Today we are going to take comma quizzes:

(You will take one quiz, place your mouse on your tower. Mrs. Christian will collect your grade. Then you will move on to the next quiz. )

Only take the quizzes once! (If you have a track of taking the quiz twice or restarting, you will receive a 0!!)

Do not start another quiz until you are given permission

Quiz 1
http://owl.english.purdue.edu/handouts/interact/g_commaEX1.html

Quiz 2
http://owl.english.purdue.edu/handouts/interact/g_commacompEX2.html

Quiz 3
http://owl.english.purdue.edu/handouts/interact/g_commaEX2.html

Quiz 4
http://owl.english.purdue.edu/handouts/interact/g_commaEX5.html

Review the COMMA PRACTICE LINK
Next, complete the 5 online exercises

Comma practice link:

http://owl.english.purdue.edu/handouts/grammar/g_comma.html

Complete the following exercises...Check your answers when you finish!

Exercise 1
http://owl.english.purdue.edu/handouts/interact/g_commaEX1.html

Exercise 2
http://owl.english.purdue.edu/handouts/interact/g_commaEX2.html

Exercise 3
http://owl.english.purdue.edu/handouts/interact/g_commaEX2.html

Exercise 4
http://owl.english.purdue.edu/handouts/interact/g_commaEX4.html

Exercise 5
http://owl.english.purdue.edu/handouts/interact/g_commaEX5.html

Friday, 12/14/07

Journal Day

Today you have the option of writing a journal on the following prompt:

List 7 remarkable experiences that have happened in your life. Next, write about each one.

Or

Complete a TWO page free-writing journal

Have a wonderful weekend!!

Quiz:

Create 2 original sentences for each of the following:

1. Introductory clause
2. Introductory Phrase
3. Two indep. Clauses joined by :
i. A coordinating conjunction
ii. Conjunctive Adverb
iii. Semicolon

One sentence for each:
A. A series of 17
B. A series of 9

Comma Lesson

REVIEW THE FOLLOWING POWERPOINT
COMMAS:
http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/ppt/commas.pps

SEMICOLONS:
http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/ppt/semi2.pps


COLON:
http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/ppt/colons.pps

Used the Purdue OWL English site to review several comma rules

http://owl.english.purdue.edu/handouts/grammar/index.html#punctuation

Rules:
Commas after Introductions: with exercise and answer key
Commas vs. Semicolons in Compound Sentences : with exercise and answer key
Commas with Essential and Non-essential Elements: with3 exercises and answer keys
Proofreading for Commas

Monday, Dec., 10, 2007
Prompt:

The country is in dire need of another holiday that everyone can celebrate, and the government has given you the task of picking it. What event will you add to the holiday calendar and why?

OR

Write a two page journal on the topic of your choice

Have a wonderful weekend!!

12/3 - 12/6(Monday through Thursday)
WRITING WITH DETAILS

Students will create a 5-paragraph essay about their favorite possession.

1. Pick an object
2. Make a list of adjectives that describe how the object tastes, looks, feels, smells and sounds.
3. In your essay, discuss the object's purpose without telling the reader the identity of your object
4. Tell how the object is used

-Students will create a descriptive/ narrative essay describing their favorite possession.
-Vivid details should be used in place of naming the object and its purpose

-be creative.

On Wednesday, 12/5 and Thursday 12/6, Students will read their essays aloud. The rest of the class will attempt to guess their favorite objects.

December 3, 2007

Students will review the format for a NARRATIVE ESSAY:

NARRATIVE ESSAY:

Narrative/ Imaginative Writing- A story, actual or fictional, expressed orally or in writing

Function of Narrative Writing- Encourages creativity and speculation, and offers readers an opportunity to understand the emotions and actions of writers and others

Types of Narrative Writing- Autobiographical account, personal narrative, verifiable account, memoir, fictional story, sensory response, character study, descriptive writing, reflective essay

Tips:
1. Set a purpose-- decide on the reason for your writing

2. Select an Audience-- The people who will read the piece of writing

1.4.11.A Write narrative pieces
1.5.11A Write with a sharp, distinct focus

November 29, 2007

Journal Day

Today you will create a tale. It can be fiction or nonfiction.

Please use the following words in your story:

Their its affect by envelop
There it's effect buy envelope
They're

Try to be creative.

You must use all of the words from the list. (You may use each several times)
Please highlight or circle the words when you are finished with the assignment.

Please give your final copy to the teacher by the end of the period.

Nov. 7-Nov. 28
Students will finalize their research papers.

All papers, works cited page and notes are due on Nov. 28.

Wednesday- Nov. 21



Journal Day


Journal Day


It's 3 a.m. and your nightly slumber was interrupted by a screeching sound. The noise is coming from your closet. What can it be? Scared as you are, you still decide to take a peek. Describe what you find.



You may write your journal using the prompt



or



Write two pages on the topic of your choice


Have a safe weekend!!

Monday- Friday (Nov. 12-Nov. 16)

Goal: Students will complete the research process.

1. Students will take notes
2. Students will immediately record Works Cited information
3. Students will be sure to gather notes that can be used for the following types of citations:
Direct quotes, Extended quotes, and paraphrased material

4. Wednesday- Note check

5. Wednesday and Thursday: Write rough drafts and final drafts

Wed. and Thurs. (Nov. 7-8)

Today we are going to write a three (3) paragraph essay.

-Select a topic with which you are familiar
-Make sure it is a topic that we can research at a later date.

Opening paragraph:
1. Begin with a motivator
2. Brief background/ relevant information that will enhance your opening paragraph.
-This information must be RELATIVE to your thesis statement
3. Thesis statement and 1 part blueprint

Paragraph 2
1. Begin with a transition/ topic sentence.
2. Use specific examples/ details
3. Make sure you are using valid points that support your thesis

Paragraph 3
1. Conclusion

Requirements: Paragraphs must have a minimum of 6-8 relevant sentences
No first or second person
No slang
Must be written using complete sentences
Avoid words such as "stuff" and "Thing"

Journal Day
November 6, 2007

(You will have to complete your journal on a separate sheet of paper. Your notebooks are being graded.)

