April 30, 2009

Homework:
Draft due Friday

Teach us an important life lesson
by using a proverb.

Figure out what lesson you want to teach us.

What proverb helps you explain that lesson?

Explain what a proverb is and why they are important. Why should we care?

Explain what your proverb means.

Explain how you have learned the proverb’s truth.
 (This is your story about how you know it’s true.)

Conclusion- The last thought of the paper should be your proverb.

April 29, 2009

Homework:
3,6,7- Flashcards
All classes have a vocab quiz Thursday
I would like all students to have a draft of their essay for Friday for some peer editing.

Today:
I discussed the format of the essay some more.
Then I gave the classes work time.

Here is something I wrote quickly as an example.  I showed it to one class today.  It probably has mistakes.

Explain why it is a proveb as the introduction
The wisdom of a culture is contained in its proverbs.  These concise statements of truth are the combined experience of generations for the benefit of the next.  The proverb “You can lead a horse to water, but you cannot make it drink” is a proverb.  Through the use of parallel structure and imagery, this easy to remember statement passes on an important idea: you can do a lot for people, but that doesn’t always mean they will do it.

Explain the proverb literally
Picture this.  You know that a horse needs a drink.  It has to be thirsty.  Without a drink, that horse could become dehydrated, and you don’t need that as you start your journey.  You need that horse to be in top shape.  Yet, when you bring it to a water source, it refuses to drink.  What do you do?  You can’t reason with a horse?  You can’t force its head in the water.  It is too strong for that.  Do you whip it?  Why? Because it won’t do something you know is good for it?  You are left with the realization that the horse has a mind of its own.  You have lead the horse to water, but you could not make it drink.

Explain the larger meaning of the proverb
Being a proverb, these words do not just apply to horses.  The proverb’s wisdom tells us that we need to know that despite our best intentions, we are powerless to make others do something they do not want to.  As a teacher, I encounter this every day.  The lessons I prepare are for the good of the students, yet, for all the effort I put into getting them to pay attention and learn, I am not responsible for getting the information into their heads.  They must want to learn.  They must put in effort to drink from the water that I am placing before them.

Write an anecdote where you learned about the truth of the proverb
One time really jumps out at me when I think about this lesson….

Conclusion…

April 28, 2009

Homework:
Finish vocab unit
The proverb sign is due Wednesday
Be ready to explain what the proverb means and know the anecdote you will talk about in your essay.

Today:
We spent some time working on the essays, but honestly, it was incredibly hot in the room.  Mine was 90 degrees.  Ugh.

April 27, 2009

Homework:
Completing the Sentence
Proverb sign due Wednesday

Today:
Daily Drill
Reviewed the calendar for the week
Reviewed vocab words from last week
I expained the general format for the proverb essay.
I read my example from last year.  You can read it on the assignment web page from www.mrboz.com

The goal for this week is to have the essay written.  The good draft is due May 4, next Monday.  I want the students to use the weekend only to make the final draft look nice.  I hope to have the drafts peer edited by the end of the week.  We will share and record some of the essays next week... as far as I know.

The students can make a t-shirt with their proverb on it and wear it Monday for extra credit on their class grade.  The proverb must be written on the shirt, and I do not expect junk.  I have two examples hanging in my room.  They know what I expect.

April 22, 2009

Homework:
Choosing the Right Word
Begin searching for a proverb to write an essay on.

Today:
We continued our discussion on proverbs.  When I have time, I will put together a web page.  I am quite busy.  I did update two grades on the home access.

April 21, 2009

Homework:
11-20 Pictionaries
Synonyms
Proverbs Homework Sheet

Today:
Daily Drill
Reviewed 11-20 Vocab words
Discussed some proverbs:
Look before you leap.
Don’t throw out the baby with the bathwater.
Don’t count your chickens before they’ve hatched.
If it looks like a duck, walks like a duck, and quacks like a duck, it is a duck.

We also discussed how, "Proverbs often make use of grammatical and rhetorical devices that help make them memorable, including alliteration, rhyme, parallel structure, repetition of key words or phrases, and strong imagery."  We began working on some more proverbs from this worksheet.






I told the kids to start thinking about a proverb that means something to them.  I told them the basic story of my proverb, "Pride comes before a fall."  I told them the time in my life when I learned this and why it is important for them to know.  I will read them my piece from last year later this week.  I think the students should have picked a proverb by the end of this week or next Monday.

April 20, 2009

Homework:
Pictionaries 1-10 Vocab
Proverbs sheet due Wednesday

Today:
Well, we are back from break.  Sorry, but I really enjoyed my time off.  I am refreshed and ready to start our next unit.  We will be studying proverbs.  I will make a page that explains this better soon, but here is the short version.  We will start off by discussing what proverbs are and how they are structured.  The students will explore proverbs looking for one that rings true with them.  Then we will study how to thoroughly explain a proverb.  At some point in the unit, students will make t-shirts which we will wear in class one day.  Yes, I want them to make a real shirt.  If not, they should make a fancy paper that they will tape on the shirt.  The reason their proverb will go on a shirt is because their proverb doesn't just mean something to them; they should feel like others should know about it and learn from it.

Over the break I made their videos from the ads.  Later this week we will watch them, and I will give them grades at that time. 

April 8, 2009

Homework:
Vocab quiz Thursday

Today:
Notebook quiz
Finished filming in most classes
Watched some of the videos

Thursday, we will wrap up this unit.  The goal since the beginning was to get the students to think positivey about H.B. duPont.  Over the break, I will edit the videos into .mpgs so we can watch them in class when we return.  If any of the videos are good enough, I plan to get permission so we can post them on Youtube.  We found our promotional video examples there.  I would now like to put up one of our own! 

April 7, 2009

Homework:
Finish the vocab unit
Be prepared for filming the ads
There is a notebook quiz tomorrow.
There is a vocab quiz on Thursday that cannot be put off.  Study tonight.
I will be busy Wednesday night, too.  :)

Today:
Daily Drill
Reviewed vocab
Began filming the ads.  These will be interesting!

April 6, 2009

Homework:
Completing the Sentence
We will begin filming the ads tomorrow

Today:
Daily Drill
Discussed the requirements for the ad
Used the class time to prepare for the ads
I checked their scripts during class.  There were requirements the scripts were supposed to have.

Rubric for the ad:
10- Creativity
10- Prepared and smooth presentation (must be memorized for an A in this category)
10- All people in group spoke
10- 3 techniques
10- Ad should be 1 minute long
1-3 points extra if they use props
Total= 50 points

The ads should be positive and promote H.B. duPont.

April 3, 2009

Homework:
The script is due Monday.  They will present their idea to the class for feedback.

Today:
Daily Drill
We entered the Choosing the Right Word on the responders.
Work time on the scripts.

I gave sections 3, 6, and 7 grade slips for the 4th marking period today.  They should be getting me make-up work ASAP! 

April 2, 2009

Homework:
Choosing the Right Word
I suggested students have a rough script for tomorrow's work time.

Today:
Daily Drill
Checked synonyms (3,6,7 entered their answers on responders)
Work time on the ads.

I want the students to present their scripts to the class for feedback.  I would like the groups to take the feedback and revise their scripts if needed. Then we will start filming in class.  Students can film at home.  The ad should be about one minute to a minute and a half. 

I just found out yesterday that Mrs. Watson is doing TV ads as well.  We realy did not coordinate this well.  However, it works out just fine.  I am working hard on producing scripts.  I am taking the students through the same process TV ad makers would do.  At an ad agency, they would not just film an ad on the fly.  There would be steps.  One step is to pitch the idea to the group for feedback.   They would have to storyboard the ad and create a script so actors could perform the ad.  We will start filming Tuesday or Wednesday next week.

April 1, 2009

Homework:
Pictionaries 11-20 and synonyms

Today:
Daily Drill
Reviewed words 11-20 in vocab
We studied the Shamwow! TV ad.  (For real.  Not April Fools!)
Here is the format for the script I want the students to produce for their ads.  Their sheet has boxes on the side, though.  I want them to storyboard the ad with stick figures so I know what the ad will look like when they film it in class.  I want them to be well planned.

March 31, 2009

Homework:
Pictionaries 1-10
Start writing the script for the H.B. promotional video.

Today:
Daily Drill
Reviewed the calendar for the week.
Discussed 1- 10 vocab words.
Discussed the requirements for the script.
Work time for a few minutes.

