Schedule for Week of 3 January:

Tuesday, 3 January: ALL BANDS: SAT Vocabulary Test List 12 (Previously scheduled for 23 December-I apologize for my absence.)
Analyzing Visual Text Assignment Due-DO NOT FORGET TO ATTACH A COPY OF YOUR PHOTO (VISUAL)

We will read and discuss a short story by Hemingway-a "popular" read in American Literature classes. This will take approximately two class sessions.

We will also examine the NYS English Regents Examination.

January 2011
Teacher Dictation
Scoring Key and Rating Guide
Conversion Chart

Refer to resources posted below (a ppt/video and a pdf booklet)



Friday, 6 January: SAT Vocabulary Test List 13-ALL BANDS

Common Errors in English Usage
Glance over this list to determine if you are making any of these errors-there is a reason for why I posted this link. Often, "errors" occur when one attempts to appear "sophisticated" in one's writing, neglecting what one has learned previously. (Recall, your summer reading assignment: The Elements of Style?)
Recall, AP Readers are evaluating your writing as a "draft" -Why do you think I added this statement?

Writing One-Paragraph Essays

Writing the Critical Lens Essay

Analyzing Visual Texts

Complete your own OPTIC and a paragraph analysis using the Five C's on a picture of your choice from The History Place's Website on Dorothea Lange's work. Click on photograph to enlarge. Record responses on a separate sheet of paper. YOU MUST ATTACH THE IMAGE/PHOTO TO YOUR WORD-PROCESSED/TYPED RESPONSE.

OPTIC Template
THE FIVE C'S:



DUE DATE: TUESDAY, 3 JANUARY 2012

Schedule for Week of 19 December:

Please Note: All Bands will take the SAT Vocabulary List 11 Test on Tuesday, 20 December and the SAT Vocabulary List 12 Test on Friday, December, 23.

If you were absent on Friday, 16 December-you will have until Tuesday, 20 December (during 37 1/2 minutes) to complete the Timed Write for the Eisenhower and Catiline's Speeches-NO EXCEPTIONS. Furthermore, you must present a "legitimate" absentee note in order to do so. I am well aware that students will "cut" a class when their teacher is not present.

I recommend that you examine the posts that appear below for an upcoming research paper. Click on "older" posts for additional resources this paper and for preparation for the NYS English Regents Examination-specifically-for the writing of the Critical Lens Essay.

Beginning this week, we will focus on Analyzing Visual Texts-naturally, an assignment will be given that will be due on Friday, 23 December.

On Thursday, 22 December-we will read "together" a Hemingway short story that is a popular read in American Literature classes. The title will be revealed when you enter the classroom. I will be asking for volunteers to read the dialogue of the characters. The reason for this will become apparent once you have the opportunity to read the story silently.

Friday, 23 December-after your SAT Vocabulary Test-we will apply this story to a Critical Lens...

Everything You Will Ever Want to Know About Writing (Purdue's On-Line Writing Lab)

Paradigm On-Line Writing Assistance

Evaluating On-Line Resources (UC Berkeley)

http://olinuris.library.cornell.edu/ref/research/evaluate.html
How to Evaluate On-Line Resources (Cornell University)

Diana Hacker's Research and Documentation Guide

Internet Public Library for Teens

Duke University Guide to Library Research

Writing the Critical Lens Essay
Review this resource in preparation for an upcoming activity.

Writing One-Paragraph Essays

Rhetorical Precis Frame

Schedule for Week of 5 December:
All Bands Must Complete the Reading of Streetcar prior to the day your class meets. You will be given a quiz on the remaining scenes-I may even include a question from Scene 6-the questions will differ in "format"-they will now resemble AP Style Questions.
(12 QUESTIONS=10 minutes!)

You will receive your PSAT Score Report this week-you will then visit collegeboard.org and register using the "access code" appearing on your score report. You will then download and print a copy to verify to me that you have indeed registered. This is a homework assignment that will be turned-in by Friday, 9 December.

All bands will take the SAT Vocabulary Test : List 10 on Friday, 9 December.

Dear Parents: Please discuss this issue with your child. Too many students have been copying homework assignments from each other and cheating "rather openly' on our weekly SAT Vocabulary Tests.
Thank you...

HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENT: MONDAY, 27 NOVEMBER (G Band) AND TUESDAY, 28 NOVEMBER (A and B Bands)

A Streetcar Named Desire Scene Two Writing Assignment

WAIT! WAIT! WAIT! Another assignment you do have, you do have another assignment. (Name that rhetorical device) You will do a "close reading" of Scene Three in preparation for a "closed-book" quiz! Be prepared.

Schedule for Week of 21 November:

ALL CLASSES WILL READ WOMEN'S BRAINS and answer the Questions on Rhetoric and Style pages 354-355 according to your FIRST NAME Initial: A-M will answer questions numbered 7-12 and N-Z will answer questions numbered 1-6. No excuse for not following this directive-if you do not answer the questions assigned-you will not receive credit!


