Fall2015+HN+English+I

Mr. Thomas; Honors English I
Here you will find a running account of class activities as well as important dates and documents.

= Week 1: 8/24-8/28 = 8/24: First day of school 8/28: Have binder, syllabus signed

Monday, 8/24
Welcome to English class! Please find your name on a desk and have a seat. Once you are in your seat, please have out a pen or pencil and a blank sheet of paper

1. Assigned Seats: Alphabetical Order 2. Review syllabus, classroom/school-wide expectations 3. Student Questionnaire: 4. Begin Reading Placement Assessment
 * 1.Do you have a computer at home? Do you have internet access?
 * 2. Last Book You Read:
 * 3. Last Movie You Saw:
 * 4. Favorite Three Bands/Musicians:
 * 5. Favorite book:
 * 6. Do you read any magazines or newspapers, daily websites? If yes, which ones?
 * 7. What do you want to do after high school? College? Tech School? Military? Work?



Homework:
-Acquire specified materials -Get syllabus signed

Tuesday, 8/25
On a blank sheet of paper, begin your first Start-Up sheet
 * Title the paper “Start-Up Week 1”
 * The date of each day will go in the left margin
 * You will copy down PART of the question/prompt (the portion that is italicized)
 * You will answer fully, as directed by the directions given
 * You will draw a line between each day to keep clear organization

Start-Up: //First Day of New Semester//; In 5 sentences, describe your first day of the new semester:
 * Did anything funny happen?
 * Is it what you expected it to be so far?

Write 3 unique get-to-know-you questions
 * Think outside the box, not things like, “What is your favorite color?”
 * Questions like, “If you could be on the cover of one magazine, which magazine would you choose?” or “If you had a pet snake, what would you name it?”


 * When you have finished please have out your signed syllabus, if you have it, and something to read

1. Share/discuss Start-Up 2. Finish reading placement assessment; collect syllabus 3. Review website 4. Review turnitin.com 5. Distribute calendars, turnitin.com directions, first assignments sheet 6. Mr. Thomas letter corrections 7. Read Mr. Thomas's letter 8. Begin introducing neighbors to class
 * Complete
 * Discuss



Homework:
-First assignments

Wednesday, 8/26
Start-Up: //Academic Inspiration//; (3-5 sentences) Who is someone who has inspired you academically? Explain what this person did/does to make you want to be a better student.


 * When you have finished, have out your Writer’s Notebook (or a sheet of paper), your signed syllabus

1. Discuss/share Start-Up 2. "Are We Raising a Generation of Helpless Kids?" 3. Partner discussion of 3 questions 4. Large group discussion 5. "Me-Write" 6. Introduce first writing assignment (due to turnitin.com by 10pm Friday, 8/28)
 * Read article
 * Respond to 5 reading questions in your Writer's Notebook



Homework:
-First assignments -Have parents read and respond to article

Thursday, 8/27
Start-Up: //Equality//; According to our Declaration of Independence, "All men are created equal." Do you agree with this sentiment? Explain why or why not in 5 sentences.


 * When you have finished, please have out your copy of the "Helpless Generation" article, your parents' responses, and a loose-leaf sheet of paper.

1. Share/discuss Start-Up 2. "Helpless Generation" 3. MLA Citation for this article 4. What is the central idea of this passage? Answer in paragraph form using textual support. 5. Questions about Academic Expectations Essay?
 * What did your parents say?
 * Discussion
 * What implications does this article have on your life, if anything?
 * Discussion
 * Discuss answer with neighbor
 * Answer independently
 * Trade responses with neighbor
 * Revise, if needed
 * Turn in

Homework:
-First assignments -Academic Expectations Essay (due Friday by 10pm)

Friday, 8/28
Start-Up: //Cross-Cultural Connections//; in 3-5 sentences, explain how a story about a particular place or time can cross regional boundaries and appeal to readers who have never lived in that time period or place.


 * When you have finished, please have out something to write with and wait for further instructions

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Agree/Disagree? 3. //A Lesson Before Dying// Background Information handouts 4. Begin the Pre-Reading Research Activity
 * I will read statements to which you will decide if you strongly agree, strongly disagree, or fall somewhere in between. Stand at the appropriate location on the spectrum and be prepared to defend your opinion.
 * Discuss
 * Read the handouts
 * Complete the notes sheet per the directions given
 * You may use a laptop or your phone to complete research



Homework:
-Submit Academic Expectations Essay to turnitin.com by 10:00pm -Finish the //ALBD// Pre-Reading Research activity

=Week 2: 8/31-9/4=

Monday, 8/31
Start-Up: //Cultural Context//; Considering the information you found from your research as well as the overview of A Lesson Before Dying, in what ways do you think the time period will be critical to the plot of the novel? Explain in at least 5 sentences.
 * When you have finished, please have out your homework (the research sheet)

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Checking in… 3. First week of high school? 4. Discussion of homework 5. Brainstorming activity 6. Assign copies of ALBD 7. Read Chapter 1 together 8. Begin Chapter 2
 * First turnitin.com experience, how was it?
 * Communication with teachers
 * Time
 * Stay professional
 * Turning in assignments
 * Hope for the best, prepare for the worst
 * Identify your top two favorite facts
 * Identify three words you did not previously know that you could easily use
 * Why is it important to know this cultural context before reading?
 * Discuss
 * In your opinion, what does it mean to “be a man”?
 * What are major issues faced by our society today?
 * Discussion
 * Initial thoughts/questions?

Homework:
-Read Chapters 2 and 3

Tuesday, 9/1
Start-Up: //Parts of Speech//; Copy the following sentences, then identify these parts of speech in each: noun, verb, adjective, adverb, pronoun.
 * Mr. Thomas watched the VMAs and was deeply disturbed by Miley's outfits.
 * The entire class thought the homework was very helpful.