Sections 1 and 2 are doing the ad as group projects.  They will be responsible for presenting the ad to the class before it is filmed, but each student is not writing his own piece.  Each group member must speak in the ad, and tomorrow I will discuss my high expectations for the ads.

Sections 3, 6, and 7 must write a script first.  Each student is writing up a proposal for an ad that is pretty much finished.  We will listen to these proposals and decide which ads will be presented.  Once the ads are chosen, groups will form to act out the ads for the camera.  I am finding that too many students are just watching others do the work.  I really want all students involved in writing an ad.  We have spent a lot of time preparing for this.  I want to see how it all comes together.

March 27, 2009

Homework: None
Today: In the picture above, you can see what we did today. After checking to see that all the students found 17/21 ad techniques in their magazines, I asked for examples of each. We created this bulletin board. We will use this next week when we start writing our promotional video for H.B. ! I will expect to see 2-3 of the techniques in their ads. This should be an interesting two weeks! I hope we can get them all made by spring break. The testing really played with the schedule I had planned.

March 26, 2009

Homework:
Students should have identified 17 ad techniques in their magazines with yellow sticky tabs.  They will get a grade on this tomorrow. 

Today:
Daily Drill
Vocab Quiz
Work time on the 17 ad techniques

I was telling the students today that the reason we are learning these techniques is they must include about three of them in their promotional video.  Tomorrow we will make our bulletin board, and next week we will create our ads!  I am excited and nervous.  But I promise you one thing: this project will produce some memorable footage of these children!  It's the type of thing they hope no one sees!  It will be fun, though.

March 25, 2009

Homework:
Sections 3,6,and 7 should make flashcards
There is a quiz tomorrow (accept for section 3- Friday)

Today:
Daily Drill
Reviewed vocab answers
Reviewed ad techniques
Work time to identify techniques used in magazine ads

March 24, 2009

Homework:
Completing the Sentence
Be sure to have a magazine tomorrow

Today:
Daily Drill
Checked the Choosing the Right Word using the clicker system for a grade
I explained the second half of the ad techniques
Some classes started to find ads in their magazines.

Tomorrow, I plan to give them lots of time to hunt for ad techniques in their magazines.
I have started to grade the compare/contrast paragraphs.  They will have to go on the 4th MP grade.  I cannot get them done in time.

March 23, 2009

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Grades are done on the Home Access.  I put in three new grades.  A zero in any of those last three can really pull the grade down!  However, the students had plenty of time and reminders to get them in.  I will still accept them for late credit.  I was going to grade the paragraphs for this marking period, but I will probably use them for the forth MP.  I don't want to rush and make mistakes.  I will see how the grading goes this week.

Homework:
Choosing the Right Word- We will check them with the remotes tomorrow.
Bring a magazine.  It will be easier to do the next assignment with a magazine!

Today:
Daily Drill
Reviewed the week's schedule
Reviewed vocab words to get them back in out head.
I introduced them to the first page of advertising techniques.  Some classes had some time to start searching for an example of each technique.

March 18, 2009

Homework:
Pictionaries 1-10
Compare/Contrast paragraph is due Friday.  This sheet has the requirements.
I asked students to bring a magazine tomorrow so we can start studying advertising techniques.

Today:
Daily Drill
Listened to 1-10 vocab words for the next unit
Looked at two samples for the compare/contrast paragraph
Students read each other's pieces and commented.

March 17, 2009

Homework:
Yes, I assigned homework.  I want the students to come in with a 300-350 word paragraph that we have been working on.  I am having trouble keeping the momentum of the current lesson going through testing.  I figured since we are done testing, accept for make-ups, I can assign some homework.  I can't wait to get to filming the videos, but we have to cover some important media literacy concepts first as part of the curriculum.

I would also like the students to bring in a magazine on Thursday and Friday.  We will be looking at artificial means of persuasion- or ad techniques.  I think they will enjoy the lessons more if they are looking at magazines they like.  Otherwise, they will be looking at boring newspaper ads.

Lastly, we are starting a new unit of vocab Wednesday.  I looked at the calendar.  We can keep up the two week schedule through March and April, but in May, we will be doing a unit a week!  May will be vocab month, and it will end with the final.  I want the students to get their $8.50 worth out of their books!

March 13, 2009

Sorry I haven't blogged the past few days, but there was not really much to update.  We are working on outlining paragraphs that compare H.B. to a private school.  Here are the two prompts students can address.  Some have the parent, and others have the student:

Audience: Parents
Should I send my child to H.B. DuPont, or should I send him to the private school you researched?  Is there anything I must know before I make my decision?
Recommendation

Audience: Student
I would like to know what middle school I should go to.  I hear private schools are pretty nice, but can I get the same experience if I go to H.B.? What do you think I should know about each school before I talk about this with my mom and dad?

The reason we are doing this comparison is to see what the competition has.  In many ways, the private schools have more than we do, but for the money and life experience, I am not so sure H.B. is that far behind.  That is my opinion.  I want to see what the students have to say. 


Again, all of these activities are preparing students for the ad they will make to promote H.B..


The final paragraph will be due Thursday of next week.  I plan to get some of my classes into the writing lab on Wednesday of next week.  I will post the rubric next week.

Have a nice weekend.

March 10, 2009

Homework:
The students worked well in class, but not all could finish their charts.  Since this is our last day in the writing lab, I said students could finish the chart at home.  We will be writing compare/contrast paragraphs.  They will need to have the chart complete.  You can't compare two schools if you don't know anything about them!

Today:
We were in the writing lab.  We continued to work on this paper.

March 9, 2009

Homework:
I did ask my classes to conduct some interviews of people to find out why H.B. is a school worth attending.  I know we cannot assign homework, so I said those who did these interviews would be better off than those who just have to guess what people want in a school.  I think the interviews will help the students when they create their promotional videos.

Today:
I have created a nice web page that explains what we are currently working on.  We have completed the first two things on the page, and we are in the middle of the third.  Since we have to promote H.B. duPont Middle School, I thought it would be best to study what private schools do to promote their schools.  It's like studying the competition.  Sure, these schools offer many things H.B. cannot, but I am hoping we can make our school shine like these schools do on their web page.  Our school does not cost $20,000 a year.  H.B. is a great value in some ways.

This research will be turned into a compare/contrast essay.  I will have the outline posted soon.

March 5, 2009

Homework: None

Today:  We are beginning a new unit.  We will be making promotional videos for H.B. duPont.  You can get the details here. So far we have just started to study audience.

February 25, 2009

Homework:
Sections 3,6,7- Flashcards
All- vocab quiz Thursday
Section 3- Thursday Quiz on Sit/set, rise/raise, lie/lay

Friday:
Sections 1 and 2- Quiz on sentence structure
Sections 6 and 7- Quiz on clauses

February 24, 2009

Homework:
Finish the vocab unit

Today:
All classes are doing something different.  I do not have time to type it out.  Sorry.

Sections 1 and 2:
I handed back their graded ant essays.

February 23, 2009

Homework:
Completing the Sentence
(Section 3 did this in class)

Today:
Sections 1 and 2 continued their discussion of sentences.  Today we focused on finding subjects and verbs in unusual order.  We will probably take a test by Friday.  I have finished grading the ant pieces.  I will return them Tuesday.  I gave a lot of thought as to how to grade the papers.  The problem was they were so different.  There were 4 topics at least.  So basically, I had in my head the level of writing I expect for an A, B, or C, which reflected word choice, sentence structure, and amount of development.  That is subjective of course.  Then I factored in the grammar.  Some papers were lowered a half a grade for grammar mistakes.  Determining if a paper is an A or a B is pretty easy.  Trying to explain it is more difficult because I did not use a rubric.  If you have a question, let me know.

Sections 6 and 7 worked on finding dependent clauses.
Section 3 worked on confusing word pairs like sit and set, lie and lay, rise and raise, and can and may.  We will be practicing various gramatical skills this week as we wait for the other classes to catch up to us.

February 20, 2009

Homework:
None

Today:
The big excitement of today was entering the Choosing the Right Word into the remote things we are using.  The students entered their answers like a 20 question test; however, they did it the night before.  When they were done, the computer sent the score to their remote, so they knew how they did right away!  Then we looked at the results.  There were graphs for each question which showed how many got the question wrong.  If a question had only a few students who got it wrong (or all got it right), we skipped it and moved on to discuss only the ones they struggled with.  That was better than just doing all of them.  I will figure out ways to utilize the results.