Write a journal entry using the following prompt:

Write about a person who has made a difference in your life. (Discuss this person, Describe what is special about them, and tell how they have made a difference in your life)

OR

Write two pages on the topic of your choice

1.4.11D Maintain a written record of activities, course work

Students will finalize their Power Point presentations

**Presentations will begin tomorrow

Presentations

Students will create a 10 slide Power Point presentation

Requirements:
-Students will create a 10 slide presentation
-Presentations should be 5 minutes long
-Presentations must be creative.
*The slides should be creative and contain a theme
*Students should present their material in a creative manner (EX. Dress like their
character,bring information to pass out to the class, create an overview sheet for the class, play music or
video clips)


Restrictions:
-You may not read from note cards or your slides
-Your slides must be creative.......More than a photo or a group of words
-You may use 3 small note cards during your presentation; however, you may not read from the cards.

Click the link below to view rubric for this project:
Power Point Project Rubric
http://rubistar.4teachers.org/index.php?screen=ShowRubric&rubric_id=1474890&

Journal
Friday, 10/26/07
Write a journal using the following prompt:

Create your own imaginary best friend. What does he look like? What's his zodiac sign? What are her likes and dislikes?
or

Write three pages on the topic of your choice

1.4.11D Maintain a written record of activities, course work

Tuesday - Thursday (10/23-10/25)

Presentations

Students will create a 10 slide Power Point presentation

Requirements:
-Students will create a 10 slide presentation
-Presentations should be 5 minutes long
-Presentations must be creative.
*The slides should be creative and contain a theme
*Students should present their material in a creative manner (EX. Dress like their
character,bring information to pass out to the class, create an overview sheet for the class, play music or
video clips)


Restrictions:
-You may not read from note cards or your slides
-Your slides must be creative.......More than a photo or a group of words
-You may use 3 small note cards during your presentation; however, you may not read from the cards.

Click the link below to view rubric for this project:
Power Point Project Rubric
http://rubistar.4teachers.org/index.php?screen=ShowRubric&rubric_id=1474890&

All research papers are due today!!

Please turn in your paper and your notebook by the end of the period.

Writing Day

Everyone should be writing their research paper today. Be sure to use the resources to help support these papers. Everyone needs to use at least 5 different sources in their paper. Remember not to plagiarise. Cite everything pulled from another authors' work.

If anyone has not finished their works cited yet, they are rapidly running out of time. This is a short project. Everything is due Monday. There is no time to be wasted today. No one should be goofing around on outside sources or there will be point deductions. NO GAMES, NO VIDEOS, NO WEB SURFING, NO ESPN. I will be checking to make sure everyone is working.


Academic Content Standards:

1.5.11 d WRITE WITH A COMMAND OF THE STYLISTIC ASPECTS OF COMPOSITION
1.5.11c WRITE WITH CONTROLLED ORGANIZATION
1.5.11a WRITE WITH A SHARP , DISTINCT FOCUS
1.5.11 b WRITE USING WELL-DEVELOPED CONTENT APPROPRIATE FOR THE TOPIC

Writing Day

Everyone should be writing their research paper today. Be sure to use the resources to help support these papers. Everyone needs to use at least 5 different sources in their paper. Remember not to plagiarise. Cite everything pulled from another authors' work.

If anyone has not finished their works cited yet, they are rapidly running out of time. This is a short project and with the day off yesterday things are getting down to the wire. No one should be goofing around on outside sources or there will be point deductions. NO GAMES, NO VIDEOS, NO WEB SURFING, NO ESPN. I will be checking to make sure everyone is working.





Academic Content Standards:

1.5.11 d WRITE WITH A COMMAND OF THE STYLISTIC ASPECTS OF COMPOSITION
1.5.11c WRITE WITH CONTROLLED ORGANIZATION
1.5.11a WRITE WITH A SHARP , DISTINCT FOCUS
1.5.11 b WRITE USING WELL-DEVELOPED CONTENT APPROPRIATE FOR THE TOPIC

Beginning Writing

Today everyone should begin writing their papers and works cited page. Noodletools is the best aide for creating these works cited pages. The Noodletools site can be very slow. If it lags, work on the paper until the page finishes loading. Remember there is a very limited amount of time to complete this paper so everyone needs to be constantly working.



Academic Content Standard:
1.5.11C- Write with controlled organization
1.5.11D- Write with a command of the stylistic aspects of composition.
1.8.11A- Select and refine a topic for research
1.8.11B- Locate information using appropriate sources and strategies.

Research Day 2

Today we will be continuing researching everyone's given topic. There is not much time to complete this project so everyone should be working. Be sure to cover as many sources as possible. Everyone will need to use at least five different sources in their final paper. Be sure to write down all of the information for each source, not just the URL. It may be impossible to get back to these articles without the proper information.

If anyone needs help with their topics, do not be afraid to ask. I'll do my best to help find as much information as possible. Remember time is very limited so do not play around. People will fail if they do not have enough sources because they are goofing around.

I will be checking notebooks for a grade to be sure that everyone is doing their research, not playing on the internet. Anyone playing games, looking at ESPN, watching music videos, etc. will be losing points.

Research Day

Today everyone will begin the research for their topic. Be sure to take notes during the researching process.
Everyone should be taking notes in their journals as they are researching. Be sure to take all of the information necessary to create a works cited while researching. Try to get as much information down on paper as possible.

Make sure that citations and notes are kept on the same journal page. Refer to the Bucknell link for any questions about the formating of citations. Be sure to know what kind of source is being cited at all times. (ex: newspaper, journal, book, website, popular magazine, etc. )

I will be checking notebooks for a grade to be sure that everyone is doing their research, not playing on the internet. Anyone playing games, looking at ESPN, watching music videos, etc. will be losing points.




Academic Content Standards:
1.8.11A- Select and refine a topic for research
1.8.11B- Locate information using appropriate sources and strategies.

Researching Databases


Today will be everyone's last chance to learn all they can about the databases that we have access to. I will be covering another major site today which does require a login name and user password. Be sure to pay attention and make sure to write down the information somwhere that it will not get lost.

