Mister Ambrose
489 Winthrop St.
Medford, MA 02155
ph: 781.393.2345
dambrose
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Work on Ethan Frome presentations. (See Monday for details.)
When you are finished work on Ethan Frome essay.
Tonight's Homework:
Finish presentation and be prepared to present tomorrow.
Ethan Frome test for Thursday.
Ethan Frome essay draft for Friday.
Boston Globe writing contest entries due this week!
Monday, November 29, 2010
Word of the Day: idiosyncratic
Ethan Frome Technology Lesson
Word of the Day
At some point during class...
Web links for today's historical research:
A 19th-century American etiquette book
Marriage and Women from the 19th-century on
A Social History of American Family Life
British Marriage Laws Around the Turn of the Century
Marriage and Divorce in Post-Victorian America
Download web links in document format here.
Post-research discussion questions.
Monday's Homework:
Work on Ethan Frome PPT (due Wednesday).
Study for Ethan Frome test (Thursday).
Work on draft of Ethan Frome essay (due Friday).
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Portfolio Reflection
No Homework! Enjoy your Thanksgiving break!
If you want to get ahead, you may work on your Ethan Frome essay. The first draft of this essay will be due on Friday, December 3.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Parent-Teacher Night Tonight - Who will be in attendance?
Word of the Day
Pair and Share HW (topic for Ethan Frome paper)
Student-Led Writing Stations
Ticket Out the Door
Download full lesson plan here.
Download handouts for individual stations here.
Long-Term Homework
Work on Ethan Frome essay.
Wednesday's Homework
Read ch. 7 and 8 of Ethan Frome.
Questions:
1.) How does Zeena's news about hiring Mattie's replacement affect Ethan?
2.) Why can chapter 7 be considered the climax of the novel?
3.) In chapter 8, Ethan weighs his options. How is his decision to maintain status quo in keeping with his personality?
4.) Why does Ethan not consider his obligation to Mattie? What will his decision to remain with Zeea do to Maattie? Is this fair?
5.) How do Wharton's descriptions mmirror Ethan's state of mind and foreshadow the end?
Tuesday's Homework
Read ch. 5 and 6 of Ethan Frome.
Two questions:
What basic difference between Mattie and Ethan is highlighted in this chapter?
How has the evening without Zeena altered Ethan's perception on life?
Friday, November 12, 2010
SAT - practice test 1, section 6 - Writing - Complete and Review
Good Reads - read your book and share your reviews
Friday's Homework
Read chapter 3 in Ethan Frome
Thursday, November 11, 2010
No school - Veterans' Day
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Quarter 1 Exam
Wednesday's Homework
Sign up for a Good Reads account. Add a book to your shelf. Write a 1-2 page book review and post it to Good Reads any time before Friday.
Links to Images for First Short Story Assignment
Click to download if you want to put an image in your story.
People on train awaiting something
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Word of the Day: equanimity
Ethan Frome, Day 1
Introduction activities for the book's five major themes
Check out today's lesson plan at my Lesson Plan Library.
Wednesday's Homework
Read Prologue (pp. 1-17).
Answer two of the following questions:
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
No school! Election Day!
Monday, November 1, 2010
Word of the Day: epitome
Writer's Workshop
"Slowing Down the Moment" Lesson
Monday's Homework
Work on two polished versions of your short stories.
Friday, October 29, 2010
Short Story Unit Test
Friday's Homework
Work on polishing two stories.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
"FUBAR" - read and discuss
Thursday's Homework
Study for short story test.
Bring outside reading book to read.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Word of the Day: dillettante
"Why I Live at the P.O."
Do Now: 4 Questions about HW
Pair and Share HW (share, discuss, and submit)
Discussion Questions(and vocab)
Free Write: My Crazy Family
Wednesday's Homework:
Write your own absurdist "crazy family" story.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Words of the Day: Vexation, Aesthetic
"Trying to Save Piggy Sneed"
Literary Term: Memoir
Opener: Journal
Group Literary Analysis
Your Own Memoir Free Write
Download today's lesson plan on "Trying to Save Piggy Sneed."
Tuesday's Homework
Write a one-page letter from one character in the story to Sister.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Word of the Day: dichotomy
"A Retrieved Reformation"
Opener: Journal
Terminology
Discussion (and submit homework)
"Self-fulfilling Prophecies"
Plot Diagram- "A Retrieved Reformation"
Download full lesson plan here.