 * When you have finished, have out a writing utensil and your Writer's Notebook

1. Turn in weekend homework if you didn't yesterday. Turn in syllabus if you haven't. 2. Discuss Start-Up 3. Library orientation with Mrs. Absi 4. Writer's Notebook: //ALBD// Chapters 1-3 // 5. //Discuss
 * In your Writer's Notebook, list the key events and characters from the first three chapters of // ALBD //

Homework:
-Read Chapters 4 and 5

Wednesday, 9/2
Start-Up: //When the Going Gets Tough//; You may have heard of "fight or flight," the tendency we humans have in stressful situations--we either dig deep and //fight// to get through the trouble, or we flee or //fly// from the situation, trying to avoid it all together. Think of times in your life when circumstances seemed impossible to overcome. How did you react to this situation, what was your instinctual response--fight or flight? Explain (3-5 sentences). How Grant react to difficult situations? Give an example(s) from the novel of how you know.

*When you have finished, please have out your Writer's Notebook

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Checking in... 3. TRIAC notes 4. Practice TRIAC 5. Continue reading // A Lesson Before Dying //
 * Friday= Vocabulary pre-test
 * Bring in your own device, if you would like
 * Type of food
 * Musician/band
 * Book
 * Movie/TV show
 * Athlete/team



Homework:
-Read Chapters 6 and 7

Thursday, 9/3
Start-Up: //A Change in School//; If you could change anything about school, what would you change? Explain why you would like to make this change.

*When you have finished, have out your TRIAC work from yesterday

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. TRIAC practice 3. Work with partner TRIAC 4. ALBD Unit Overview 5. Time to read
 * Trade with a partner
 * Identify parts of TRIAC
 * Choose one question to answer, work tofether to form a TRIAC response
 * Why is Wilmington the best place to live in NC?
 * Why is EAHS the best high school in NHCS?
 * Discuss



Homework:
-Read Chapters 8-10

Friday, 9/4
Start-Up: //Parts of Speech//; Copy the following sentences, then identify the nouns, pronouns, adjectives, adverbs, and conjunctions in each.
 * The students celebrated their good behavior by organizing a pizza party.
 * Over the three-day weekend you should focus on relaxing.
 * Education is power.


 * When you have finished, please review your Start-Up sheet, making sure:
 * Your name is clear
 * All dates are accounted for
 * Your paper is organized neatly
 * There are no grammatical errors

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Turn in Start-Up 3. Get laptops 4. Claim NCEdCloud Account 5. Go into PowerSchool 6. Take County Vocabulary Pre-Assessment 7. Time to read //ALBD//

Homework:
-Read chapters 11-15

=Week 3: 9/7-9/11= -9/7: NO SCHOOL; Labor Day Holiday

Monday, 9/7
NO SCHOOL; Labor Day

Tuesday, 9/8
Start-Up: // Grant Wiggins // ; Describe the main character and narrator of A Lesson Before Dying, Grant Wiggins. What is his job? What does his aunt ask him to do and how does he respond to this request? What does his response show us about him as a person? Currently, do you like Grant as a narrator? Why or why not? Add any other insights you currently have about Grant.

*When you have finished, have out a blank sheet of paper. If you did not finish the vocabulary pre-assessment on Friday, please get a laptop and log on.

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Time to finish pre-assessment/work on another class/read //ALBD// 3. Vocabulary List #1 4. //ALBD// reading check-in
 * Review
 * What to expect for quizzes
 * First quiz this Friday
 * Explain Grant's attitude toward his community and how Mr. Antoine has influenced this attitude, if at all.



Homework:
-Read Chapters 16 and 17 -Study vocabulary (quiz Friday)

Wednesday, 9/9
Start-Up: //Vocabulary Practice//; Write briefly about your Labor Day weekend or //A Lesson Before Dying//, correctly using 5 of your vocabulary words.


 * When you have finished, have out your response we began yesterday, and continue working on your response, if you didn’t finish yesterday.
 * Explain Grant’s attitude toward his community and how Mr. Antoine has influenced that attitude, if at all.

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Time to finish yesterday's response/read tonight's assigned reading/study vocabulary 3. Count off to form groups 4. Discuss group project: //ALBD// Newspaper project 5. Time to work on project



Homework:
-Read Chapters 18 and 19

Start-Up: //Moral Obligation//; While visiting Jefferson—in Chapter 18—Grant alludes to the idea that we have a moral obligation to be kind to those in our lives who have made sacrifices for us. In Jefferson’s case, this is his godmother, Miss Emma. Explain what Grant means by this. Why do you think it is that we, at times, tend to treat those we love most so poorly? Who is someone in your life you could be treating better? (3-5 sentences)
 * When you have finished, please have out your copy of //A Lesson Before Dying// and be prepared to discuss last night’s reading

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Discuss //ALBD// 3. Time to work on newspaper project 4. Questions about vocabulary words?