Monday, 21 November: G Band Turn-in your responses to Women's Brains. Today, we will begin reading A Streetcar Named Desire-Be prepared for a surprise quiz.

Tuesday, 22 November: A and B Bands: same as G-Band above.
G-Band: Bring A Streetcar... with you to class.

Homework for the Holiday Break: TBA

Wednesday, 23 November: A and B Band: Bring A Streetcar... with you to class today.

Schedule for Week of 14 November:

Please Note: I will NOT accept the past-due assignment for Professions for Women NOR will you be permitted to complete this assignment under my supervision during 37 1/2 minutes (Parents: Please note that this assignment was due on 26 October). Our homework policy is clearly identified on the class contract and on this blog! Please review the procedures that Diedrich will take once it is discovered that you have plagiarized an assignment! DO NOT EMBARRASS YOURSELF BY TELLING HIM THAT YOU WORKED TOGETHER ON AN ASSIGNMENT-RECALL HIS PREVIOUS STATEMENT REGARDING THIS.

NOTE: YOU DO NOT NEED TO BRING YOUR TEXTBOOK TO CLASS THIS WEEK.

HOMEWORK: TBA

Friday, 18 November: All Bands-SAT Vocabulary List 8

Imagine a student placing the Professions for Women assignment on my desk after she/he left A/B Band on Thursday, 10 November! (Imagine how Diedrich responded...) What was this person thinking? First of all, the assignment is more than TWO weeks late. Furthermore, arrangements should have been made previously since EVERYONE knows that an assignment must be emailed to me if a student is absent on the day it is due. And whether or not Diedrich is in a "good" mood, he may permit you to complete a LATE-LATE assignment during 371/2 minutes under his supervision. Amazingly, this assignment was posted on this blog and there are still several students who did not complete it and/or approach me about completing it during 371/2 minutes. He DOES NOT have to permit you to do so according to the homework policy described on the class contract. Furthermore, even if your class does not meet on the day you return to school after an assignment is due, you must visit him in Room 404 and hand him a "hard-copy" of this assignment-he will check-it against the copy of the assignment that was emailed (see the class contract).


A "NOTE" about this assignment:
How is it possible to receive an A+ on this assignment with a one to two sentence response? Sadly, (and much to my chagrin) several students did just that!

Please Note: Effective immediately! Everyone who makes-up a test upon his/her return from an absence will sign his/her signature to the following statement:
Prior to this exam, I have not given or received information regarding the content of this exam.
And for every examination from now on:
During this exam, I will not give or receive any information about the contents of this exam.

The consequences-if detected-are identified in the class contract. For some "reason"-I felt an urgent need to include these statements-you probably are aware of the "reason".

Schedule for Week of 7 November:

7 November, Monday (G- Band/A and B Band Wednesday 9 November): Turn in paragraphs for issue presented in class: Supporting/Challenging Mandatory Community Service (Chapter 3). Recall you must use sources for both positions from the seven sources provided in this class.
I was "thrilled" by the group presentations of their source in ALL of the classes. Please bring all of your notes to class for the second-part of this activity: ENTERING THE CONVERSATION-SIMILAR TO A SEMINAR DISCUSSION-Prepare your questions that you would like to ask of the other groups ahead of time-you will receive a grade based upon your contribution/participation.

You must bring your textbook to class EVERYDAY this week. DO NOT ASK TO GO TO YOUR LOCKER TO RETRIEVE IT-I will refuse your request and enter a "Zero" in jupitergrades for failing to bring this assignment to class. Parents-please note-that on Thursday and Friday-of last week--it was as though I had a "revolving" classroom door- with so many students coming to class unprepared-asking to go to their locker--perhaps-your child was one of these students.

Thursday, 10 November: All Bands will take the next SAT Vocabulary test: List 7.

MANDATORY ASSIGNMENT: You must download and print your essay booklet for this examination. You must turn this ASSIGNMENT in by 1 December 2011!

Comprehensive English Regents Examination Essay Booklet

DO NOT WRITE YOUR NAME ON THE BOOKLET!

Just a Reminder: Bring The Language and Composition textbook to class on Thursday, 11/3. Also, SAT Vocabulary Test: List 6 on Friday, 11/4

Test Results/Class Averages for The Great Gatsby (Chapters 6, 7, and 8):

A Band: 74.5
B Band: 68.8
G Band: 73.0

PLEASE NOTE: Do not become discouraged by your score on the first Timed-Write. The average grade was an 85%-not too many grades of 90% or above. Your timed-write will be returned when the absent students have responded to the prompt. If you were absent, you have until Tuesday afternoon (11/1) to complete the response. I do expect an absence note. Furthermore, those absent on Friday also have until that day to do the same for the Group Test on The Great Gatsby.By the way, you may take the test-as a group-with other absent students-only four students per group. Recall my policy-you have two days to complete any test -once you return to school- I will then remove the "0" from Jupiter grades and enter your score.