Monday's Homework
Read "Trying to Save Piggy Sneed"
Complete a plot diagram for the story.
Be prepared for me to check your coming-of-age free write later in the week.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Word of the Day: deja vu
SAT Practice Test 1, Section 2 (Passage-Based Reading)
Complete in 25 minutes and review answers
(While students take test, call attention to time limits and clues.)
Friday's Homework
Read "A Retrieved Reformation" by O. Henry.
Write one paragraph about what is ironic about the story.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Word of the Day:
Do Now: Brainstorm your own coming-of-age experiences.
Free write on your coming-of-age experiences.
Discussion: "Awaiting Orders" by Tobias Wolff
Thursday's Homework
Complete final draft of Walden essay.
Wednesday, Octobe 20, 2010
Word of the Day: caustic
A & P, John Updike
Literary Term: coming-of-age
Complete four discussion questions independently.
Large group discussion.
Wednesday's Homework
Write a draft of your own coming-of-age stories.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Word of the Day: catch 22
Everyday Use, Alice Walker = Artifact Exchange
Read "Everday Use (for your Grandma's Bowling Balls)"
Take out your stories for snapshots, Girl, and artifacts
Pee Revision
Free Write: Add to the one that you like the best
Tuesday's Homework
Work on Walden essay.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Word of the Day: diffident
Everyday Use, Alice Walker = Artifact Exchange
Discuss "Everyday Use" using handouts students completed for today.
Share artifacts in large circle
With partners, complete artifact exchange.
Homework
Write a story that involves your artifact.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Review and submit practice test
Homework
Due Monday: Complete Everyday Use handouts.
Bring in an "artifact."
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Everyday Use, Alice Walker
Homework
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Girl, Jamaica Kincaid
Wednesday's Homework
Write your own version of "Girl" (50-75 lines).
Download Mr. Ambrose's sample assignment here.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Introduction to Snapshots Unit
Tuesday's Homework
Formalize your short story.
Friday, October 8, 2010
PSAT Preparation
Reading Workshop
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Word of the Day
College Pride Presentation
College Q & A
Thursday's Homework
Due Friday:
Due Tuesday:
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Word of the Day: cacophony - jarry, discordant, sounds
Whitman's Biography - read aloud and highlight main points
2 Poems by Whitman - Read and Discuss
Work on laptops
Wednesday's Homework:
Write any and all questions you have about college or the college application process.
Due Friday:
Due Tuesday:
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Read "Invictus"
Read "Self-Reliance"
Select your favorite quote from one of these works and write a three-paragraph response paper.
(Due Wednesday)
Read the following two articles about Henry David Thoreau, originally printed in The New York Times:
Write a one-page response paper discussing Thoreau's signficance in the modern world.
Be sure to include quotes from the articles in your response.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Word of the Day: brusque
Discuss Thoreau essay assigment
Read and Discuss The Top 6 Signs that you may be a Transcendentalist
Listen to "You Never Know" by DMB
Take Five: Take five minutes to underline two quotes that stood out to you about the weekend's reading that you would like to discuss.
Discussion
Wrap-up Round Robin Discussion: Thoreau's Thoughts on Reading
Monday's Homework
(Due Wednesday)
Read the following two articles about Henry David Thoreau, originally printed in The New York Times:
Write a one-page response paper discussing Thoreau's signficance in the modern world.
Be sure to include quotes from the articles in your response.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Word of the Day:
PSAT Practice Session 3
Guided Practice
Submit rough drafts (HDT v. MLK)
Reading Workshop
Tonight's Homework
Read assigned excerpts from Walden. Annotate appropriately (underline notable points, write notes in margins, etc.)
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Word of the Day:
Do Now: PSAT Reading Comprehension Questions
My Personal Economy: Journal Activity and Discussion
Discuss last night's reading (excerpts from "Economy")
Demonstrate the size of Thoreau's cabin by counting tiles on the floor (so students can visualize)
In small groups, draw a detailed blueprint of Thoreau's cabin, using details from the text.
Wednesday's Homework
Read "Where I Lived and What I Lived For"
Complete 5 items from "Where I Lived and What I Lived For" homework sheet.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Word of the Day: bourgeois - relating to the middle class
Do Now: 2 PSAT Reading Comprehension Questions
Thoreau Biographical Information
Discussion: Agree/Disagree
Tonight's Homework
Read excerpts from "Economy" (pp. 233-237)
Write a one-page response paper: What are your thoughts on Thoreau's Walden experiment? Is it admirable or dumb? Why?
