English LA 9

Ninth Grade English Language Arts focuses on comprehension and composition of informational, literary, and persuasive texts, as well as on speaking, listening, research, and critical reasoning skills. This course exposes students to a variety of texts from American and world cultures. Students read novels, short stories, plays, essays, poems, and nonfiction. Students write in a variety of styles with a focus on structure, vocabulary, and writing mechanics. In addition, students engage in a variety of discussions and oral presentations, as well as research and reasoning tasks, and the research process.

Google Classroom Codes

For this class we will be using Google Classroom as a means of submitting many of our tests, quizzes and assignments.  Using your chrome book, go to Google Classroom, click the  "+" tab to join a class.  Make sure to join the correct class according to your LA period.  The google classroom codes for each class are as follows:

Period 3-  y636cow

Period 4-  rr3a56c

Anchor Texts

Use this link to access the novel, Animal Farm, by George Orwell

You may also listen to this audio book as you read Animal Farm.

Use this link to access the novel Lord of the Flies:  Lord of the Flies by William Golding

You may also listen along while you read with this audio book of Lord of the Flies.

Use this link to access the novel, Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck

-Here's a quality audio book for Of Mice and Men


Class Policies

Here are the Policies and Expectations for class.

Vocabulary

Each week we'll be working with ten vocabulary words.  The words for the week will be available here on my site every Monday.  We'll practice with these words on block days followed by a weekly vocabulary quiz on Fridays.

You need to create an account and join the correct class for your period.  Use the following links to join your class in vocabulary.com.  

Period 3:  vocab.com/join/420KPFD 

Period 4: vocab.com/join/4NRA7PH 

Here's a link to Key Terms for our class.


First Two Days of School

Thursday, 8/17

-Welcome to the first day of school!

-Teacher introductions

-Create alphabetical seating chart

-Complete Index Card

-Policies Review

-Match Game

Friday, 8/18

-Pass out Planners

-Finish Policies Review

-Collect student signatures

-Pass out room passes

-Complete Key Terms Pre-Test

Weekly Agenda, 8/21-8/25

Monday, 8/21

-Bookmark Mr. A's Website

-Join our google classroom page

-Join Vocabulary.com

-Review Key Terms Pre-Quiz

-Begin Key Terms Presentation

Tuesday, 8/22

-First block day tomorow-Schedule linked

-See this link to Personal Collage Instructions

-Continue Key Terms Presentation

Block Period, 8/23

-Complete Common Lit Pre-Assessment- should take about 45 minutes

-Finish Key Terms Presentation

-Complete Key Terms Quiz

Friday, 8/25

-Complete Elements of Literature Post-Quiz

-Introduce Luisa Valenzuela/ Central/ South America map

-Read and annotate "The Censors"- by Luisa Valenzuela

-Review Elements of Fiction

Freshman Vocabulary #1 (8/28-9/1)

This week we're starting with 5 vocabulary words to learn.  There will be a quiz over these five words on Friday.  Go to your SSO, click on the vocabulary.com tile.  It will take you directly to the practice session over these five words.  Write these words and definitions in your notebook.

Vocabulary Words #1- Complete the practice session on vocabulary.com. 

Admonish (verb)- to caution or advise

Cumbersome (adj)- clumsy or hard to handle

Deadlock (noun)- a standstill between two equitable forces

Debris (noun)-scattered fragments or wreckage

Dilemma (noun)- a difficult problem or situation

When you are finished with the practice session, your screen will say "Congratulations, you've finished the practice session," and provide you with a percentage.  You are not done practicing the words until you see this page.

Weekly Agenda, 8/28-9/1

Monday, 8/28

-Preview Freshman Vocabulary List #1

-Complete the practice session in vocabulary.com

-Take Notes on the Plot Model

-Review Elements of Fiction

Tuesday, 8/29

-Vocabulary #1 Review

-Continue of Review Elements of Fiction

-Reading Images activity

-Re-read "The Censors"

Block

-Complete vocabulary #1 Pre-Test

-Construct Plot Model over "The Censors"

-Complete Quizziz Review over "The Censors"

-EQ: How do people organize themselves, and where do "I" fit in?- Brainstorm

-View Income Distribution Models

-Income Disparity Prediction Graph-this will be a hand out completed in class

-Watch Wealth Inequality in America Video

Friday, 9/1

-Complete Freshman Vocabulary Quiz #1 on vocabulary.com

-Read and annotate Biography of George Orwell



Weekly Agenda, 9/5-9/8

Tuesday, 9/5

-Watch George Orwell Biography 

-Finish Satire, Allegory, Fable Presentation

-Complete Satire, Allegory, Fable Review-google classroom

-Pass out Animal Farm books

-Begin reading Chapter I

Block

-LA 9 Writing Assessment

-Once you have completed your two paragraphs, submit them in google classroom

-Finish reading Chapter I in Animal Farm

-Novel Notes- write down the following ideas from Chapter I

Friday, 9/8

-Submit your LA 9 Writing Assessment from Wednesday

-Re-read Old Major's speech from Chapter 1

-Old Major's Speech Connections

-Complete the analysis over the song, "Beasts of England"- this is a handout (15 minutes)

-Begin reading Chapter II in Animal Farm


Weekly Agenda, 9/11-9/15

Monday, 9/11

Freshman Vocabulary #2 for Quiz Friday, 9/15

Commandeer-(verb) to seize or take arbitrarily by force

Efface-(verb) to remove, destroy, erase

Muddle- (verb) to make a mess of, mix up or confuse

Predispose-(verb)to give inclination before hand

Relinquish- (verb) to turn away from, give up

Salvage- (verb) saving goods or property from destruction

Unbridled- (adjective) not restrained or controlled


-Complete the Practice Session in vocabulary.com for Freshman Vocabulary #2

-Finish Reading Chapter II in Animal Farm

Tuesday, 9/12

-Make a copy of this document for Freshman Vocabulary #2.  Provide a definition and a corresponding image for each word.  See that "admonish" and "dilemma" are on the list from last week.  