The results for The Great Gatsby Group Test should NOT disappoint you. I deducted 3 points for each incorrect response and then added 6 points to your final score. (32 questions x 3=96) Sadly, several students did NOT collaborate with members of their group; they simply recorded the responses-I took note of these students. You know who you are-regrettably, I should have spoken to you privately!

Just a Reminder: Letter grades are entered for the first-marking period according to NYC DOE and LMGHS directives. Hence, a numerical grade is not rounded-up to the next letter-grade. For example, if you have an 89% (B+), it will NOT be rounded-up to a "90" so that an "A" could be entered on your report card. Your grade would be entered as a "B"-please do not become "disgruntled" with me. HOWEVER, this "89"- since grades are cumulative- would be averaged with your second-marking period grade and entered as a numerical grade-not a letter grade.

Early Monday morning, I will determine if your score on the Chapter 3, 4, & 5 test for The Great Gatsby is going to be averaged with the first-marking period or with the test grades for the second-marking period.
Presently, some of you who have earned an "A" for the first-marking period would most likely end-up with a "B" on the report card if I decide to enter your test result. Furthermore, some of you who have earned a "B" could actually end-up with a "C"-Please keep in mind that I am referring to those students who are on the "borderline" of those letter grades.

Diedrich is trying to be "fair" about this. I am sure your parents will understand if they see your average is an 89% and yet, a "B" was entered on your report card. Diedrich is following the mandated policy and can not deviate from what the administration has dictated.

ATTENTION: If you were absent on Friday, 21 October-for The Great Gatsby test-you must make-it up on Monday, 24 October during D- Band (only if this is your lunch band) or immediately following H-Band (I have a meeting to attend at 2:20) or after 3:05 in Room 404.

Schedule for Week of 24 October:

NOTE: I realize that many of you are curious about your score on the test for Chapters 3, 4, and 5 of The Great Gatsby, unfortunately I was only able to scan the papers for "Test A" before receiving a message on the Lexmark Printer that the service had been lost. I will attempt the scanning process again early Monday morning-if unsuccessful, I will hand score your answer sheet. "No, I will not make any errors, Diedrich is accurate in all he does." I will say that there were quite a few students who scored from 80% to 100% on the test so far. Sadly, there were students who averaged only 9 questions correct. Should I input these grades into Jupiter for the "first-marking" period?

You do not have to bring your Language of Composition textbook to class this week, but you do have a homework assignment that is DUE on Thursday, 27 October.

What is the impact of gender roles that society creates and enforces?

For Thursday, 27 October: Read Professions for Women by Virginia Woolf beginning on page 356 of your textbook (This is one of my favorite essays/speeches.) You will then answer the Questions on Rhetoric and Style according to your last-name initial.

A-M will answer Questions 1-6
N-Z will answer Questions 7-12

Naturally, your responses will be answered in complete sentences. Kindly use 12pt font and New Times Roman. If you do hand write-it, which you should not-skip a space after each response.

Wait, there is another part to this assignment. You will complete Exercise 1 on page 424. Please skip a space after each sentence.

If you are absent, you know what to do...



Tuesday, 25 October: College NOW Visitations in all English 11 classes.

Monday-Tuesday-Wednesday-Preparation for your first-timed write for the Rhetorical Analysis Question on the AP Examination.

Wait-Wait-Wait-You do have another assignment-another assignment you do have (name that rhetorical device): Read Chapters 6, 7, and 8 for a Group Test on Friday, 28 October. I will ASSIGN the groups-you will NOT make-up the groups on your own.

Please Note: You may now receive lower than a ✓- (75) on a Homework Assignment. I am sure you are asking, "Why the change, Diedrich? and "How much lower, Diedrich?"

My reason for the change is NOT based solely on the most recent assignment I received, but it certainly was a "major" factor to make the change. The assignment guidelines on page 48 of your Language and Composition textbook are clear. Yet, several students deviated from what was suggested (annotation, dialectical journal, or graphic organizer) even though "models" were provided and did it their way. Furthermore, I have not been pleased with the quality of the last two assignments.

On poorly completed assignments, students will receive a ✓x (65). Keep in mind that some of these assignments should have received a 55! Of course, these assignments will not be posted.

As you enter the classroom on Monday/Tuesday, I would like you to examine the most recent assignments posted in the classroom.

I will now be maintaining an individual folder for your assignments. All written assignments will be kept in this folder-this is your "portfolio" of work completed during the course of the year-yes, this will become a "Project" in April/May 2012.

Please Note:

Test on Rhetorical Devices-Several students from each band received 100%! That is fabulous-even if you missed several-that is good,too. Check Jupiter for your grade. Since there were a total of 37 rhetorical devices-I was generous and only deducted 2.5 points for each incorrect response (37 x 2.5 =92.5-that is more than generous-do not ask me to curve any score-that is not my policy. As of Saturday, 15 October, the Mean for all classes is approximately 70%-Sadly, no "reward" when the mean is this low. Perhaps, with Friday's Great Gatsby's Test...