In your response, use at least 3 quotes from the text.
Additionally, copy down the words and definitions from the "words to own" section of the text in the vocabulary section of your binder:
Monday, September 27, 2010.
Word of the Day: boondoggle
Do Now: PSAT reading comprehension questions
Review format of Socratic Seminar
Socratic Discussion
Confer with your Socratic partner about his/her involvement in the discussion
Review Civil Disobedience essay assignment
Monday's Homework
Work on Civil Disobedience essay assignment.
Rough draft (typed, 2-3 pages) due on Thursday, 9.30.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Word of the Day: bona fide
Do Now: 2 PSAT vocabulary questions
Reading Comprehension Strategies and Guided Practice
Drop Everything and Read!
Friday's Homework
Write 8 questions for Monday's Socratic Seminar.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
In small groups, identify similarities between HDT's "Civil Disobedience" and MLK's "Letter from Birmingham Jail."
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Word of the Day:
Do Now: 2 PSAT Practice Questions
3-2-1 Activity: "Civil Disobedience"
Discussion: Part 2 of "Civil Disobedience"
Wednesday's Homework:
Read part 3 of Civil Disobedience.
Write a brief response about whether you agree with Thoreau's perspective and why.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Word of the Day:
Do Now: 2 PSAT sentence completions
Civil Disobedience: Day 1
Download Word document with today's plans here.
Tuesday's Homework
Read Part 2 of Thoreau's "Civil Disobedience."
Underline/highlight and annotate the text.
Select 3 quotes that are interesting and write a one paragraph reflection on each.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Word of the Day:
Do Now: 2 PSAT sentence completions
MLK Vocabulary Quiz
Circle Discussion: "Letter from Birmingham Jail"
If time allows, in small groups, have students identify four types of rhetoric in "Letter from Birmingham Jail'
Monday's Homework
Read Part 1 of Thoreau's "Civil Disobedience."
Underline or highlight main ideas.
Write notes and questions in the margins.
Focus on making connections between Thoreau's ideas and King's.
Friday, September 17, 2010
Word of the Day (5 min.)
Do Now: 3 PSAT practice questions (5 min.)
Check off students' PSAT practice homework and then reveal answers to PSAT practice homework (5 min.)
PSAT Practice Session 1: Sentence Completion (30 min.)
Outside Reading (10 minutes)
Friday's Homework
Complete one of the culminating projects for the "Letter from a Birmingham Jail" unit.
Study for MLK vocabulary quiz.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Announcements:
Word of the Day
Do Now: 4 PSAT practice questions
Wrap up Project C Simulation with a large group discussion
Begin discussion on "Letter from a Birmingham Jail" based on student response papers.
Tonight's Homework
Bring in your outside reading book.
Complete Vocabulary Questions from 2008 practice PSAT.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Word of the Day
Do Now: 3 PSAT practice questions
"Letter from Birmingham Jail," Day 2
Wednesday's Homework
Response Paper/Analysis Questions
Monday, September 13, 2010
Word of the Day: accolade - a special recognition or award
Do Now: 4 PSAT practice questions
"Letter from Birmingham Jail," Day 1
Monday's Homework:
Research your assigned role for Wednesday's role play:
Your job is to become an EXPERT on the perspective of your assigned role play "character," particularly in regards to the events leading up to "PROJECT C" in 1963.
Look for SPECIFIC information about your INDIVIDUAL, not just general information about the group.
Download complete lesson plan here.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Friday Night's Homework:
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Thursday Night's Homework:
Wednesday, September 8, 2010 - Welcome back!
Wednesday Night's Homework:
Monday, June 13, 2011
Distribute sample response paper by Ambrose for "Old Man at the Bridge."
Do now: Read silently "Hills Like White Elephants"
Small group or large group discussion: Use graphic organizer
Tonight's Homework:
Response paper for "Hills Like White Elephants"
Friday, June 10, 2011
Summer Reading List
Do Now: Pair and Share College Essays
College Presentations
Outside Reading
Tonight's Homework:
Work on curriculum questions for Wednesday, June 22.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Review Basics of Hemingway's style
Wrap up Hamlet videos
Read "Old Man at the Bridge" silently
Small groups: Hamlet graphic organizer - Download here.