-Complete the Common Lit Reading "The 10 Commandments" in google classroom.  As you read answer the guiding questions, and after reading complete the assessment questions

-Complete Chapter II Review Questions (5 minutes)

-Complete Chapters I and II Quizziz

Block

-Practice Freshman Vocabulary #2- this is a handout

-Review Chapters I and II-this is a handout

-Read the first 6 paragraphs from Animal Farm Chapter 3

-Make a copy of this document: Animal Farm Chapter 3 first 6 paragraphs

-Complete the Word Identification Activity-handout

-Finish Reading Chapter III

Friday, 9/15

-Complete Freshman Vocabulary Quiz #2 on vocabulary.com

-Revisit Word Identification Activity from Chapter 3

-Copy down terms from "The Communist Manifesto" on the back of the document.  Look up the definitions.

-Read and highlight The Communist Manifesto by Marx and Engles-this is a handout

-Begin work on The Comparative Quote Activity.  Use this copy of Old Major's Speech to find the comparative quotes for the right hand column of the handout.  Make sure to use a direct quote from Old Major's speech for each example.


Weekly Agenda, 9/18-9/22

Monday, 9/18

I am not able to be in class today.  Complete the following three tasks before the end of the period.

-Go to google classroom and find the assignment for Freshman Vocabulary #3.  Complete the assignment by providing the definitions on the document.  Submit the document when you are finished.

-Read Chapter 4 in Animal Farm independently.

-When you are done reading the Chapter 4, click on this link to the Chapter 4 Review Questions and complete the Quizziz. 

Tuesday, 9/19

Materials needed: chrome book, notebook, highlighter, writing utensil, copy of "Communist Manifesto"

Freshman Vocabulary #3 for quiz Friday, 9/22

Adjourn- (verb) to postpone or break off

Alien- (noun) a foreigner or something unfamiliar

Compensate-(verb) to give back due to a loss, pay back

Erratic- (adj) unpredictable, without pattern

Expulsion- (noun) act of being forced out, kicked out

Feint- (noun) a deceptive move

Fortify- (verb) to strengthen or support

Illegible- (adj) not clear to read

Lucrative- (adj) producing a profit

Mediocre- (adj) moderate quality, not good

-Complete the practice session in vocabulary.com

-Complete reading and highlighting The Communist Manifesto by Marx and Engles-this is a handout

-Begin work on The Comparative Quote Activity.  Use this copy of Old Major's Speech to find the comparative quotes for the right hand column of the handout.  Make sure to use a direct quote from Old Major's speech for each example.

Block

-Freshman Vocabulary #3 practice

-Animal Farm Chapter 4 Word Inference Activity

-Satire Video He's Barak Obama

-Allegorical Connections recap (review chapter 3 flag)-take notes in your notebook

Materials needed: Chrome book, Communist Manifesto document, Comparative Quotes Handout

-Continue work on The Comparative Quote Activity.  Use this copy of Old Major's Speech to find the comparative quotes for the right hand column of the handout.  Make sure to use a direct quote from Old Major's speech for each example.

Friday, 9/22

-Complete Freshman Vocabulary Quiz #3 in vocabulary.com

--View Communist World Map

-Russia, Ukraine, Crimea and Chechnya map

-Read and Annotate the Article on Vladimir Putin


Weekly Agenda, 9/25-9/29

Monday, 9/25

-no school for students

Tuesday, 9/26

Materials needed: Communist Manifesto document, Comparative Quotes Handout

-Complete work on The Comparative Quote Activity.  Use this copy of Old Major's Speech to find the comparative quotes for the right hand column of the handout.  Make sure to use a direct quote from Old Major's speech for each example.  

Materials needed: Chromebook, LA Notebook, copy of Animal Farm, writing utensil

-View Communist Flag 1930's-1950's- Include a brief sketch of the flag in your LA Notebook

-Complete Chapters 1-4 Review Quizziz

-Begin reading Chapter V in Animal Farm

-Finish Annotations on Biography of Vladimir Putin-use this Annotation Guide 

Block

-Finish chapter 5 in Animal Farm

-Complete Chapter 5 Review quizziz

-Define Propaganda

-Define Rhetoric

-Introduce Rhetoric Rhetorical Triangle-take notes

-Read this short article from PBS NEWS and look at the propaganda posters

-Read and annotate Lenin's speech from 1916

-Read Introduction to Ethos, Pathos and Logos

-Construct Persuasive Sentences on back of Ethos, Pathos, Logos Handout

Friday, 9/29

-Begin reading Chapter 6 in Animal Farm 

-Rhetoric Review

-Complete the Handout Identifying the Methods of Persuasion

-Begin work on writing your Persuasive Argument Assignment

Weekly Agenda, 10/2-10/6

Monday, 10/2

Freshman Vocabulary #4

Comely-having a pleasing appearance

Dissolute- loose in morals or behavior

Fodder- domestic animal food, expendable soldiers

Jeer- to make fun of rudely

Proliferate- to spread

Subjugate-to conquer, bring under control

Sully- to stain, make dirty

Tantalize- to tease, torment by teasing

Terse- brief, to the point, short

Unflinching- firm, fearless, unrelenting

-Practice Freshman Vocabulary #4

-Finish Reading Chapter 6 in Animal Farm

-Complete Quizziz Review for Chapter 6

Tuesday, 10/3

-Complete the practice session for Freshman Vocabulary #4 in vocabulary.com

-Read first half of Chapter 7 in Animal Farm

-Begin work on writing your Persuasive Argument Assignment- Due Date TBD

-See this resource of 108 Words to Persuade to help with your assignment

-See this resource on Putin's Russia and Quality of Life Statistics-this may help in your first paragraph

Block

-Practice Freshman Vocabulary #4

-FEMA Emergency Test 12:20

-Read Putin's Speech that Launched Russia's Invasion of Ukraine

-Begin work on writing your Persuasive Argument Assignment- Due Date TBD

Use these resources below for persuasive word choices and constructing statistics:

 108 Words to Persuade to help with your assignment

Putin's Russia and Quality of Life Statistics-this may help in your first paragraph

Friday, 10/6

-Complete Freshman Vocabulary Quiz #4

-Finish Chapter 7 in Animal Farm

Weekly Agenda, 10/9-10/13

Monday, 10/9

-no school for students

Tuesday, 10/10

-Complete the Common Lit Assignment, "The Lion in Love" in google classroom

-Skim Chapter 7 to Review

-Complete Chapter 7 Quizziz review

-Continue work on writing your Persuasive Argument Assignment- Due Date Wednesday, 10/11

-Once you are done with your Persuasive writing assignment, complete the Final Highlighting Task linked here.  