I also plan to use this for Thursday's quiz.  This way, when I see that all the results are in, we can see how they did.  This way they can get immediate feedback.  I am so excited!

Have a nice weekend.

February 19, 2009

Homework:
Choosing the Right Word

Today:
Another day with the responders!  The devices are pretty cool, but I have so much to learn, so ee spent some time learning.  I can see how to use them for general feedback, and the students got a taste of how I can use them to collect scores for grades.  Tomorrow will be the first big test of data collection.  I will have the students enter the answers from their Choosing the Right Word from vocab.  Most times I just give a quick glance to see if they did it.  By using the device, I can see how well they actually did.  It's worth a shot.

I will grade the written pieces some day soon.  I have been spending too much time the last few days learning how to use the device.  I really look forward to reading what they wrote, though!

February 18, 2009

Homework:
All classes have pictionaries and synonyms due Thursday.

Today:
In some of the classes, I have introduced a new device we will be trying called the Engage Responder.  Itis made by Scantron, the company that makes the bubble sheets we use in school.  If I have time, I will explain this in more detail later.  Right now I am trying to figure out how to integrate it smoothly into our classes.  Like anything new, there will be starts and stops.  Real quick, there are two main benefits.  The first is that all students will be responding, hence the name- Engage.  The results can be displayed on the screen so we can discuss why many chose one answer over another.  The second way this can be used is for assessement.  Instead of running a bubble sheet, the answers are entered into the device.  When the student is finished, the score will be instantly available.  I am going to try this with Friday's Choosing the Right Word.  Most times, I walk around and glance at their books to make sure they are done.  This way students will enter their answers into the machine and I will know how WELL they did their homework.  Hey, it's an idea.  I will update you as things progress.

As of now, Sections 1 and 2 are doing sentence structure.  Sections 6 and 7 are slowly beginning sentence structure.  And Section 3 is helping me with the new device, but they will start a written piece soon.

February 12, 2009

Homework:
Sec. 1: none
Sec. 2: none
Sec. 3: none
Sec. 6: seven sentence answer on Hey, Little Ant ending
Sec. 7: final draft of ant essay due

Today:
Again, all my classes are on different schedules.  However, in general...

The honors classes are finishing up the ant project and will be doing sentence structure for the next two weeks or so.

Sections 6 and 7 are finishing the ant stuff as well, and will be doing sentence structure as well.  However, these classes have already had studied sentences before.  We will be adding to the previous unit on sentences.

Section 3 is just about finished the sentence structure unit.  They will have a test early next week.  They should have all the sheets we did in class.  They can use them for the test.  After the test, we will be doing a class project that has to deal with story telling in some way.  We have not done a big unit on narrative writing yet.

February 10, 2009

Homework:
All classes should finish the vocab unit.
Section 2 should turn in their final draft Wednesday.
Section 1 should have a typed rough draft of their ant piece.
Section 7 has their good draft due Thursday
Section 6 handed in their good drafts today.

Today:
All classes are on a different schedule.  Too much to explain.
Sections 1 and 2 have started doing Daily Drills.  If a student is absent, he must make up the sheet.

Febraury, 9, 2009

Homework:
Section 1: Rough draft due Wednesday, Good draft due Friday
Section 2: Good draft due Wednesday
Section 6: Good Draft due Tuesday
Section 7: Rough draft due Tuesday
Sections 1,2,6,7: Completing the Sentence

Today:
All classes are on different schedules. 

February 4, 2009

Homework:
All: Pictionaries and Synonyms are due Thursday
Sections 2, 6, and 7 should be working on their writing pieces.
Section 6's piece will be due Monday.  The others do not have a due date yet.
Section 1 will just be assigned the writing piece Thursday.
Section 3's has already been turned it.

Today:
Sorry I can't write more.  All five classes are doing different things for now.  It would take too long.

February 3, 2009

Please see the calendar online.  I have to leave quickly after school.

January 30, 2009

Section 6 should have a rough draft for Tuesday.
Section 2 can be working on their written piece due at the end of next week.  The piece is explained on the Ant Debate page on MrBoZ.com.
Section 7 just finished their debates today.  I will introduce the essay to them next week.  No deadline yet.
Section 3 handed in their essays this week, but I have not be able to get to them yet.  I will grade them next week.

Section 1 is STILL doing debates.  I have not assigned the written piece, but it is at the bottom of the Ant Debate page if you are interested.

I will have grades updated by Wednesday of next week.  I will give them to the students.

Have a nice weekend.
-MrBoZ

January 29, 2009

Quick-

All classes have a vocab quiz Friday.
Sections 3 made flashcards in class today.
Sections 6, and 7 should have their flascards tomorrow.

I told section 6 that a good rough draft is due Tuesday of the essay I assigned.

Each class is on a different schedule.

January 26, 2009

Homework
All:
Completing the Sentence
Be ready for debates.

Today
Pretty much the same as what we have been doing: vocab and debates.
As classes wrap up the debates, I will be assigning an essay.  Section 3 students have already written theirs.  We will be moving into a grammar unit on sentence structure after the essays are written.

January 23, 2009

Have a nice weekend.  The students should be prepared for their debates if they did not go yet.

Next week I will officially assign the writing piece for the ant debate.  Sections 1 and 2 will do something different from sections 6 and 7.

Sections 6 and 7 will write a 5 paragraph essay.  I will explain this to the students next week.  The students will be required to include details from The Ant Bully movie, Hey, Little Ant, and details from their research.  They will have a bibliography as well.  The essay will be due February 3.

Sections 1 and 2 will have their piece due February 3 as well... as far as I can see now.

January 22, 2009

Homework:
All classes have Choosing the Right Word for homework.
Students presenting in the debates should be prepared to go.
Section 3 students should have their essays ready to hand in tomorrow,

Special Notice for Sections 1 and 2 students:
Please be sure you have submitted your DuPont Challenge essays.  You can't win if you don't submit.
Also, Mrs. Eros would like students to give her the revised plays so they can be performed in the spring.  She needs them as soon as possible.

Today:
We reviewed the vocab and continued the debates.  Throughout the debate I am stressing how students need to explain what they mean. It is not enough to say that the boy should squish the ant because there are plenty of others.  What does that mean?  The way students earn points is meant to be an incentive to say more.  I also showed the academic classes an example of what proper explanation looks like.

I will start posting the winners on my website.

January 20, 2009

Homework
All:
Pictionaries 1-10 (Sections 3,6,7 are on unit 7.)
Students should be prepared for their debates.

Today
All:
Each day this week we will be be starting the class with vocabulary.  Then we will have debates.  This will continue until we are done.  Section 1 did not get to start their debates.  We watched the Inauguration.  (That's unfortunate because they are such a large class, and we need all the time we can get!)

I hope the students realize now how much they need to be prepared for their debates!  They have to earn their grades!  There are no gifts!

January 16, 2009

Debates start Monday!  Those students in the first four groups in each class should be prepared to present.  Please see the Ant Debate page on www.MrBoZ.com.

Have a nice weekend!  Grades are updated for sections 1, 2, and 3.

January 14, 2009

Homework
All:
Vocab quiz tomorrow
Keep researching for the ant debate
Figure out your strategy for winning the debate

Today:
Sections 1 and 2
I handed back the DuPont Challenge essays and explained how I would like some of them to sumbit.  Not all were up to the standards of the essay contest, however.  That's ok.  Almost every one of the essays showed how hard the students worked.  I was pleased.  The submissions are due by January 31.  I will be notified when a student submits.

Sections 6 and 7
I explained the way they will be scored for the ant debate.  They will need to develop a strategy for winning.  I showed them that they must write an introduction and a conclusion just as they would for an essay.  They can also earn points for eye contact and having a visual.  Furthermore, only the winner will get an A, even if both participants earned enough points to get an A!  That's the inspiration to win!

Section 3
We made flashcards and started the brainstorming for the ant debate essay.  I will have the students write the essay before we start the debate.  This way I know they will be prepared.  For the essay, students can take either side.  For the debate, the students must argue for the position I assigned to them.