Large group: Discuss how the elements are present
Download some useful notes on Old Man at the Bridge here.
Tonight's Homework:
College essay.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Hamlet Video Presentation
Return Hamlet books
Homework: Work on College Essay
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Distribute and review curriculum questions
Read excerpt from Gertrude and Claudius
Discuss Gertrude and Claudius
Homework: Finish Hamlet video
Monday, June 6, 2011
Period 2 - Don't forget to submit last week's homework (SAT prompt brainstorming)
Work on Hamlet video
Work on college essay - Download essy prompts here.
Tonight's Homework
Work on Hamlet video
Friday, June 3, 2011
Distribute Class Calendar
Do Now: With a partner, examine and review your SAT prompt thesis statements and bullet points
Last-minute SAT strategies
SAT practice (Grammar and Writing for Standardized Tests)
College presentations
Outside reading
Tonight's Homework
Work on Hamlet video
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Hamlet Test
Tonight's Homework
Write thesis statement and 3 bullet points for each of the 4 SAT prompts.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Work on Hamlet video
Review format of Hamlet test
HW: Study for Hamlet Test
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Workshop Day: Work on Hamlet Essay
Do Now: 5 minutes to work on your essay independently
Groups: Writing Workshop
(get with other students who are writing about the same character as you)
Goals:
- Select quotes
- Identify talking points
- Workshop essay
HW: Final draft of Hamlet essay
Friday, May 27, 2011
Do Now: SAT practice (Vocabulary)
Sample Hamlet Essays:
College presentations
Outside reading
HW: Work on Hamlet assignments (essay/video)
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Introduce Hamlet Video Project
Do Now: Exchange thesis and outline for Hamlet essay with a partner. Peer edit. Mr. Ambrose will come around to check HW. 10 point HW grade.
Watch Reduced Shakespeare - Hamlet
Review assignment.
Submit Hamlet 5.2 video sheet if you have not already.
HW: Bring in outside reading book. Work on Hamlet assignments.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Hamlet Discussion
Download SRS presentation here.
Answer student questions from last night's log.
Assign Hamlet character essay.
HW: Work on Hamlet character essay.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Lesson 20: The Last Gasp
View Act 5 on Video
Download guided viewing handout here.
Discuss the depiction of the Act
HW: Write in your logs two or three questiosn about the play that haven't been answered for you. Also, decide on a character that you'd like to write about for an essay.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Lesson 19: The Gravediggers Scene
Take notes on the role of the clown
Act the Scene
Discuss the Scene
HW: Read 5.2. Write in logs.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Submit Hamlet essays
Do Now: SAT Prep
Outside Reading
3 College Presentations
HW: Read 5.1. Write in logs.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Lesson 17: Character Committees
Day 2: Presentations
12-14 minute student-facilitated PowerPoint presentations on the following characters:
HW: Work on essay due Friday, 5.21.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Lesson 17: Character Committees
Day 1: Committee Meetings
HW: Be prepared to present your information to the class. (Finish PowerPoint or poster.)
Work on essay due Friday 5.21.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Act 4 Guided Viewing
Discussion
Homework:
Finish questions.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Lesson 16: The Closet Scene
Do Now: Journal
Previewing 3.4
Viewing 3.4 (3 versions)
Discussion
HW: Act 4 character committees logs due Tuesday, 5.17
Essay due Friday, 5.21
Friday, May 13, 2011
Review SAT Packet
College Presentations
Outside Reading
HW: Act 4 character committees logs due Tuesday, 5.17
Essay due Friday, 5.21
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Lesson 15: Physicalizing Speech Presentations
Group Meetings
Presentations
What These Passages Contribute to Character
Explain Character Committees
HW: SAT Packet.
Bring in outside reading book.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Lesson 14: "Be Not Too Tame Neither"
Do Now: Our Mousetrap Production
Discuss Various Versions of The Mousetrap Scene
Assign Essay (Due next Wednesday)
Tonight's Homework
Read Hamlet 3.3 and 3.4. Write in your logs.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Lesson 13: Acting "The Mousetrap"
Split into four acting groups:
Prepare the scenes in small groups, using your own ideas for stage direction and original language.
Perform scenes in relay
Discuss
Tonight's Homework:
Complete Cast your own Mousetrap production handout.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Lesson 12: The Nunnery Scene in Film
Comparative Film Analysis
Download lesson plan and handout here.