Wednesday, 10/11

-Capitalization Pre-Quiz

-Review the Capitalization Rules linked here

-Capitalization Review

-Capitalization Post-Quiz

Persuasive Writing Assignment Checklist:

Friday, 10/13

-Leon Trotsky Biography Annotations

-Seven Commandments Review

-Read the first half of chapter VIII (8) in Animal Farm

-Begin work on Allegorical Quote Connections Activity-this is a handout

Weekly Agenda, 10/16-10/20

Monday, 10/16

-Complete the practice session in vocabulary.com for Freshman Vocabulary #5

Freshman Vocabulary #5

Abridge- to make shorter

Altercation- an angry argument

Condone-  to pardon or overlook

Dissent-  a disagreement

Eminent-  famous or outstanding

Exorcise-  to dispose of something troublesome, evil

Fabricate-  to make or manufacture

Irate- very angry

Pauper-  an extremely poor person

Usurp- to seize by force

-Recap first half chapter 8

-Finish reading chapter 8

-Complete quizziz review over chapter 8

-Continue work on Allegorical Quote Connections Activity-this is a handout

Tuesday, 10/17

-Practice Freshman Vocabulary #5

-Begin reading chapter 9 in Animal Farm

Characters of Emphasis

On the provided white sheet of paper, draw eight (8) evenly spaced relatively large circles.  As we read, write down the name of each character inside a circle at first mention.  Use each character's name only once.

-Continue work on Allegorical Quote Connections Activity-this is a handout

Block

-Shelter in place drill/ Fire Drill 11:50

-Practice Freshman Vocabulary #5

-Recap Activity from yesterday for Chapter 9 in Animal Farm

-Finish reading chapter 9

-Complete Quizziz over Chapter 9

-Continue work on Allegorical Quote Connections

Friday, 10/20

-Finish reading Chapter 10 in Animal Farm

-Complete novel review quizziz

-With a partner, go through the linked Animal Farm Review Jeopardy Game.

-When you finish the Animal Farm Review, work on your Animal Farm Project with your partner.


Weekly Agenda, 10/23-10/27

Monday, 10/23

-Complete Freshman Vocabulary Quiz #5- you may use your notes

-Finish work on Allegorical Quote Connections-due by the end of the period

-If you haven't submitted your Animal Farm Project, it is due today by the end of the period

-Once you've completed the above tasks, get your notes in order over Animal Farm and the Russian Revolution.  Make sure you have all your hand written notes for next period.  You may also use your book.   

Tuesday, 10/24

-Collect Animal Farm books

-Read the Common Lit Article, "A Woman Who Went to Alaska" on google classroom

-Methods of Fiction Review Quizziz

Follow these directions for creating a plot model:

-Biography of author, Jack London 

Block 10/25

-Grades are due for first quarter.  Use tutor time as necessary

-Continue Biography of author, Jack London - make sure to take detailed notes

-Complete the Vocabulary Preview of Terms for "To Build a Fire"

-Complete the vocabulary quiz over the terms for "To Build a Fire"

-Review plot model diagram

-Begin reading "To Build a Fire" by Jack London

-Identify first 2-3 points on plot model

Friday, 10/27

-Complete Skill Builder #1-handout provided in class

-Elements of Literature Quizziz Review

-Continue -Begin reading "To Build a Fire" by Jack London

-Identify first 2-3 points on plot model

Weekly Agenda, 10/30-11/3

Monday, 10/30

Freshman Vocabulary List #6

abscond- to run away or hide

arduous-  characterized by hard effort

auspicious-  favorable circumstances, good luck

biased -favoring one side over another

daunt - being fearful or losing courage

inanimate-  lifeless, without life

intrepid-  fearless, unable to be intimidated

larceny- robbery, taking something unlawfully

pompous-  self absorbed, vain

rectify-  to correct or make right

Today's Tasks

-Complete the practice session in vocabulary.com

-Continue -Begin reading "To Build a Fire" by Jack London

-Work on identifying the first several points on your plot model graphic

Plot Model Directions:

-First, on your constructed plot model, demonstrate your understanding of the plot structure in “To Build a Fire” by using a direct quote from “to Build a Fire to indicate each plot point.  


Second, next to each quote from the story, cut and paste an image that visually represents the content of your chosen quote.


When complete, you should have 7 quotes from the story and 7 corresponding images.


Tuesday, 10/31


-Practice Freshman Vocabulary #6- this is a handout


-Finish reading "To Build a Fire"


-Watch animated "To Build a Fire"


Block, 11/1

-Read the Common Lit story, "Excerpt from Believing in Horses" on google classroom


-Practice Vocabulary #6


-"To Build a Fire" Review Discussion-take notes


-Complete "To Build a Fire" Review Questions on google classroom


-Use this digital copy of "To Build a Fire" to help with vocabulary terms- Use the Ctrl F function to help you find specific words


-Use this Plot Model resource as necessary to help identify plot points

-Continue identifying the points on your plot model graphic

Plot Model Directions:

-First, on your constructed plot model, demonstrate your understanding of the plot structure in “To Build a Fire” by using a direct quote from “to Build a Fire to indicate each plot point.  


Second, next to each quote from the story, cut and paste an image that visually represents the content of your chosen quote.


When complete, you should have 7 quotes from the story and 7 corresponding images.


Friday, 11/6

-Complete Vocabulary Quiz #6


-Use this Plot Model resource as necessary to help identify plot points

-Continue identifying the points on your plot model graphic

Plot Model Directions:

-On your constructed plot model, demonstrate your understanding of the plot in “To Build a Fire” by using a direct quote from “to Build a Fire to indicate each plot point.  


Second, next to each quote from the story, cut and paste an image that visually represents the content of your chosen quote.


When complete, you should have 7 quotes from the story and 7 corresponding images.

Weekly Agenda, 11/6-11/10

Monday, 11/6

Freshman Vocabulary List #7 

Arbitrary- (adj) unreasonable, based on bias

Catalyst-(noun) an agent that causes change

Exodus-(noun) a large scale departure

Incorrigible-(adj) unable to be corrected 


Morose-(adj) having a gloomy or sullen manner.