Homework:
-Read Chapters 20 and 21

Friday, 9/11
Start-Up: //Chapters 20 and 21//; From last night’s reading, explain:
 * What Grant felt about having the date set for Jefferson’s execution
 * What Grant believes Miss Emma is looking for in Grant teaching Jefferson
 * The cycle Grant describes as being the problem of the community


 * When you have finished:
 * Review your Start-Ups and turn in to the tray by the white board
 * Review your vocabulary words
 * Have out a blank sheet of paper

1. Start-Up 2. Vocabulary Quiz #1 3. Time to finish newspaper project 4. Time to read

Homework:
-Read Chapters 22-25

= Week 4: 9/14-9/18 =

Monday, 9/14
Start-Up: //Group Project//; We have just completed our first project for this class, for which you worked with two or three other classmates. Explain your experience working on this project. Did you enjoy working with others to complete the newspaper? Do you feel you put forth quality work and conducted yourself in a way that benefitted the group as a whole? Explain why or why not. What could have made this experience better? (3-5 sentences)


 * When you have finished, have out your Writer’s Notebook

__Tonight’s Homework__: Find something (a news article, a piece of art, a poem, a song, etc.) that relates, in some way, to //A Lesson Before Dying//. Print this off—if possible—and bring to class tomorrow. In your Writer’s Notebook, explain how this finding relates to the novel. Be sure to fully explain this connection and be prepared to share.

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Discuss tonight's homework 3. New vocabulary words 4. //ALBD// Questions; Chapters 20-31 5. Discussion of questions 1-5, novel as a whole 6. "Let Kids Rule the School" article
 * Read
 * Summarize
 * Give your opinion



Homework:
-Read chapters 26-27 -//ALBD// Connection (described above)

Tuesday, 9/15

 * Please have your Writer’s Notebook opened to your homework

Start-Up: //Vocab Practice//; Utilizing 5 of your new vocabulary words, write briefly about a fond memory of yours. If you would rather, you may write about a TV show, movie, or make up a story.


 * When you have finished, have out your Writer’s Notebook

__Tonight’s Homework__: (Complete in Writer’s NB) Find an article dealing with an issue you feel strongly about. Summarize the article, then respond openly to the article.

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Share homework 3. Discuss tonight's homework 4. Review "Let Kids Rule the School" article from yesterday 5. A Change in Schools: Group activity
 * In a group, brainstorm current issues with our school system. Choose one to focus on.
 * Write a letter to the New Hanover County School Board in which you:
 * Identify the problem you feel exists in our current system
 * Present a practical solution to this problem
 * Explain why this solution will benefit all parties involved

Homework:
-Described above

Wednesday, 9/16
Please have out last night’s homework

Start-Up: //Vocabulary Practice 2//; Using the 5 remaining vocabulary words (not used in yesterday’s start-up), write about your school year up to this point.


 * When you have finished, have out your work from yesterday

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Discuss last night's homework 3. Finish yesterday's activity
 * PICTURE DAY

Homework:
-Read Chapters 28 and 29

Thursday, 9/17
Start-Up: //Significant Moments//; (5 sentences) Reflect on what we have read so far of A Lesson Before Dying. What has/have been the most powerful moment(s) of the novel, in your opinion? Why did this/these moment(s) stick with you? Did this moment play a critical part in the story? Explain.


 * When you have finished, take out a sheet of paper and this week’s vocabulary words

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Discuss //ALBD// 3. Share letters with the class 4. Vocabulary review activity 5. Share stories
 * Story writing

Homework:
-Study for vocabulary quiz

Friday, 9/18
Start-Up: //Favorite Character from ALBD//; (3-5 sentences) Who is your favorite character from the novel? Why do you find this character particularly interesting? Explain.


 * When you have finished
 * Have your Start-Ups ready to turn in (but do not turn them in yet…I will give you specific directions)
 * Have out a blank sheet of paper
 * Be reviewing your vocabulary words
 * Clear everything else from your desk

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Assess your Start-Ups for the week 3. Vocabulary Quiz #2 4. Time to work on //ALBD// work

Homework:
-Finish novel -13 entries due Monday night -15 questions from this Monday due in class on Monday 9/21

=Week 5: 9/21-9/25=

Monday, 9/21
Start-Up: //A Lesson Before Dying//; (3-5 sentences) Briefly explain your thoughts on //ALBD// as a whole. Did you enjoy reading this novel? Why or why not?


 * When you have finished, have out the Chapters 20-31 reading questions

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Vocabulary list #3 3. Discuss reading questions 4. "Mother to Son" Activity



Homework:
-//ALBD// Responses due to turnitin.com by midnight

Tuesday, 9/22
Start-Up: //Motivation//; (3-5 sentences) What typically motivates you in various situations or activities? Consider when it comes to school, personal goals, and tasks or assignments that are given to you. Why does this motivate you? Explain.


 * When you have finished, please have out your copy of A Lesson Before Dying and a sheet of paper.

1. Share/discuss Start-Up 2. Check in… 3. //A Lesson Before Dying// Final Essay
 * //ALBD// entries due to turnitin.com if you did not submit last night
 * This Friday is a half-day
 * Vocabulary quiz Friday
 * Give prompt options and explain
 * Begin outline for essay as a class
 * Begin drafting essay, rough draft due tomorrow



Homework:
-Write the introduction and first body paragraph of your essay

Wednesday, 9/23
Start-Up: //What’s on Your Mind?//; Write about whatever is currently on your mind in at least 5 sentences.