January 13, 2009

Homework
All:
Finish the unit
Prepare for the quiz on Thursday
Continue organizing details for the ant debate

Today
All:
Daily Drill
Reviewed Completing the Sentence
Today we discussed the idea of artificial means of persuasion, the idea that there are ways to influence someone to see your point of view that do not use logic and reason.  These techniques are used by advertisers where, many times, there is no good reason to purchase their brand over another: bandwagon, bribery, fear, flattery, lie, maybe, repetition, and scientific evidence.  In the story we read, Earrings, by Judith Viorst, the parents and the girl present very few logical reasons why she should or should not get earrings.  The goal for tomorrow, then, is to write something where one side argues logically for their position.  This activity always proves to be interesting!

January 12, 2009

(Full moon today?)
Homework:
Completing the Sentence (all classes)
Continue to organize your points for your ant debate
Debates begin next Tuesday, January 20

Today:
Daily Drill
Reviewed the calendar for the week
Reviewed vocab unit we are currently on, reviewed answers to the choosing, and started the completing.
We read a story called "Earrings" by Judith Viorst.  In the story (a picture book for children), the girl is arguing with her parents to get earrings.  We will go through each of her reasons and the parents' reasons and discuss how good their reasons are.  Many of them are opinions.  Many of the reasons are just plain lame!  This is preparation for the debates.  I want the students to get into a critical mindset where they think about rebuttals for every argument.

January 9, 2009

On Monday, I expect the students to come to class with all their research for the ant debates completed.  I told them they should have two columns that list the reasons why the boy should squish the ant and why the boy should not squish the ant.  These reasons are from the research.

They should also have a bibliography of their sources.  They were taught how to do this in Science when they did their genetic reports.  This is not the final bibliography.  I just want them to know that writing down the source information is important.

Next week I will get the students focusing on how to argue.  I need the squishers to pay close attention because they have the toughest job.  However, I made some links on my web page.  I will also share how they will be scored during the debate so they can create a strategy for winning.  The winner is not always the one who talks the longest.  I will be teaching students how to discern if the arguments presented are actually good.  They don't get points whenever they open their mouths.

By the end of these debates, the students should have more than enough information to write a killer persuasive paper. 

January 7, 2009

Homework:
Sections 1 and 2: Choosing the Right Word unit 7
Sections 6 and 7: Chossing the Right Word unit 6
All classes should be researching for the ant debate each night.
The research and bibliography are due on Monday.

Today
All:
Daily Drill
Checked and reviewed pictionaries and synonyms
Started choosing highlighting the context clues
We finished the article on the cow killer ant.  We determined that the ant in the story is NOT a cow killer.  If it were, the boy might have some good reasons to kill it.  However, even if it were a cow killer, we still think the boy should not kill it because the cow killer will only sting if it is attacked. 

Since our ant is not a cow killer ant, we need to determine what type of ant it is.  Determining what type of ant it is MIGHT help in the debate because we can explain what the ant was doing in the story.  Over the next two days in the library, I hope the students gather facts about ants that will support their position.

January 6, 2009

Homework:
Sections 1 and 2: Pictionaries and Synonyms unit 7
Sections 6 and 7: Pictionaries and Synonyms unit 6

Today:
Daily Drill
Finished reviewing the words for the current vocab unit
We began discussing an article on the cow killer ant.  The article should provide good discussion on how to support a position using information from an article.  I think the article supports the non-squishers the best, but with a little twisting, I think the squishers could also use the information to defend their position.  This exercise is used to prepare them for their time in the library on Thursday and Friday.

We also practiced how to write a bibliography entry.  Whenever they take one note, they must write down the bibliography entry.  I will expect the students to have a list of their sources and all of their information ready for Monday, January 12.

January 5, 2009

All classes:

We are starting the research for the ant debate.  All classes have research due next Monday.  I am going to give the students some time to research on Thursday and Friday of this week in the library, but that will not be enough time!  The students need to remember that to win a debate, they will need to be well prepared to defend their position.  If they have nothing to say, they will have a tough time winning!

Homework:
All classes should be researching for the ant debate.
Sections 1 and 2 have pictionaries for unit 7
Sections 6 and 7 have pictionaries for unit 6

December 23, 2008

Sorry I have not blogged lately.  I have been pretty busy.

I updated the grades today before I left for the break.  Over the break I plan to organize and possibly grade the DuPont Challenge essays.   I have a feeling I am missing a few, but I have not had time to check them all in.

As of now, all classes have finished watching The Ant Bully.  They have a general idea of the next unit, which is a debate.  I have paired up the students for their debates.  You can read about the assignment here and see the match-ups.

I am looking forward to a restful break.  I plan to come back charged and ready to go.  I guaruntee the ant debates will be memorable!

December 17, 2008

Real quick

Sections 1 and 2 have pages 79 and 80 to do in the vocab book.
Section 3 has no homework.
Sections 6 and 7 should finish up the worksheet I gave them in class.

Today was basically more of what I did in the classes yesterday.  Sections 3,6, and 7 are not as far as I thought they would be by now, so we have to work one more day on sentence structure.

December 16, 2008

Sections 1 and 2
Today:
Daily Buzzword and reviewed the vocab homework.
We started watching the movie the Ant Bully.  I am showing the movie as part of the ant debate the students will be participating in.  I have done this debate for years.  It really gets the kids thinking.  I will have a web page up when I am finished with the work I need to get in the book.

Homework:
Pages 76-78 vocab

Sections 3,6,7
Today:
We did not do a daily drill.  We are running out of time to finish the sentence structure unit.  Today was an intense day.  We covered a lot of ground.  There will be a test on Thursday.  Then I plan on showing a movie that we will work into our next writing assignment.  I will let you know what that will be soon.

Homework:
Sections 6 and 7 had a worksheet on predicate nouns and adjectives. 

December 15, 2008

Real fast.
Homework:
Sections 1 and 2- Pages 72-75 in vocab book.
Sections 3,6,7- Sections 6 and 7 were given a worksheet to complete.  I forgot 3.

Today:
Sections 1 and 2- I collected the DuPont Challenge essays.  I will get them organized during the folowing week.  We began our next assignment which will be a debate.  I have done this project for years. 

Sections 3,6,7- There is no vocab until January.  We don't have time. I plan to finish up the sentence structure unit we are doing and have a quiz on Thursday.  Then we will watch a movie that will tie in with our next writing piece.  I am still deciding what we will do next.

December 12, 2008

Real fast:

Sections 1 and 2: The final draft of the DuPont Challenge is due Monday.  There are numerous requirements that we have reviewed in class.  Please make sure you have done this perfectly.  I will be grading the paper based on the requirements and the content.  Please go here to check off what must be done for Monday.  Please hold off on submitting the papers until I give the go-ahead. 

Sections 3,6, and 7: No homework.  Enjoy the weekend.

December 11, 2008

Sections 1 and 2
Today:
Daily Buzzword
Vocab quiz on unit 6
I reviewed the exact requirements for the DuPont Challenge.
We finished peer editting the essays.

Homework:
I want a perfect draft tomorrow.  This way, after someone reads it over Friday, it will be more than perfect!  The final draft is due Monday.

Sections 3,6, and 7
Today:
Daily Drill
Vocab quiz on unit 5
Continued our lessons on sentence structure.  There are notes at MrBoZ.com.

Homework:
None tonight.  We start a new vocab unit next week.  There will be a quiz right before the winter break.

December 10, 2008

Real quick:
Both classes have a quiz tomorrow.
Sections 1 and 2 have unit 6.
Sections 3,6, and 7 have unit 5.

All classes did more of what we did yesterday.

December 9, 2008

Sections 1 and 2
Today:
Daily Buzzword
Reviewed vocab
Handed out a grade slip to be signed.
Discussed the future of the DYPF 2008
Students began peer-editting their DuPont Challenge essays

Homework:
Finish Unit 6

Sections 3,6,7
Today:
Daily Drill
Section 3 got a grade slip that needs to be signed.
Reviewed vocabulary.
Continued working of Sentence Structure, subject and verbs.  We are on lesson 4 of 10 for the unit.

Homework:
Finish Unit 5
There is a quiz on Thursday.

December 8, 2008

Sections 1 and 2
Homework:
Completing the Sentence unit 6

Today:
Daily Buzzword.  Reviewed Unit 6 vocabulary.  Then we continued to discuss the sample essay so the students will know how to comment on each other's essays when they peer edit tomorrow.

Sections 3,6,7
Homework:
Completing the Sentence unit 5

Today:
Daily Drill.  Reviewed unit 5 vocabulary.  We continued to discuss sentence structure.  The notes are on MrBoZ.com. 