Everyone needs to make sure that they understand how to use each fo these sites after today, because I will not be spending time explaining this again.


Primary Source- an original fundamental and authoritative document pertaining to an event or subject of inquiry; a firsthand or eyewitness account of an event

Secondary Source- any document that describes an event, person, place, or thing, usually not created contemporaneously (not created at the time of the event)

Example:
A biography is a secondary source and an autobiography is a primary source.




These specfic databases should be the most useful for this project.

Databases searchable under EBSCOhost Web:

MasterFILE Premier- (Almost 2,000 general reference articles. Over 100,000 primary source documents)

Newspaper Source (Database of various newspapers from around the country)

ERIC- (Educational magazines and journals)

MAS Ultra- (Searchable database containing hundreds of modern popular high school magazines)

Funk & Wagnall's New World Encyclopedia- (The complete Encyclopedia)

History Reference Center- (Articles from magazines and journals on thousands of historical events)

SIRS Discoverer (Searchable database on thousands of topics)

****Nettrekker: (Educational search engine approved by teachers)
Required to log on to Nettrekker
Username: Berwickhs
Password: Library


AP Multimedia Archive- (Associated Press Photos)

Contemporary Authors- (Articles/Biographies on Modern Authors)

Biography Reference Bank- (Biographies on thousands of individuals both living and deceased)


No one may use outside search engines (Lycos, Google, Dogpile, etc.) or Wikipedia. These are not reliable sources of information.


http://dianahacker.com/pdfs/Hacker-Daly-MLA.pdf

http://www.bucknell.edu/Documents/ISR/mla.pdf





Academic Content Standard:
1.8.11A- Select and refine a topic for research
1.8.11B- Locate information using appropriate sources and strategies.

Researching Basics

Today we will be working with a few more of the tools that are accessible within the lab. Be sure to pay attention to everything today. It is going to be a very short period, so we have to move fairly quickly. We will be working with Nettrekker, SIRS, Newspaper source and AP Multimedia.

If at any points there are any questions, do not be afraid to stop me and ask.

Nettrekker will require a password.

Username: Berwickhs
Password: Library

These databases are full of reliable sources for research papers. There should be no reason to search outside sources for this project.




We will also be picking topics today. Only one person in each class can write a paper on a specific topic. Here is the list to choose from:


Music

Prince
Buddy Holly
Gene Autry
Mel Torme
Burl Ives
Steven Tyler
Rage Against the Machine
Angus Young
Meatloaf Adel
Jimmy Buffet
Ozzy Osbourne
Michael Jackson
Elvis
Jerry Garcia
Johnny Cash
Rolling Stone
Sir Paul McCartney
Ringo Starr
Phil Collins
Bono
Dave Matthews
Toby Keith
Alan Jackson
Breaking Benjamin
Fuel
Luciano Pavoratti
Slash
Jon Bon Jovi
Eddie Van Halen
Eric Clapton
Sir Elton John
James Hetfield
Dave Mustaine
Ludwig Van Beethoven
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Actors
Don Johnson
Kelsey Grammer
Tony Shaloo
Bill Cosby
Dustin Hoffman
Julia Roberts
Shirley Temple
Judy Garland
Alyssa Milano
Gene Wilder
Richard Pryor
Bob Sagat
Christopher Reeve
Angelina Jolie
Tommy Lee Jones
Will Smith
Robert Eungland
Johnny Depp
Henry Winkler
Michael Keaton
Arnold Schwarzenegger
Lou Ferrigno
Martin Scorcese
John Travolta
Michael J. Fox
Bill Murray
Dan Akroyd
Tim Allen
David Caradine
Bruce Willis
Adam Sandler
Ray Ramano
Sir Anthony Hopkins
Jennifer Aniston
Sara Michelle Gellar
Jerry Lewis
Jack Nicholson
Jack Palance


Authors
Bram Stoker
Charles Dickens
William Shakespeare
Homer
Dante Alighieri
Virgil
John Steinbeck
J.D. Salinger
J.R.R. Tolkien
J.K. Rowling
Kurt Vonnegut
Christopher Marlowe
R.L. Stine
Alexandre Dumas
Nathaniel Hawthorne
Herman Mellville
Edgar Alan Poe
Ernest Hemmingway
Stephen King

Artists
Picasso
Leonardo DaVinci
Michelangelo
Raphael
Rembrandt
Van Goh
Monet
Charles M. Schultz

Directors
Tim Burton
Stephen Speilberg
George Lucas
George Romero
Matt Groening
Quentin Tarintino
John Carpenter
Alfred Hitchcock

Royalty
Marie Antoinette
Louie XIV
Richard III
Mary Queen of Scots
Queen Elizabeth I
Henry Tudor

Inventors
Thomas Edison
Ben Franklin
Bill Gates
Phil Harrison
Eli Whitney
Johann Gutenburg
Isaac Newton
Orville/ Wilbur Wright
Leonardo DaVinci
Sam Walton
Rupert Murdock



Political Figures
Ghandi
Mother Theresa
Pope John Paul II
Buddha
Fidel Castro
Hillary Clinton
Al Gore
Douglas McArthur
Martin Luther King Jr.
Dalai Lama

Historical Figures
Christopher Columbus
Sigmund Freud
Charlemagne
Julius Caesar
Henry Ford
Nicolaus Copernicus
Alexander the Great
Aristotle



Sports Stars
Michael Jordan
Jerome Bettis
Joe Dimaggio
Mia Hamm
David Beckham
Babe Ruth
Boomer Esaison
Joe Montana
Tiger Woods
Barry Bonds
Tony Hawk
Tony Dungy
Brett Favre
Andre Agasi
Maria Sharpova
Ana Kournakova
Venus/Serena Williams
Yao Ming
Matt Hoffman
Larry Bird
Allan Iverson
Wayne Gretzky
Mario Lemieux

Television Personalities
Katie Couric
Ted Turner
Bob Hope
Ellen Degeneres
Oprah
Dr. Phil
Johnny Carson
David Letterman
John Stewart
Ryan Seacrest
Jerry Springer
Montel Williams
Rachael Ray
Barbra Walters
Walter Cronkite

Presidents:
Dwight D. Eisenhower
Franklin Delano Roosevelt
Harry S. Truman
Abraham Lincoln
Thomas Jefferson
George Washington
Benjamin Franklin
John F. Kennedy
George Bush
George W. Bush
Gerald Ford
Alexander Hamilton
Ronald Regan
Richard Nixon










Academic Content Standards:

1.8.11A- Select and refine a topic for research
1.8.11B- Locate information using appropriate sources and strategies.