Apology Speech Rubric: Since too many students randomly underlined any group of words or phrases, I omitted that "criterion" from the rubric, making the total point score "90". What does that mean? Simply, the total point score is then divided by 90. For example,
a total of 87 would be divided by 90 (87/90 = 96). The majority of students received an "A" for the Apology Speech. This assignment was considered a "Project" and will appear as such in Jupiter.

I will examine your speech separately for the part of the assignment (which was mandatory) requiring you to identify at least 10 rhetorical devices and then reward credit accordingly. This will be entered as a HOMEWORK assignment. (I also took note of your submission of the other required assignments for this project: outline-draft-rhetorical appeals /triangle.)

Schedule for Week of 17 October:

A Reminder-If you are absent for a test/quiz- upon your return to school- you have TWO school days to make-it up during 37 1/2 minutes! Furthermore, too many of you are NOT complying with my HOMEWORK POLICY! Re-read the class contract for clarification!

Friday, 21 October-Test on Chapters 3, 4, and 5 of The Great Gatsby (30 Multiple Choice Questions/30 Minutes Only) You must bring to class your novel for this examination.
Prior to Friday, we will review/discuss the test on Chapters 1 and 2

Thursday, 20 October-Sat Vocabulary Test: List 5

Bring your textbook to class on Thursday. We will examine the Synthesis Essay (Question #1 on the AP examination) You will then be given an assignment using the texts on community service (see Chapter 3).

Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday: A Rhetorical Analysis of a Speech...

Conferencing Topic:
Your first-one on nicenet.org!

You are to either Defend-Challenge-or Qualify the following: California Bans Tanning Bed Use for Under 18 Crowd. Sign-in and click on "Conferencing" then click on the link for this topic. Feel free to exchange thoughts and/or comments with each other-remember my warning about the use of inappropriate language (see class contract).

You are to post your comments by Friday, 14 October-23:59 hours-that is one-minute before midnight. No, Diedrich will not be sitting in front of his computer to check-up on your compliance.

SAT Vocabulary Tests:
If you are absent when a test is given, you now have TWO Days to make-up that quiz.

A Concern about the Quality of Homework Assignments:
How is it possible to "adequately" respond to the Einstein Letter assignment in one-paragraph of approximately 4-6 sentences?

Time is running-out for AP Exam Fee Waivers-see Ms. Barrison in the College Office-you must have a returned lunch form filed with Ms. Eng- the Parent Coordinator.

A Reminder for Week of 10 October:
Please Note: I WILL NOT ACCEPT ANY PAST DUE ASSIGNMENTS-DO NOT ATTEMPT TO SUBMIT THE ASSIGNMENT THAT WAS DUE ON FRIDAY,
7 OCTOBER. YOU KNOW WHAT MUST BE DONE IF YOU ARE ABSENT OR IF YOUR PRINTER IS MALFUNCTIONING!
Tuesday, 11 October: Test on Chapters 1 and 2 of The Great Gatsby-15 AP and SAT Style -Multiple Choice Questions in 15 Minutes (recall what you have been told- on the AP L and C Exam -you will have to answer approximately 55 questions in 60 minutes). You may refer to the handout on Rhetorical Devices for assistance while taking The Great Gatsby test. YOU MUST BRING THE NOVEL TO CLASS-YOU WILL NOT BE PERMITTED TO SHARE WITH YOUR TABLE-MATE.

Wednesday, 12 October: PSAT! B-Band will meet at 8:15-we will view an exciting video illustrating strategies for sentence completion and reading the critical thinking passages. EVERYONE MUST BRING PENCILS-THE SCHOOL WILL NOT GIVE YOU ONE!

Thursday, 13 October: Turn-in the assignment for Chapter 2 from your textbook (see posting below). You do NOT have to bring your textbook today-keep it at home since I will soon be posting an assignment for Chapter 3. SAT Vocabulary test- List 4 (3 words from List 3 and 7 words from List 4- 5 minutes only)

Friday, 14 October: TEST on RHETORICAL DEVICES-you may not use any resource for this test (MEMORIZE THE DEFINITIONS-BECOME FAMILIAR WITH THE EXAMPLES).

Flashcards: Chapter 2-The Language of Composition textbook-Close Reading: The Art and Craft of an Analysis

The Twenty-Four Hour Rule!
If you recall on Day 1 of class, Diedrich explained that he would not discuss a graded returned assignment until everyone had a chance to re-read a text associated with the assignment, to re-read his/her actual written work with Diedrich's comments and to examine the written work of classmates' receiving the same and/or higher grade on their papers. Diedrich calculates that this would take at least "twenty-four hours" to accomplish what he has suggested.