December 4, 2008

Sections 1 and 2
Homework: None
Today:
Daily Buzzword- If you are absent, copy it from mrboz.com.
We reviewed the choosing the right word and discussed the context clues.
The big thing we did in class today was review the feedback from the Delaware Theathre Company!  The plays have been returned, and the students were the first to see what they said.  I am going to take some time to review the feedback and compare it to how I scored them.  I also want to think about our next steps based on what they suggested the students improve.  I took a few pictures of the kids looking over the comments.  I will say that I found it kind of exciting.  When I gave back my comments, the students knew I wasn't so sure about what was a good play.  These people know, and now they are seeing how they did.

Sections 3,6,7
Homework: None
Today:
We finished all 5 daily drills for the week and handed them in.  I will grade two of the five pages for accuracy.
Then we played with the words from unit 5.  I had them divide them into nouns, verbs, and adjectives.  Then, trying to tie the vocab into the sentence unit we are doing, I asked them to use the word fugitive as a subject and use the five verbs from the unit to make sentences.  Then they were to add some of the adjectives from the unit to the sentences.  The goal was to show them that sentences are made up of words that have a purpose.  The vocabulary we study is there to improve the quality of the words they use in their sentences.

December 3, 2008

Sections 1 and 2
Homework:
Choosing the Right Word unit 6

Today:
After doing the Daily Buzzword and checking the vocab homework, we began studying an essay so they will be prepared to help each other improve their DuPont Challenge Essays.  This way they have some direction when the begin reading another's essay.  Students tend to look only for the grammar mistakes.  While finding all the mistakes is important, right now we also have to see if the essay is up to the standards of a national essay contest.

Also, the good draft will not be due on Monday, December 8th.  I am pushing it off until the 15th.  We will need to spend more time peer editing.  There might even be another draft due next Thursday or Friday.

Sections 3,6,7
Homework:
Choosing the Right Word unit 6

Today:
We did a daily drill.  I also handed back the checked daily drills.  I am finding that students are not taking their time when we do the drills.  Many students received low grades on these because they are not even copying the correct answer from the board as we review it.  I use the daily drill to review grammar.  They need to pay attention.

From there we went on to discuss simple subjects and simple predicates.  We finished lesson 2 of a 10 lesson chapter on sentences.  Students are expected to keep a notebook which they will use for a test later. The notes are found at www.mrboz.com.

December 2, 2008

Sections 1 and 2
Homework:
Pictionaries 11-20 and Synonyms unit 6
Good Rough Draft of DuPont Challenge essay due Wednesday

Today:
Daily Buzzword
Listened to words 11-20 unit 6
I lectured on MLA format, citations, and works cited.

Sections 3,6,7
Homework:
Pictionaries 11-20 and Synonyms unit 5

Today:
Daily Drill
Listened to words 11-20
Finished lesson 1 on sentence parts- complete subject and complete predicate

December 1, 2008

Sections 1 and 2
Today
We started a new daily drill that we will use for at least the month of December.  It is called Daily Buzzword.  The actual activity is located on the Merriam-Webster website called Word Central.  Each day they post a word, give a definition and a sentence, and ask a question.  Most times the questions require some thought.  We discuss the possible answers then check the site.  The site then gives a lengthy explanation.  I am into words and their derivations, so I find it fascinating.  The students are required to keep track of each day's word.  I will quiz them on the words later.

Homework
Pictionaries 1-10 unit 6
They also have a good rough draft of their essay due on Wednesday.  Today we looked at the winning essay from last year.  Tomorrow we will study how to use citations.

Sections 3,6,7
Today
Daily Drill
We started unit 5 in vocabulary
We also started a unit on sentences.  For the next two weeks, we will be doing grammar.  The students are expected to keep notes in a notebook which they will use for the test at the end.  We took a diagnostic test today, and they didn't know much! 

Homework:
Pictionaries 1-10 unit 5
MANY STUDENTS did not turn in BOTH poems before Thanksgiving.  I informed those students of their missing work today,

November 20, 2008

Real quick today-

Sections 1 and 2 should continue to research for their DuPont Challenge essays.
Sections 3,6, and 7 should be working on their poems.  It would be good if they came in with something tomorrow so we can make it sound like a poem.  I will show them a few more things to help them write their poems tomorrow.

November 19, 2008

Sections 1 and 2:
I collected the DuPont Challenge progress reports.  Those who did not have it today will receive a score of two grades lower because it was not on time.  We spent the whole period listening to progress reports. We will need two more periods I am sure!  After each presentation, I asked questions or gave suggestions.  I want the whole class to hear my suggestions because I am sure there are many others who have the same problems or concerns.  I also want the whole class to hear the topics each student is working on.  I love hearing about scientific discoveries.  When I hear something I have never heard or, I ask lots of questions.  Those questions help the students figure out what else they need to research.  For homework, the students should be continuing to research for their essays.

Sections 3,6, and 7:
We did a daily drill.  Then I handed out a sheet that explains the poem project.  (I made a web page that explains it.)  Then I led the classes through various exercises to help focus their poem writing.  The better students will be working on this outside of class.

November 18, 2008

Sections 1 and 2:
Today we read examples of what the presentations should look like.  If you go to the DuPont Challenge section of MrBoZ.com, you will see the handouts we used today.  The students were taught exactly what they need to have in their presentation.  They were also told to have two copies because I would like to collect them that day.  I might read them if I have time.  I will have already have listened to them anyway.  I might use them in the future.

Sections 3,6, and 7:
We did a daily drill.  Then we continued to read and discuss an example of the poem I would like them to write.  I am calling the poem, "Thanksgiving in Six Pictures."  The subject of the poem is Thanksgiving.  The poem will be a series of six very descriptive sections that use imagery to give a feeling of Thanksgiving.  It will be between 75 and 100 words and have a line that repeats but changes throughout the poem.  It should resemble the same poem I linked to above.  If I have time, I will make a web page for the assignment.  The homework this week would be to work on this poem and possibly a second poem if we have time.

November 17, 2008

Sections 1 and 2 have a sheet due Tuesday and a presentation Wednesday.  I have a lot to do, so I don't have time to explain.  The students know what they are responsible for.

Sections 3,6, and 7 do not have vocab this week.  Each day in class, we will be doing a daily drill.  These will be on a slip of paper.  At the end of the week, we will organize all five, and I will give them a grade.  If they are absent, they should get the make up sheet.  I do not have time to scan these in an make a web page. They are available in class.

To all parents, I will try my best to have stuff on-line, but I want to dedicate my time to getting grading done this week.  I will try to keep you updated.

November 14, 2008

Sections 1 and 2
Today we spent time watching a show called Wired Science, by the magazine Wired.  We discussed cross-referencing facts in stories to check the validity of statements made on web pages.  I also used one segment to show the students a great example of what their DuPont Challenge essay should sound like.  I gave them a paper that requires them to think about different aspects of their topics. 

They do have homework.  By Tuesday, they should have written answers to the questions on the sheet on their topic.  And on Wednesday, they will present their topics to the class.  I will explain those requirements on Tuesday.  In short, they need to find an appropriate topic to write on soon.

Sections 3, 6, and 7
The students do not have homework.  They took a quiz on Unit 4 today.  Each class did something different, but I am winding down the speeches.  Next week we will get back into daily drills, vocab, and start a grammar unit on sentences so they can begin to improve their sentence structure in their essays.

Have a nice weekend.

November 12, 2008

I have been so busy lately.  Basically, section 3 has been doing all their vocab in class, so they have no vocab homework.  Sections 6 and 7 have to finish unit 4 in the book for Thursday, with flashcards due Friday and a quiz on Friday, too.  Sections 1 and 2 have been starting the DuPont Challenge.  There is a web page on MrBoZ.com.  There are no firm due dates for that assignment yet.  They do not have vocab this week. They should be searching for a topic to write on.

I have grades ready to be inputed.  I will get to that ASAP.
-MrBoZ

November 7, 2008

I have to get out of here, so I will make this fast.

Sections 1 and 2 took quiz 5 today, and I introduced them to the next writing topic, the DuPont Challenge.  We reviewed the topic and read part of the winning essay from 2007.  I will put a web page up on MrBoZ.com next week which will explain everything.  If you want to know more about it now, just do a Google search, and you will find it easily.

Sections 3,6, and 7 finished up the first three vocab assignments for unit 4.  Then we continued on with the presentations.  That's about it.

