The Wired magazine article we read documented Evan Ratliff's attempts at shedding his identity and becoming 'invisible'. Along the way, the article discussed topics such as the emotional toll and paranoia this brought on, the impact of a 'digital footprint' on a person, and the need to 'become visible' in order to 'become invisible.'
Taking all of this into consideration, compare and contrast the article & these issues to the stories of 2 of the following:
1. Chris McCandless
2. James Gatz/Jay Gatsby
3. the Narrator
Write your response in a Word document, but then post it to your blog. Be prepared to share!
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Monday, November 9, 2009
Reading for Meaning - Poetry
Today we're going to take a look at 2 poems, but before we do, we should take some time to talk about how we read poetry. Here's my question:
How is "reading for meaning" with poetry different than it is with short stories or novels? What types of things should we look for when we read poetry?
Write 30 words in your notes--feel free to make a list of things to look for when reading poetry for meaning.
How is "reading for meaning" with poetry different than it is with short stories or novels? What types of things should we look for when we read poetry?
Write 30 words in your notes--feel free to make a list of things to look for when reading poetry for meaning.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
MP #1 - Reflection and Goal-Setting for MP#2
To begin today, I want you to spend some time reflecting on your performance this past marking period and setting some goals for the next. In a post on your blog, please answer the following questions:
1. What went really well for you this past marking period? What was your greatest success--or your most successful strategy? Why? What will you do to continue your success in MP#2?
2. Looking back over MP#1, what do you think you could have done differently? Was a it a project, assignment, or something more general? What will you change in MP#2 to make sure you don't make the same mistake or display the same behavior twice?
3. Take some time and set some goals for MP#2. What do you hope to achive between now and the end of January? Divide you goals into 3 categories: English Class, School in General, and Other. List them below, and for each one create a mini-plan for how you plan to achieve them.
Please take your time with this and really reflect on what you did well and some opportunities you have to improve and grow--as a student and as a person.
When you've finished, head to Mr. Yost's Moodle site for the next activity.
1. What went really well for you this past marking period? What was your greatest success--or your most successful strategy? Why? What will you do to continue your success in MP#2?
2. Looking back over MP#1, what do you think you could have done differently? Was a it a project, assignment, or something more general? What will you change in MP#2 to make sure you don't make the same mistake or display the same behavior twice?
3. Take some time and set some goals for MP#2. What do you hope to achive between now and the end of January? Divide you goals into 3 categories: English Class, School in General, and Other. List them below, and for each one create a mini-plan for how you plan to achieve them.
Please take your time with this and really reflect on what you did well and some opportunities you have to improve and grow--as a student and as a person.
When you've finished, head to Mr. Yost's Moodle site for the next activity.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
The Great Gatsby - How Would You End It?
Today I want you to take a creative stab at writing/re-writing the end of The Great Gatsby. Based upon what you've read so far, how would you end the novel? Please be sure your ideas are consistent with the book up to now; in other words, your ending has to be believable.
Write at least 25 words! Have fun!
BEWARE: depending on what you've read, you might need to provide a spoiler alert at the beginning of your post--don't ruin the end of Chapter 8 for those that haven't read.
Write at least 25 words! Have fun!
BEWARE: depending on what you've read, you might need to provide a spoiler alert at the beginning of your post--don't ruin the end of Chapter 8 for those that haven't read.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Gatsby's Characterization
Fitzgerald provides us with an array of direct and indirect characterization of Jay Gatsby. Revisit the following selections about the 'Old Sport':
"Only Gatsby, the man who gives his name to this book, was exempt from my reaction...Gatsby turned out all right at the end..." (pg. 2)
"...for he gave a sudden intimation that he was content to be alone...he was trembling." (pg. 21)
"Well, they say he's a nephew or cousin of Kaiser Wilhem's...I'm scared of him. I'd hate to have him get anything on me." (pg. 32)
"He smiled understandingly--picking his words with care." (pg 48)
"...endowing with complete isolation the figure of the host, who stood on the porch, his hand up in a formal gesture of farewell." (pg. 55)
"I am the son of some wealthy people in the Middle West--all dead now...I suspected he was pulling my leg..." (pg 65)
"There's the kind of man you'd like to take home and introduce to your mother and sister." (pg. 72)
"The officer looked at Daisy while she was speaking....seemed so romantic to me.." (pg. 75)
"Gatsby bought that house so that Daisy would be just across the bay." (pg. 78)
What is your impression of Gatsby so far? From the beginning of the novel until now, how has your opinion developed and changed--if at all? Why? reference at least three of the selections above or use 3 of your own to explain your answer. Be sure to include in your explanation examples of what is said about Gatsby, by Gatsby, or the situation in which he is discussed.
