Skip to main content

For Friday-Monday

Sorry, but I will be out until Monday. If you have questions or concerns, please email me.

Seniors
Your essay for this week is to write a 750-word analysis of The Truman Show. We have discussed various topics in class and throughout the movie. Please focus on ONE aspect of the film, and organize around a clear, critical thesis. I know it's tempting, but avoid summary of the plot. Instead, use specific examples and quotes from the film to develop your analysis. You should have at least one quote per paragraph, and your typed, revised version will also include a block quote.

When you are finished today, put your essay in the box, and we will discuss your revisions on Monday. As this is your DE assessment essay, I will eventually need two copies - one with your name and one without. Please include your notes with the essay for help in the revision process.

Remember that we will also start MAUS next week, so please bring your copies on Monday.

Sophomores
I know you will all have lots of questions on Monday, but today is a good opportunity to read -- to get ahead or to catch up. Use the study guide questions to help you focus on details as you read. These questions will provide the basis for your essays next week, so take notes as you read. Right now, your exam is scheduled for Wednesday, and we should be on track. Do not stop reading simply because I'm not there, in other words.

 Some things to consider:
  • How the book is structured and how that relates to meaning
  • How you feel about the creature
  • How advances in science play a pivotal role
  • How issues of ethics and morality are explored
  • How women are portrayed and how their stories parallel
  • How political/economical/cultural issues are discussed
  • How Shelley depicts marriage and parenthood
  • How fathers are represented and to what effect
  • How friendship functions as a necessary element of survival
  • How Victor and the creature represent their respective periods
  • How Victor and the creature can be seen as doubles, or "dopplegangers"
  • How education is examined and defined
  • How allusions are integrated throughout the text
  • How Nature exhibits both restorative and destructive force

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...
Read more

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
Read more

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...
Read more