If you do plan on meeting with him to discuss "The Art of the Apology" reaction paper, Diedrich expects you to bring a copy of the resource he provided for the writing of reaction papers (see posting/link for this resource). He suspects that many of the students did not refer to this resource to assist with this assignment. Diedrich is well aware that for many of you this was the first-time for an assignment of this nature and he will- subsequently, take this into consideration.

The Language of Composition

Week of 10 October:

PSAT on Wednesday, 12 October-Your B Band Class will meet! Bring pencils-they will NOT be given to you by the proctor!
You are to bring the textbook to class on Thursday and Friday of this week.
Chapter 2 Homework Assignment: Complete assignment on pages 48-49. This assignment should be typed-too many students are turning in assignments hand-written-please refer to the class contract. As a class we will complete a rhetorical analysis of JFK's Inaugural Address.

Just a Reminder: SAT Vocabulary Test-List 4 (3 words from List 3-7 from List 4)

The Great Gatsby
You are to read Chapter 2 for Tuesday, 11 October. You will be given a test for Chapters 1 and 2. You will need to bring this text with you since you may be asked to refer to specific passages in order to answer the questions.

Literary Movements and The Great Gatsby
During the week of 3 October, I will distribute this assignment sheet along with specific guidelines for completion. If you scroll down to the videos (power-points) below, you will discover information on each of the movements presented for this assignment.

The American Novel: Literary Timeline
Visit this site and watch the video clip for The Great Gatsby-also I recommend that you "check-out" the other informational resources for texts we will be studying.

The Language of Composition: Chapter 1 Resources- Audio and Video Links to individuals cited in this chapter-this may OR may not assist you with the assignments due on Monday for G Band and on Tuesday for A and B Bands. Check it out by "clicking on Chapter 1." Please inform me that you all have indeed complied with this suggestion when I meet with you on Monday/Tuesday of this week.

Test on Rhetorical Devices/Terms: (refer to your handout on tropes and schemes) on Friday, 14 October. I suggest you make up "flash-cards" to prepare for this assessment which will consist of sentence completion-not simply matching a term with its definition-that would make the test too easy. Carefully, "study" each example, reflecting back upon the definition.

I am sure many of you are asking, "Why now Diedrich?" Perhaps, the answer is not as obvious as you may think, but it became rather obvious as I was examining the words and phrases underlined in your speeches.
Too many of you randomly underlined "anything"- which is my fault- since I did not require you to provide a label for what was underlined in the margins of your Apology Speech. Please do not approach me "apologizing" for committing this action.

I suggest you also check out the "side-bar" flash-card link for a variety of other rhetorical devices/terms we will be studying.

Take notes while you are viewing this video (ppt). Do the same for the video on "Romanticism" since you will be given an assignment related to the information presented.

Schedule for Week of 3 October:

You are to read Chapter 1 in your textbook The Language of Composition and complete the assignments on page 9 and 28. DATE DUE: G Band-Monday/A and B Band Tuesday-If you are absent-you must email me the assignments on the due date and then, upon your return, hand me a "hard" copy-this procedure is clearly indicated on the class contract. Also, you may have a "surprise" quiz on Chapter 1.

BRING YOUR TEXTBOOK ALL WEEK-THIS IS A HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENT-FAILURE TO DO SO WILL RESULT IN A ZERO FOR BEING UNPREPARED.

Read Chapter 1 of The Great Gatsby for Friday, 7 October. Be prepared for a quiz-you need only bring this text NOT your textbook to class.

SAT Vocabulary Test: List 3-Friday 7 October- (3 words from List 2 and 7 words from List 3)

Schedule for Week of 26 September:
Everyone is well-aware of what will be taking place in Room 404-so I do not feel the need to post this information. Yet, if I neglect to do so, surely someone will approach me and question me as to why I did not inform the classes of the assignment that is expected from everyone. Then, I will have to...I know the word you are thinking and/or whispering-Yes-it is that word we have been talking so much about-the dreaded word-APOLOGY!

Be prepared-I will first ask for volunteers-then I will randomly select index cards with the names of class members written on them-if unprepared-your grade will be reduced by one-full letter grade. For some reason, I always "apologize" when I have to do this.

Practice in front of family members and/or in front of your bedroom mirror-attempting to maintain eye contact with "yourself". Please review the rubric that I will use to evaluate your Apology Speech-I know everyone will do well. Show those Mean Girls how to APOLOGIZE!

Schedule for Week of 19 September:

We will complete Socrates' Apology AND then immediately proceed to YOUR APOLOGY Speech Preparation. You should by NOW have notes written-out (refer to the handout for specific instructions-focus on creating an outline, paying special attention to your Rhetorical Appeals Triangle. DO NOT enter the classroom on Monday (G Band) or on Tuesday (A and B Band) with a "blank" sheet of paper!

Since the project is broken down into component parts that you will turn in to me, we will NOT begin the presentations until Monday, 26 September. Be prepared-practice in front of a mirror and/or with family members or friends.