Remember, write your post in a Word document and then copy it into your blog post.
"Only Gatsby, the man who gives his name to this book, was exempt from my reaction...Gatsby turned out all right at the end..." (pg. 2)
"...for he gave a sudden intimation that he was content to be alone...he was trembling." (pg. 21)
"Well, they say he's a nephew or cousin of Kaiser Wilhem's...I'm scared of him. I'd hate to have him get anything on me." (pg. 32)
"He smiled understandingly--picking his words with care." (pg 48)
"...endowing with complete isolation the figure of the host, who stood on the porch, his hand up in a formal gesture of farewell." (pg. 55)
"I am the son of some wealthy people in the Middle West--all dead now...I suspected he was pulling my leg..." (pg 65)
"There's the kind of man you'd like to take home and introduce to your mother and sister." (pg. 72)
"The officer looked at Daisy while she was speaking....seemed so romantic to me.." (pg. 75)
"Gatsby bought that house so that Daisy would be just across the bay." (pg. 78)
What is your impression of Gatsby so far? From the beginning of the novel until now, how has your opinion developed and changed--if at all? Why? reference at least three of the selections above or use 3 of your own to explain your answer. Be sure to include in your explanation examples of what is said about Gatsby, by Gatsby, or the situation in which he is discussed.
Remember, write your post in a Word document and then copy it into your blog post.
Friday, October 2, 2009
What is greatness?
How do you define "greatness"? What does it mean for something to be considered "great"? What are some examples of people, places, or things that you consider to be "great"?
Please respond in post on your blog. Write 25 words and include an image.
Please respond in post on your blog. Write 25 words and include an image.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Gatsby Introduction - Is it a Masterpiece?
In his 1992 Preface to The Great Gatsby, Matthew J. Bruccoli writes:
“The Great Gatsby does not proclaim the nobility of the human spirit; it is not politically correct; it does not reveal how to solve problems of life; it delivers no fashionable or comforting messages. It is just a masterpiece.”
Respond to this statement. Based upon what you’ve learned so far, are you inclined to agree or disagree with this statement? Why is a book that supposedly does so little called The GREAT Gatsby? Why might it be considered a masterpiece?
Please respond in a post on your blog.
“The Great Gatsby does not proclaim the nobility of the human spirit; it is not politically correct; it does not reveal how to solve problems of life; it delivers no fashionable or comforting messages. It is just a masterpiece.”
Respond to this statement. Based upon what you’ve learned so far, are you inclined to agree or disagree with this statement? Why is a book that supposedly does so little called The GREAT Gatsby? Why might it be considered a masterpiece?
Please respond in a post on your blog.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
An Unwanted Gift?
Have you ever received a gift you never wanted or asked for? Tell me about the situation. What was it? Who gave it to you? How did you handle it?
In a new post on your blog, please write 7 lines and try to include a picture with your post...
In a new post on your blog, please write 7 lines and try to include a picture with your post...
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
What Impact Do I Want to Have on the World Around Me? - Period 3
Good morning!
Today's the third and final question in our series: What Impact Do I Want to Have on the Word Around Me?
As always, please be specific. Feel free to dream big and set some serious goals for yourself. Remember, this question is not merely one about your career. You can have a personal impact, a social impact, an impact on your family--the sky's the limit!
Please write 50 words.
When you finish, open a Word document, and close your lid.
Thanks!
Today's the third and final question in our series: What Impact Do I Want to Have on the Word Around Me?
As always, please be specific. Feel free to dream big and set some serious goals for yourself. Remember, this question is not merely one about your career. You can have a personal impact, a social impact, an impact on your family--the sky's the limit!
Please write 50 words.
When you finish, open a Word document, and close your lid.
Thanks!
Object that Represents You - Periods 2 and 4
Think of an object that you think best represents who you are. Describe this object and how it relates to your identity, personality, goals, or interests.
Please write at least 3 lines and find an image to go along with your post. Be creative, insightful, and descriptive!
Please write at least 3 lines and find an image to go along with your post. Be creative, insightful, and descriptive!
