Tuesday, March 31, 2020

3/31/20

March 31, 2020 Update


  • Please check my ACT blog for information regarding Ms. Derr's office hours at lecactwriting.blogspot.com.  
  • LEC staff met with Ms. Derr yesterday, and I do have some news.  
    • This week we will continue with review, so please complete the three assignments that were posted yesterday.  
    • Next week will be spring break!  
    • When we return on April 13, we will begin to learn new material.  This material will not be graded but should be completed to ensure your success in future levels and goals.  
    • Due to the wild, current state we are in, the paper will no longer count for a grade. When we return from spring break we will finish the essay virtually, and I will provide you with feedback, but it will not count towards your final score in the class. While this project may not currently factor into your overall grade, writing is a beneficial life skill, so it is important that we finish what we started.  
    • We are in the process of still determining how final grades will be calculated for the semester.  Once I have more information I will update the blog ASAP. 
    • My office hours have now been updated to reflect Ms. Derr's schedule which will be on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:30-2:30.
  • There are three new practice assignments posted in usatestprep.
  • Each assignment consists of 10 multiple choice questions which allows for two attempts.  All three assignments are already posted and are due by Friday, April 3. 
  • I've included some links to videos which provide information on the standard you are practicing.  Please watch the videos if you would like more information and of course, email me if you have questions at kregan.lec@lee.k12.nc.us.  
  • If you have any questions or would like help with assignments, I will be available during my scheduled office hours.  Use the document attached for instructions on how to join the virtual meeting.
  • Virtual Meeting Information
  • Stay safe. Stay healthy. Stay positive. :)

Monday, March 30, 2020

3/30/20 Update

March 30, 2020
  • Please check my ACT blog for information regarding Ms. Derr's office hours at lecactwriting.blogspot.com.  
  • Staff is meeting with Ms. Derr later today, and as I have more information I will update my blog.
  • As of right now, we are to continue with review.  
  • The paper is still currently postponed.  I am waiting on information about new material and graded assignments, so unfortunately I cannot provide a due date.  
  • There are three new practice assignments posted in usatestprep.
  • Each assignment consists of 10 multiple choice questions which allows for two attempts.  All three assignments are already posted and are due by Friday, April 3. 
  • I've included some links to videos which provide information on the standard you are practicing.  Please watch the videos if you would like more information and of course, email me if you have questions at kregan.lec@lee.k12.nc.us.  
  • I will have office hours from 1:30-2:30, Monday-Thursday.  If you have any questions or would like help with assignments, I will be available during that time.  Use the document attached for instructions on how to join the virtual meeting.
  • Virtual Meeting Information
  • Stay safe. Stay healthy. Stay positive. :)

Monday, March 23, 2020

Virtual Meeting

March 23, 2020


  • Please check your emails for information from Mr. Testa on how to virtually meet with Ms. Derr this week.  
  • Juniors will have a meeting on Tuesday and freshmen and sophomores will meet Wednesday.
  • Staff is meeting with Ms. Derr later today, and as I have more information I will update my blog.
  • I will have office hours from 1:30-2:30, Monday-Friday.  If you have any questions or would like help with assignments, I will be available during that time.  
  • Stay positive. :)




Monday, March 16, 2020

English IV Update

March 16, 2020

I'm sure there are a lot of questions about class and wanted to send a couple of updates!

  • The paper is currently postponed.  We will have a day for peer editing when we return and it will then be due the following day. 
  • Attendance will not be taken, so you do not need to worry about absences. 
  • The next two weeks will be similar to 10 day review.  Each day there will be a new practice assignment posted in usatestprep.  The schedule will go as follows:
    • March 17: Reading for Literature (RL), Textual Evidence
    • March 18: RL, Author's Impact
    • March 19: RL, Word Meanings
    • March 20: RL, Multiple Interpretations
    • March 23: Language (L), Figures of Speech
    • March 24: Reading Information (RI), Textual Evidence
    • March 25: Writing (W) Narrative Techniques
    • March 26: W, Precise Claims
    • March 27: Speaking and Listening (SL), Respond Thoughtfully.
  • Each practice has 10 multiple choice questions and will allow for up to two tries.
  • These assignments are strictly for practice to help you in your knowledge and application of these skills. 
  • As I find out more information, I will be updating the blog, so it is good practice to check it.  
  • Stay happy and healthy. :)

How to Log In to Your Google Account

Here is information on how to access your Google account if you need it.