Evaluating your Summer Reading Assignment is taking me considerably longer than I had anticipated. Most of you could probably come close to your project grade on each of the four assignments. I have been creating a list of the strengths and weaknesses of what was turned-in-this I will share with you soon. If you complied with the specific requirements provided, you have done well. Unfortunately, to my amazement, too many students completed the assignment haphazardly-not following the directions-perhaps, waiting to the last minute-becoming overwhelmed with what was required...

Friday, 23 September: SAT Vocabulary Test-List 2 (sven words from this list-study ALL thirty-and three words from List 1 (5 minutes). Almost everyone received a 100% on List 1.

PLEASE! PLEASE! PLEASE! I realize that many of you desired to submit a project with an attractive appearance-BUT in the future-NO MORE SHEET PROTECTORS! This may sound "petty" but I am spending too much time removing your work so I can record comments, as well as, the grade on the assignment. Then, I must return your work inside the sheet protector. You are probably laughing at this-but try it some time!

This week I will survey the class to determine how many of you will require the school store to place your order for the resource indicated below. You will receive a better price if you order it yourself.

http://www.amazon.com/Language-Questions-Advanced-Placement-Examinations/dp/0071753680/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1316361742&sr=8-1

Socrates Apology by Plato
We will NOT listen to both Parts of the Apology so I have provided this mp3 resource for your listening pleasure and fascination of the RHETORIC! Some resources will reveal that those who heard Socrates words were in tears...please take special note of the closing words...perhaps, you too, will also have tears running down your cheeks.

If you are reading this prior to class on Thursday, 15 September, I will ask you to identify any similarities between Socrates' Apology and Nixon's Checkers' Speech (if any...).

I would like to commend everyone for his/her contributions during class discussions-I am sure my reactions have revealed how thrilled I have been with all the classes (A, B, and G Bands).

13 September, Tuesday: You are to write a "reaction/response" to the essay titled, "So-s Sorry: The Art of Apology" by Susan Hebble. (If you would like to get ahead start- this essay is available under the posting for Speech Analysis-click on "Older Posts" and you will find it.) This text will be given to you on Tuesday, 13 September as you enter the classroom. Read the article How to write a Reaction Paper or Reader Response.

The resource is only 3 pages-so you probably SHOULD download-print-and place it in your three-ring-binder.

I suggest a TWO Page Reaction/Response.

DATE DUE: Thursday, 15 September.

Our first-full week together! (12 September)

Attention ALL Bands:
Kindly return your signed student contract (please do not forget to include the result of your Learning Style Inventory).

Friday, 16 September: SAT Vocabulary Test-List 1-Study ALL THIRTY WORDS-You will be tested on TEN of those words. Refer to an earlier post for more detailed information.

Binder check-a three-ring loose-leaf binder used ONLY for this class. This will count as a HOMEWORK assignment.

Sometime this week, you will receive TWO texts- The Language of Composition textbook and The Great Gatsby. Chapters 1-3 of the textbook serve as the "foundation" for the entire course-thus-we will engage in a "close reading" of these chapters.

Beginning Monday, 12 September-we will begin the analysis of selected speeches (see earlier post/I will distribute a copy of these speeches) in preparation for your APOLOGY speech. A way that we can all get to know each other. Our primary focus will be on the Rhetorical Appeals and select Rhetorical Devices. Speeches will be analyzed and discussed throughout the year. In fact, you will have a speech analysis project to complete next semester.

NOTE: I will survey the class to determine how many copies of 5 Steps to a 5: 500 AP English Language Questions to know by test day that will need to be ordered by the school store. Please refer to "Older Post" and click on the link for this resource that will take you to Amazon. You will probably get a "better" deal if you order it on your own. Furthermore, I recommend that you purchase the 500 Question resource if you are taking AP U.S. History.

Links to All Class Required Reading Assignments
(In addition to other texts you will be assigned.)

Speech Assignment: In approximately two weeks, you will deliver a speech in front of the class-I promise that the content of your speech will be "fun" and enjoyable for all. The topic will be revealed some time next week. Perhaps, you can make an inference based on the readings referenced below. I will provide you with the "hard" copies that we will "annotate" and discuss, focusing on rhetorical appeals.

Socrates Apology

Nixon's Checker's Speech

So-o-o-o-o-o-o-Sorry: The Art of Apology

NOTE: The titles are the links to the documents.

ATTENTION AP STUDENTS FOR THE 2011-2012 SCHOOL YEAR

SAT Vocabulary Tests

Beginning with our second week of school, you will take a Vocabulary Test. For our first test (List 1), you will study all THIRTY of the words on this list-but you will be tested on only TEN of the words. (TEST FORMAT: MATCHING) However, for your second Vocabulary Test you will study all of the words for List 2-but will only be tested on SEVEN of the words from that list AND THREE of the words from List 1. Let me clarify-for our third Vocabulary Test-you will study ALL of the words for List 3-but will only be tested on SEVEN of the words from that list and THREE of the words from List 2. We will follow this procedure throughout the year until you are tested on each of the lists which appear when you click on the link above:"SAT Vocabulary Tests."