It is a new marking period, and I do have some grades I need to put in the book.  I should have a grade update by Nov. 12.  The year is rolling right along!

Have a nice weekend.

November 6, 2008

Homework
1,2:
Study for unit 5 quiz on Friday
Finish one side of the cartoon sheet I gave for vocab review

6,7:
Choosing the Right Word unit 4 with context clues

3: None

Today
1,2:
Checked vocab bookwork was done and reviewed answers.
Handed back the plays so they could read my chicken-scratch comments.

6,7:
Daily Drill focusing on vocab review
Reviewed vocab homework
Scored 2 speech competitions

3:
Daily Drill
Did Choosing the Right Word in Class and handed in.
Listened to two speeches.

November 5, 2008

Homework
1,2:
Completing the Sentence Unit 5

6,7:
Synonyms Unit 5

3:
None (some need to finish their essays)

Today
1,2:
We reviewed words from unit 5 vocab,
We watched the rest of the videos.
We chose winners.  You can see the names of the winners here.

6,7:
Daily Drill- vocab review for units 1-3.
Sections 6 and 7 did a neat activity!  I wanted them to practice getting up in front of the class, so I assigned them a vocab worb.  They were to read the word and definition with lots of emphasis as if they were reading their inspirational speech.  To make it interesting, I paired them up.  Two of them stood in front of the class and competed to see who could do the best job.  Then the class and I (mostly me) made a decision as to who won.  The kids were nervous, but I wanted to challenge them.  Tomorrow we begin reading the inspirational speeches.  (I do not have time to record them.  Sorry.)

3:
Daily Drill, synonyms in the vocab book in class, listened to one student give here speech.  We will begin our speeches tomorrow.

November 3, 2008

The marking period grades are done. I already have some grades for the next MP.  When I get time, I will enter them.  I am looking forward to the next marking period.  It is a fresh start!

Homework
1,2:
Pictionaries, synonyms, choosing with context clues Unit 5

3,6,7:
None (except too many students did not hand in their essays!)

Today
1,2:
Began unit 5 words
Continued to watch plays to determine a winner.

3,6,7:
Warm-up (vocab review)
Checked who was finished essays and collected.
Began unit 5 words.  I tried something different in class today.  I had the students do the pictionaries to start learning the words.  Instead of talking at the students about the words, I had them wrestle with them a little and teach them to each other.  

October 31, 2008

Homework
1,2:
None

3,6,7:
Speeches start on Monday.
Good draft due Monday.

Today
1,2:
Took quiz 4
Began watching other class's plays to pick a winner.
I e-mailed the user name and password to the videos on my website.

3,6,7:
Discussed the presentations of the speeches.  I will explain that more Monday.  I have to go.
Gave students time to work on their good drafts using peer editing.

Have fun trick-or-treating!  Stay safe.

October 30, 2008

Homework
1,2:
Finish Unit 4
Quiz unit 4

3,6,7:
Good rough draft of the Fight the Good Fight essay is due

Today
1,2:
We finished up the recordings.  I will be processing the as quickly as possible so we can watch them and begin the voting! 

3,6,7:
We had a little competition.  I gave the students one minute to persuade the class.  The winner was the one who could engage us for a full minute with good voice and good facts.  In all classes, the competition was close.   We even had a speak-off in one class!  The point of the exercise was to get the students to see that you have to speak with enthiasium if you are to be persuasive. 

Today's exercise inspired me.  Next week, when we give our speeches, students will be put head-to-head with another student.  The speaker who is the most dynamic and persuasive will win.  And yes, I do think it is fair.  An inspirational speech IS a competition.  You are competing for the hearts of the listeners.  By having the class actively engaged in the speeches, there is a greater incentive to perform well.  Most time when I get students in front of the class, they read like it is a terrible duty they have to do.  They want it over with.  Today showed me that the kids will put a little extra into their speaking when the can see who it is they need to beat.  They won't be reading for some vague rubric.  When they hear the other person speak, they will know what they are up against!

The format will go like this.  First, each student will give a 30 second taste of their paper, showing the other person what he/she is up against. Then we will flip a coin to see who go first.  Then it is on.  The students will have a rubric.  When the class has finished their scoring, I will get the results one by one, put them in a spreadsheet, and see what the total is.  (I have done this for years with another assignment.)

October 29, 2008

Really quick today. 
Sections 1 and 2 have Completing the Sentence in the vocab book and a quiz on Friday.  We are still performing the plays.  I am looking into how I can post them for friends and family to see.  I might password them.  I am waiting for an e-mail from district office.

Sections 3,6,7: I discussed the 4th paragraph of the essay where you have to address the opposition to your viewpoint.  I will post an outline on the assignment page as soon as I finish typing this.  The "good rough draft" will be due Friday.  On Friday I want them to choose which one they will bring to a good draft.  We will go over the requirements.  They will begin presenting the essays next week.

October 28, 2008

Homework
1,2:
Choosing the right word unit 4 with context clues.

3,6,7:
No vocab
It would be a good idea to be working on the current essay, Fight the Good Fight.

Today
1,2:
We reviewed the vocab homework.
I taped two performances.

3,6,7:
No Daily Drill
We did an exercise on adding details.
I gave them time to apply the lesson to their current essay.
SSW time to work on the essays.

October 27, 2008

Homework
1,2:
Pictionaries and synonyms unit 4

3,6,7:
The better students will be working on the new good rough draft that is due Thursday.
There is no vocab or daily drill this week.  We will be working hard on writing.

Today
1,2:
We reviewed the words for Unit 4
I gave them practice time for their plays.  We will begin performing them tomorrow.
I will post the rubric we will use to judge each other's plays.  I want the students to pick the best play as a winner.

3,6,7:
The next topic page is up on MrBoZ.com
No vocab  or Daily Drill
Each day this week I will start the day off with a writing or revising lesson.  That will leave about 30 minutes of work time each day.  I figure we have done 7 weeks worth of Daily Drills.  We have learned 6o vocab words as well.  We can take a break from that and focus on the writing.  I want detailed essays so the speeches will be good.

October 24, 2008

Homework:
None

Today
1,2:
I collected all the plays.  Every single student was prepared with the right amount of copies.  Awesome!  We went to the cafeteria so they could practice for Tuesday's performance.  Monday we will start vocab again.  Next week will be dedicated to finishing up the plays.  We won't work on them again until December.

3,6,7:
Daily Drill
We began brainstorming our next prompt, "fight the good fight."  I will make the prompt page next week.  I have a lot of work to do for sections 1 and 2 this weekend. 

In class we are watching some scenes from Speed Racer and Malcolm X.  In both of those movies, the lead character has something important to fight for. I am trying to get the students to think about something they would like the class to start caring about. 

October 22, 2008

Homework
1,2:
I explained to one section that I need THREE copies of the play on Friday.  I forgot about the one copy for me so I can score them.  Besides that, keep on working on the play.

3,6,7:
Students owe me a "good rough draft" of their inspirational essay.  Tomorrow we start our second topic: what is something worth fighting for?

Today
1,2:
We watched a play called 1-900-DESPERATE.   We scored it using the rubric we discussed yesterday.  We thought it had a weak ending, so we discussed what could have been done to improve the story.  I wanted them to apply that lesson to their own plays.

We also looked at a section of dialogue from a student's play that sounded unrealistic.  We gave some suggestions.  Then I gave them some time to look at each other's essays for unrealistic dialogue.  I will give them one more day to work together Thursday.

3,6,7:
Daily Drill
We read a sample essay from TeenInk.com .  The essay had most of the things I am looking for in their essays.  I like to show samples so students can see the big picture.  I plan to read more samples.  I am stressing the 5 paragraph essay this year. Today I focused on the introduction.  It should lead us into the paper and tell us exactly what the essay will be about.

October 21, 2008

Homework
1,2:
The play is absolutely due Friday!  Please follow the format required.

3,6,7:
I think the more responsible students will come in with a draft of the first topic tomorrow.  I plan to read two examples with them.  When we are done, they should look at what they have written and think about was to improve their writing.  They can't do that if they have not written anything.

Today
1,2:
First, we read through the rubric from the Delaware Theatre Company.  It is the same one they will use when we submit our plays.  We discussed what each section means and how it could apply to their plays.  Then we started looking at each other's plays using the rubric.  Since the students don't have much of a background of plays, I figure their scores will be a little off.  This rubric is used for 12th grade plays as well.  However, it gets them thinking.  I would like to examine Right Hand Man using the rubric.  I do not think it would score excellent.  (I will have to scan in the rubric so you can see it.  I will post it on the page soon.)