 * When you have finished, please have out your introductory and first body paragraph of the //A Lesson Before Dying Final// Essay

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Recap of essay overview 3. Peer edit of first two paragraphs 4. Writing workshop
 * Continue working on essay
 * Full first draft due in class tomorrow

Homework:
-Finish full draft of essay, bring hard copy to class tomorrow

Thursday, 9/24
Start-Up: //Student Qualities//; What are your strengths as a student? Explain how these qualities benefit you in school


 * When you have finished, have out your rough draft of your essay

1. Share Start-Up 2. Explain peer revision process: 3. Peer Revision Workshop 4. Read over your feedback, make a plan for improvement 5. Study vocabulary
 * Read peer’s essay completely
 * Re-read, looking closely at:
 * First-person (I, me, my, our, we, etc.); Circle every instance the author uses first-person.
 * Second-person (you, your, etc.); Circle every instance the author uses the word “you” (excluding the first (hook) and last sentences of the paper).
 * Contractions; Circle every instance the author uses contractions.
 * Mechanics (spelling, grammar, punctuation, format, fragments, run-ons, etc.)
 * Sentence variety.
 * In-text Citations; Are they correctly formatted?
 * Direct quotations; Are they correctly formatted?
 * Answer the general feedback questions on your notebook paper
 * Peer Feedback General Questions:
 * How is my introduction? How could I make it stronger/more interesting to my reader?
 * Do you find the hook creative and interesting? How could I make the hook more likely to get a reader’s attention?
 * Is the bridge (portion of intro. connecting hook to thesis) a strong 2-4 sentences, generally introducing the topic without giving too much detail? How could I make the bridge stronger?
 * Transitions between paragraphs; Examine the topic sentences of each paragraph. Does each have a strong topic sentence?
 * Evidence from sources; Does all evidence given contribute to proving the thesis or is it irrelevant? Is it sufficiently explained?
 * How is my conclusion? How could I make it stronger/more persuasive to my reader?
 * What--if anything--would you want to “borrow” from my essay? (word choice, compelling phrases, structure/organization, transitions….anything!)

Homework:
-Finalize essay and submit to turnitin.com -Study for tomorrow's vocabulary quiz

Friday, 9/25

 * HALF DAY

Start-Up: //An Accomplishment//; Briefly write about an accomplishment you have experienced in your life. Was it difficult to accomplish this task? How did you feel once you succeeded?


 * When you have finished, please prepare for the vocabulary quiz by having out a blank sheet of paper. Silently review your vocabulary words until we are ready to begin the quiz.

1. Grade and turn in Start-Ups 2. Vocabulary Quiz #3

=Week 6: 9/28-10/2=

Monday, 9/28
Start-Up: //Advice//; What is the best advice you have been given? What was the situation when you were given this advice? How has this advice affected you/your life?


 * When you have finished, take this week's vocabulary list and begin identifying parts of speech and writing sentences

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Review vocabulary list 4 3. Begin //A Lesson Before Dying// film



Homework:
-Find an article that interests you; summarize and respond to the article in your Writer's Notebook

Tuesday, 9/29

 * Please find a seat in any desk for the time being

Start-Up: //Quote Reflection//; Consider the following quote: “There are no neutral interactions.” What do you think this quote means? How could you apply this quote to your life? How would this affect you and those around you?


 * When you have finished, please have out your homework for me to stamp and pack everything into your book bag; we will be relocating to new seats

1. New seats activity 2. Discussion of process 3. Discuss Start-Up

Homework:
-Choose a person you find to be inspiring who __is alive currently__
 * Who is this person?
 * What do they do/have they done?
 * Why do you find him/her inspiring?

Wednesday, 9/30

 * Mr. Thomas out sick

Start-Up: //World Citizens//; Why is it important for us to be up-to-date with current events? Explain in 3-5 sentences.

1. Finish //ALBD// movie 2. Read Malala Nobel Speech 3. Answer these questions:
 * What is the central idea of this speech? What quote from the speech best represents this central idea? Explain.
 * What strategies did Malala use in this speech to make her words more persuasive? Explain how these were affective/ineffective.



Homework:
-Study vocabulary words

Thursday, 10/1
Start-Up: //First-Year Goals//; (3-5 sentences) As you think about the remainder of your freshman year of high school, take a moment to consider and identify two goals you have/can set for yourself. Choose goals that are measurable and that can be reached by the end of this school year. Once you have identified and written these two goals, briefly explain how obtaining these goals will benefit you in your future endeavors.


 * When you have finished, please have out your homework from Tuesday night so that I may come around and stamp your work.

1. Presentation from Mr. Guthrie
 * Graduation requirements
 * GPA
 * College admissions
 * Clubs offered at Ashley

Homework:
-Study for vocabulary quiz

Friday, 10/2
Start-Up: //Mr. Guthrie’s Presentation//; explain something you learned/realized from yesterday’s presentation from Mr. Guthrie. How does this information help you in your high school career? If you were not here yesterday, explain what you would like to do after high school.

*When you have finished, please prepare for today’s vocabulary quiz

1. Discuss this week's Start-Ups 2. Vocabulary quiz #4; group quiz 3. Letter to the Future You
 * We are not turning them in this week



=Week 7: 10/5-10/9=

Monday, 10/5

 * SCHOOL CANCELED; Hurricane

Tuesday, 10/6

 * Shortened schedule; 2 hour delay

Start-Up: //Greek Mythology//; What do you currently know about Greek Mythology? Which gods or goddesses do you particularly enjoy or know much about? Do you like learning about mythology? Why or why not?


 * When you have finished, please have out a blank piece of paper for notes

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Discuss graded work 3. Hand back graded work 4. Vocabulary List 5 5. Greek Gods and Goddesses notes: https://prezi.com/ieyfg9cyvbf3/greek-mythology/



Homework:
-Answer one question you had while taking notes

Wednesday, 10/7
Start-Up: //Vocabulary Practice//; Write briefly about you and your friends using 5 of this week’s vocabulary words. Make sure you are using the words correctly!


 * When you have finished, please have out a blank sheet of paper for notes. Title this page “The Trojan War and Odysseus”

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Review vocabulary words 3. Trojan War and Odysseus notes 4. Begin reading //The Odyssey//



Homework:
-Study vocabulary words

Thursday, 10/8
Start-Up: //Judgment of Paris//; If you were Paris, which goddess would you have chosen? Explain why.