Parallel Structure and Research

Today we will be covering parallel structure for just a short while to be sure that everyone is comforable with the topic. Remember, parallel structure is extremely important in any papers so everyone needs to be sure that they have this down. If there are any questions, today is the day to ask them. I will not be going in to detail on this subject again, so "speak now or forever hold your peace."

Do not forget. Parallel structure involves writing all of the items of any series in a similar structure.

Once everyone has parallel structure under control, we will move on to our next topic.

We will begin working with some of the research tools that are available in the classroom. This is going to be another very important aspect of the next project we begin so take notes.

There will be a lot to search for and only a little time, so everyone needs to be on the same page.

If anyone has any questions today do not be afraid to ask. The sooner everyone understands research, the easier this project will be.

Parallel Structure

In many of the PSSA prompts that were submitted, parallel structure was almost non-existant.
It appears that many of you do not fully understand this idea so we will be spending a day working on this idea to help improve your writing.

We will start with a simple definition:
Parallel structure means using the same pattern of words to show that two or more ideas have the same level of importance.

This means that when creating a sentence with a series of ideas, all of these ideas must be constructed in a similar manner. This plays an extremely important role in the creation of blueprints.

By keeping items parallel you are giving them the same amount of importance in your paper. Since your three blueprint items are supposed to be the support for your thesis, they should all carry the same weight in your paper.

This is very important when writing academic papers so be sure to pay attention today.




EDIT: ****For anyone that missed school here are the examples that we went over in class****

Example 1
(-ing ending vs. infinitive)

Not Parallel: Mary likes hiking, swimming, and to ride a bicycle.

Parallel: Mary likes to hike, to swim, and to ride a bicycle.

OR

Parallel: Mary likes hiking, swimming, and riding a bicycle.

Example 2
(single word/phrase choice)

Not Parallel: The production manager was asked to write his report quickly, accurately, and in a detailed manner.

Parallel: The production manager was asked to write his report quickly, accurately, and thoroughly.



Example 3
(Noun/verb choice)

Not Parallel: The teacher said that he was a poor student because he waited until the last minute to study for the exam, completed his lab problems in a careless manner, and his motivation was low.

Parallel: The teacher said that he was a poor student because he waited until the last minute to study for the exam, completed his lab problems in a careless manner, and lacked motivation.


Example 1
(Phrases)

Not Parallel: The coach told the players that they should get a lot of sleep, that they should not eat too much, and to do some warm-up exercises before the game.
Parallel: The coach told the players that they should get a lot of sleep, that they should not eat too much, and that they should do some warm-up exercises before the game.
-- or --
Parallel: The coach told the players that they should get a lot of sleep, not eat too much, and do some warm-up exercises before the game.


Example 2
Not Parallel: The salesman expected that he would present his product at the meeting, that there would be time for him to show his slide presentation, and that questions would be asked by prospective buyers.


Parallel: The salesman expected that he would present his product at the meeting, that there would be time for him to show his slide presentation, and that prospective buyers would ask him questions.



Not Parallel: The dictionary can be used for these purposes: to find word meanings, pronunciations, correct spellings, and looking up irregular verbs.


Parallel: The dictionary can be used for these purposes: to find word meanings, pronunciations, correct spellings, and irregular verbs.


Academic Content Standard:
1.5.11C- Write with controlled organization
1.5.11D- Write with a command of the stylistic aspects of composition.

Journal Day

Today is the end of the week and that means it is once again journal day.
Everyone did a good job with their presentations this week, despite all of the chaos due to the computer crash and krispy kreames.
I've decided since everyone did such a good job this week that you will be getting a small reward.

I am going to allow everyone to have a free write today. You can write about anything thing that comes to mind, however there are a few catches.

1. You must be constantly writing.
2. You must complete 3 full pages of writing.
3. It must be quiet. No talking.
4. Whatever you write about must be school appropriate. (No drugs, racy topics, alcohol, guns, violence, etc.
5. No games
6. No Internet until you have completed 3 FULL pages.

Have fun with this and enjoy the long weekend!

Journal Day

Today is Friday and that means it is once again, journal day. Everyone will need their journals. You must be working! Everyone will need to complete three full pages intheir notebook before the end of the class period today. There is no specific format you need to use, just write.

Since today is the unnofficial start of the Bloomsburg Fair, I am going to let everyone write about the Fair. You may write about anything you feel like involving the Fair. (Favorite foods, things to do, things you like, things you do not like, favorite stops, shows you are going to see, etc.)

Anyone that cannot think of anything to write about the Fair must still be writing. I will give you the option to freewrite today until you can think of something. This means that you can write whatever comes to mind, as long as it school appropriate. (no racy topics, drugs, alcohol, violence, etc.) Any violations of this rule will result in disciplinary action.

Everyone must be quiet today as well. If I hear too much talking going on, you will lose journal day.

Have fun and try not to eat too much this weekend.

Academic Content Standard:
5.1.11A- Write with a distinctive focus.
1.5.11B- Write using well-developed content appropriate for the topic.
1.5.11C- Write with controlled organization
1.5.11D- Write with a command of the stylistic aspects of composition.

Informational Essay Day 3

Today we will be starting the final phases of this project. I will be giving you a few minutes at the beginning of class to finalize any remaining writing for this essay.

Be sure to proofread this very well. Remember you cannot use first person, second person or contractions. Do not forget to double check that you also have every required step in your process.

Once you have finished your proofreading, let me know and I will tell you when you can print.