Opaque-(adj) not clear, not letting light through

Paramount-(adj)of major importance

Servitude-(noun) slavery, forced labor 


Stagnant-(adj) not running or flowing, foul from stillness

Succumb-(verb) to give way to a superior force 

-Complete the Practice Session for Vocabulary #7 in vocabulary.com

Complete Plot Model Graphic- due today, 11/6

-Complete and submit your Plot Model Graphic for "To Build a Fire" on google classroom- when you are done, you should have one quote and one image placed next to each point on the plot model.  A completed project will have seven quotes and seven images on the graphic.

Tuesday, 11/7

-Practice Freshman Vocabulary #7-this is a handout

Assignment-Writing an Objective Summary of "To Build a Fire"-due date TBD

--Introduce Writing an Objective Summary for Fiction

-Begin writing objective summary for "To Build a Fire"

Block

-Complete Vocabulary #7 Practice

-See these Basic Capitalization Rules

-Complete Quizziz Review over capitalization

-If you have not finished your plot model graphic for "To Build a Fire," make this your first priority.  See the directions on the agenda for Friday 11/6 if you need support.

-Continue  Writing an Objective Summary for Fiction for the short story, "To Build a Fire"

-Make sure to use strong topic sentences in each paragraph.  See this formula for suggestions.

-If you finish your draft of The Objective Summary, have one of your teachers proofread 

Block

Use this checklist to review your work before you submit your objective summary over "To Build a Fire"

Checklist

-Use quotation marks around the short story title, "To Build a Fire."

-Capitalize all proper nouns, names, places, and regions.  For example, the Yukon Territory, the Klondike Region, Alaska.

-Do not capitalize nameless protagonist or the dog.  Capitalize Sulphur Creek when referring to the old timer at Sulphur Creek, as Sulphur Creek is a place.

-Make sure to include textual evidence in your second paragraph on conflict.

-Proofread for spelling errors and proper punctuation.

Once you've completed the activities in the checklist, submit your completed draft in google classroom.

Weekly Agenda, 11/13-1124

Monday, 11/13

-Complete Freshman Vocabulary Quiz #7-you may use the definitions in your notebook.

-Complete and submit your Objective Summary over "To Build a Fire"- make sure to proofread and edit using the checklist from Friday.  

-When you've completed proofreading your Objective Summary, submit your paragraphs in google classroom.

-Elements of Literature Review over Irony

-Complete Quizziz Irony Review

-Complete the Pre-reading Activity for "The Necklace" by Guy De Maupassant

Tuesday, 11/14

-Complete Freshman Skill Builder

-Elements of Literature Review over Irony

-Complete Quizziz Irony Review

-Preview "The Necklace"

Block

-Complete Common Lit article, "Keeping up with the Joneses"

-Complete Irony Review Quizziz

-Read and annotate Guy De Maupassant Biography

-Discuss Naturalism, De Maupassant and Gustave Flaubert

-Create a plot model graphic using google draw.  Save this graphic to your LA files

-Complete the Pre-reading Activity for "The Necklace" by Guy De Maupassant

Friday, 11/17

-Using your preconstructed plot model, find an image for the introduction, dramatic hook, climax, and falling action- these images will serve as hints for your plot model.  Here's a resource to help.

-Read "The Necklace"- found on page 294 of textbook

-Begin constructing plot model graphic for "The Necklace"

Plot Model Directions:

-First, on your constructed plot model, demonstrate your understanding of the plot structure in “The Necklace” by using a direct quote from “The Necklace" to indicate each plot point.  


Second, next to each quote from the story, cut and paste an image that visually represents the content of your chosen quote.


When complete, you should have 7 quotes from the story and 7 corresponding images.

Weekly Agenda, 11/27-12/1

Monday, 11/27

Freshman Vocabulary #8 for Friday

atone- to make right, ask for forgiveness

credible-believable, true

doleful-sad, morose

ghastly-frightening, startling

intricate-complex, detailed

lucid-entirely clear, understandable

posthumous-after death

sardonic-sarcastic, mocking

superfluous-overly fancy, unnecessary

tenacious-stubborn, persistent

-Complete the practice session in vocabulary.com

-Finish reading "The Necklace"- found on page 294 of textbook

-Complete the Quizziz review over "The Necklace"

Tuesday, 11/28

-Complete Freshman Vocabulary #8 practice

-Complete the Quizziz review over "The Necklace"

-Finish constructing plot model graphic for "The Necklace"

Plot Model Directions:

First, on your constructed plot model, demonstrate your understanding of the plot structure in “The Necklace” by using a direct quote from “The Necklace" to indicate each plot point.  


Second, next to each quote from the story, cut and paste an image that visually represents the content of your chosen quote.


When complete, you should have 7 quotes from the story and 7 corresponding images.

-Your completed plot modekl is due today by the end of the period.


Block, 11/29

-Read the Common Lit Article, "High Incomes Don't Bring You Happiness" on google classroom


-Practice Freshman Vocabulary #8


-Complete your Plot Model Graphic for "The Necklace"


-Complete "Character Traits and Textual Evidence" handout


-Use this Resource for a List of Character Traits


-See these instructions on how to write an in-depth Character Analysis Paragraph


-Once you have completed your "Character Traits and Textual Evidence Handout" open a new google document and begin constructing your character analysis paragraph.


Friday, 12/1

-Complete Freshman Vocabulary Quiz #8


-Complete Punctuation Review Quizziz


-Continue drafting your Character Analysis Paragraph (instructions are linked here)


-See this resource: -Here's a list of transition words



Use this checklist to review your work before you submit:

-Use bolded text to identify your character traits. You should have three

-Pick a color and highlight your transition words.  You should have two.

-You must spell the name of the author and the character names correctly!

-Use quotation marks around the short story title, "The Necklace"

-Capitalize all proper nouns, like names and places.  For example Paris, France.

-Make sure to include an example of textual evidence from the story for each character trait.  You are proving three character traits, so you should have 3 examples of textual evidence from the story.

-Make sure you use transition words when you transition to a new idea in your paragraph, specifically when you transition from discussing your first character trait to your next character trait.

-Proofread for spelling errors and proper punctuation.

When you are done, submit your polished paragraph in google classroom.