 * When you have finished, please have out your Writer’s Notebook and silently review your vocabulary words until we are ready to move on

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Review yesterday's notes 3. Article about Homer 4. Read //The Odyssey// 5. Review vocabulary words for tomorrow's quiz
 * As you read, in your Writer's Notebook:
 * List unfamiliar vocabulary
 * Keep track of important facts you learn (5)
 * Record questions you have
 * Briefly respond: Do you agree with this author? Why or why not?
 * Distribute reading questions



Homework:
-Study for vocabulary quiz

Friday, 10/9
Start-Up: //Odyssey First Impressions//; What are your initial thoughts on The Odyssey? What are you looking forward to reading about in this story? Explain any other thoughts or current questions you have


 * When you have finished, please:
 * Assess your work on this week’s Start-Ups, give yourself a grade out of 10 possible points, and provide a brief justification of your grade.
 * Turn your Start-Ups into the tray
 * Prepare a sheet of paper for the vocabulary quiz, then review your words silently until we are ready to begin

1. Turn in Start-Ups 2. Vocabulary quiz 5; Group quiz 3. Complete Task 1 of "What's Holding Back American Teens?" article activity 4. Relax time!



Homework:
-Finish defining 15 terms if you did not in class

=Week 8: 10/12-10/16=

Monday, 10/12
Start-Up: //Quote Reflection//; Consider the quote: “Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.”- Henry Ford. Explain what this quote means and how it applies—or could apply—to your life.


 * When you have finished, acquire a copy of this week’s vocabulary words and begin identifying parts of speech and writing original sentences. Have out the handout from Friday.

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Review vocabulary list 6 3. Article activity: write the MLA citation 4. Read article and respond to three questions on handout 5. Continue reading //The Odyssey//



Homework:
-Study vocabulary

Tuesday, 10/13
Start-Up: //Your Legacy//; Odysseus is known for his brute strength and his superior intelligence. Remember, he was the one who came up with the idea of the Trojan Horse which lead to the Greeks’ victory! If you could secure your future legacy, how would you like to be remembered? Do you feel this is a feasible goal to have for yourself? Explain.


 * When you have finished, have out the handout and article from yesterday.

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Review article from yesterday 3. Review handout 4. Creation Myth activity 5. Continue reading //The Odyssey//
 * Groups of 4 or less
 * Choose a natural occurrence about which you will write a mythological story to explain its existence
 * Narrative:
 * Third-person point of view
 * At least one page handwritten
 * Include Greek gods and goddesses
 * Include vocabulary words (at least 5)
 * Visual Aid
 * Make it look great!

Homework:
-Study vocabulary words

Wednesday, 10/14
Start-Up: //School Improvement//; Thinking back on yesterday’s article, consider what you feel is the most prominent issue in our schools today. Write this issue down and explain why you feel it is a major problem. Now, brainstorm one way we could address this issue. Write down this intervention and explain how it could change our schools for the better.


 * When you have finished, please independently review your vocabulary words.

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Continue working on creation myth 3. Continue reading //The Odyssey//

Homework:
-Study vocabulary

Thursday, 10/15
Please get into your groups and continue working on your creation myth. We will work for 45 minutes, then switch to //The Odyssey//!

1. Time to work on creation myth 2. Time to read //The Odyssey//
 * Due tomorrow

Homework:
-Study for tomorrow's vocabulary quiz

Friday, 10/16
Start-Up: //Tone//; Has someone ever told you to ‘watch your tone’? What does your tone consist of, and why is it so important? What kind of effect can your tone have on what you are saying? Explain.


 * When you have finished, please get a copy of //The Odyssey// and have out a blank sheet of paper.

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Mini-lesson from Ms. Sova: Mood and Tone 3. Group activity with mood and tone 4. Share your answers 5. Vocabulary quiz moved to Monday

Homework:
-Study vocabulary words

=Week 9: 10/19-10/23=

Monday, 10/19

 * Mr. Thomas out; vocabulary quiz moved to tomorrow

1. Argument and Concession activity 2. Read //The Odyssey//

Tuesday, 10/20

 * Bomb threat; no 3rd period

Wednesday, 10/21
Start-Up: //Coming Up//; What is something in the near future that you are looking forward to? Write briefly about this. What are some upcoming due dates for your classes? Are you prepared for these?


 * When you have finished, please review your vocabulary words quietly; we will begin with the looooonnnggg awaited vocabulary quiz

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Vocabulary quiz #6 3. Vocabulary list #7 4. Discuss //The Odyssey// 5. Time to read/answer questions
 * Video clips
 * Discuss some questions
 * Shoot for questions to be turned in on Friday



Homework:
-Study vocabulary

Thursday, 10/22
Start-Up: //The Odyssey Check-In//; What do you think of The Odyssey at this point? How many modern day movies/stories can you think of that consist of a main character going through multiple obstacles to get to a destination? List them.


 * When you have finished, please have out a blank sheet of paper, your Odyssey question answers, and a copy of the story.

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Keywords activity 3. Continue reading //The Odyssey// 4. Collaborate/study vocabulary

Homework:
-Study vocabulary

Friday, 10/23
Start-Up: //Class Mascot//; If our class had a mascot, what would it be and why? Feel free to add an accompanying image.


 * When you have finished, keep your Start-Ups (we will continue this sheet through next week), and independently review vocabulary list 7 in preparation for the quiz.

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Vocabulary quiz 7 3. Work on //Odyssey// questions (due Monday) 4. View clips from //The Odyssey//

Homework:
-Finish //Odyssey// questions

=Week 9: 10/26-10/30=

Monday, 10/26

 * As you enter, turn in your Odyssey guiding questions to the tray. Make sure your name is on your answers and staple them together, if necessary.