Locating Student Google Account Logins

Wednesday, March 11, 2020

Introductions and Conclusions

March 16, 2020
Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.1.A
Introduce precise, knowledgeable claim(s), establish the significance of the claim(s), distinguish the claim(s) from alternate or opposing claims, and create an organization that logically sequences claim(s), counterclaims, reasons, and evidence.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.1.B
Develop claim(s) and counterclaims fairly and thoroughly, supplying the most relevant evidence for each while pointing out the strengths and limitations of both in a manner that anticipates the audience's knowledge level, concerns, values, and possible biases.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.1.C
Use words, phrases, and clauses as well as varied syntax to link the major sections of the text, create cohesion, and clarify the relationships between claim(s) and reasons, between reasons and evidence, and between claim(s) and counterclaims.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.1.D
Establish and maintain a formal style and objective tone while attending to the norms and conventions of the discipline in which they are writing.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.1.E
Provide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the argument presented.
Obj: I can write arguments to support claims in a literary analysis of Hamlet, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence. 

Starter

Create a SMART goal to work on for this block.

Image result for smart goals


Vocabulary: 

Word: Thesis
Part of Speech: Noun
Dictionary Definition:a statement or theory that is put forward as a premise to be maintained or proved.
Your Definition: 
Activity: Develop a working thesis.


Activity: 


We will review the requirements of the project together. 
Today will be used to plan and brainstorm your ideas.  

Timeline
Friday, March 6: Brainstorming
Monday, March 9: Thesis Statement and Outline 
Tuesday, March 10: Body Paragraphs
Wednesday, March 11: Body Paragraphs
Monday, March 16: Introductions and Conclusions
Tuesday, March 17: Peer Edit and Revisions
Wednesday, March 18: Essay Due 

2.  Literary Analysis Introduction 
Read through pages 188-190  in your StudySync books. 
Make annotations if needed.

3 Literary Analysis Conclusion

Read through pages 195-197 in your StudySync books. 
Make annotations if needed.

Closure

What can I do to best support you through the writing process?

Reminder

Rough draft due Tuesday, March 17.

Monday, March 9, 2020

Body Paragraphs


March 10-11, 2020
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.1
Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.1.A
Introduce precise, knowledgeable claim(s), establish the significance of the claim(s), distinguish the claim(s) from alternate or opposing claims, and create an organization that logically sequences claim(s), counterclaims, reasons, and evidence.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.1.B
Develop claim(s) and counterclaims fairly and thoroughly, supplying the most relevant evidence for each while pointing out the strengths and limitations of both in a manner that anticipates the audience's knowledge level, concerns, values, and possible biases.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.1.C
Use words, phrases, and clauses as well as varied syntax to link the major sections of the text, create cohesion, and clarify the relationships between claim(s) and reasons, between reasons and evidence, and between claim(s) and counterclaims.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.1.D
Establish and maintain a formal style and objective tone while attending to the norms and conventions of the discipline in which they are writing.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.1.E
Provide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the argument presented.
Obj: I can write arguments to support claims in a literary analysis of Hamlet, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence. 

Starter

  Outline Feedback
Create a comment or question you would like feedback on based on your outline.
My goal is to help you feel confident about the structure/organization of your ideas.


Vocabulary: 

Word: Thesis
Part of Speech: Noun
Dictionary Definition:a statement or theory that is put forward as a premise to be maintained or proved.
Your Definition: 
Activity: Develop a working thesis.


Activity: 


We will review the requirements of the project together. 
Today will be used to plan and brainstorm your ideas.  

Timeline
Friday, March 6: Brainstorming
Monday, March 9: Thesis Statement and Outline 
Tuesday, March 10: Body Paragraphs
Wednesday, March 11: Body Paragraphs
Monday, March 16: Introductions and Conclusions
Tuesday, March 17: Peer Edit and Revisions
Wednesday, March 18: Essay Due 


2.  Literary Analysis Body Paragraphs

Refer to the model paragraphs on the bottom of page 172-173.
Pay attention to the explanation of the figurative language in connection the human condition.
Additionally, look at the format of the in text citations.
Your citations should follow the same format.
(Act. Scene. Line Numbers)

3.  Body Paragraphs

Begin to construct the body paragraphs for your essay.
Remember you must have a minimum of three. 

Closure

What can I do to best support you through the writing process?

Reminder

Rough draft due Tuesday, March 17.

Friday, March 6, 2020

Thesis and Outline

March 9, 2020

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.1
Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.1.A
Introduce precise, knowledgeable claim(s), establish the significance of the claim(s), distinguish the claim(s) from alternate or opposing claims, and create an organization that logically sequences claim(s), counterclaims, reasons, and evidence.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.1.B
Develop claim(s) and counterclaims fairly and thoroughly, supplying the most relevant evidence for each while pointing out the strengths and limitations of both in a manner that anticipates the audience's knowledge level, concerns, values, and possible biases.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.1.C
Use words, phrases, and clauses as well as varied syntax to link the major sections of the text, create cohesion, and clarify the relationships between claim(s) and reasons, between reasons and evidence, and between claim(s) and counterclaims.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.1.D
Establish and maintain a formal style and objective tone while attending to the norms and conventions of the discipline in which they are writing.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.1.E
Provide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the argument presented.
Obj: I can write arguments to support claims in a literary analysis of Hamlet, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence. 