Before the end of class we will begin presentations for anyone that can start their presentations without any outside materials.

Anyone who does not get to go today will be presenting on Monday.
Do not forget to bring any materials you will need.

Academic Content Standards:
1.5.11A- Write with a distinctive focus.
1.5.11B- Write using well-developed content appropriate for the topic.
1.5.11C- Write with controlled organization
1.5.11D- Write with a command of the stylistic aspects of composition.

Informational Essay Day 2

Today we will be continuing to work on the informational essays that you began in class yesterday. You will need to complete these essays by the end of the period, so everyone should be working. As long as everyone finishes their assignment today we can begin presentations tomorrow.

That however, hinges on the fact that EVERYONE must be done writing.

If you have any questions about your paper do not be afraid to ask. I will help you with any part of your essay, but I will not write it for you. If you are having trouble finding a way to avoid second person, ask me and we will work it out.

Remember there can be no first or second person in this paper.
You cannot use contractions.
MOST IMPORTANTLY, we must be able to act out your how-to in class.

If you are having problems in any of these areas, see me immediately.

You may refer back to the previous two days blogs if you need any refreshers on what you should be doing.





Academic Content Standards:
1.5.11A- Write with a distinctive focus.
1.5.11B- Write using well-developed content appropriate for the topic.
1.5.11C- Write with controlled organization
1.5.11D- Write with a command of the stylistic aspects of composition.

Informational Essay

Yesterday we began working with informational essays. We had a demonstration of just how difficult it can be to ensure you have filled in every detail when giving information.

Today, in order for everyone to learn how to write the facts without interjecting opinion, we will be writing how-to essays. Using the steps you started working on yesterday, we will begin writing a paper. You will need to take the ordered steps that you chose and place them into paragraph format.

I will be giving you more time today to finish writing out all of the steps you will need to finish this project.

Be sure to include every detail of the task you are writing about.
Remember leaving out even one little step can completely stop your project.
You cannot skip steps. If you would need to do it, you need to write about it.

Remember to be specific. If something must be done with a specific hand, foot, etc. be sure to note it.
If a specific part of something must be used,(left shoelace, right corner, etc.) be sure to mention that as well.
Make sure that someone else would be able to follow your directions to accomplish the task you have chosen.

While writing your paper, be sure to keep track of what step you are on in your process.
Do not let your steps fall out of order. Everything has a specific time it must be done, keep it that way.
Your paper needs to have a clear introduction, body and conclustion.
You will need a thesis for this paper.
I will explain the body paragraphs in detail in class.
Rememeber this paper must be unbaised, that means no opinion in this paper.

I should not see any use of the first (I, we, us) or second person (you).
This paper must be written in the third person. (He, She, They)

Do not use any contractions (it's, they're, can't, don't, won't, etc.)





Academic Content Standards:

1.5.11 d WRITE WITH A COMMAND OF THE STYLISTIC ASPECTS OF COMPOSITION
1.5.11c WRITE WITH CONTROLLED ORGANIZATION
1.5.11a WRITE WITH A SHARP , DISTINCT FOCUS
1.5.11 b WRITE USING WELL-DEVELOPED CONTENT APPROPRIATE FOR THE TOPIC

Writing an Informational Essay

Informational Writing: Material through which an author shares ideas, facts, or instructions by helping the reader to compare familiar items with items that are not familiar

In other words, an informational essay explains a process or shows the reader how something works.

Informational writing offers factual, unbiased, and expansive information. Informational essays may be based on research, or may be a personal essay based on personal thoughts and observations. (ie. something you have firsthand experience with.)

Differing from many other types of essay, the writer’s job is to explain and inform without offering an opinion or developing an argument.

An Informational essay must be impartial this means an informational essay is always written in the third person.

The goal of an informational essay is provide the reader with a full understanding of a complex process or situation.

Make sure all of your ideas are organized in a logical manner.

Offer concrete explanations and examples

Every "step" must be clear. If one "step" is not clear to the reader, then every step that follows is useless.

-Informational Writing is used in completing school projects, applying for and carrying out the duties of a job, and performing personal communications.

Types of Informational Writing include: Letters, biographies, definitions of simple abstract ideas, summaries, instructions or directions, description of a method or process, explanation of causes and effects, analysis of facts or ideas, comparisons of facts and ideas, expression of opinion through critique or review.

http://factoryschool.org/handbook/essays/EssayInformational.html - Example of an Informational essay.


1.5.11 d WRITE WITH A COMMAND OF THE STYLISTIC ASPECTS OF COMPOSITION
1.5.11c WRITE WITH CONTROLLED ORGANIZATION
1.5.11a WRITE WITH A SHARP , DISTINCT FOCUS
1.5.11 b WRITE USING WELL-DEVELOPED CONTENT APPROPRIATE FOR THE TOPIC

PSSA Practice Day

We have spent the last week practicing writing Introductory Paragraphs for a 5 paragraph essay. Today we will be putting that practice to use.

Everyone will be required to respond to a PSSA writing prompt, using the 5 paragraph essay format.

You will have exactly 30 minutes once we begin to complete the prompt.

There will be no extensions on this project, it will take place just as if today were the PSSA writing exam.

Everyone will be asked to respond to the prompt:


Allowing students to leave campus during school hours has been restricted by some school districts. Do you agree with this idea? Why or why not?

Write a short essay explaining your ideas about this topic. Use facts and clear writing to be persuasive.


After 30 minutes the prompts will be collected to be graded based on the PSSA writing rubric.



Academic Content Standards:

1.5.11A Write with a sharp, distinct focus
1.5.11 B Write using well-developed content appropriate for the topic
1.5.11C Write with controlled organization
1.5.11D Write with a command of the stylistic aspects of composition.

Journal Day

Today is Friday and that means it is Journal Day.

The first thing we will be doing today is discussing 2 news articles. Take five minutes to read the 2 links and we will discuss them briefly as a class.

Germy Playgrounds

Squirrel Attacks Boy

You will have the remainder of the period to write in your journals about the following prompt:

You were given unlimited funding to go on a one week vacation and the ability to take one other person with you on this trip.
1. Who would you take with you?
2. Where would you go? (You may make multiple stops, but remember you only have 7 days.)
3. What would you do when you got there?

