dane Cooks little mini skits about laundry
It was hard to think about nothing
I hope this does not sound like I am depressed or something…
Even if I do turn lobster red
I am 17 today….
This is a big day to achieve what we deserve
Dice..in a tin can…
My parents made me delete my fbook
The sun roof had a leak so whenever it rained my car would fill up with dirty water
She’s the thin to my mint
RAD
I lie. I lie a lot.
I love Skittles
I don’t like the bad grade on my last quiz in here…
My stomach hurts
It sucked.
Thinking about nothing is harder than it seems…
Something+nothing=undefined
Don’t try idea does not seem applicable at present in my life, which is unfortunate.
If I could stop missing him I would
He had a strange look on his face
This week has gone by fast
I’m kinda cold
I miss him so much
I have to beat him one of these days
Rinse all the sea salt out of my hair
Her dad was cheating on her Mom
I want to talk to her
He is in a better place…
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Soph Lit:
Please read CH 5 in Animal Farm for Friday. And that smell is not the farm...it is the smell of a fresh printed quiz on CH 1-5 and my notes...be ready
World of Shakespeare
Today we continued working on comic timing. We started class playing "I want, I think, I feel." Everyone had a character and needed to write 3-5 sent on each question. We avoided the super obvios, and talked about how some of his characters are very basic, while others are quite complex.
For the 2nd part of class, I showed the class a 2 minute comedy clip of a fake interview. We talked about how things can be funny when they are out of context. Next, each row was given a character from 12th Night to place in the same situation. The origional lines from the play could not change.
Good stuff today :-)
Tomorrow is sock puppet Friday, and wango tango gets to wear a wig..good times...
For the 2nd part of class, I showed the class a 2 minute comedy clip of a fake interview. We talked about how things can be funny when they are out of context. Next, each row was given a character from 12th Night to place in the same situation. The origional lines from the play could not change.
Good stuff today :-)
Tomorrow is sock puppet Friday, and wango tango gets to wear a wig..good times...
Bonus Answer for Soph
As a reward to those viewing this tonight, the answer to the bonus question Friday:
Unsramble to make "one word" oerwndo
Andwer is of course, One Word.
Unsramble to make "one word" oerwndo
Andwer is of course, One Word.
Brit Lit:
This week we have been reading from the Tragical History of the life and Death of Doctor Faustus. I asked you to research people in history that have made a deal with "the devil" for their power or skill. Some of the things that you found....were strange. Selling a soul on Ebay???
Today, you wrote your own faustus inspired tale.
Today, you wrote your own faustus inspired tale.
Soph Lit
Propaganda Assignment:
Directions: This week we have looked at how language and media can be changed manipulated.
Each row has been assigned an animal from the novel Animal Farm. After the revolution, a power struggle has emerged. Please create propaganda that will be used to convince the other animals that you are the most suited to lead the farm.
Please select from one of the following choices:
TV Ad- Create a short 1 minute video that can be used in your campaign.
Poster- Design a campaign poster that can be used to gain power.
Radio Spot- Make a 30 second sound recording. Sound effects and music is encouraged. You want to make this something people want to listen to.
Web Page- Make one page that will be used in a online media blitz! You do NOT need to host the file- just be able to save it as a html file to be viewed off the web.
PowerPoint Slideshow- Make 4 slides that highlight the reasons that you should be elected.
You must include at least 2 of the following terms:
Bandwagon effect, empty promises, oversimplification, faulty-cause-and-effect-reasoning and using a scapegoat.
Due Monday
Directions: This week we have looked at how language and media can be changed manipulated.
Each row has been assigned an animal from the novel Animal Farm. After the revolution, a power struggle has emerged. Please create propaganda that will be used to convince the other animals that you are the most suited to lead the farm.
Please select from one of the following choices:
TV Ad- Create a short 1 minute video that can be used in your campaign.
Poster- Design a campaign poster that can be used to gain power.
Radio Spot- Make a 30 second sound recording. Sound effects and music is encouraged. You want to make this something people want to listen to.
Web Page- Make one page that will be used in a online media blitz! You do NOT need to host the file- just be able to save it as a html file to be viewed off the web.
PowerPoint Slideshow- Make 4 slides that highlight the reasons that you should be elected.
You must include at least 2 of the following terms:
Bandwagon effect, empty promises, oversimplification, faulty-cause-and-effect-reasoning and using a scapegoat.
Due Monday
Monday, February 23, 2009
Soph Lit
Today in class we had our great guest lecture on Orwell. Thank you for being a polite aud. for our guest.
I then gave you notes on the Russian Revolution, and passed out copies of Animal Farm.
HW: Please cover the book, and read CH 1+2.
I then gave you notes on the Russian Revolution, and passed out copies of Animal Farm.
HW: Please cover the book, and read CH 1+2.
World of Shakespeare
Today I completed my notes on the 10 essential elements in a play. We also looked at comic timing, and tried to do the comic scene in Act 1.5 with some speed and bite.
HW: For this evening, please take any modern movie, play, or novel and explain if it fits the mold that I gave you. You can do this as a list- but be prepared to share in class.
Last call for socks! Sock puppet friday begins this week- so get your sock on'...
HW: For this evening, please take any modern movie, play, or novel and explain if it fits the mold that I gave you. You can do this as a list- but be prepared to share in class.
Last call for socks! Sock puppet friday begins this week- so get your sock on'...
Brit Lit:
For HW: please read The Green Knight in your anthologies.
Today in class I used a program to lower and raise your voices as we acted out the play Everyman. Everyman is an example of a mortality play- written for the "common man" to teach a moral. After we had moderate fun with making the voice of Death sound real slow and evil, we spent the 2nd part of class making short mortality skits. Please see me if you missed thia activity, as it was graded.
Today in class I used a program to lower and raise your voices as we acted out the play Everyman. Everyman is an example of a mortality play- written for the "common man" to teach a moral. After we had moderate fun with making the voice of Death sound real slow and evil, we spent the 2nd part of class making short mortality skits. Please see me if you missed thia activity, as it was graded.
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