College Essay Brainstorming Stations
Station 1
1. Make a list of 25 things you love, love to do, and/or interest you.
2. Now go back to this list, and sort your items into categories (i.e.- sports, music, etc...)
Station 2
You have been asked to write an autobiography of your life thus far. What will it be titled? The publisher also needs a list of chapter titles and descriptions of each. Create as many as you can (at least 5) in the next few minutes.
Station 3
1. Make a list of 25 burning questions you have or things you are curious about.
2. Look over your list and SORT your items into topics or question types.
(i.e.- ?'s about: life, love, friends, etc... or thought provoking ?'s, literal questions, etc...)
Station 4
List 3 experiences that had an impact on you or taught you a lesson. Describe each one in at least 7 lines.
Station 5
If you were told that everything you owned was going to be destroyed and that you could only keep 10 things, what would they be? Describe what each one of these items means to you. What does it show about your personality? Why is it special?
Station 6
You’re going to spend the next 10 years in a space station travelling to Mars. You may bring 5 CD’s, 5 Books, and 5 DVD’s. Which do you choose? Why? Be specific and descriptive.
1. Make a list of 25 things you love, love to do, and/or interest you.
2. Now go back to this list, and sort your items into categories (i.e.- sports, music, etc...)
Station 2
You have been asked to write an autobiography of your life thus far. What will it be titled? The publisher also needs a list of chapter titles and descriptions of each. Create as many as you can (at least 5) in the next few minutes.
Station 3
1. Make a list of 25 burning questions you have or things you are curious about.
2. Look over your list and SORT your items into topics or question types.
(i.e.- ?'s about: life, love, friends, etc... or thought provoking ?'s, literal questions, etc...)
Station 4
List 3 experiences that had an impact on you or taught you a lesson. Describe each one in at least 7 lines.
Station 5
If you were told that everything you owned was going to be destroyed and that you could only keep 10 things, what would they be? Describe what each one of these items means to you. What does it show about your personality? Why is it special?
Station 6
You’re going to spend the next 10 years in a space station travelling to Mars. You may bring 5 CD’s, 5 Books, and 5 DVD’s. Which do you choose? Why? Be specific and descriptive.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Who Do I Want to Become?
Yesterday, I asked you to answer the question: Who Am I?
Today, I want you to take it one step further by answering the question:
Like yesterday, please be specific, vivid, and clear with your response. Show me who you want to become, don't just tell me. And please be elaborate with your response--if you want to become a doctor, tell me what you want to specialize in and where you might want to do it, for example.
Also include statements about any values, ideals, or beliefs that might shape the person you want to become. How do you want to live your life in the future? What will your definition of "the good life" be?
Please write 75 words. If possible, include a picture or video along with your post.
Today, I want you to take it one step further by answering the question:
Who Do I Want to Become?
Like yesterday, please be specific, vivid, and clear with your response. Show me who you want to become, don't just tell me. And please be elaborate with your response--if you want to become a doctor, tell me what you want to specialize in and where you might want to do it, for example.
Also include statements about any values, ideals, or beliefs that might shape the person you want to become. How do you want to live your life in the future? What will your definition of "the good life" be?
Please write 75 words. If possible, include a picture or video along with your post.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Who Am I?
For your first blog post, I want you to introduce yourself to the rest of us by answering the following question:
Some guidelines:
1. You do not need to reveal your name or anything too personal for other people to see. Be as intimate and revealing as you feel comfortable.
2. Please write at least 50 words and be sure to use lots of vivid, descriptive, and illustrative language. SHOW us who you are; don't just TELL us who you are.
3. If you know how, feel free to include a picture or video along with your writing.
4. Remember, you're writing about yourself, not Mr. Yost.
That's it! Have fun! Be creative and authentic!
Who Am I?
Some guidelines:
1. You do not need to reveal your name or anything too personal for other people to see. Be as intimate and revealing as you feel comfortable.
2. Please write at least 50 words and be sure to use lots of vivid, descriptive, and illustrative language. SHOW us who you are; don't just TELL us who you are.
3. If you know how, feel free to include a picture or video along with your writing.
4. Remember, you're writing about yourself, not Mr. Yost.
That's it! Have fun! Be creative and authentic!
Monday, August 31, 2009
Welcome Back!
Welcome back, everyone. I hope you had a terrific summer, and are ready for a terrific Senior Year.
Please add this page to your list of bookmarks!
Please add this page to your list of bookmarks!