3,6,7:
Daily Drill
SSW time for writing.  Here is an outline I gave the kids to start thinking about one of the inspirational speeches:
How do we lift people up?

Introduction:
Grab attention!
Show them the need to be inspired.

P2
Set the stage!
There is a need for a change.
There is a solution.

P3
What are the sources of strength?
Family, friends, loved ones, pets, professionals, religion

P4
How do you know that this is true? Make the essay personal.

Conclusion
Remind the person of the clear need to change.  You believe in them.
By now you should have said your main ideas

October 20, 2008

I had to leave school quickly for an appointment.

Homework
1,2:
I asked for all the plays to be written for Monday.  Some did not have it with them.  If MUST be ready for Tuesday.  However, the typed version MUST MUST MUST be handed in on Friday or before.  The deadline for the contest is Friday, no exceptions!

3,6,7:
There is no vocab homework this week; however, I there is a draft of an essay due on Thursday.  I am having the students write two essays.  Each one will be written as a rough draft.  Next week we will choose one to be taken to a good draft.

Today
1,2:
I checked off that the rough draft was finished.
We read over each others plays a little.  I explained how important Friday's due date was.
We read the early draft of Right Hand Man.  It had a character named GIRL.  We looked at why the writer eliminated her. (Basically, she was replaced by the body in the bag on stage.  We saw some reasons why she was eliminated.  First, she was treated like a "girl."  We thought that was condescending.  Second, by having her crying so much, it made the play darker.  Finally, by having another person captive, it took the focus off the main character who was tied up.  The play was about the two of them, not Jerry.)

3,6,7:
Daily Drill
SSW time to work on the essays.
Here is the topic the students have been working on for a few days.

October 17, 2008

Homework
1,2:
The rough draft of the play is due Monday.  There are some useful links on www.mrboz.com 

3,6,7:
None

Today
1,2:
We reviewed the formatting of the typed play.  We did not go into too much detail because there is a template on the DYPF page.  We also looked at a few minutes of a finalist from last year from the DYPF.  The lesson for the day was to try to get the dialogue to be more than just a quick back and forth.  I play to post some videos of what some students have written so far.  I hope to have that up today if possible.

3,6,7:
Daily drill.  I got them started on the next writing topic.  I will have a formal page up on the web site Monday or Tuesday.  There will be no vocab next week because I want to dedicate out time next week to lessons on writing and giving them time to write.  Students need large chunks of time to organize their thoughts, so there will be plenty of SSW time.
 :)

October 16, 2008

No time to write today.  We have conferences. 
1 and 2 should just keep working on their plays.
3,6,7 have no homework.

October 15, 2008

Homework
1,2:
I would like the students to have 4 pages of the script done for Thursday.  I forgot to tell section 2, but I did send them an e-mail.  If not, no big deal.

3,6,7:
Flashcards
Study for the unit 3 quiz

Today:
I have to leave school right away today.  Sorry.  I do not have time to write down a lot.

Sections 3,6,7 did Daily Drills.  You can always make them up from www.mrboz.com .

October 14, 2008

Homework
1,2:
I want two pages of the play written.  It is an arbitrary number, but it is something.

3,6,7:
Finish completing the sentence, vocab in context, and antonyms unit 3


Today
1,2:
We acted out the beginnings of some of the plays.  I wanted them to see what they sound like when people are speaking the lines.  Since most of us have not written plays, I think is is difficult to picture how to move a story along with just dialogue.  We have a ways to go, but I am working hard to help them be successful.

I was speaking to one class today trying to explain their grades.  It is going to be challenging, but I am going to have to grade their plays.  The plays are due October 24, and the marking period is over October 29.  I think I will have time. I have never graded a play before; however, I have a rubric provided by the Delaware Theatre Company.  I need to give a grade that reflects the quality of the students' work.  You might have noticed that there have not been a lot of "classwork" grades lately.  And if there are grades, I have been pretty easy with giving full credit.  I have to say that their "classwork" part of their grade is NOT indicative of anything more than the ability to get something in on-time.  Therefore, I will be encouraging the students to do the best they can with the plays.  By next week I will have a better idea of how I will score them, and I will let them know on Monday or Tuesday so they can meet the standard by Friday.

3,6,7:
Daily Drill
Finished any recordings
Read scored essays and discussed the rubric so they know what my scores mean.
3 and 6 have received their essays back.
We are starting the next essay soon.  More information will follow.
The grades are updated.  I will hand them out tomorrow.

October 13, 2008

Homework
1,2:
No vocab for the whole week.
I asked that they be done blocking out their play into scenes.
I wanted them to begin writing the play tonight.  I want them to have something, even a little something, written for tomorrow.  They must have the rough draft of the play written by NEXT MONDAY!  We are going to spend this week discussing how to use dialogue to move the story along.  This will be something new for me as well.  Today we read through the script of "Right Hand Man."

3,6,7:
Completing the Sentence Unit 3
Quiz on Unit 3 this Thursday

I don't have time to write what we did in each class.  I will just say that the essays are graded.  I want to explain what I expect in an essay and then I will give the essays back to the students.  Section 3 got theirs back.  Sections 6 and 7 are finishing the readings.  They might get them back tomorrow.  However, the grades are posted on the on-line grades if you are interested.

October 8, 2008

Homework
1,2:
Pages 49 and 50 in vocab
Quiz on 1-3 Thursday (tomorrow)
!!!I am asking that students have a blocked version of their story for Monday.  We are running out of time!  What I need is a 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th breakdown of the play, sort of a bare bones sketch of the play. we have been going over the story ideas in class.  Almost every student has a workable play idea.  I helped them think about what they might look like on stage.  Now it is time for the students to build the play.  Next week we will focus on dialog and writing the play.  I will want the play written in a draft form by Monday October 20th.  THERE WILL BE NO VOCAB ALL NEXT WEEK!

3,6,7:
Choosing the Right word unit 3

Today
1,2:
We reviewed the vocab and finished going over the play ideas.  That's it.

3,6,7:
Daily Drill
Reviewed vocab work
Finished most of the readings in all sections.  On Monday I will finish all classes.  I will not post the recordings until I have finished grading the essays.  Those grades are more important.  Plus it will take some time to process all the recordings.  Please be patient.  I will send out a mass e-mail when they are posted.

October 7, 2008

Homework
1,2:
Pages 46,47,48
I am encouraging students to really get started on writing the play.  I explained that they should be blocking out the play.  I am posting the script for the play we watched in class as an example to start with.  Since we have seen the play, I hope that reading the script will help the students think about staging their play.

3,6,7:
Pictionaries 11-20 and synonyms unit 3

Today
1,2:
We reviewed the homework for the 1-3 review unit
Another set of students presented their play ideas and we discussed the staging.
I asked them to do a sketch of the opening of the play.  In other words, the lights have just gone up.  What does the audience see when your play begins.  I am going to keep encouraging the students to work hard to get their plays written.  I feel like the October 24 deadline is approaching too fast!

3,6,7:
Daily Drill
Listened to 11-20 unit 3
Continued to record the students reading their essays. 
We still have at least one more day of reading, possibly two.
I plan to start reading their essays soon since I have to start planning the next essay!

October 6, 2008

Homework
1,2:
Pages 42,43,45 in vocab book
I want the story of the play down by the end of the week, more than just the three sentences.  We will work on this all week.

3,6,7:
Pictionaries 1-10 unit 3


Today
1,2:
We watched a one act play.  I do not have time to give the address, but it is called "Check Please," and I found it on Vimeo. 
Then I had half the students present their play ideas.  The we discussed the idea trying to figure out what it might look like on stage.  Most of the stories sound good, but I can't picture what they would look like as a play.  That is our goal for the week.

3,6,7:
Daily Drill
Listened to words 1-10 unit 3
Continued to read the essays and record
I will be posting the recordings within a week.  They take time to process.  I also hope to grade the essays this week.  They will be scored on a 4,3,2,1 scale like the DSTP.  I need to give a quick grade with one clear suggestion for next time.

I can't write a detailed account of today.  I have to get home.