I recommend that you make-up Flash-Cards for each list and store them in a shoebox for your review. Furthermore, you probably should print these lists and place them in your required three-ring binder for this class.

PLEASE NOTE: THE SAT VOCABULARY TESTS WILL HAVE A "WEIGHT" of 12% FOR EACH MARKING PERIOD WHEN I COMPUTE YOUR GRADE.

One Look Dictionary for assistance with the pronunciation of the words-you will "hear" how a specific word is pronounced. (Click on "one look.")

Inherit the Wind: Pay close attention to the use of language

When the Emperor was Divine: Assignment Details

I have been receiving inquiries regarding the writing of a reader response/reaction. This is a concern since so many of you have been required to write a response of this nature in your previous English classes. I included a rubric to serve as a "guide" in formulating your responses. Furthermore, I included the statement, "unless you have ice-water running through your veins." Reflect upon specific incidents/narrative statements (do not forget to cite page numbers) and simply react. For every concrete detail, you should have at least two or more sentences of commentary. Imagine the internment of the Japanese did occur in America. Share what made you angry-upset-sad. Place yourself in the shore of the character...If this text was being discussed in class and you were asked to recall a "powerful" image that was created in your mind while you were reading-what would you select? This assignment should be approximately five pages in length. Simply, "talk" on paper! (Double-space)

Ground Zero by Suzanne Berne (essay can also be located in our in-class text : PATTERNS for College Writing-class-set stored in closet-rear of classroom) Homework: TBA (Note: You will first have to review both power-points included below-naturally, we will discuss "close reading" and the rhetorical mode of "description" in class.

Modes of Discourse: DESCRIPTION

National Novel Writing Month: November
For those of you who enjoy writing... (click on the title of this post) Please inform me if you enter a contest.

I am NOT requesting that you purchase a SPECIFIC text for the preparation of the exam (5 Steps to a 5, Cliffs, Kaplan, Princeton, etc.). I recommend that you browse the reference section at Barnes and Noble, Borders (before they close their doors), a public library or the Internet. Select a text that appeals to you. HOWEVER, I am requiring the following resource that specifically prepares for the AP- style multiple choice questions. We will use this text in class, going beyond the mere explanations of the correct answers -focusing on the "rhetoric" of the passage. You may purchase this resource on your own or wait until the LMGHS School Store acquires this text. I would act on the former if I were you. (List price: $14.00; Amazon's price $8.65)

http://www.amazon.com/Language-Questions-Advanced-Placement-Examinations/dp/0071753680/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1311350565&sr=8-1

5 Steps to a 5: 500 AP English Language Questions to Know by Test Day

If you plan on taking other AP Exams, I recommend that you purchase the corresponding "500 AP Question" resource for that exam. Please Note: You do NOT have to be enrolled in a AP class to take an AP examination in May.

Some Reputable News Sources

http://www.latimes.com/
http://www.npr.org/templates/topics/topic.php?topicId=1001
http://www.nytimes.com/
http://www.time.com/time/
http://newamericamedia.org/
http://www.newsweek.com/
http://www.usnews.com/
http://www.slate.com/
http://www.nationalreview.com/
http://www.utne.com/daily.aspx
http://www.nationalgeographic.com/
http://online.wsj.com/home-page
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
http://www.bbc.co.uk/

KnightCite

I wonder why Diedrich posted this link?

Writing in College: A Short Guide to College Writing
Joseph M. Williams and Lawrence McEnerney

http://writing-program.uchicago.edu/resources/collegewriting/index.htm

LINKS TO READING ASSIGNMENTS

http://kdiedri.wordpress.com/?attachment_id=13

AP Language and Composition Exam Results:

5: 11

4: 22

3: 38

2: 23

1: 0

I urge everyone scoring a 2 to have his/her bubble-sheet re-scored. I was shocked that some of the "top" students in the classes received this score. Furthermore, I would even suggest to those scoring a "3" to do the same if you think you may have erased and/or made stray marks on your response sheet.

If we were in session-D-Band would be treated to the celebratory breakfast- (5-5; 10-4; 9-3; 8-2)

I am pleased with the results. Please inform me if you have requested that the College Board re-score you answer sheet.
http://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/ap/exgrd_rep.html

Letter of Recommendations

Request Guidelines

I cannot keep up with the number of requests I receive for student recommendations, so I must restrict the number of recommendations. Please do not be offended or upset if I do not agree to write a recommendation for you. I understand that students need a certain number of recommendations for selective colleges, scholarships, and academies; however, students have many teachers from whom to request recommendations. I trust that if I am unable to write a recommendation for you, you will turn to another teacher, guidance counselor, or coach. Remember, the focus of my recommendations is your reading, writing, and speaking, and critical thinking skills. Colleges want to know that you have the necessary communication skills to be successful at the next level of your academic career.