Monday, May 11, 2009
Independent Reading - Activity #3
Hello!
Today's your 3rd Independent Reading Activity. By now, you should be about 3/4 of the way through your book. You should also be thinking about your presentation.
For today, please choose one of the following 3 prompts and write a post of 100 words. Include an image to enhance your entry.
1. Describe some intriguing questions, issues, or dilemmas your book raises. Attempt to explain and/or answer as many as you can citing specific evidence or examples when appropriate.
2. Write about some connections that you have made while reading your book. Have you read about anything that reminds you of your experiences or people you know or have known? Can you connect anything from your book to something from history or current events? Cite specific examples.
3. Predict the ending of your book. Cite specific examples from your reading so far to support your prediction.
When you've finished, spend the time waiting for the rest of your group by commenting on other people's posts. Then use your time to continue planning your film.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Congratulations!
You've been selected as the Commencement Speaker for the Class of 2009!
So what are you gonna say? What advice, wisdom, or knowledge will you impart?
Share your thoughts in a blog post. Include an image for effect!
When you finish, check-out the posts on at least two of your classmates' blogs and leave comments.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Independent Reading - Activity #2
Today's an Independent Reading Workshop Day!
Take some time to create a post that answers ONE of the following prompts below. Your post should be at least 100 words and contain 1 citation from the text and an image.
Prompt 1:
Tell what you noticed about the characters or people in this section. Try to analyze what made them act as they did or the decisions they made.
Prompt 2:
Write about something that happened in this section that surprised you, and explain why it was so surprising. How did the author's style contribute to the element of surprise?
Prompt 3:
Write about something that happened in this section that moved you and explain why. Why was the scene or event so powerful?
Once you've made your post. Travel to 2 of your classmates' blogs and leave a comment and a question about their post.
The rest of the time is your for reading...
Take some time to create a post that answers ONE of the following prompts below. Your post should be at least 100 words and contain 1 citation from the text and an image.
Prompt 1:
Tell what you noticed about the characters or people in this section. Try to analyze what made them act as they did or the decisions they made.
Prompt 2:
Write about something that happened in this section that surprised you, and explain why it was so surprising. How did the author's style contribute to the element of surprise?
Prompt 3:
Write about something that happened in this section that moved you and explain why. Why was the scene or event so powerful?
Once you've made your post. Travel to 2 of your classmates' blogs and leave a comment and a question about their post.
The rest of the time is your for reading...
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Amir's Atonement
Based on your reading so far, what are the sins for which Amir seeks atonement? How would you describe them? What did he do for which he needs to make amends? Finally, in your opinion, what would it take for Amir to receive the atonement he seeks and “become good again”? Cite any relevant passages to support your claim.
Combine this response with your response from yesterday about atonement in general and post it to your blog.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Mistakes - We All Make Them
Have you ever made a mistake that you regretted? Briefly describe the incident, how it made you feel, and how it affected those involved. Were you able to make-up for what you did? Why or why not? How?Can you find an image to enhance your post?
If you're not comfortable sharing your experience with everyone that's okay! Just write your response in a Word document and save it to your desktop or H-Drive.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Independent Reading - Activity #1
Hello! Today's an Independent Reading Workshop day.
Option A - If you HAVE NOT started reading...
Head to my Moodle page and download a copy of the Book Preview Activity we've completed in the past. Complete the activity, and post a preview to your Independent Reading Book. Include an image.
Option B - If you HAVE started reading...
Summarize your reading so far. Make some predictions about what you think will happen in future chapters. What support can you find for you claims? Include an image.
Once you're finished, you may continue to read indendently from either your IR book or Kite Runner.
Option A - If you HAVE NOT started reading...
Head to my Moodle page and download a copy of the Book Preview Activity we've completed in the past. Complete the activity, and post a preview to your Independent Reading Book. Include an image.
Option B - If you HAVE started reading...
Summarize your reading so far. Make some predictions about what you think will happen in future chapters. What support can you find for you claims? Include an image.
Once you're finished, you may continue to read indendently from either your IR book or Kite Runner.
Friday, April 24, 2009
The Real Story...
Here's a link to the real story behind yesterday's photo.
Read the article and respond in your blog. How does your story compare to what really happened?
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Tell Me a Story...
Write a story using this photo as your inspiration. What's going on? Where is it taking place? What event or action provides the central narrative? Be creative, but reasonable.
