Skip to main content

Huck Finn Assignments: Part One

Now that we have begun reading the book, it's time to look ahead to the assignments leading up to the big paper. First, here's a Study Guide that will help guide you in your reading.

In addition to keeping up with the reading, each of you are required to keep a vocabulary log, looking up unfamiliar words as you come to them, and defining them in the context of the book. I'll explain further when I hand out the assignment.

The first assignment due is the article summary. You've already received the handout. Learning how to summarize effectively is one of the first skills you need to master. It teaches you to avoid quoting except when absolutely necessary, which will help you maintain a fluid style throughout your paper. You will be synthesizing, or combining, several sources around a singular thesis, so your writing must act as the glue that holds them together.

Next, we'll learn how to cite a source, cross-referencing a piece of information with the citation for that source. We will be using several different types of sources, as well; each of these have their unique form, which we will learn using the MLA Handbook.

More Later.

Popular posts from this blog

Homework

Seniors We are discussing the latest in robotics technologies this week. Typically, we tend to merge the fields of robotics and artificial intelligence, but I'd like to start with the ways we have already integrated robotics into our world before we move on to advanced software. The results are staggering. Generally speaking, we are investigating some of the ways we are using robotics to make our lives easier and more productive.  I would like you to think about what differentiates "machines" from "robots" as we use the terms. Also consider Asimov's three laws of robotics as it applies to these devices. Finally, in what ways might robotics be used in the near future?  You might focus your research in one of the following general categories: Domestic - Cleaning , Personal Health, and Comfort Industrial - Health , Production, Delivery , Service, and Maintenance Military - Military Strikes, Law and Order, Exploration , Defense, Aide Below is a chart w...

Romeo & Juliet ~ Video Project

Groups of three (and sometimes four) will choose a scene from Romeo & Juliet and produce a short video using Shakespeare's original language. In addition, each student will provide a scripted translation of the scene (in modern English). As an option to the video project, groups are welcome to rehearse and perform for the class. As discussed in class, groups will compete for scenes. The winner of the spelling bee will get first choice. The test will be oral, with each student writing down the correct spelling. Individual scores will be averaged for a group score, which will then be ranked. The winner gets the first choice of scenes. THE LIST: 1. absence 2. guarantee 3. height 4. grammar 5. believe 6. development 7. leisure 8. recommend 9. rhythm 10. restaurant 11. independent 12. maintenance 13. neighbor 14. cemetery 15. embarrass 16. existence 17. privilege 18. ignorance 19. definite 20. separate 21. humorous 22. mosquito 23. biscuit 24. sandwich 25. principal

Gun Control Debate

In light of recent mass shootings , some have argued that we need stricter laws regarding the sale and ownership of guns and ammunition, while others believe that the current laws are sufficient or too restrictive, some arguing for less regulation.   The debate centers around the second amendment and its interpretation: THE SECOND AMENDMENT A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.   What is your opinion? Consider our discussion of the language of the amendment itself, along with issues such as the assault weapons ban, open carry laws, licensing, and background checks. What amount of "gun control" is necessary, if any, to ensure public safety? You were supposed to bring a relevant article to class on Thursday. In addition, you might also want to look at the following links discussed in class: NRA President Wayne LaPierre's response to the Newtown traged...