Thursday, January 16, 2025

Writing 1 Class Notes–Week 1 (January 16)

Hello Dear Students,


Even though some may not be that excited to start up again, I told the students that I was very proud of them for all they had been learning this past year.  There’s much to be grateful for!


We started the day out with a Quick Write.  Today’s topic was a bit humorous as they were to imagine that their toaster has gone on strike.  They were to come up with a list of demands from the toaster (Clean my crumb tray!  Stop sticking forks inside!) and optionally, to design a snappy sign with a slogan.


After that, we previewed the Spring Syllabus, Homework Checklist and Late Homework dates.  We highlighted the important due dates and took a brief look at what this semester has in store.  I told them a good strategy is to use the Homework Checklist to help them parcel out their work during the week to avoid having it all pile up at the last minute.


After that, we switched gears to introduce the novella Animal Farm.  After examining the graphic organizer about Equity, students had some time to discuss with each other and with the large group. They had some interesting insights!  There were some that argued that though we are all created with equal rights, some people have different gifts and therefore, in reality, it is impossible for everyone to be “equal.”  How smart is that?!!  Our discussion led beautifully into the main slogan of “Animalism” from our novel:  

After guessing what  this slogan could mean, we got some historical background on this novella–which is actually an allegory about Russia.  They watched two short videos on the Russian revolution and communism while they answered questions on a worksheet (which helped them focus on the videos :)   For homework, they will keep thinking about the theme of leadership as they answer the discussion question (on GC) about what character quality makes for a great leader.


Now they were ready to read!  Together,  we listened to the audio version for a few minutes.  They should continue reading (Ch. 1 & 2) and answer 3 Study Guide questions.  They also have a Vocabulary Worksheet that they should be filling out as they read–it will be due at the end of the unit.  Lastly, they should read the Introduction to Animal Farm document and take the Quiz on the introduction after they have read it.


Grammar

We had enough on our plate with a new semester and novel to introduce, so we will jump into our first writing and grammar topic with both feet next week.  NO GRAMMAR ASSIGNMENT THIS WEEK!  


Enjoy your weekend!

Blessings, 

Mrs. G


Homework

Syllabus

Homework Checklist

Homework & Late Dates

Edpuzzle & Ted Talk (watched in class)

Read Ch. 1 & 2

Animal Farm Vocabulary Worksheet

Ch. 1 & 2 Study Guide Questions

Introduction to Animal Farm document

Introduction to Animal Farm Quiz (GC)

“Top Character Quality–Leader?” Response 


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