Today, we'll check out four versions of Hamlet 3.1:
1976 creepy version with Helen Mirren
David Tennant (chapter 8)
Ethan Hawke (chapter 12)
Kenneth Branagh (chapter 26)
Wrap-up journal and discussion (and submit homework)
Tonight's Homework
Read Hamlet 3.2 and write in logs.
Friday, May 6, 2011
Word of the Day
SAT General Tips
College Presentations
period 2: Jonathan and Grant
period 6: Josie, Jan, Christina
Review and submit SAT packet
Tonight's Homework:
Reread Hamlet 3.1. Write in your logs.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Lesson 11: "Ha, Ha, Are You Honest?"
Share and submit homework (your own "To be or not to be")
Establishing Three Objectives
Rehearsing with the Objectives in Mind
Performance
Tonight's Homework
Complete SAT Packet
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Lesson 10: "To Be or Not to Be"
View clippage: "To be or not to be" by five Hamlets
"To be or not to be" by David Tennant
Small groups: Review HW
Large group discussion (summary and antithesis)
Tonight's Homework
Write your own version of the "To be or not to be" solioquy.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Hamlet: Lesson 9: "The Motive and the Cue for Passion"
Submit Act 2 logs.
Do Now: View 3 distinct interpretations of Hamlet's conversation with Polonius from Hamlet 2.2 to get a feel for today's theme - comparative film analysis.
Paraphrase the "O, What a Rogue" soliloquy and discuss
Viewing the soliloquy:
Tonight's Homework:
Paraphrase the "To be or not to be soliloquy." Provide a rhetorical analysis (one page) of the antithesis.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Hamlet: Lesson 8: "Words, Words, Words"
Hamlet Act 2 on video
Discussion: Act 2
Discussion: Hamlet's language
Submit your portfolio pieces if you have not done so already.
Tonight's Homework:
Be sure Act 2 logs are ready for submission.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Period 2: Hamlet Lesson 7 ("Gaming, My Lord") (25 min.)
Determining Polonius's Values
Playing the Newly Mad Hamlet
Discussion
Bonus Time (25 min.): College Presentations!
Period 6: Outside Reading
Introduce College Essays and Small Group College Essay Writing Workshop
Homework (all classes):
Read Hamlet 2.2. Respond in your logs.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Period 2:
Pre-prom assembly for juniors
Period 6: Hamlet Lesson 7 ("Gaming, My Lord")
Determining Polonius's Values
Playing the Newly Mad Hamlet
Discussion
Homework (due Monday, May 2):
Read Hamlet 2.2. Write in logs.
Wednesday, April 27
Submit Act 1 logs for grading
Hamlet Act 1 on video
Discussion (use guided viewing sheet)
Begin reading Hamlet 2.1, with a focus on Polonius's values
Homework:
Read Hamlet 2.1. Write in your log.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Hamlet 1.5: Lesson 6 (The Ghost Scene)
Performing the Ghost Scene
Unfolding the Tale
Wither Wilt Thou Lead Me?
Tonight's Homework:
Be sure Act 1 logs are completed and organized and ready to be submitted.
BONUS TIME: Organize portfolio pieces. Write portfolio reflection for each piece.
Monday, April 25, 2011
In-class: Read Hamlet 1.3. Write in your logs.
Homework: Read Hamlet 1.4-1.5. Write in your logs. (One set of entries for both scenes will do.)
Friday, April 18, 2011
Period 2:
College Panel
Period 6:
Females: Assembly
Males: To Be Announced
Thursday, April 17, 2011
Period 2:
Hamlet Lesson 4: Hamlet's Mental State
Homework: Write questions for tomorrow's college panel.
Period 6:
College Panel
Wednesday, April 16, 2011
Hamlet Lesson 3: Hamlet vs. Claudius
Homework:
Read Hamlet's soliloquy. Paraphrase Hamlet's lines to the best of your ability. Write a written analysis. (Use handout from class.)
(Period 6: Write questions for tomorrow's college panel.)
Tuesday, April 15, 2011
Hamlet Lesson 2: Acting 1.1
Homework:
Read Hamlet 1.2. Write in your log.
Monday, April 11, 2011
PLEASE RETURN JUNGLE BOOKS TODAY!
Hamlet Leson 1: Logs
Homework:
Read Hamlet 1.1. Write in your log as we discussed today.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Submit Jungle essays
Review college project rubric
View sample projects: Dee and Anna
Distribute article ("What We Recommend") from How to Get Into College
Tonight's Homework:
Post your book review on Good Reads.