Starter

Answer the question below in the Google form.  

Based on the brainstorming you completed yesterday, what aspect of the human condition will you focus on?  Why did you select that aspect?

Respond in 2-3 sentences. 

Image result for human condition in literature


Vocabulary: 

Word: Thesis
Part of Speech: Noun
Dictionary Definition:a statement or theory that is put forward as a premise to be maintained or proved.
Your Definition: 
Activity: Develop a working thesis.

Activity: 


We will review the requirements of the project together. 
Today will be used to plan and brainstorm your ideas.  

Timeline
Friday, March 6: Brainstorming
Monday, March 9: Thesis Statement and Outline 
Tuesday, March 10: Body Paragraphs
Wednesday, March 11: Body Paragraphs
Monday, March 16: Introductions and Conclusions
Tuesday, March 17: Peer Edit and Revisions
Wednesday, March 18: Essay Due 

2.  Literary Analysis Thesis Model

Read through pages 177-178 in your StudySync books. 
Make annotations if needed.

3.  Thesis Writing

Based on your brainstorming chart, write a thesis statement that articulates your main claim.
When you are done, trade with a partner and answer the questions in the practice section on page 178.  Make sure to explain your answers.

4.   Outline

Use the template provided to organize your ideas for the essay.
You do not need to write in complete sentences but it should provide a general idea. 


Closure

What is your working thesis?

Hamlet Project Introduction

March 6, 2020

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.1
Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.1.A
Introduce precise, knowledgeable claim(s), establish the significance of the claim(s), distinguish the claim(s) from alternate or opposing claims, and create an organization that logically sequences claim(s), counterclaims, reasons, and evidence.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.1.B
Develop claim(s) and counterclaims fairly and thoroughly, supplying the most relevant evidence for each while pointing out the strengths and limitations of both in a manner that anticipates the audience's knowledge level, concerns, values, and possible biases.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.1.C
Use words, phrases, and clauses as well as varied syntax to link the major sections of the text, create cohesion, and clarify the relationships between claim(s) and reasons, between reasons and evidence, and between claim(s) and counterclaims.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.1.D
Establish and maintain a formal style and objective tone while attending to the norms and conventions of the discipline in which they are writing.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.1.E
Provide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the argument presented.
Obj: I can write arguments to support claims in a literary analysis of Hamlet, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence. 

Starter

Free Write Friday
Write as much as  you can in the next five minutes. 

Image result for writing prompts

Vocabulary: 

Word: Literary Analysis
Part of Speech: Noun
Dictionary Definition: an essay that carefully examines a text, or one element of a text, such as character, setting, plot or theme of a story.
Your definition: 
Activity: Complete a brainstorming sheet for your literary analysis. 

Activity: 

1.  The Lion King

As a class, we will watch the Lion King.
Complete the Tri Venn Diagram while you watch.
The circles should be labelled Shakespeare, Royal Shakespeare Company, and Disney.
You must have five points in each circle.


We will review the requirements of the project together. 
Today will be used to plan and brainstorm your ideas.  

Timeline
Friday, March 6: Brainstorming
Monday, March 9: Thesis Statement and Outline 
Tuesday, March 10: Body Paragraphs
Wednesday, March 11: Body Paragraphs
Monday, March 16: Introductions and Conclusions
Tuesday, March 17: Peer Edit and Revisions
Wednesday, March 18: Essay Due 

3.  Literary Analysis Model Essay 

Before you begin brainstorming, read the student model in your StudySync books on page 171.
As you read, highlight or annotate features of a literary analysis. 


Make a copy of the brainstorming doc and move it to your assignment folder.
Individually, complete the chart by identifying examples of figurative language that relates to the human condition.

Closure: 

How many pieces of textual evidence were you able to identify for your essay?

Wednesday, March 4, 2020

The Lion King

March 5, 2020

RL.11-12.4 Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in the text; analyze the impact of specific word choices on meaning and tone, including words with multiple meanings or language that is particularly engaging.

RL.11-12.7 Analyze multiple interpretations of a story, drama, or poem, evaluating how each version interprets the source text. 


Obj: I can determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in Hamlet and analyze the impact of specific word choices and how they depict the human condition.
I can analyze Hamlet and the Lion King, evaluating how each version interprets the source.

Starter

Finish filling out the Socratic seminar observation checklist from yesterday. 
Then, on the back of the paper, write a five sentence reflection on the quality of the seminar. 

