Academic English 9 Blog - Ms. Kline's Classes

Romeo, Juliet, and Our Generation

Ms. Kline — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 16:47:20 +0000

It’s been a while since we’ve come here! We’ve done some discussion in class. Now it’s time to bring this to the web. The objective of this activity if for you all to insert your input as to the value of Romeo and Juliet, as well as continue this very important discussion with one another in a constructive manner. A disclaimer though before we begin: topics may arise in this discussion that are sensitive for individuals to talk about; therefore, we must treat every comment with respect. The language in which you write should be informal but academic. A stranger should see your post and view you as a mature student. If you are disrespectful in any way, your privledge to participate here (and grade) will be revoked.

First, compose an original posting where you explain what you have learned from reading, watching, and acting out Romeo and Juliet. Really think about the larger issues here! This explanation should be at least 5 sentences long. You will be graded as follows:

Content of Message (5 points) -sufficiently explain your feelings, being specific to the text, and answering the prompt
Quality of Writing (3 points) – evidence that the writer has proofread for spelling, punctuation, and grammatical errors. Writer sounds like a mature, academic writer.
Invitation of the Conversation (2 points) – writer encourages others to extend on their post by asking a question

After writing your original post, you then need to comment on at least 2 other postings. Here, you will be graded as follows:

Content of the Message (3): writer accurately answers the poster’s question and elaborates sufficiently
Quality of Writing (2): evidence that the writer has proofread for spelling, grammatical, and punctuation errors. Writer sounds like a mature, academic writer.

EXTRA:

Play the Devil’s Advocate! At one point, if you purposely go against someone’s startement for the intention of keeping discussion flowing, you will be rewarded extra credit of 3 points. You must include the phrase “Devil’s Advocate” accurately to receive this reward.

Posts must be submitted by 7:15am on Friday, March 19th!

Interpret the Ending

Ms. Kline — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 12:37:59 +0000

(Choice Question #2)

Now that we have finished “The Birds,” what resolution to the conflict do you think might be suggested in the final scene by the silent radio and the burning cigarette package? Use another quote from the story within your answer. Do you agree with the author’s interpretation of the story here? Use 3-5 sentences within your response, and remember to pose a question to further invite the conversation.

Ending “The Birds”

Ms. Kline — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 12:29:52 +0000

(Choice Question #1)

During “The Birds,” Nat keeps trying to find a rational explanation for the birds’ behavior. Describe at least one reason he thinks of and explain by using one quote from the story as your evidence. Do you think Nat’s reason is logical or do you disagree?

Use 3-5 sentences in your answer, and remember to pose a question to invite the conversation.

Always Help Others, Really?

Ms. Kline — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 14:18:46 +0000

Last week we read a short story by Langston Hughes entitled, “Thank You M’am.” In this story, a boy Roger stole (or at least tried to steal ) a purse from an older woman, Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones. Instead of being extremely angry about it, Mrs. Jones used the opportunity to teach Roger a lesson. She even gave him money to buy those coveted blue suede shoes which he wanted so badly. We talked about in class whether or not we would each be so welcoming and considerate. Personally I respect Mrs. Jones for taking the time to really look at the situation in front of her and not just react by impulse (though I do love that scene of her whipping Roger with that purse and shaking him!)

This story really makes me think about the world we live in. People may not want blue suede shoes anymore (Or do they? Maybe we need to give them some fashion advice!), but they still steal all the time. Some people in this world really do need help and we should remember that, but should we really help people out who may not deserve it? How do we tell if someone is worthy of help or not? When are we just making excuses for people and when are we being extraordinary, helpful people?

I’m conflicted. Please advise.

Welcome!

Ms. Kline — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 13:05:33 +0000

Welcome to our class blog for English 112, Period 1 during the 2009-2010 school year! We will use this website as a place to discuss the stories we read in class, writings we complete, and other issues which may arise. It’s just another way to get everyone involved in class; plus learn a little technology at the same time!

Whenever you make a comment about a post, please remember the guidelines for good posts: use academic, but conversational language; make it clear which post and/or classmate you are tying your discussion to by using a connecting phrase, and include a question somewhere in the comment to keep the discussion moving.

Please use the pages for more information about posting, commenting, and acceptable use. Happy blogging!