Weekly Agenda, 12/4-12/8

Monday, 12/4

Freshman Vocabulary #9 for Friday, 12/8

apex-the highest point of something

assimilate- to make alike, similar

inundate- to fill or cover completely

malign- to speak badly about

obstreperous- noisy and stubbornly defiant

pensive- deeply in thought

perilous- filled with danger

surly-unfriendly, angry or irritated

vagrant- a wanderer with no residence

shoddy- inferior work or workmanship

-Complete the practice session in vocabulary.com

-Take notes on the biography of Edgar Allan Poe

Tuesday, 12/5

-Practice Freshman Vocabulary #9

-Complete biography of Edgar Allan Poe

Block, 12/6

-Practice Vocabulary #9

-Complete the Quizziz review over Edgar Allan Poe

-See this document for how to write and Factual and Interpretive Summary

-Read the article, "What is Carnevale?" from goitaly.com

-Complete the Nonfiction Assignment sheet-this assignment is linked on google classroom-this is due by the end of the period today.

Friday, 12/7

-Complete Vocabulary Quiz #9

-Preview "The Cask of Amontillado"- take notes 

- View Carnevale Masks

-Complete "Cask of Amontillado" vocabulary handout



Weekly Agenda, 12/11-12/16

Monday, 12/11

Announcement: The doors will be closed most of this week.  Come to the classrooms according to your schedule.

Freshman Vocabulary #10

assurance- a binding commitment

console-to give moral or emotional support

dilate- to make wider

dwindle- to become smaller

flippant- showing an inappropriate amount of seriousness

preposterous- ridiculous, inviting ridicule

pugnacious- ready and able to resort to violence

realm- a defined area or domain

rejuvenate- to make young or regain strength

sparse- few, not many

Tasks:

-Complete the practice session for Vocabulary #10 in vocabulary.com

-Begin Work on "Cask of Amontillado" study guide

Tuesday,

-Practice Vocabulary #10

-Complete the second half of "The Cask of Amontillado"

-Complete the second half of the study guide over "The Cask of Amontillado"

-Begin work on "The Cask of Amontillado" mini project

Block Day

-Last day for any late work

-Complete the Common Lit Mid Year Assessment-this will be a summative assessment

-Complete "The Cask of Amontillado" study guide

-Begin work on "The Cask of Amontillado" mini project

Friday, 12/15

-Complete Vocabulary Quiz #10 on google classroom

-Create a plot model graphic.  Save this graphic in your LA files.

-Complete "The Cask of Amontillado" mini project and turn in 

Final Exam:

Materials:  Charged Chromebook

Your final exam for LA 9 is going to be skill-based.  The final will assess for ability to read carefully, identify primary plot points, analyze characters and identify theme.

You will be given a choice of one of three short stories to read.  The first thing you'll need to do is read the short story carefully.  

Then, you'll need to identify the seven plot points on the plot model according to the chronology of the story using textual evidence.  Use the plot model graphic you created.

Lastly, you'll write a three paragraph analysis of the story you pick.  In your first paragraph, you'll write an objective summary of the story.  In your second paragraph, you'll provide a character analysis of a character of your choosing from the story.  In the last paragraph, you'll identify and discuss what you feel is the dominant theme of the story as it applies to the author's message.  You'll type this up in a google document and submit it in google classroom.

There will be a model for how to write these paragraphs on my website.  

When complete, you'll submit a completed plot model (no pictures needed) and a three paragraph eassy in google classroom.

Your final exam with be worth 90 points in the summative category.  The plot model is worth 30 points and your analysis will be worth 60 points.


Final Exam Schedule for LA:

Period 3:  Wednesday, 12/20  10:05-12:05

Period 4:  Thursday, 12/21  9:05-11:05

Final Exam

Tasks:

Your phone must be stored until the exam is over.

Here is a resource to help you construct your final analysis.  Follow the format and see the links included.


You may use these audio links if necessary.

"The Test" by Theodore Thomas  here's an audio link

"The Sniper" by Liam O'Flaherty-  here's an audio link

"The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry  here's an audio link

Weekly Agenda, 1/9-1/12

Tuesday, 1/9

-Welcome back!

-Introduction to Steinbeck and Characterization

-Begin watching the autobiography of John Steinbeck for our next novel, Of Mice and Men

-Complete the note taking guide as you watch

Block, 1/10

-2nd Semester Policies due Friday, 1/12

Freshman Vocabulary #10 (Revisit)

assurance- a binding commitment

console-to give moral or emotional support

dilate- to make wider

dwindle- to become smaller

flippant- showing an inappropriate amount of seriousness

preposterous- ridiculous, inviting ridicule

pugnacious- ready and able to resort to violence

realm- a defined area or domain

rejuvenate- to make young or regain strength

sparse- few, not many

-Complete the definitions and images handout 

-Complete the vocabulary pre-test

-Begin watching the Biography of John Steinbeck for our next novel, Of Mice and Men

-Complete the note taking guide as you watch

-Begin work on Of Mice and Men pre-reading activity handout

Friday, 1/12

-Compete Vocabulary Quiz #10- you may use your graphic from yesterday

-Complete watching the Biography of John Steinbeck for our next novel, Of Mice and Men

-Turn in the note taking guide 

-Of Mice and Men Novel Notes- take notes in your notebook


Weekly Agenda, 1/15-1/19

Monday

-MLK Day no school

Tuesday

-Late Start

-Picture of Woody Guthrie

-"This Land is Your Land" lyrics

-"This Land is Your Land" -Lady Gaga

-"This Land is Your Land"- Bruce Springsteen

-Begin work on Of Mice and Men pre-reading activity handout

Block

-Complete the Common Lit Assignment, "The Dust Bowl" in google classroom

-Complete Of Mice and Men pre-reading activity

-Of Mice and Men Vernacular Vocabulary

-You can use this quizlet with your vocabulary terms

-Today we're going to start a short project over The Dust Bowl.  All the information you will need can be found on the website linked above.  For this project you will need to engage with a variety of different types of media, take careful notes, and synthesize the information you gather into a series of well-developed responses.  

Friday, 1/19

-Ms. Hebda will be my sub

-Be sure to sit in assigned seats

-Complete  short project over The Dust Bowl.  All the information you will need can be found on the website linked above.  For this project you will need to engage with a variety of different types of media, take careful notes, and synthesize the information you gather into a series of well-developed responses.  