Do not forget that you need to fill at least two pages in your journal by the end of class and keep it clean. No racy topics, drugs, alcohol, etc.

Have fun!



Academic Content Standards:

1.5.11A Write with a sharp, distinct focus
1.5.11 B Write using well-developed content appropriate for the topic

WELCOME TO COMP. 1

Composition I focuses on improving student writing skills.

This year we will be exploring narrative, informative, descriptive, and persuasive writing.

Students will become familiar with standards and terminology for the PSSA.

Every Friday we will part from formal writing and jump into our journals.

All work will be graded. Students MUST meet deadlines. Late work will not be accepted.
All work must be completed. Partial essays, projects and journals will receive a zero.

Monday, May 7 - Friday, May 11

Monday-Wednesday
1. Students will finalize their research projects.
2. All papers must be proofed by 3 students.

Thursday
1. Turn in your research paper

Order:
A. Cover page
B. Outline
C. Final Draft
D. Works Cited Page
E. Bibliography Page
F. Proofed rough draft
G. Notes

(All papers must be bound !)

Friday- Journal:

2 pages:
Describe a perfect word

or

Writer's Choice

Research Paper

Weekly Plan

Monday- Turn in outlines

1. Individual conference to discuss outline

Tuesday - Thursday
1. Continue to record notes
2. Begin to write rough drafts

Friday- Journal Day and NOTEBOOK CHECK

Journal Topic:

Write 1-10 lines from your favorite song. (Make a bibliography entry for the song/ artist)

Discuss how these lines have an impact on your life, how they inspire you or how they motivate you.

or

Write two pages on the topic of your choice

Monday - Thursday (4/23-4/26)

Monday and Tuesday:
Students will go to the library to collect research. (Tangible!!!!)

Wednesday and Thursday:
Continue working on your research

Create a working outline
-Turn it in for 25 points

Friday: Journal Day

Friday, 4/20/07
Journal Day

Something is rotten in your refrigerator. Write a scene in which the condiments residing in the door shelves plot to take over the prime real estate on the top shelf, front and center. Will milk be spilled? (And who'll be crying?)

or

Write two pages on the topic of your choice

We will meet in the library on Monday and Tuesday to continue our research project.

Have a safe weekend!!

Monday, April 16

Using the Power Library

1. Students will report to the library for both classes

2. Students will be introduced to different search engines

3. With the help of Mrs. Christian and Miss Hoffman, students will begin to research their projects

Power Library Link:

http://www.powerlibrary.org/Interface/POWER.asp?ID=PL4142

Nettrekker
Nettrekker.com


Students will do preliminary research on a subject of their choice. (They must use
Nettrekker: Username: Berwickhs Password: Library
Power Library
An Official Website
Tangible sources
(NO random Google searches will be accepted for research. Also, any information from Wikipedia will not be accepted.)

Requirements:
Research paper requirements
~Must be 2-21/2 pages long
~Times New Roman 12pt font, double space
~Do not adjust the margins of the page
~The paper will follow the five paragraph format, but will be more than five paragraphs long
~Must create an outline
~Have 4 sources minimum cited in the paper, that includes direct quotations, partial quotations, and paraphrased material
~1 of the sources must be tangible (books, magazines, etc.)
~Must take notes on 8 sources, 2 must be tangible
~All of the 8 sources will be on the bibliography page. The 5 used in the paper will be on the works cited page
~Option of creating note cards or note book

Once the research is completed, students will organize their notes, write a profile article and prepare for an oral presentation on their subject.

Visual: (must include one)
PowerPoint
Collage
Creative visuals


1.4.11B Write complex informational pieces
1.5.11A Write with a sharp, distinct focus

Notebook Check!! (10 pts.)

1. Begin to take notes on your topic
-Remember:
-Record all bibliography information on a single page. (use the following link to create your entry:
www.noodletools.com

-Take notes: Be sure to place quotation marks around direct and partial quotes
-Remember to write down all page numbers next to your notes

Tomorrow is Journal Day

Monday: Library (Miss Hoffman will introduce research tools)
Tues.- Thurs. Research in library

1.4.11B Write complex informational pieces

MLA IN-TEXT CITATIONS:

http://www.dianahacker.com/resdoc/p04_c08_s1.html

Sample Paper:
http://dianahacker.com/pdfs/Hacker-Daly-MLA.pdf

Monday, April 10, 2007

Reading about a selected topic and taking notes

GOAL: Students will read about their selected topic to assure that it is suitable for our research project

-Students should spend the entire class READING about their topic.
-Students may record a list of links that may prove useful to their project
**Students will use proper methods to record notes (direct quotes, paraphrased material and partial
quotes)
-Students will record bibliography entries


**Students must have a basic knowledge of their topics before they begin their research

1.2.11B Use and understand a variety of media and evaluate the quality of material produced

NO JOURNAL TODAY!!

1. All students should spend the period researching their topic. Please take notes and keep track of websites. YOU MAY NOT USE WIKIPEDIA!!!!!

Have a wonderful and safe holiday!!
Mrs. C

Monday, 4/2 and Tuesday, 4/3 - research

1 Using the following link, we will explore the elements of a research paper.

http://www.bucknell.edu/Documents/ISR/mla.pdf

http://dianahacker.com/pdfs/Hacker-Daly-MLA.pdf

2. We will discuss the following:
-the purpose of citing within a paper
-Direct quotation and paraphrased work
-The WORKS CITED AND BIB. PAGE
-The form of a research paper
-Where to find information
-Citing information

Links to electronic citing:

http://www.noodletools.com/

http://www.citationmachine.net/

Question/ Answer link:
http://mtsu32.mtsu.edu:11178/171/tips.htm

1.4.11B Write complex informational pieces
1.5.11A Write with a sharp, distinct focus

Wednesday, March 28, 2007

1.Select a topic for the research project

2.Organize Subtopics

Today, each group will assign the subtopics to the group members


Discuss note taking and citing

1.4.11B Write complex informational pieces
1.2.11B Use and understand a variety of media and evaluate the quality of material produced

Journal Day


It's 3 a.m. and your nightly slumber was interrupted by a screeching sound. The noise is coming from your closet. What can it be? Scared as you are, you still decide to take a peek. Describe what you find.