Image result for socratic seminar


Vocabulary: 

Word; Euphemism
Part of Speech: Noun
Dictionary Definition: a mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt when referring to something unpleasant or embarrassing.
"“downsizing” as a euphemism for cuts"
Your Definition:
Activity:Find another example to include. 

Word: Interpretation
Part of Speech: Noun
Dictionary Definition: a stylistic representation of a creative work or dramatic role
Your Definition: 
Activity:  Compare Shakespeare's Hamlet to Disney's the Lion King. 

Image result for funny euphemism
Activity: 

1.  The Lion King

As a class, we will watch the Lion King.
Complete the Tri Venn Diagram while you watch.
The circles should be labelled Shakespeare, Royal Shakespeare Company, and Disney.
You must have five points in each circle.

Closure: 
What did you learn about the human condition from watching the Lion King? 

Tuesday, March 3, 2020

Hamlet Socratic Seminar

March 4, 2020

RL.11-12.4 Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in the text; analyze the impact of specific word choices on meaning and tone, including words with multiple meanings or language that is particularly engaging.

RL.11-12.7 Analyze multiple interpretations of a story, drama, or poem, evaluating how each version interprets the source text. 

SL.11-12.1 Initiate and participate effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grades 11-12 topics, texts, and issues, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly and persuasively.

Obj: I can determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in Hamlet and analyze the impact of specific word choices and how they depict the human condition.
I can participate in collaborative discussions building on others' ideas and expressing my own clearly and persuasively. 

Starter

Get with a partner and have them check your questions for the seminar to make sure they are higher order.
If you can answer with yes, no, or one word then you need to reconsider what you are asking.


Vocabulary: 

Word; Euphemism
Part of Speech: Noun
Dictionary Definition: a mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt when referring to something unpleasant or embarrassing.
"“downsizing” as a euphemism for cuts"
Your Definition:
Activity:Find another example to include. 
Image result for funny euphemism
Activity:
1.Hamlet Production

As a class, we will watch the end of Hamlet.
Pay close attention to the way Hamlet is characterized in the movie compared to the text.
Jot down notes about what is similar and different to what you imagined.

We will discuss this as a class.

2.  Socratic Seminar

Find a partner to complete the peer observation for during the seminar.
Remember we will pause to give each other feedback in the middle of the round.

Topic
Human Condition

Driving Question:
How does the play Hamlet portray complexities of being human?

Requirements
Create at least 2 HOT questions to ask during the seminar.
Find evidence that demonstrates the complexities of being human.

In order to receive 100% you must ask a question, answer a question, and use evidence.
If you DO NOT speak you can revise only up to 80%.

Image result for socratic seminar ground rules

Closure: 

Write a five sentence reflection on the quality of the seminar. 

Reminder
Benchmark remediation is due Friday.
All missing work and revisions must be submitted by 3:00 Friday. 

Monday, March 2, 2020

Finishing Hamlet

March 3, 2020

RL.11-12.4 Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in the text; analyze the impact of specific word choices on meaning and tone, including words with multiple meanings or language that is particularly engaging.

RL.11-12.7 Analyze multiple interpretations of a story, drama, or poem, evaluating how each version interprets the source text. 

Obj: I can determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in Hamlet and analyze the impact of specific word choices and how they depict the human condition.

Starter


Identify an example of figurative language in act five.
Make sure to include the type of figurative language and explain what it means. 

Vocabulary: 

Word; Euphemism
Part of Speech: Noun
Dictionary Definition: a mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt when referring to something unpleasant or embarrassing.
"“downsizing” as a euphemism for cuts"
Your Definition:
Activity:Find another example to include. 
Image result for funny euphemism
Activity:
1. Act Five Scene Two

Listen from 30:00-end for first and second block.
Third block should start at 22:30 and play to end. 

Characters
Narrator
Hamlet
Claudius
Laertes
Osric
Gertrude
Horatio
Fortinbras
Ambassador

Discussion
Summarize the end of the play.
What is your reaction to the ending?
How do you connect to these ideas?

2.  Socratic Seminar Prep
Tomorrow,  we will have a Socratic seminar discussing the human condition in Hamlet. 

Topic
Human Condition

Driving Question:
How does the play Hamlet portray complexities of being human?

Requirements
Create at least 2 HOT questions to ask during the seminar.
Find evidence that demonstrates the complexities of being human.

In order to receive 100% you must ask a question, answer a question, and use evidence.
If you DO NOT speak you can revise only up to 80%.

Closure: 

Add on to your reading log.
Your reading log is due by 11:59 tonight. 

Homework

Prepare for seminar and complete the log.

Reminder
Benchmark remediation is due Friday.
All missing work and revisions must be submitted by 3:00 Friday.