Thursdy, April 7, 2011
Writing Workshop: Work on Jungle essays on laptops
Tonight's Homework:
Jungle essay due Friday!
Wedneday, April 6, 2011
Share muck-raking articles
Review Jungle essay prompts
Writing Workshop: Work on Jungle essays on laptops
Tonight's Homework:
Jungle essay due Friday!
Tuesday, Apil 5, 2011
Quarterly 3 Exam
Tonight's Homework:
Muck-raking article assignment.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Play Quarter 3 Exam Jeopardy Review Game
Fill out Exam Review Sheet
Discuss Jungle Essay and Muck-raking article assignment
Tonight's Homework:
Study for quarterly exam.
Work on Jungle essays/muck-raking articles.
Jungle Essay Topics
Download the Jungle essay topics here.
The essay is due next Friday, April 8.
Tuesday's Homework
Read chapters 22-24 of The Jungle.
Here is a link for the reading for those who do not have a book.
Response Paper:
3 quotes and analysis
3 difficult words
Monday's Homework
Read chapters 13 and 14 of the Jungle.
Here is a link for the reading for those who do not have a book.
Write a reponse paper that features the following:
- 3 quotes from the text with explanations
- 3 difficult words from the reading with definitions
This Weekend's Homework
Read chapters 10 and 11 of The Jungle.
Here is a link for the reading for those who do not have a book.
Write a response paper to the reading which analyzes how things are changing for Jurgis and how Jurgis himself is changing. Use 3 quotes from your reading.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Great site for doing tonight's reading, chapters 7 and 8.
Tonight's Homework:
Read chapters 7 and 8.
Find an article online that connects to one of the themes of Jurgis's struggle:
- owning a home = American Dream
- predatory mortgage lending
- immigration
- food industry (Food Lion, Food Inc.)
- unions
- sick time
Write a brief response (quiz grade) which synthesizes the article's information and ideas from the book.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Tonight's Homework
Weekly SAT Writing Prompt
The old saying, "be careful what you wish for," may be an appropriate warning. The drive to achieve a particular goal can dangerously narrow one's perspective and encourage the fantasy that success in one endeavor will solve all of life's difficulties. In fact, success can sometimes have unexpected consequences. Those who propel themselves toward the achievement of one goal often find that their lives are worse once "success" is achieved than they were before.
Assignment: Can success be disastrous? Plan and write an essay in which you develop your point of view on this issue. Support your position with reasoning and examples taken from your reading, studies, experience, or observations.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
DYRT Pop Quiz (5 min.)
Do Now: Red immigration article from yesterday ID main ideas. Discuss. (10 min.)
Circle Discussion (30 min.)
Begin reading chapter 2
Tonight's Homework
Finish reading chapter 2. Write a one-page response paper. Tie the reading into our American Dream discussion and use at least one quote.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
American Dream Lesson
Homework:
Read chapter 1 of The Jungle. Write a one-pge response paper.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Introduction to Muck-Raking PowerPoint
In small groups, brainstorm the following:
Tonight's Homework
Response Paper: What is the American Dream? Is it particular for you, or is it the same for everyone? Who are people who represent your version of the American Dream? Dan Ross? Rick Ross? Why?
Friday, March 11, 2011
Period 2
Outside reading
Exchange, score, and submit SAT essays
SAT packet and review
NO HOMEWORK!
Period 6
Don and Neil's presentation
Submit SAT essay
Outside reading
NO HOMEWORK!
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Chicago poems test
TONIGHT'S HOMEWORK: 3-paragraph SAT-style essay
PROMPT: Where silence once reigned, the cell phone now interrupts. "Computer error" is blamed for almost every glitch in modern life, from erroneous weather forecasts to ridiculous tax bills. Modern life has become enslaved to technology.