Once you've posted your story, travel to the blogs at least two of your classmates and leaves comments about the stories they have written.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Afghan Resources
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
The Triumph of Evil
All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good people do nothing.
- Edmund Burke
Reflect on the meaning of this quote. Do you agree or disagree with its message? Cite specific examples to support your ideas.
Can you include an image or video to enhance your post?
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Decisions, decisions...
In today's day and age, what factors affect people's decisions? What factors influence your decisions and how you make them? What impact do your decisions have on those around you (friends, family, society, etc.)? Be specific with the types of decisions you have made, are making now, and/or will have to make in the future. How will these factors impact you as you enter college and continue to decide who you want to become and what impact you want to have on the world around you?
Can you find an image or video to enhance your post?
Tags/Labels: Kite Runner, Decisions, Do Now, Writing
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Recipe for Afghanistan
Our 4th Marking Period Core Text, The Kite Runner, partially takes place in Afghanistan. Today we're going to begin little creative project to give us some background knowledge about this country, its history, and its people.
But before we begin, I want you to do some pre-search. Using any source(s) you like, write a RECIPE for Afghanistan. Include ingredients (with measurements and amounts) and instructions. For example, a recipe for the USA might include 8 years of rebellion, 3 years of civil war, 2 years of depression, 2 mountain ranges, 1 major river, etc...
And yes, please include an image or video to enhance your post.
Labels: do now, kite runner, writing, recipe, afghanistan
Monday, April 13, 2009
Spring Break 2009 - New, good, and exciting...
I’m sure you all did something new, good, and/or exciting over the break. Take some time to tell us about it! Focus on quality language, authentic and appropriate voice, and include an image or video to enhance your post.
Be prepared to share!
Labels: do now, spring break, mp4
Thursday, March 12, 2009
How to write a good thesis…
Today I want you to spend some time thinking about the thesis of your Che essay. In any essay of this sort, a powerful and interesting thesis statement is paramount to the overall success of your writing. Here’s what I want you to do:
1. Spend some time reading the helpful hints at the links below. Pay special attention to the links comparing a bad thesis to a good one. How do you think your thesis compares?
Thesis Links:
http://leo.stcloudstate.edu/acadwrite/thesistatement.html
http://www.sdst.org/shs/library/thesis.html#Is%20It%20a%20Thesis
http://www.fas.harvard.edu/~wricntr/documents/Thesis.html
http://www.indiana.edu/~wts/pamphlets/thesis_statement.shtml
2. Once you’ve read about the characteristics of a good thesis, take some time to write one of your own—or revise the one you already have.
Post this to your blog. (Labels: Writing, Do Now, Theme #6, Che)
3. Once you’ve shared your thesis, take some time and travel to the blogs of your peers in your group. Take some time to read their thesis statements. Leave a comment for them, giving specific, constructive feedback. Help them improve their statements, knowing that they will be helping you in return.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Write Your Own Do Now
Time to think like an English teacher. If you were teaching your class, what would you assign as a Peru-based Do Now for this section of reading?
Post this Do Now, why you chose it, and an image on your blog.
Then, go to 1 classmate's blog, and complete his/her Do Now in the form of a comment.
Post this Do Now, why you chose it, and an image on your blog.
Then, go to 1 classmate's blog, and complete his/her Do Now in the form of a comment.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Essential questions...
As some of you may recall, your essential question for the year is: who do I want to become, and what impact do I want to have on the world around me?
Today, I want you to take some time and answer these questions (in a blog post) from the perspective of Che.
Who did Che want to become? What impact did he have on the world around him?
Notice, this question involves both looking at the young Che--his hopes, his dreams, and his ideals--as well as the later Che--his actions and his legacy. And don't be afraid to offer a bit of judgment--his impact might be open to debate depending on your point of view.
Labels: Che, Do Now, Writing
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Chilean 6-word Memoir
Today I'd like you to spend some time with your group adding events to your Dipity from the reading AND Chilean history.
But first, as a warm-up, I'd like you to do some "pre-search" on Chile's interesting political past.
Your goal? A 6-word memoir.
Please include an image to make your memoir come alive!
Labels: Do Now, Writing, Chile
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Che in Chile...
Choose one of Che's exeriences in Chile and explain how it might have influenced his later life. What impact did this experience have on him? How might this experience have shaped his political ideals? Be sure to include a quote and an image in your post.
Label this post: Do Now, TMD, Che, Chile
Friday, February 27, 2009
American 6-word Memoir
Begin today by heading here and reading the American 6-word Memoir.