Start-Up: //Odysseus//; Do you find Odysseus to be a hero, or would you categorize him as something else? Do you think he is truly in control of his situation? Explain your answer.


 * When you have finished, have out a blank sheet of paper

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Checking in… 3. Re-trace Odysseus’s journey 4. Review his journey 5. Review vocabulary 6. Video clips; Aeolus and Circe
 * Midterm: Wednesday; Short response about //The Odyssey// + 5 vocabulary words
 * Focus on writing skills, using //The Odyssey// as an anchor
 * Tomorrow: Trip to the library...be here!
 * With a partner
 * Identify the steps of his journey from Troy to Ithaca
 * For each point, list any significant happenings (losing men, big decision, etc.)

Homework:
-Study ALL vocabulary words!

Tuesday, 10/27
Start-Up: //Reading Material//; What types of things do you typically find yourself reading (other than tweets/texts/Instagram captions)? What is it that interests you about these types of texts? If you do not read much, write briefly about why you think you don’t read very often. Have you ever been a reader? If so, what do you think changed? Explain.


 * When you have finished, have out a blank sheet of paper titled “Book Speed Dating” and a writing utensil

1. Talk about Freshman Project and IRP 2. Introduce speed dating activity 3. Trip to library 4. Discuss midterm/constructed responses

Homework:
-Study all vocabulary words

Wednesday, 10/28
Start-Up: //IRP Novel//; What novel/book did you choose yesterday? What was it about this book that caught your interest? If you have started reading, what are your initial thoughts? If you have not yet begun, what are you looking forward to?


 * When you have finished, independently review vocabulary words in preparation for the midterm

1. 10 minutes to study 2. Midterm 3. Time to read novel

Homework:
-None

Thursday, 10/29
Start-Up: //Second Nine-Weeks//; After reflecting on the first nine-week period of your high school career, consider what it is you have been doing that you would like to continue through the second half of the semester. How do you think you have been performing in each of your classes? What could you do differently in the second half to perform better?


 * When you have finished, independently read your book
 * If you did not finish your midterm yesterday, get your test from Mr. Thomas and continue working

1. Time to finish midterm 2. Time to read novel 3. Introduce Independent Reading Project (IRP) 4. Discuss plan for completing IRP
 * Outline and resources on the "IRP" page of my website

Homework:
-None; read novel

Friday, 10/30

 * Half day

Start-Up: //The Odyssey Cast//; If you were to cast a movie version of The Odyssey, who would you hire to play Odysseus, Penelope, Telemachus, Athena, Calypso, and Circe?


 * When you are finished, assess your work on the start-ups, give yourself a grade out of 10 points, defend your grade, and then turn in to the class tray

1. Start-Up 2. View //The Odyssey// clips

=Week 10: 11/2-11/6=

Monday, 11/2
Start-Up: //Independent Reading Project//; How are you liking your novel at this point? What is your plan to complete your novel and project by the due date? Are you planning on completing another project for extra credit? Which part of the project are you most looking forward to?


 * When you have finished, silently read your IRP novel until the timer goes off

1. Start-Up 2. Time to read IRP book 3. Return graded work; review midterm 4. Writer's Notebook check tomorrow: 5. Vocabulary List 8 6. Finish //The Odyssey// Clips: Final battle! 7. Introduce Critical Inquiry Assignment (CIA) 8. Time to begin working on CIA
 * "Helpless Generation" Article- 8/26
 * Interesting Article HW- 9/14
 * "Let Kids Rule the School" Article- 9/14
 * Interesting Article HW- 9/15
 * Interesting Article HW- 9/28
 * Inspirational Person HW- 9/29



Homework:
-Study vocabulary -Read IRP -Work on CIA

Tuesday, 11/3
Start-Up: //Eager to Learn//; Describe the last time you were genuinely excited and interested to learn more about something. What was the topic? Who was the “teacher”? What was it that made this so interesting to you? Explain. (5-7 sentences)


 * Once you have finished, please continue working with you IRP

1. Time to read/work on IRP 2. Discuss Start-Up 3. Introduce grammar pretest 4. Complete pretest 5. Work on CIA

Homework:
-Study vocabulary -Read IRP -Work on CIA

Wednesday, 11/4
Start-Up: //Vocabulary Practice//; Write briefly about your IRP book using 5 of this week’s vocabulary words.


 * When you have finished continue reading your book
 * Look over the IRP guidelines again
 * Keep notes on your book that will help you when completing the project

1. Time to read/work on IRP 2. Grade pretest from yesterday 3. IRP examples 4. "Reunion" 5. Read "Reunion" by John Cheever 6. Respond to questions 7. Double Entry Journal (DEJ)
 * What do you think of when you hear the word "reunion"? What emotions are typically involved in a reunion?
 * Summarize the story
 * What do you think of Charlie? Why?
 * What do you think of Charlie's father? Why?
 * "[...] but as soon as I saw him I felt that he was my father, my flesh and blood, my future and my doom."
 * Discuss DEJ



Homework:
-Finish DEJ -Read IRP -Study vocabulary words

Thursday, 11/5
Start-Up: //You Are the Only You//; There has never been and will never be another you. You are completely unique, and because of that, you can offer the world something completely unique…something that no one else could give. One of the questions on the CIA asked how YOU could positively influence your community and the world at large. Briefly explain a way—or multiple ways—you could do this. Is this something you already do?