Technology has not made our lives easier. Agree or disagree with this statement, supporting your position with references to your life or your reading.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Chicago Poem Presentations
Review for Chicago Test
HOMEWORK: Study for Chicago test.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Chicago Poem Presentations
Period 2:
Submit reading journals
Renee's Group
Pete's Group
Period 6:
Seth's Group
Larry's Group
Tonight's Homework
Chicago Poems Analysis Questions in Packet (due on Wednesday - can be used on the "Chicago" quiz on Thursday)
Monday, March 7, 2011
Chicago Poem Presentations
Period 2:
Grant Martignetti's Group
Michael Greenwood's Group
Period 6:
Josie's Group
Marc's Group
Tonight's Homework
SAT corrections for Friday's packet
Friday, March 4, 2011
Do Now: Get with two partners and score your SAT essay from homework according to the SAT rubric
SAT Preparation (pp. 920-923 in blue SAT book)
Outside Reading
Tonight's Homework
Brief journal response about your outside reading book
Thursday, March 3, 2011
"Chicago" Poems
Two groups present "Chicago" poems lesson
Tonight's Homework
Practice SAT Essay
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
"Chicago" Poems
Work on presentations for "Chicago" poems
(First two groups present their lessons tomorrow for 10 extra credit points)
Tonight's Homework:
Finish preparation for "Chicago" poems lesson/presentation
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
"Chicago" Poems
Share and submit "Chicago" poems (from last night's HW)
Distribute packet of various "Chicago" poems and guided questions
Discuss "Chicago" poems presentation assignment (and review rubric)
Students work in small groups to prepare poem presentations (and sign up for days to present - TH 3.3, M 3.7, TU 3.8)
Tonight's Homework:
Answer guided questions for your assigned poem. Brainstorm activities that you can do with the class for your lesson.
Monday, February 28, 2011
EXTRA CREDIT: Write an article for the Mustang News!
"Chicago" Poems - An Introduction
Journal: Examine photos of industrial Chicago
Carl Sandberg background
(Read and discuss biography from Glencoe textbook.)
Eminem Super Bowl Commercial - view and discuss
Write your own version of "Chicago," modeled after Sandberg's piece (perhaps "Medford" or "Boston")
HW: Wrap up the final version of your "Chicago" poem
Friday, February 18, 2011
Anthem project presentations
SAT Prep
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Anthem project presentations
Homework: Finalize Anthem essay rough draft
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Work on Anthem projects
Homework: Finalize Anthem presentations
Tuesay, February 15, 2011
Review Anthem project rubric
Work on Anthem projects
Homework: Work on Anthem essay draft and/or presentation
Monday, February 14, 2011
Anthem Test
Check over Anthem paper proposals
Homework:
Work on Anthem essay (3-page rough draft with 2 sources due Friday)
Check out some examples of dystopian-themed movies for Anthem project (due Thursday)
Friday, February 11, 2011
Distribute and Review Grading Sheets
Period 2: SAT practice essay, portfolio organization
Period 6: Spirit rally
Homework: STUDY FOR ANTHEM TEST!
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Objectivism today lesson (saved on school computer)
Homework:
Thesis/Outline/Paper Proposal for Anthem essay
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
References to Anthem in commercials and TV
Check out the videos here:
The Simpsons - "A Streetcar Named Marge"
Homework: One-page response on how Rand's ideologies are represented in each video. (Perhaps one paragraph on each video would be appropriate.)
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Anthem Final Discussion Questions
Monday, February 7, 2011
Distribute and review class calendar for February.
Anthem vocabulary list
Discussion Points (download handout here)
Read the story of Prometheus
Small Gropus: Analyze story (using questions on handout)
Homework: Read ch. 11-12. Write a one-page response paper (20 point assignment).
Friday, February 4, 2011
SAT Packet - timed completion and review
Outside Reading
Homework:
Read Anthem ch. 9 and 10.
Complete journal entry about Equality's time in the Unchartered Forest and how it represents the ideals of Objectivism.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
State of Union
Rhetorical terms carousel
Use this handout to organize your ideas.
Present terms
Discuss state of the union
Homework:
Be sure to complete exam essay (by tomorrow) and post your book review (by the weekend) on Good Reads.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
State of the Union
Do Now: Read and discuss this article
Review key terms (from AP Study Sheet):
Small groups/carousel: ID examples of the above in the speech and present as teams to the class
Discuss state of the union address (rhetoric and claims)
Tonight's Homework
Read Anthem ch. 9 and 10.
Brief journal response.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Quarterly Exam
Homework: STATE OF THE UNION rhetoric response. (one-page, close examination of the rhetoric used by Obama)
Also, please be sure to complete subjective component of the exam by the last day of the quarter (Thursday)!
Friday, January 28, 2011
Quarterly Exam Review
Go over exam review sheets
Jeopardy review game DOWNLOAD IT HERE!
