Greetings!
A brief recap of today's class --
Quick Write: Write sentences with alliteration (repetition of beginning sounds)
Vocabulary Words:
-- Onomatopoeia (Thanks, Elizabeth, for bringing this word into class) which is a word that imitates the sound it represents. Bang, buzz, crash!
-- e.g. is a Latin abbreviation for exempli gratia which means "for the sake of example." It is used to clarify a preceding statement with an example.
-- i.e. is a Latin abbreviation for id est which means "that is" and is used when you want to restate an idea more clearly.
-- etc. is another Latin abbreviation for et cetera which means "and other things" and is used to delete the logical continuation of some sort of series of descriptions.
The students may come across these Latin terms in dictionaries and other resource and references. It's helpful knowing and not guessing about what you're reading.
Animal Farm Final Exam
I collected the take home tests from the students and handed back the tests they took last week. We discussed the difference between grading on a curve and grading by percentage.; these were graded on a percentage. I had adjusted the scores to account for 3 questions that we had only indirectly discussed. The students knew their books and were able to argue some fine points about the test. I was really pleased with how the students responded to the book.
A personal note regarding grades
I'll get on my soapbox about grades at the end of this term. For now, let me just say that a grade, percentage, or score is only a small indicator of a student's learning. Learning happens by degrees and sometimes a test or assignment is more of a tool than an assessment. (I'll include the grade guidelines on the blog.)
History Rough Drafts
I handed back the rough drafts with corrections and suggestions. As is my way, we discuss common problems found in the papers. Some notable items:
-- numbers: write out in words numbers 100 or under; use figures for larger numbers, dollar amounts, decimals, or to be consistent in form
-- 1 inch paragraphs and indent 1/2 inch for first lines of the paragraphs
-- parallel constructions (see link 1 or link 2)
-- avoid using the generic word "things;" find a more accurate word
-- no contractions
-- commas with dates
-- the difference between then (an adverb) and than (a conjunction used in comparisons)
-- conclusions: sum up and reassert the thesis in the conclusion; don't add extra information
-- introductions: lead your readers into your topic, state your opinion about the topic, give a road map for the body
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
We're starting our second book for this term. This book is a classic and an easy introduction to Dickens. I handed out 2 worksheets: a vocabulary list and a study guide for the staves (chapters). Both are on Dropbox.
Assignments for Next Week:
-- Read Stave One of A Christmas Carol
-- Write the definitions and roots for 10 of the words on the vocabulary list for Stave One
-- more can be done for extra credit
-- Answer 3 questions from the study guide
-- more can be done for extra credit
-- Prepare the final copy of the History essay
-- Extra Credit: Bring in some biographical information about Charles Dickens
They say it might snow this weekend. Time to find that box of boots, hats, and mittens.
Mrs. Prichard
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