 * When you have finished, please work silently on your IRP

1. Time to work on IRP 2. "Reunion" 3. Lower vs. Higher-level Questions 4. Work on CIA or study for tomorrow's vocabulary quiz
 * Discuss work from yesterday/homework
 * Turn in
 * Create 3 higher-level questions about "Reunion" and construct answers for each

Homework:
-Study for vocabulary quiz #8 -Finish CIA

Friday, 11/6

 * Mr. Thomas out, death in family

1. Turn in CIA 2. Vocabulary quiz #8 3. Begin viewing //O Brother, Where Art Thou?//
 * Complete viewing guide



=Week 11: 11/9-11/13=

Monday, 11/9
Start-Up: //Reunion Central Idea//; Which of the following best explains the central idea of “Reunion”? Defend your answer in 3-5 sentences.

a. Teens should not travel alone. b. Placing expectations on others leads to possibly being let down. c. Treat others the way you want to be treated. d. Alcoholics have some major issues.


 * When you have finished, please work independently on your IRP

1. Time to work on IRP 2. Discuss Start-Up 3. Renew library books 4. Introduce and begin //O Brother, Where Art Thou?//

Homework:
-Work on IRP

Tuesday, 11/10
Start-Up: //Classic Retelling//; What do you think of the movie so far? If you could create a retelling of //The Odyssey//, what would be your concept? Explain what the situation would be for your characters: setting, conflict, characters, challenges faced, etc.


 * When you have finished, assess your Start-Ups, give yourself a grade out of 12 points, and then turn in to the tray. Then, quietly begin working on your IRP.

1. Time for IRP 2. Discuss Start-Up 3. Continue //O Brother, Where Art Thou?//

Homework:
-Work on IRP

Wednesday, 11/11

 * NO SCHOOL; Veterans' Day

Thursday, 11/12
As you enter, take a seat and begin working quietly on your IRP. We will begin a new Start-Up sheet on Monday.

1. Time for IRP 2. Finish //O Brother, Where Art Thou?// 3. Return CIA 4. First task: 5. Time to work on first task
 * Go to my website; IRP page
 * Review the list of topics provided
 * Look up any topics that are unfamiliar
 * On a sheet of paper:
 * Choose three potential research topics
 * Give a brief defense of why this topic is of interest to you/worthwhile to research.
 * Explain what you may hope to learn from researching each topic.
 * Turn in by end of class tomorrow (Friday, 11/13)

Homework:
-Work on IRP -Work on first assignment

Friday, 11/13

 * As you enter, have out a writing utensil and your cell phone, a laptop, OR a dictionary.

1. Lesson from Ms. Sova 2. Time to work on research topics assignment
 * Video clip, Wall-E
 * Read article
 * Complete handout

Homework:
-Work on IRP -Work on first assignment

=Week 12: 11/16-11/20=

Monday, 11/16
Start-Up: //Attacks on Paris//; Over the weekend, as I’m sure you heard, there were terrorist attacks on Paris. How do these events affect us in the United States? How do they affect you? Explain.


 * When you have finished, work quietly on your IRP

1. Time to work on IRP 2. Discuss Start-Up 3. New Vocabulary words 4. Discuss Freshman Project Checklist 1 5. Time to work on assignments



Homework:
-Work on IRP -Study vocabulary

Tuesday, 11/17
Start-Up: //If I could be anywhere right now….//; If you could be anywhere right now, where would you want to be? Why would you want to be in that place?


 * When you have finished, begin working on your IRP

1. Time to work on IRP 2. Discuss search tips to find reliable sources 3. Time to work on research or IRP

Homework:
-Work on IRP -Study vocabulary

Wednesday, 11/18
Start-Up: //A new skill//; If you could snap your fingers and instantly master a new skill, what skill would you want to have? Why would you want that skill?


 * When you have finished, begin working on your IRP

1. Discuss search tips to find reliable sources 2. Time to work on research or IRP

Homework:
-Work on IRP -Study vocabulary

Thursday, 11/19
Start-Up: //Research Vocabulary//; Write about your research process so far using 5 of this week’s vocabulary words.


 * When you have finished, get materials needed to work on either your IRP or the research process

1. Time to work on IRP or research

Homework:
-Work on IRP -Study vocabulary

Friday, 11/20
Start-Up: //Finding Balance//; Describe your experience balancing the IRP with your other school work along with the research work for the Freshman Project. What are you learning about yourself?


 * When you have finished, grade yourself out of 10 possible points, give a defense, and turn your Start-Ups into the tray. Then, study for the vocabulary quiz.

1. Finish and turn in start-ups 2. Prepare for vocabulary quiz #9 3. Vocabulary Quiz #9 4. IRP= Due date changed to the Monday after Thanksgiving, if you need more time 5. Time to work on IRP or research

Homework:
-Work on IRP -Work on research

=Week 13: 11/23-11/27= -11/25= NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS, Teacher Workday -11/26, 27= NO SCHOOL, Thanksgiving holiday

Monday, 11/23
Work on research!

Tuesday, 11/24
1. Thankful brainstorm 2. Make a Thanksgiving card 3. Work on research

Wednesday, 11/24 - Friday, 11/26
NO SCHOOL! Happy Thanksgiving!

=Week 14: 11/29-12/3=

Monday, 11/29
Start-Up: //Thanksgiving Break from//; Briefly write about your Thanksgiving break. What was the highlight of your time off from school? Only three weeks until Christmas break!

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Return novels to library 3. Begin stations activity





Homework:
-Study vocabulary

Tuesday, 12/1

 * Sit in the next group from where you left off yesterday

Start-Up: //Kindred Spirits//; Describe a time when you felt connected to someone without ever really knowing him/her. Who is this person? Explain how you encountered this person. What is it about this person that made you feel connected?

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Continue stations

Homework:
-Study vocabulary

Wednesday, 12/2
No Start-Up

1. Log on to a computer 2. Review Freshman Project Checklist 1 3. Explain Annotated Bibliography 4. Work on Annotated Bibliography
 * Annotated Bibliography is no longer due today
 * We will work to finish it by Friday

Homework:
-Study Vocabulary

Thursday, 12/3
Start-Up: //Pep-talk//; briefly give yourself a word of encouragement for something going on in your life currently.