Tonight's Homework
Study for exam
Thursday, January 27, 2011
SNOW DAY!
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Anthem 7-9
Journal Entry and Discussion
Discussion Questions in Small Groups
Tonight's Homework:
Make a review sheet for quarterly Exam
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Anthem 5-6
Invictus Poem Analysis
Symbolism Handout in Small Groups
Check HW (graphic organizer)
Discussion
Tonight's Homework
Read chapters 7-9. Journal response.
WATCH STATE OF THE UNION at some point before Monday.
Watch it live at 9 PM.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Anthem 3-4
Read chapters aloud.
Discuss.
Is Equality an idealist and/or a rebel?
Small groups: graphic organizer
Tonight's Homework
Read chapters 5 and 6. Work on graphic organizer.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Anthem, Day 1: Introduction
Anthem Introductory Activities
Tonight's Homework
Read chapters 1 and 2.
Write a journal response.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Town-Meeting Style Debate and Dialogue: Bullying
Word of the Day
Do Now: Review HW (response to bullying articles). Identify main points.
Introduce Idea of Resolution, Affirmative, Opposition, etc.
Separate into affirmative, opposition, neutral
Begin Opening Arguments
Debate Issue of Bullying
Homework:
Due Wednesday: Final draft of As I Lay Dying essay
Due Friday: As I Lay Dying project
Also Due Friday: Practice SAT essay (heroism)
Homework due Thursday:
Please download, print, and read the following articles:
Stopping Bullying Starts in the Home
Don't Let Bullying Back in Schools
Write a couple of paragraphs analyzing the use of language in each editorial, and then articulate your own opinion.
Monday, January 10, 2010
Review rhetorical terms from AP book
Mr. Morris's editorial activity
Tonight's Homework
Download, print, and read the following articles:
NEWS ARTICLE 1: Artist upset...
EDITORIAL 1: Sneaker...
NEWS ARTICLE 2: Fees increase...
EDITORIAL 2: Sports fees are really...
For each EDITORIAL write a brief paragraph about each of the following:
Friday, January 9, 2010
Word of the Day
Do Now: Read "anchor" essay
Small Groups
SAT Writing Grammar Exercises (multiple choice)
Outside Reading
Tonight's Homework
Draft of As I Lay Dying essay due Monday
As I Lay Dying video due Friday
Rewrite of SAT essay due Friday
Monday, January 3, 2010
As I Lay Dying Final Projects
Introduce As I Lay Dying Final Project Options
Work on As I Lay Dying Final Projects
Tonight's Homework:
Work on As I Lay Dying Final Projects
(Goal: Final script by end of class tomorrow)
Thursday, December 16, 2010
As I Lay Dying: ch. 20-39
Do Now: In-context vocaulary 2
Journal: "How do you use sublimation in your life?"
Discussion: ch. 20-39
Tonight's Homework
Review sections 3 and 5 of your PSAT packet.
Write down an explanation for the ones you got wrong in section 5.
If you did not take the PSAT, see me for a packet to complete section 5.
Bring in your outside reading book.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
As I Lay Dying: ch. 26-32
Practice format for "Last Word" Discussion
Small Groups: Round one of "Last Word" Discussion
Round 2: All-Star Discussion
Submit HW
Tonight's Homework:
Read ch. 33-39. Answer six analysis questions distributed in class (re: ch. 20-39).
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
As I Lay Dying: ch. 20-25
Do Now: As I Lay Dying in-context vocabulary #1
Review Dark Humor handout
Little Miss Sunshine clippage (10 minutes)
Dark Humor in AILD and LMS
Discuss ch. 20-25
Tonight's Homework
Read ch. 26-32.
ID similarities to LMS (with quotes).
ID which characters are cerebral vs. which characters are physical (with quotes).
Monday, December 13, 2010
As I Lay Dying
Do Now: Read and analyze college lecture 2
Small groups: Divide into 6 groups (by counting off), and prep an individual question for discussion (ch. 1-19)
Large group: Discussion 1-19.
Homework:
Read As I Lay Dying 20-25. Written reesponse.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Ethan Frome Writing Workshop Day
Download period 2 presentation here.
Download period 6 presentation here.
Tonight's Homework:
Work on Frome essay. Final draft due Friday.
Mister Ambrose
489 Winthrop St.
Medford, MA 02155
ph: 781.393.2345
dambrose