In a blog post of your own, write a 6-word memoir for America. Please pay special attention to the following:
Diction (word choice)
Detail (facts, observations, incidents)
Imagery (verbal representation of a sensory experience)
Syntax (grammatical sentence structure)
Tone (expression of attitude)
How have you incorporated these attributes of voice in your 6-word memoirs?
Include an image with your post, and be prepared to share and discuss with a neighbor and the class.
Label/tag your post "Do Now", "6-word", "Writing"...
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Personal Ideology?
Last week, we spent some time thinking and blogging about Che's ideology. Today, I want you to spend some time thinking about yours.
What is your personal ideology? Are there any ideals or values that you would go to great lengths to defend? If so, what are they and why? If there are none, why not?
For example, I believe that there are certain ideals that transcend our ability to define them--goodness, beauty, love, justice, etc. While we can never truly "know" the true definitions of these ideals, we must act in such ways that we believe comes closest to them. As long as we all try our best, we can never go wrong. If our intentions are authentic, and our results are generally consistent (we all make mistakes), then we can all say we are living "the good life".
What is your personal ideology? Are there any ideals or values that you would go to great lengths to defend? If so, what are they and why? If there are none, why not?
For example, I believe that there are certain ideals that transcend our ability to define them--goodness, beauty, love, justice, etc. While we can never truly "know" the true definitions of these ideals, we must act in such ways that we believe comes closest to them. As long as we all try our best, we can never go wrong. If our intentions are authentic, and our results are generally consistent (we all make mistakes), then we can all say we are living "the good life".
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Apples to Apples?
Please go to the link below and read the following article:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/23/world/asia/23terror.html?partner=rss&emc=rss
When finished, take some time reflecting on what you read. In particular, compare what’s happening now in Pakistan to what Che was trying to do in Bolivia. What are the similarities and differences between these two operations? Is this a fair comparison, or are we comparing apples to oranges?
As always, can you find an image or video to enhance your post?
Before you finish, be sure to “tag” your post with the words “Che” and “Do Now”. Separate them with comma. We’ll talk about tagging more later.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Voice!
In your blog, please post a response to the following:
'Voice' in writing is defined/characterized by Diction (word choice), Detail (facts, observations, incidents), Imagery (verbal representation of a sensory experience), Syntax (grammatical sentence structure), and Tone (expression of attitude).
Revisit Ernesto's notes on Argentina & choose 2 excerpts that reflect Ernesto's voice. For each excerpt, explain what aspect of Voice it represents and how. Analyze how each excerpt helps the reader gain a deeper understanding of Ernesto and what the excerpt does for the reader.
As always, images are appreciated.
Before you publish your post, add the labels "Che", "Do Now", and "Writing" separated by commas.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Whodunnit?
In your opinion, based on what you learned so far, who killed Che and why? Who might be responsible?
Share your thoughts in a post on your blog. Maybe you can find an image of his killer?
Share your thoughts in a post on your blog. Maybe you can find an image of his killer?
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Getting Creative With the Introduction
Choose 1 of the following excerpts from the Introduction to The Motorcycle Diaries, and use it as either the first or last line of a short creative written piece: a poem, story, diary entry, letter, etc... Post this creative piece to your blog.
1. "The person who wrote these notes passed away the moment his feet touched Argentine soil again."(16)
2. "It was one of the coldest times in my life...human species."(22)
3. "There is nothing lonelier than adventure."(22)
4. "The patients cast off and to the sound of a folk tune...giving the people a ghostly quality."(27)
If appropriate given the nature of your piece, find an image to go along with it.
1. "The person who wrote these notes passed away the moment his feet touched Argentine soil again."(16)
2. "It was one of the coldest times in my life...human species."(22)
3. "There is nothing lonelier than adventure."(22)
4. "The patients cast off and to the sound of a folk tune...giving the people a ghostly quality."(27)
If appropriate given the nature of your piece, find an image to go along with it.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Che's Ideology
Ideology: 1. The body of doctrine, myth, belief, etc., that guides an individual, social movement, institution, class, or large group. 2. Such a body of doctrine, myth, etc., with reference to some political and social plan, as that of fascism, along with the devices for putting it into operation. 3. Philosophy 4. Theorizing of a visionary or impractical nature.
What do think Che's personal mission statement/ideology could be? What doctrine or set of beliefs seems to have guided him?