-This Project will be due at the beginning of the period on Monday, 1/22

Weekly Agenda, 1/22-1/26

Freshman Vocabulary #11 for 1/26

drudgery- hard, monotonous, routine work


grievous-  causing or marked by grief or anguish


heterogeneous- consisting of different elements


expedient- appropriate to a purpose


impel- urge or force to an action; constrain or motivate


feign- done with the intent to deceive


incredulous- not disposed or willing to believe; unbelieving


flair- a natural talent


repugnant-  offensive to the mind


escalate-increase in extent or intensity


Monday, 1/22


-Collect Dust Bowl Activity

-Preview Freshman Vocabulary #11

-Complete the practice session for Freshman Vocabulary #11

-Begin reading Chapter 1 in Of Mice and Men.

-Access to the novel, Of Mice and Men, is at the top of my website under ANCHOR TEXTS.

-Provide Characterization Grid for the main characters in the novel

Tuesday, 1/23

-Practice Vocabulary #11

-Take Novel Notes for Chapter 1

-Continue reading Chapter 1 in Of Mice and Men

Block, 1/24

-Practice Vocabulary #11

-Read the Common Lit Article, "An Overview of the Great Depression"

-Watch Chapter 1 Of Mice and Men on film

-Complete Quizziz review over Chapter 1

Friday, 1/26

-Complete Freshman Vocabulary Quiz #11

-Watch preview of "The 21-mile Walk to Work"

-Begin reading "The 21-mile Walk to Work"- this is a handout

-Begin the Non-Fiction Assignment Sheet on google classroom over the article, "The 21-Mile Walk to Work"


Freshman Vocabulary #12 for 2/2

adept-showing knowledge or skill

chide-to scold or reprimand with anger

diminutive-very small

emancipate-to free from slavery

erroneous-characterized by mistakes

extemporaneous- done without preparation or forethought; to improvise

invincible- incapable ot being overcome

obtrusive-sticking out

preamble- he beginning of a formal document

slipshod- characterized by carelessness

Weekly Agenda, 1/29-2/2

Monday, 1/29

-Preview Freshman Vocabulary #12

-Complete the Practice Session for Freshman Vocabulary #12 in vocabulary.com

-Work on Characterization Grid for George and Lennie using Of Mice and Men novel

-Continue working on the Nonfiction Assignment for "The 21-Mile Walk to Work"

Tuesday, 1/30

-Practice Freshman Vocabulary #12

-Novel Notes Preview Of Mice and Men Chapter 2

-Begin reading Chapter 2

-Continue working on the Nonfiction Assignment for "The 21-Mile Walk to Work"

Block, 1/31

This Friday we will have hearing and vision testing in the library during periods 3 and 4.  We'll close the doors for class.

-Practice Freshman Vocabulary #12

-Of Mice and Men slang vocabulary review

 -Continue reading Chapter 2 in Of Mice and Men

-Read the Common Lit Article, "The Great Migration"

Friday, 2/2

Ms. Hebda will be my sub today.  Remember, we'll have our hearing and vision testing in the library about half way through the period.

-Complete Freshman Vocabulary Quiz #12 

-Hearing and vision testing in the library.

-Continue work and complete "The 21-Mile Walk to Work" on google classroom.



Weekly Agenda, 2/5-2/9

Freshman Vocabulary #13 for 2/9

brevity-short or temporary

demure-shy, modest and flirtatious

divulge-to make a secret known to the public

forestall -to prevent from happening, delay

garble-to distort, make a mess of

proponent-one who argues for a cause, believes in an idea

recoil-to spring back, shy away from

relentless-never ceasing, or non-stop

statute-a written law that has been passed

recoup-to make up for or regain

Monday, 2/5

-Preview Freshman Vocabulary #13

-Complete the practice session for Freshman Vocabulary #13 in vocabulary.com

-Review Character Grid for Candy and Curley

-Complete reading Chapter 2 in Of Mice and Men-begin on page 25 digital version

-Complete the Quizziz Review of Chapter 2

Tuesday, 2/6

-Practice Freshman Vocabulary #13

-Watch Chapter 2 Of Mice and Men on film

-Begin work on Chapters 1 and 2 fill in the blank- this is a handout

Block, 2/7

-Practice Freshman Vocabulary #13

-Work on Of Mice and Men Character Grid

-Read and complete the article, "Farming, Ranching: Health Hazzard or Opportunity?"

Friday, 2/9

-Discuss Language Arts Course Options for Next Year

-Complete Freshman Vocabulary Quiz #13 on vocabulary.com

-Novel Notes for Chapter 3 Of Mice and Men-take notes

-Begin reading Chapter 3

-Complete and submit the article, "Farming, Ranching: Health Hazzard or Opportunity?"


Weekly Agenda, 2/12-2/16

Monday, 2/12

Freshman Vocabulary #14 for 2/16

autocratic-characteristic of an absolute ruler

blasphemy- profane language

brawny- possessing physical strength and size

concerted- concerning two or more activities done at the same time

illustrious-widely known or famous

irreverent- showing a lack of respect

laborious-characterized by extremely hard work

subversive- working in defiance of  an established government

temperate-calm, not extreme

wily- marked by skill and deception

-Complete the practice session for Freshman Vocabulary #14 in vocabulary.com

-Discussion of Theme in Of Mice and Men- take notes

Tuesday, 2/13

-Practice Freshman Vocabulary #14

-Continue reading Chapter 3 in Of Mice and Men -begin on page 43

-Continue work on Character Grid- focus on the Actions and Thoughts of Candy and Slim

Consider pages 34 and 35 for Slim, and page 37 for Candy

Block

-Practice Freshman Vocabulary #14

-Complete Of Mice and Men Review Quiz Chapts1-3

-Finish reading chapter 3 in Of Mice and Men starting on page 51

-Watch Of Mice and Men on film

-Complete Chapter 3 Review Quizziz

Friday, 2/16

-Complete Freshman Vocabulary Quiz #14

-Review Of Mice and Men Chapter 3 Quizziz

-Novel Notes Chapter 4-take notes

-Begin Reading Chapter 4, page 55 of digital novel copy

-Complete Of Mice and Men Character Grid (use the text from chapter 4 to complete the squares for Crooks)- due by end of the period today



Weekly Agenda, 2/19-2/23

Monday, 2/19 and Tuesday, 2/20

-No School for students

Block, 2/21

-No Advisory Schedule

-Parent/ Teacher conferences tonight and tomorrow

-Collect Of Mice and Men Character Grid

-Of Mice and Men Climax-Script reading

-Complete Quizlet over Of Mice and Men slang terms

-Continue reading Chapter 4 Of Mice and Men (pg 61 digital copy)

-Introduce Steinbeck Hands Motif Project

Friday, 2/23

-Watch the video, "How will Russia Remember Aleksei Navalny?"