You may write your journal using the prompt

or

Write two pages on the topic of your choice

Have a safe weekend!!

3/13-3/15
1. Over the next two days, we will take those timed prompts from Monday and finish them.
2. Please take your time, add detail, organize and proof

3/15- Peer edit
Have your paper proofed by 5 classmates. Use the Persuasive rubric from the PSSA Link.

PSSA Link:http://www.pde.state.pa.us/a_and_t/lib/a_and_t/Gr11WritingSamp.pdf

go to page 25

Monday, 3/12
Timed Prompt

-Writing a persuasive essay

1. Teacher read PSSA instructions to the class.
2. Students wrote for 30 minutes on the following prompt:

Write a letter convincing the administration to change to our current cafeteria system. (i.e. incorporate a fast food restaurant into our cafeteria, revamp the current lunch system, or allow students to leave school during lunch time

*State your opinion clearly
*Support your opinion with specific details
*Present your ideas clearly and logically
*Use words and well-constructed sentences
*Correct any errors in spelling, punctuation and capitalization


HINT:
Allow 4-5 minutes of the session to set your focus. This will help you leave enough time to develop your content and organize your ideas during the 30 minute session

Because a clear focus will help you complete the other stages more easily and successfully, you should work carefully

Monday, 3/5/07
Adjectives : Chapter 18 Writing and Grammar

Read page 378 and 380

-Complete exercise 1 page 380
-Create 15 sentences containing adjectives
-Underline the adjective and draw an arrow to the word they modify.
- Complete exercise 2 on page 382
- Review all answers from today's work

Tuesday, 3/6/07
Read the sections:
Articles: 382
- Complete Exercise 4 on page 383
Nouns Used as Adjectives: 383
-Complete Exercises 5 and 6 Page 384
Proper and Compound Adjectives: pages 384-85
-complete Exercise 7 page 385

Wednesday, 3/7/07
Read the following sections:
Pronouns Used as Adjectives: Page 386- 387
-Complete Exercise 10 on page 387

-Complete: The Section Review pg 389
Exercises 11, 12,13,14, and 15
(Read and peer grade in class)
-This will be graded by students and entered into the gradebook

Thursday, 3/8
Take the Diagnostic Test on Page 379
Complete SKill Check A and SkillCheck B - To be turned in for a quiz grade.

Wednesday, Feb. 14 (Happy Valentine's Day)
Free Writing Journal Day

-Students will write a two page journal on the topic of their choice.

-Make sure each journal entry is dated.

Students will rewrite their 5 paragraph INFORMATIVE ESSAY
(Students will make revisions discussed during the individual teacher conference)

All Papers are due on Tuesday, 2/13

2/6-2/8

Individual Conferences

Students will review their 5 Paragraph, Informative Essay with the teacher.

-Students will restructure and evaluate their essays

-Students will begin to rewrite after the conference

REVIEW THE THREE INTRODUCTORY PARAGRAPHS.

Students should check their format as it is reviewed in class. Time will be given in class to complete revisions.

1. Students should create a full outline for the 5-paragraph essay on one of the three paragraph topics
2. Once the outlines are completed, students should begin to write their essay

Writing an Informational Essay
Informational Writing: Material through which an author shares ideas, facts, or instructions by helping the reader to compare familiar items with items that are not familiar.

-Informational Writing is used in completing school projects, applying for and carrying out the duties of a job, and performing personal communications.

Types of Informational Writing include: Letters, biographies, definitions of simple abstract ideas, summaries, instructions or directions, description of a method or process, explanation of causes and effects, analysis of facts or ideas, comparisons of facts and ideas, expression of opinion through critique or review.

1.5.11 d WRITE WITH A COMMAND OF THE STYLISTIC ASPECTS OF COMPOSITION
1.5.11c WRITE WITH CONTROLLED ORGANIZATION
1.5.11a WRITE WITH A SHARP , DISTINCT FOCUS
1.5.11 b WRITE USING WELL-DEVELOPED CONTENT APPROPRIATE FOR THE TOPIC

REVIEW AND EDIT

Students will review and edit their writing prompts. They will proof, add detail and rework the timed essay. As a result, students will be able to see improvement in their writing.

Students will evaluate their work according to the PSSA Rubric for Persuasive Writing.

See page 26 of the link:

PSSA Link:http://www.pde.state.pa.us/a_and_t/lib/a_and_t/Gr11WritingSamp.pdf

1.5.11A Write with a sharp, distinct focus

Final Journal

Creative Writing Project

Elvis rescued the following people:
Allie Katie
Bethanne Jim
Karen Jolynn
Terra Haley
Myranda Renee

They all arrived safely back in Las Vegas. As a matter of fact, Jim is now an Elvis impersonator in an act with the real Elvis.

As for the rest of the crew, they were rescued ten years later by Mrs. Christian and her new friend who is a true "Pirate of the Caribbean." They all reside in the US -- except for Jean, Molly and Breonna who decided to stay on the island. Eventually, they claimed ownership of the island and now run a billion dollar resort. Jean is not only the owner, but the head chef.

It is hard to believe that those rescued by Elvis never revealed the location of the others who were still stranded on the island.

Jumping into the future, it has been 15 years since the group was first stranded on their island. For your final journal, write at least a two page letter discussing any final thoughts on your experience. Also, include your current job and lifestyle. Conclude by explaining how the island changed your life.

Creative Writing - Island Journal

Allie and Katie received equal votes. Therefore, they are "exempt" from this week's journal challenge.

We have now adopted two rescue plans. The members of the island will begin putting them into action. However, this will take some time since the island dwellers only have access to rudimentary tools.

As the group is finishing their daily chores, they are getting ready to work on the rescue plans.