Should you decide to request a recommendation from me, please answer each of the questions below, and submit them in a Microsoft Word document as an email attachment. I will use your answers to these questions in making my determination about whether or not to write a recommendation for you. Your request must be submitted at least 60 days before the recommendation is due.
1. Did you take the AP exam?
2. What was your score on the AP exam? Preference will be given to those scoring a "4" or a "5".
3. What grade did you earn in AP Language for each semester?
4. How many absences and tardies did you have from my class each semester?
5. What late assignments did you have? What missing assignments did you have?
6. How did you make a positive contribution to classroom discussions and other classroom activities? (Please use specific examples.)
7. In what specific ways did your writing, reading, and analytical skills improve during AP Language and Composition?
8. Explain any other factors that I should take into consideration in my decision about whether or not to write a recommendation for you. (Please note: factors involving your “need” for a recommendation are not pertinent to my consideration.)
9. How often were you insubordinate and /or disrespectful? Think about this one carefully…
10. Priority will be given to those students who were fortunate to have me for more than one year (class).
After I get back to you regarding my ability to write a recommendation for you, I will ask that you gather the rest of the information listed below so that I can begin writing for you.

NOTE: The majority of recommendations I forward to your institution of higher learning are emailed.

Recommendation Materials
Since college admissions officers are interested in your ability to communicate clearly, this is the topic about which I always write.
Carefully follow the directions below to provide me with all of the materials necessary for me to write an effective letter of recommendation for you.
1. Fully-completed and signed recommendation forms (if I need to send them through the mail)
2. Addressed envelopes with postage applied (if I need to send them through the mail)
3. Post-it note(s) with the latest possible due dates that letters of recommendation MUST BE SENT attached to front of envelope(s)

During the fall of every year, many, many students request recommendations from me. After I have agreed to write a recommendation for you, so please give me at least 30 days notice (after you’ve turned in all of the items listed above). If you can allow me more time, that is even better! Each letter takes approximately two (2) hours to write. Typically, I write and send letters far in advance; however, with so many requests, I want to make CERTAIN that your letter is on time!

Feel free to drop off the materials at school in my room (404). Do not ask the office secretary to put the materials in my mailbox. Should you have further questions, please let me know.

What is Plagiarism?

A THREE-RING BINDER-USED EXCLUSIVELY FOR THIS CLASS-IS MANDATORY! I WILL PERIODICALLY-WITHOUT NOTICE-DIRECT YOU TO PLACE YOUR BINDER IN A STORAGE CONTAINER DESIGNATED FOR YOUR BAND. WHEN GRADING YOUR BINDER, I EXPECT TO SEE ALL HANDOUTS, ASSIGNMENTS... (IF ABSENT, IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO VISIT ME DURING 371/2 MINUTES TO RECEIVE WHAT WAS PREVIOUSLY DISTRIBUTED-I CAN NOT AND WILL NOT INTERRUPT A LESSON TO GIVE YOU WHAT YOU MISSED. THE LABELING OF SPECIFIC DIVISIONS WILL BE DISCUSSED DURING OUR FIRST DAY OF CLASS.

ESSAY EXAMINATION

8 JUNE, Wednesday: The Crucible and The Scarlet Letter

You will select ONE prompt from a choice of SIX! You may use any of the resources (handouts) that I have provided-I will walk around to determine that you have not downloaded information that will give you an unfair advantage. Prior to the test, review the handouts I have distributed-especially the one for The Scarlet Letter (ppt). I recommend that you print the ppt handout for The Crucible located on an earlier posting (see below).

The Scarlet Letter

No Fear-Side-by-Side Text: Original/Translated
Just click-on the underlined text...

"Struggle for Human Rights"

If you are considering presenting a topic related to this issue on Wednesday, 25 May, you must inform me of your specific topic by Tuesday, 17 May so I can provide Mr. Del Re with this information. Remember, you will be "generously" rewarded with extra-credit if you do so. (Maximum of two students for each presentation/topic) You must also present the topic to me for my approval/guidance. (37 1/2 minutes)

Textbook Return

Please bring your textbook to class on Monday, 16 May (D Band) and on Tuesday, 17 May (A and B Bands). We will visit the book room and "swap-it" for The Crucible.

Celebratory Breakfast postponed until Week of 23 May.

Mini-Research Paper: The Crucible

AP Exam Instructions

http://professionals.collegeboard.com/testing/ap/test-day/instructions/regular-sched

Once the page opens, scroll down to Exam Instructions By Subject-click on the link for our examination and read what the proctor will be reading to you on Wednesday, 11 May. Do the same if you are scheduled to take another examination.

SOAPSTone: A Review

Review of Rhetoric

Multiple Choice Tips

Beginning Thursday, 12 May...The day after the AP English Language and Composition Examination