Please write 100 words and use specific examples from the documentary so far to support your ideas.
What do think Che's personal mission statement/ideology could be? What doctrine or set of beliefs seems to have guided him?
Please write 100 words and use specific examples from the documentary so far to support your ideas.
Monday, February 9, 2009
If blogging about documentaries is cool, consider me Miles Davis!
If you were given the chance to make your own documentary, what person or topic would it be about? Why?
In your post today, make a case for your topic by citing specific reasons why your documentary would be interesting and relevant to today's audiences--or at least to you...
Here's a video of my subject:
Please write 100 words and find an image or video to make your post come alive!
In your post today, make a case for your topic by citing specific reasons why your documentary would be interesting and relevant to today's audiences--or at least to you...
Here's a video of my subject:
Please write 100 words and find an image or video to make your post come alive!
El Che - Investigating a Legend
Today we begin our Che documentary.
But we before we begin, take a few minutes and imagine that you are making a Che documentary of your own. Based on what you've learned so far about Che, what would you cover? What questions would you ask? What aspects of his life and legacy would you focus on?
Respond in a blog post. Include an image.
Have fun!
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Road trip!
Ever taken a road trip? Tell us about it! Where did you go? Why? What did you see and do there? Or, if you've never taken a road trip, where would you go if you could? Across the USA? Europe? China?
Please write a description of this real or imaginary road trip. Be as vivid and detailed as possible. You have a lot of time, so why not be specific? Feel free to provide an itinerary, list of sights, or possible destinations. How would you travel? What means of transportation would you use? Would you go solo, or with someone else?
Descriptions should be at least 150 words. Be sure to include an image, video, or song with your post--as well as an interesting title.
Once you've finished--please take a blog-trip and see what your friends have planned. Leave comments on their journeys.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Don't judge a book by it's cover-unless doing a Book Preview activity!
Please open a Word document and respond to the following prompt:
How do you judge books before reading them? What characteristics of certain books catches your attention? Can you give an example of a particular book that caught your attention early and maintained it through reading? Please write 100 words and include an image of a book cover (if you have one) that has caught your attention.
Have you added yourself to my blog as a "follower" yet? If not, please do so--it will help you find easy links to your classmates' blogs.
And if you get a chance, add a photo to your profile so your friends and peers can find you!
Have a great day!
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Glen Beck: Che Guevara - 40 Years Later
Take a look at the following video of an excerpt from Glen Beck's TV show. I think you'll find it quite provocative. (Feel free to use some headphones while viewing.)
Before you watch however, open a Word document so you can record your thoughts. What are Beck's key points? Which of his comments stick-out the most to you?
After you've finished. Write a 150-word response in a post on your blog. Maybe you can find a relevant image or video clip of your own? Be sure to an interesting and/or provocative title of your own.
Please include the following:
1. Your reaction to Beck. Do you agree or disagree with his claims? Why?
2. A description--in your own words--of Beck's style and voice. How does he get his point across to his audience?
When you've finished and your post has been published. Spend some time surfing around the blogs of your classmates. Leave substantive comments on the blogs of at least 5 of your peers.
You can find blogs listed under "followers" of my blog--be sure to add yourself as one of my followers so others can find you easily. (Later this week, we'll get set-up with an even easier way to follow one another posts.)
And while you’re visiting them, be sure to add yourself to their blogs as a "follower". This will make it easier to find their blogs and keep track of their posts in the future.
That's it for now. Have a great day!
Before you watch however, open a Word document so you can record your thoughts. What are Beck's key points? Which of his comments stick-out the most to you?
After you've finished. Write a 150-word response in a post on your blog. Maybe you can find a relevant image or video clip of your own? Be sure to an interesting and/or provocative title of your own.
Please include the following:
1. Your reaction to Beck. Do you agree or disagree with his claims? Why?
2. A description--in your own words--of Beck's style and voice. How does he get his point across to his audience?
When you've finished and your post has been published. Spend some time surfing around the blogs of your classmates. Leave substantive comments on the blogs of at least 5 of your peers.
You can find blogs listed under "followers" of my blog--be sure to add yourself as one of my followers so others can find you easily. (Later this week, we'll get set-up with an even easier way to follow one another posts.)
And while you’re visiting them, be sure to add yourself to their blogs as a "follower". This will make it easier to find their blogs and keep track of their posts in the future.
That's it for now. Have a great day!
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)