-Nonfiction Friday article, "Why Does the Right to Protest Matter?"

-After watching the video, read the article and complete the handout

-Continue work on Steinbeck Hands Motif Project

Weekly Agenda, 2/26-3/1

Monday, 2/26

-Finish reading chapter 4 in Of Mice and Men-begin on page 66

-Complete Chapter 4 review Quizziz over Chapter 4

-Watch Chapter 4 on film

-Complete Of Mice and Men Hand Project

Checklist for Project:

-Make sure your first and last name is on the front of your project

-Your chosen character's name is clear and centered on the top (or bottom) 

-You have 5 quotes from the novel clearly labeled.  1 quote describing the hand, 2 examples of dialogue, 2 quotes showing your character's loneliness

You'll be graded on your precision and attention to detail.  You don't have to be an excellent artist, and your project should be clean and show evidence of thoughtful construction.

Tuesday, 2/27

-Collect Hand Project 

-Novel Notes chapter 5- take notes

-Discuss Discomfort and Literature

-Begin reading Chapter 5, page 70 of digital text

-Begin the Activity, Mad, Fast and Soft Talking, An Exercise in Character Voice

Block

-Complete Chapter 5 in Of Mice and Men-begin page 77 of digital copy

-Complete Review Quizziz over Chapter 5

-Complete Character Voice Exercise

-Read Steinbeck's letter "On Falling in Love"

-Read these instructions for our Summative Letter Writing Project-due date TBD

-Here's an example of a letter that I wrote from George to Lennie as an example

Friday, 3/1

-Watch vid "Mitchell Quinn asks Tough Questions"

-Read the Nonfiction Friday Article, "What Questions Would You Ask a Politician?"

-Begin Drafting our Summative Letter Writing Project-due date TBD

-Here's an example of a letter that I wrote from George to Lennie as an example

Weekly Agenda, 3/4-3/8

Monday, 3/4

-Chapter 6 pre-reading activity-on the blank piece of paper, create two egg-like ovals representing the minds of George and Lennie

Instructions for pre-reading activity-using your graphic, think about what is going on within the minds of George and Lennie at this point in the novel.  Represent artistically using a combination of 5 images and individual words what each character is thinking about.  Include 5 words and images for each character.

-Begin reading Chapter 6 in Of Mice and Men-digital copy page 83

-Continue drafting our Summative Letter Writing Project-due date beginning of class Wednesday, March 6th

Remember, with your Character Perspective Letter, your words should demonstrate the voice characteristics of your chosen character 

Tuesday, 3/5

-Complete reading Chapter 6 in Of Mice and Men-digital copy page 86

-Complete the Quizziz review over chapter 6

-Complete  Summative Letter Writing Project-due date beginning of class Wednesday, March 6th

-See this link to the Rubric for the Summative Letter Writing Project

-If you finish your letter and proofread it thoroughly, submit your completed letter in google classroom.

-Our summative novel assessment over Of Mice and Men will be this Friday, 3/8 

Block

-Friday's Assembly Schedule

-The Summative Letter Writing Project- is due today

-Our Mice and Men Summative Exam will be Friday-you can use your book and hand written notes-85 points, must use bvsd supplied chromebook

-Link to Of Mice and Men Assessment Practice

-To review for our exam tomorrow, complete the crossword and magic squares handout

Friday, 3/8

-Complete Of Mice and Men Final Novel Assessment on google classroom

Ypou can use your chromebook, the digital copy of the novel and any hand written notes you've taken.

Weekly Agenda, 3/11-3/15

Monday, 3/11

-Introduce EQ: How do people organize themselves and where do I fit in?

-Bomb Shelter and Nuclear Attack Survival Tips 1951-view

-Complete Bomb Shelter Scenario with a partner-this is a handout

Tuesday, 3/12

-Take Hobbes vs. Locke pre-test

-Take notes on William Golding and Thomas Hobbes presentation

Block, 3/13

-Complete the post-presentation quiz- this is a handout

-Watch "Castaway" film clip

-Read the Common Lit Article, "The 1972 Andes Flight Disaster"

-Answer the review questions for the article.  See my sample response linked here

-Begin work on LOF vocabulary for "The Sound of the Shell"

Weekly Agenda, 3/18-3/22

Monday, 3/18

-Social Studies Block

Tuesday, 3/19

-Finish the Common Lit Article, "The 1972 Andes Flight Disaster"

-Answer the review questions for the article.  See my sample response linked here

-Pre-reading graphic/ Novel Notes "The Sound of the Shell"-take notes in your LA notebook

Block. 3/20

-Parts of Speech Review

-Parts of Speech practice-this is a handout

-Begin work on LOF vocabulary for "The Sound and the Shell"

-Complete LOF vocabulary review quizziz

-Pass out LOF novels and begin Chapter 1, "The Sound of the Shell"

Friday, 3/22

-Nonfiction Friday article, "Should the United States Ban TikTok?"

-Finish reading "The Sound of the Shell" in LOF

-Watch "Castaway" on film

Weekly Agenda, 4/1-4/5

Monday, 4/1

-Write chapter summary  of only one (complex) sentence each, which includes essential plot information 

-LOF "Sound of the Shell" review-take notes

-Continue reading LOF Chapter 1 "The Sound of the Shell"

Tuesday, 4/2

-Expand upon and explain "Cosmic Perfection" 

-Finish reading "The Sound of the Shell" in LOF

-Complete Quizziz review over "The Sound of the Shell"

-Begin Rough Draft of Island Map

-See these instructions for the Island Map Assignment

Block, 4/3

-Parts of Speech Review

-Parts of Speech Review-this is a handout

-Allegory review and Symbolism discussion-take notes in your LA notebook

-Begin reading LOF Chapter 2 "Fire on the Mountain"

-Begin work on final draft of Island Map

-See these instructions for the Island Map Assignment

Friday, 4/5

-Read the Nonfiction Friday article, "Are Super Strict Schools Good for Students?"