Katie, Allie, Jolynn and Terra are out gathering food. Suddenly they stumble on a body. Jolynn jumps back and the girl discuss if it is dead. Terra rushes over to the person and with a sigh of relief she declares that it isn't anyone from the island group. Suddenly she screams, "It's Elvis, and he's alive!"

The King begins to regain consciousness. The girls take him to a nearby cave for shelter from the sun. Katie and Allie bring him food and water. He explains how he has been alive all of these years and staged his death for privacy purposes. He washed up on this island when he was out looking for his lost film....the original cut of Blue Hawaii. (He is sure it is on this island.) He is not sure what happened during his travels, but he is very happy to be alive.......like a real Pirate of the Caribbean.

Several hours later, he goes to the main section of the island to meet the lost group. That night, they sing together as he and Jim play the guitar. As he is "dancing" and singing "Hound Dog" to the group, a high-pitched beeping sound echoes. Everyone grabs their ears.

Elvis says, "It's the remote to my boat! I'm saved!" He tells the group that he will be able to leave in one week, and he will take the Katie and Allie and eight other passengers with him. His boat will automatically return this location as a result of an advanced GPS system.

However, he can't report the location of the rest of the group for fear of revealing his true identity. He has been safely living amongst Elvis impersonators at the "Viva" Las Vegas Wedding Chapel in Nevada.

In order to be one of the people rescued, you must write a journal about your week-long experience with Elvis. Also, you must include as many Elvis facts as you can in your journal.....This will entail a little research. (Remember, Elvis loves to hear about himself, and he loves flattery. So, the more you talk about him and his life, the better chance you have of getting off of this crazy little island.)

At the end of the week, Allie and Katie will pick the eight people to accompany The King off of the island.

Good Luck!

Creative Writing - Island Journal

Goal: To vote for the person with the best "Rescue Plan"

-Today the group will meet in the studio.
-Students will read their journals aloud
-Students should pay attention to the individual plans and persuasive comments in the journal entries
-When the group is finished reading, we will vote for a winner

.1.4.11D Maintain a written record of activities, course work
1.4.11B Write complex informational pieces
1.5.11A Write with a sharp, distinct focus

Creative Writing Project - Journal #3

Persuasive essay

48 hours has passed, and people are a bit angry with each other. Half of the tribe won't speak to Hayley or Renee.

As a result, you are all thinking about how to get off of this crazy island. Create a "realistic" plan that will enable the group to safely get off of the island or to be rescued.

* Persuade the island tribe that you are the best person to execute a rescue mission, and that your rescue plan is the best. You must specifically discuss why you and your plan should be selected.
1. You must describe your plan in detail. Be sure to include safety factors and a drawing/ chart of your plan.
2. Include your resources
3. Discuss "who" will be key players in this mission
4. Discuss a time frame
5. Discuss why you believe your plan will be the most successful.

The group will select one person/ plan. You will vote tomorrow.
The person who is selected to execute their plan will be exempt from Wednesday's journal. Also,
as the "Winner", you will be the leader of Wednesday's island challenge (journal).

Be very convincing, use specific reasons and explanations, and incorporate any research that will persuade your "fellow islanders" to vote for you.

1.4.11D Maintain a written record of activities, course work
1.4.11B Write complex informational pieces
1.5.11A Write with a sharp, distinct focus

Creative Writing - Island Journal

Goal: To solve a mystery after reading descriptive journal entries

"Who took the food?"

-Today the group will meet in the studio.
-Students will read their "individual clues" and journals aloud
-Students should pay attention to the individual clues and the emotions and descriptive comments in the journal entries
-When the group is finished reading, we will deduce who stole the food.

1.4.11D Maintain a written record of activities, course work
1.4.11B Write complex informational pieces
1.5.11A Write with a sharp, distinct focus

Creative Writing Project

Island Journal #2

The group has been on the island for a week. Things have been going well up to this point. Huts were built 1000 feet from the fresh water.

Hut 1 *Please note that if you live with a person, you learn a lot about them
Hayley ** Look for clues to solve the Problem.
Bethanne
Renee
Allie
Breonna
Jolynn

Hut 2
Jean
Josh
Jace
Jim

Hut 3
Terra
Miranda
Katie
Karen
Molly
Leah

Several hours ago, the group finished picking all of the fresh fruit and veggies on the island. Jean and Hayley cooked the meal. Things were going well until Allie and Terra went to the storage hut to get more bananas.

They returned to the group to announce that1/4 of the food supply is gone. Allie and Jace survey the situation. They only notice human footprints near the hut. This rules out the possibility that animals took the food.

As the group sits around the fire, they stare at each other with accusing glances. Josh whispers to Bethanne. Hut 1 decides to return to their sleeping quarters. As Jolynn walks over to her cot, she looks down and notices some sort of seeds and 2 papayas near Breonna's cot. (Breonna's cot is located between Hayley's, Bethanne's and Allie's cots.

Immediately, Renee runs out and reports the findings to the group.

In today's journal, write about this situation. Each person has been given a clue. As you write, use your clue and try to solve this mystery and find the missing food.

1.4.11D Maintain a written record of activities, course work
1.4.11B Write complex informational pieces
1.5.11A Write with a sharp, distinct focus

Creative Writing Project

Goal: To organize the setting of our creative writing project

1. The class will gather and read their first journal / ISLAND LOG aloud to the class

2. We will discuss our findings and our research incorporated into our journal entries.

1.4.11D Maintain a written record of activities, course work
1.4.11B Write complex informational pieces
1.5.11A Write with a sharp, distinct focus

Island Journal

1. Today we are going to review jobs

2. Next, we will write a two-page journal on the following:

You and your group washed up on the shore about an hour ago. Everyone is sitting together. Emotions are running high.

In order to survive, the groups agrees that each person must have a job. Prior experiences and skills are discussed. As a result, each person is assigned a special task.

Next, the group takes a few minutes to contemplate the challenges that they may face.

Using your journal, write about your new position. Assuming that your research is part of your prior knowledge, discuss what you believe must be done to survive. (Use your research as you discuss your surroundings.)

How can you use your position to help the group?

1.4.11D Maintain a written record of activities, course work