October 3, 2008

Homework
1,2:
They are to have a full character description of their main character for Monday.  I gave them a sheet that asks a lot of questions.  I also wanted them to make a picture of this person.  It can be a picture from the Internet or a magazine, or even a compilation of various pictures to make one person.  I want them to be able to know this character well so we can put two or three characters together to see how they will react based on their characteristics.  We will explore this on Monday.  I have not been giving a lot of grades, but this is one thing that is due.

3,6,7:
None

Today:
1,2:
We took quiz 3
We read the answers to some questions we had for the writer of Right Hand Man.
I explained the homework.

3,6,7:
Daily drill
Handed out grades in 6 and 7

We began reading the essays to the class.  I will post some examples soon.  I will make a page so you can download or at least listen to your child's reading... I hope.

October 2, 2008

Homework
1,2:
Quiz on Unit 3
Have all vocab work done
Think about some of the ideas Matt gave us in class

3,6,7:
The good draft of the picture essay is due!

Today
1,2:
Matt from the Delaware Theatre Company came in to help us with our plays.  He began by getting the kids on stage to experience some improvisation.   You can see some pictures on this page.  Then he helped the students to flesh out the stories from their three sentence proposals.  I will be reading through those ideas soon.  It was nice to hear from Matt that we are farther ahead than many classes.  Good, because I feel like we don't have a lot of time to finish!  I am using the proposal as a small grade.

3,6,7
Daily Drill
We discussed the requirements for the essay due tomorrow.
SSW time to write

I told the students that they will get 100 points for the essay long enough and handed in on time.  Then they will get 50 points to record the essay in front of the class (I will post these later).  Then I will score the essay as a DSTP essay: 4,3,2,1.  Each of the scores will represent a letter grade on a 100 point scale.  My essays are big grades.  They must be include the ideas we have been covering: introductions, 5 senses, dialog. This is the first essay, so they are still learning what I require.

October 1, 2008

Yesterday I had a sub.  I did not have time to post a blog entry.

Homework
1,2:
Pitch me your play.  E-mail me your three sentence pitch.  See the explanation on MrBoZ.com
Finish Unit 3 vocabulary
There will be a person from the Delaware Theatre Company tomorrow to help us with our plays!

3,6,7:
The good draft of the picture essay is due Friday.  It can be typed.

Today
1,2:
Reviewed vocabulary
Discussed how to pitch the play. 


3,6,7:
Daily Drill
Checked that all vocab homework was complete
Reviewed for the Unit 2 quiz
Quiz unit 2
work time on the essays

September 29, 2008

Homework
1,2:
This class now has it's own calendar.  Please see the main page on mrboz.com.
Do Pictionaries and synonyms for unit 3
On Wednesday, all students should have the elements of a play sheet filled out for their play idea.  We will discuss them in more depth then. 

3,6,7:
Do Completing the Sentence to be reviewed tomorrow.
Rough draft of the picture essay is due Wednesday.  The good draft is due Friday.  Students will be reading their piece to the class.

Today
1,2:
Listened to vocab unit 3 words
I looked over the elements of a play sheet and then gave suggestions for their completion.

3,6,7:
Daily Drill
Discussed ways to improve the picture essays
SSW time to work on the essay

September 26, 2008

Homework
1,2:
I asked that they have a rough idea for their play on Monday.  They should not kill themselves trying to get every detail.  they should be ready to discuss and start mapping it out next week.

3,6,7,:
None
I will say that these students should be ready to read their picture pieces on Wednesday with the good draft due on Friday.

Today
1,2:
Review the vocab answers and prepared for the quiz.
We took vocab quiz unit 2 and a notebook quiz.
I gave them a little time to work on the play
I also got in touch with the man who wrote Right Hand Man.  We are going to send him some questions about his play.  I will post his reply on our page on mrboz.com when I get the answers.

6 and 7
We reviewed the vocab and did our weekly drawing.  If the students are in the drawing, that means all their homework is done.  If they were not, that is the indication that they need to get me something.
We took the notebook quiz.
We watched an inspirational video.  You should see this young man!
I told the students that they should prepare for the spotlight because they will be in it!

3
We reviewed the vocab and did our weekly drawing.  If the students are in the drawing, that means all their homework is done.  If they were not, that is the indication that they need to get me something.
We took the notebook quiz.
Then we worked on some worksheets so they could stay focused.

September 25, 2008

Homework
1,2:
Completing the Sentence with context clues
Quiz on Unit 2
Get grade slip signed

3,6,7:
Choosing the Right Word with context clues Unit 2
Sections 3 and 7 should get their grade slips signed
Students should be working on their picture essays at home
I think we will begin reading to the class on Wednesday October 1


Today
1,2:
No daily drill
Reviewed vocabulary
Continued to review the elements of a good play sheet and watched Right Hand Man again
Handed out grade slips

3,6,7:
No daily drill
Reviewed vocabulary
Read a good example of the narrative for the picture (example is on assignment page on mrboz.com)
SSW time for writing

Daily Drills explanation
I am rethinking how I do the daily drills.  As much as I like them, they are taking up too much time.  I must give students quiet writing time, yet they need instruction.  In the past, most of the writing was done outside class.  This year, the students would benefit from more in-class time.  That is why I have not been doing daily drills this week.

September 24, 2008

Homework
1,2: Choosing the Right Word, Antonyms, Vocab in Context Unit 2
3,6,7: Finish the pictionaries and synonyms Unit 2

Today
1,2:
No Daily Drill
Reviewed pictionaries
Read through most of the Elements of a Good Play handout (located play page at mrboz.com)
Began watching Right Hand Man again using the handout to analyze it.
I suggested they have an idea for their play by Friday or Monday.  I will ask them to write it up for credit soon.  I want to figure out an assignment worthy of a grade.

3,6,7
No Daily Drill
Listened to words 11-20 Unit 2
Handed out a suggested outline for the current writing piece (located on the assignment page on mrboz.com)
Gave students 30 minutes to write.  I want the piece mostly written in class.

September 23, 2008

Homework
1,2:
Pictionaries and synonyms unit 2
Be thinking about ideas for your play

3,6,7:
Pictionaries 1-10 unit 2

Today
1,2:
No daily drill (no time)
Handed back the quizzes so they could see how they did.
We listened to all of unit 2 words
We watched an example of a one act play called "Right Hand Man." You can watch it on YouTube.  If you do, I muted one inappropriate word.  Besides that one word, the play is good for showing students the basic idea of what they will be creating.  We discussed a worksheet I gave them on the different parts  of a play like title, character, setting, etc.  I only got through discussing the title and how important it is.  We will watch the play a few more times.

3,6,7:
No daily drill (no time)
Handed back the quizzes so they could see how they did.
Listened to words 1-10 unit 2
Gave them work time on the next essay.  They are to explain how there is a story behind every picture.  Sadly, many students still did not have a picture.  I guess they will have to write the story without it.  The topic will just have to be to write about a moment in their lives.  That is not as much fun.

September 19, 2008

Homework:
Sections 1 and 2 should always be thinking about story ideas for the play.  My goal for the coming week to to get them to begin a story and flesh out the details. 

Sections 3,6,7 were to bring a picture by today.  Unfortunately, most did not.  Please send in a picture with your child on Tuesday.

Today:
We did Photography Friday.  In all classes, we focused on what the photographer was trying to say with his picture.  We started by trying to explain the picture without knowing the story.  Then we looked at the caption that accompanied the picture.  In some cases, we were correct.  In other cases, there were not enough details in the picture to know exactly what the photographer was trying to convey.  For sections 3,6,7, this discussion related to their assignment: there is a story behind every picture.

For sections 1 and 2, I related today's pictures to the intention of the photographer.  I explained that whenever a photographer takes a picture, he realizes that someone is going to view the picture.  That knowledge affects what he photographs.  The students need to be aware of their audience as they conceive their plays.  I told them that they should be thinking about how they want to affect the audience.  What do they want the audience to go aways with when the play is over?

September 18, 2008

Homework:
Sections 3,6,7 should have a picture from home.  We are starting the prompt in earnest tomorrow.  I want them to explain the story behind the picture.  I will be taking the pictures home and scanning them so they can be displayed behind the students as they read their pieces to the class.  I will make sure the pictures stay safe... as long as they are labeled with the students' names.

Sections 1 and 2 should be thinking about their plays.  I am trying show students how they can be thinking through possible ideas for a play.   I am having students present ideas for plays based on some pictures I found.  As a class, we explored the possibilities. 

Today:
All classes did a daily drill
All classes took Unit 1 quiz

Each class did something different after these.  Too much to write.