-Continue work on the Island Map Assignment- Due Monday, 4/8

Weekly Agenda, 4/8-4/12

Monday, 4/8

-Testing Schedule for next week

-Novel Notes, objects of government and symbolism

-Continue reading the chapter "Fire on the Mountain" in LOF

-Continue work on the Island Map Assignment- Due Beginning of class Tuesday, 4/9

Tuesday, 4/9

-Turn in Island Map (if you didn't yesterday)

-Complete Quizziz review of "Fire on the Mountain"

-Discuss Questions of Leadership handout- use this link for ideas on values

-Begin reading chapter 3, "Huts on the Beach"

Block, 4/10

-Parts of Speech practice- this is a handout

-Finish LOF chapter, "Huts on the Beach"

-Watch LOF on film 8:46-26:00

-Complete Quizziz review over chapter 3

-Complete the vocabulary activity for Thomas Hobbes' "Leviathan"

-Begin work on constructing "Leviathan" images- use simple and precise symbols and images to complete the graphic

Friday, 4/12

-Nonfiction Friday article, "Has Your Relationship to School Attendance Changed Since the Pandemic?"

-Absenteeism video

-Complete "Leviathan" images

-Read and highlight "Leviathan" by Thomas Hobbes

-Complete the "Leviathan" review quiz

Weekly Agenda, 4/15-4/19

Monday, 4/15

-Complete the review quiz over Thomas Hobbes' "Leviathan"

-Novel Notes Symbolism over Simon and the mat 

-Begin reading "Painted Faces and Long Hair"

Tuesday, 4/16

-no school for freshmen

Wednesday, 4/17

-no school for freshmen

Thursday, 4/18

-PASAT 9 Make sure to bring your fully charged BVSD chrome book

Friday, 4/19

-No school 

Weekly Agenda, 4/22-4/26

Monday, 4/22

-No School

Tuesday, 4/23

-Chapter 4 "Painted Faces and Long Hair" Review-instructions linked

-Complete Quizziz review over chapters 1-3

-Continue reading "Painted Faces and Long Hair"

Block, 4/23

-Parts of Speech review, Pronouns

-Complete the Parts of Speech Review Pronouns and Adjectives

-Why Read Lord of the Flies article

-Watch the Robbers Cave Experiment video

-Novel Notes "Painted Faces and Long Hair"

-Finish reading the chapter "Painted Faces and Long Hair" (pg 66)

-Use this link to listen as you read

-Complete Quizziz Review over the chapter

Friday, 4/26

-Novel Notes Review 

-Begin reading the chapter "Beast From Water" pages 76-81

-You can use this audio reading of the chapter as you read

-Begin work on "A Conversation Between You and the Text"

-Complete the first three boxes on the handout


Weekly Agenda, 4/29-5/3

Monday, 4/29

-Common Lit End of Year Assessment, this Wednesday, 5/1

-Preview to the second part of the chapter, "Beast from Water"

-Continue reading the chapter "Beast from Water."  You can stop on page 89 when you get to Simon's question, "What's the dirtiest thing there is?"

-Continue working on the handout from Friday, "A conversation Between you and the Text"

-Finish "Beast from Water" together

-Complete the chapter review on google classroom

Tuesday, 4/30

-Common Lit End of Year Assessment, this Wednesday, 5/1

-Common Lit Assessment Data

-Complete "A Conversation Between you and the Text" handout 

-Preview "Beast from Air"-novel notes

-Complete "Beast from Air" Word Identification Activity

-Continue reading "Beast from Air" you can use this audio link to listen as you read

Block, 5/1

-Complete the Common Lit End of Year Assessment

-Once you've finished the Common Lit Assessment, complete reading the chapter "Beast from Air"

Friday, 5/2

-Complete "Beast from Air" review Quizziz

-Review Simon as a character

-Introduce the chapter, "Shadows and Tall Trees"

-Symbolism Review- Christ-like and Messianic characters

-Continue reading "Shadows and Tall Trees" independently

Weekly Agenda, 5/6-5/10

Monday, 5/6

-Pass out yearbook tickets

-Finish the Chapter "Shadows and Tall Tree" together

-Complete Quizziz review over "Shadows and Tall Trees"

-Freud and Psychoanalytical Theory- take notes

Tuesday, 5/8

-Complete Review Questions over Psychoanalytical Theory

-Begin reading Chapter 8, "Gift for the Darkness"

-Discuss Governmental Allegory Climax

-Continue reading Chapter 8 independently

Block, 5/9

-Finish reading the chapter, "Gift for the Darkness"

-Discuss Religious Allegory

-Complete LOF 1-8 Review Quizziz

-Watch Jack's departure from the tribe on film

Friday, 5/10

-Locke and Hobbes Review

-Read John Locke's Second Treatise

-Complete the handout over John Locke

-Begin reading "A View to a Death"

Weekly Agenda, 5/13-5/17 

-No block periods this week

Monday, 5/13

-Review the chapter, "View to a Death"

-Novel notes- Simon and Golding's Themes- take notes

-Begin reading the chapter, "The Shell and the Glasses"

Tuesday, 5/14

-Discuss Religious Allegory Climax

-Finish the last two pages of "The Shell and the Glasses"

-Complete Review Quizziz

-Begin reading "Castle Rock"

Wednesday, 5/15

Adjusted Eagle Flight Schedule

-Work on LOF Review

Thursday, 5/16

-Review LOF chapter, "Castle Rock"

-Novel Notes- Discuss Governmental and Psychoanalytical Allegory climaxes

-Begin reading LOF last chapter "The Cry of the Hunters"

Friday, 5/17

-Complete Final Chapters Review Quizziz

-Lord of the Flies Analysis

-Introduce Message in a Bottle Writing Assessment (This will be part of our final exam)

-Review for Final Exam


Final Exam Information

Period 3 Final:  Wednesday, 5/22 10:05-12:05

Period 4 Final: Thursday, 5/23  9:05-11:05

Materials needed:  Charged chrome book, your copy of Lord of the Flies, LA notebook, writing utensil

-The first part of your final is the Lord of the Flies novel assessment.  The assessment will be completed on your bvsd chrome book.  93 points total

-The second part of the final is constructing and writing the Message in a Bottle.  You will be given a handout to complete this letter.  60 points