 * When you have finished, have out your vocabulary list and independently review until we are ready to move on

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Discuss annotated bibliography and outline 3. Time to work on research process

Homework:
-Study vocabulary

Friday, 12/4
Prepare for Vocabulary Quiz #10

1. Vocabulary quiz 2. Continue working on research process

=Week 15: 12/7-12/11=

Monday, 12/7

 * Please get a laptop, access your research, and go to my website.

1. Vocabulary List #11 2. Review Sample Research Paper on my Freshman Project 3. Work on research



Homework:
-Study vocabulary

Tuesday, 12/8
Writing Workshop

Wednesday, 12/9
Writing Workshop

Thursday, 12/10
Writing Workshop

Friday, 12/11

 * Mr. Thomas out

1. Vocabulary Quiz #11 2. Writing Workshop

=Week 16: 12/14-12/18= 12/18= Half day for students

Monday, 12/14

 * As you enter, take a laptop, Vocab List 12, and a research paper checklist

1. Review vocabulary words 2. Review checklist 3. Writing workshop



Tuesday, 12/15
Writing Workshop
 * You need to have a full draft of your research paper tomorrow BEFORE class!

Wednesday, 12/16
Peer revision process

Homework:
-Review and assess peer feedback -Make necessary revisions to your essay



Thursday, 12/17
Continue revisions of research papers

Homework:
-Finalize revisions and submit research paper!

Friday, 12/18

 * Half day for students!

1. Vocabulary quiz 12 2. Holiday activities

CHRISTMAS BREAK
=Week 17: 1/4-1/8=

Monday, 1/4
Start-Up: //Guiding Word for 2016//; As we have begun a new year, reflect on something/things you would like to change about yourself. This thing(s) should be behavioral, not physical, or any other category that is virtually outside of your control. Once you identify a characteristic of yourself you would like to work on, simplify this to just one word. For example, if you would like to change how much attention you give your school work or conversations with friends, you could choose the word “Focus,” or if you would like to push yourself to finishing things you start, you could choose the word “Finish.” If you come up with a list of multiple guiding words, narrow your choices down to just one. Then, explain how this word can guide you to changing a habit of yours throughout 2016.

On Quizlet, search: Taylor_ThomasAHS
 * When you have finished, please review vocabulary words (final assessment this Friday!)

1. Explain schedule for rest of the semester 2. 10 minutes to review vocabulary words 3. Kahoot! Vocabulary practice game 4. Review Shakespearean language

Homework:
-Review vocabulary

Tuesday, 1/5
Start-Up: //What Would You Do?// Read the following statements and explain how you would handle each situation. Imagine if….
 * The guy/girl you are “in love” with tells you they don’t want to date…ever…
 * Your best friend is harmed by your enemy
 * Your friend tells you that he/she has fallen in love at first sight
 * Agree/disagree? The punishment for murder should always be death


 * When you have finished, have out the Shakespeare handouts from yesterday/stations days

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. Review Shakespearean language handouts 3. Distribute copies of //Romeo and Juliet// 4. Read through prologue together 5. Independently read until the prince's monologue 6. Review what has happened thus far 7. Continue reading together, stopping periodically to discuss

Homework:
-Study vocabulary words

Wednesday, 1/6
Start-Up: //Romeo and Juliet First Impression//; What are you first impressions of the play? Is it what you expected so far? Why or why not? Explain. IF YOU WERE NOT HERE YESTERDAY write about what you currently know about //Romeo and Juliet//, and explain what you expect from the play.


 * When you have finished, have out a writing utensil

1. Freedom Riders exhibit in media center 2. Shakespearean Sonnet in dialogue 3. View first scene of play

Homework:
-Study vocabulary

Thursday, 1/7
Start-Up: //Shakespearean Sonnet//; Explain the Shakespearean form of the sonnet. What does it consist of? How does this form lead to unfamiliar words, word order, and pronunciations? Explain.

1. Discuss start-up 2. Continue reading //Romeo and Juliet// 3. Review vocabulary with Kahoot!

Homework:
-Review vocabulary

Friday, 1/8
REVIEW VOCABULARY

1. County vocabulary test 2. Continue reading //Romeo and Juliet//

Homework:
-Have a great weekend!

=Week 18: 1/11-1/15= 1/14= HALF DAY; 1st period exams 1/15= HALF DAY; 2nd period exams

Monday, 1/11

 * Continue on last week’s Start-Up sheet, we will turn them in on Wednesday

Start-Up: //New Semester//; What are you most looking forward to most about the new semester? Why are you excited about this? What are you looking forward to least? Explain.


 * When you have finished, get a copy of Romeo and Juliet and read:
 * Act I, Scene 5
 * Act II, Scene 2
 * Act II, Scene 3
 * Act III, Scene 1
 * Act III, Scene 3
 * Act IV, Scene 1
 * Act IV, Scene 3
 * Act V, Scene 1
 * Act V, Scene 3

1. Time to read //Romeo and Juliet// 2. Discuss 3. Continue film

Homework:
-None!

Tuesday, 1/12
Start-Up: //First Semester of High School//; What is one thing you have learned throughout your first semester of high school? This could be school-based or something about yourself or your abilities. Explain how you learned this lesson and how it has impacted you.


 * When you have finished, take out a blank sheet of paper and a writing utensil

1. Discuss Start-Up 2. NC Final Exam review/practice 3. Recap of //Romeo and Juliet// plot 4. Continue viewing film

Homework:
-None!