This I Believe Essay Prompt - Due by end of (your) class on Tueday, February 21, 2012 - typed, double spaced, no more than a 12 pt. font.
1. Tell a story: Be specific. Take your belief out of the ether and ground it in the events of your life. Consider moments when belief was formed or tested or changed. Think of your own experience, work and family, and tell of the things you know that no one else does. Your story need not be heart-warming or gut-wrenching – it can even be funny – but it should be real. Make sure your story ties to the essence of your daily life philosophy and the shaping of your beliefs. Use word choice to capture the mood and tone. Use transitions to move the reader through your journey. Tell about how this belief came about, how it shaped you into who you are today, and what you are going to do with it in the future. How has it impacted your life and how might in continue to impact your life?
2. Name your belief: If you can’t state it in a sentence or two, your essay might not be about a belief.
3. Be positive: Avoid preaching or editorializing. Write about what you do believe, not what you don’t believe. This is a first person narrative – use forms of “I”.
4. Be personal: Write words and phrases that are comfortable for you to speak. Read your essay out loud in a mirror to yourself several times and each time edit it and simplify it – find the ‘right words’ to express what you feel or want the reader to feel – create the tone and mood. Have it truly echo your belief and the way you speak.
This is a tough job. Remember this is highly personal:
1. Tell not only what you believe, but how you reached your belief(s)
2. Tell whether they’ve grown
What this isn’t:
1. It’s not a sermon – religious or lay
2. It is not an editorial or ‘finger-pointing’ essay
3. It’s not a place to give your view on the American way of life, democracy, or free enterprise
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
2.14.12 Contemp. Lit periods 1, 4, and 7
In preparation for the first major essay of the semester, today we addressed stumbling blocks in the writing process and talked about some ways to overcome issues with writing.
Stumbling blocks included things such as: writer's block, word choice to help the reader understand what the writer was experiencing, boredom, painful, sentence formation.
Get ready - the essay is coming...
This I Believe
Format for the essay (I'll give you topic options Wednesday 2.15.12)
Personal narrative essay format:
Paragraph #1-The Introduction
1. Begin with an attention grabber that captures your reader’s interest.
Example:
Sometimes it takes something terrible to realize what is important in life.
Paragraph #2-4 Body Paragraphs-Your story
1. Begin each paragraph with a topic sentence. Begin this sentence with a TRANSITION that show the order that the events occurred (First, Later, In the end, Second, Third, etc.) and the details of your story.
Examples:
The day first began like any other day.
Later that day, my sister began to feel worse and my family and I began to worry.
After a day of much distress, my sister finally began to feel better.
2. This is where you tell your story. Just like any story you read, you need to make sure to have a clear beginning, middle, and an end. Make sure to describe people and places involved with vivid details.
Paragraph #5: The Conclusion
The Conclusion is just as important as the Introduction; It is the last impression your reader will get of your story.
1. Begin by re-stressing the importance of your thesis. Be careful not to use the same wording.
Example:
Although the day my sister fell ill was a horrible day for my family, it made us all realize how important we are to each other.
2. Summarize the basic events of your story.
Reflect on the larger meaning or importance of the experience described. Basically, what was the point of your story? Explain the new understanding and why/how this experience or event has a permanent effect on you.
Stumbling blocks included things such as: writer's block, word choice to help the reader understand what the writer was experiencing, boredom, painful, sentence formation.
Get ready - the essay is coming...
This I Believe
Format for the essay (I'll give you topic options Wednesday 2.15.12)
Personal narrative essay format:
Paragraph #1-The Introduction
1. Begin with an attention grabber that captures your reader’s interest.
Example:
Sometimes it takes something terrible to realize what is important in life.
Paragraph #2-4 Body Paragraphs-Your story
1. Begin each paragraph with a topic sentence. Begin this sentence with a TRANSITION that show the order that the events occurred (First, Later, In the end, Second, Third, etc.) and the details of your story.
Examples:
The day first began like any other day.
Later that day, my sister began to feel worse and my family and I began to worry.
After a day of much distress, my sister finally began to feel better.
2. This is where you tell your story. Just like any story you read, you need to make sure to have a clear beginning, middle, and an end. Make sure to describe people and places involved with vivid details.
Paragraph #5: The Conclusion
The Conclusion is just as important as the Introduction; It is the last impression your reader will get of your story.
1. Begin by re-stressing the importance of your thesis. Be careful not to use the same wording.
Example:
Although the day my sister fell ill was a horrible day for my family, it made us all realize how important we are to each other.
2. Summarize the basic events of your story.
Reflect on the larger meaning or importance of the experience described. Basically, what was the point of your story? Explain the new understanding and why/how this experience or event has a permanent effect on you.
Friday, February 10, 2012
2.10.12 Contemp. Lit Periods 1, 4, and 7
This is the last of in class writing in preparation for a personal essay/narrative/memoir for the 'final paper' for this unit of study.
Directions: Look through the lessons from Charlie Brown, decide on one that you identify with and write about how it applies to you, how you use it in your daily life, how it helped you get through a particular situation, or something similar.
1. It’s okay to be afraid... just don’t let your fears control you.
Charlie Brown often sat in bed and spoke of his fears, but no matter how scared he was he always did the things he wanted to do.
2. Persistence wins out.
Charlie Brown often lost, failed at much, but he never gave up. Even though he knew Lucy was going to pull the football away before he could kick it.... Even though he knew the tree was going to eat his kite... Even though he knew his team would lose the ball game… he kept on trying.
3. It’s what you think of yourself that counts.
Linus carried a security blanket for years and his friends laughed at him. They also laughed at him because he
believed in the Great Pumpkin. Pigpen was a walking cloud of dust and dirt and was often regarded unkindly. Both characters, however, were always proud of themselves and believed they were as good as anybody else – and they were right.
4. Sometimes you need to talk.
One thing the “Peanuts” gang understood was the importance of talking things out. Whether leaning up against Schroeder’s piano or atop the brick wall, they always discussed what was of concern to them.
5. Sometimes you need to listen.
Even crabby, self-indulged Lucy knew the importance of listening. She started the famous Psychiatry Booth where any and all could come and be heard.
6. Do what you love to do.
Through all their adventures, Schroeder remained constant in his appreciation of Beethoven and his love of playing the piano. He loved to play piano and that’s what he did, regardless of the circumstances. Charlie Brown flew his kite, played baseball and football, not just to win (he knew he wouldn’t), but because he loved to do those things.
7. It’s important to have friends that care.
The Peanuts gang was made up of individual characters, each with their own foibles and talents, but through it all they were always there for each other.
8. Big dreams lead to big things.
Snoopy was the biggest dreamer of them all, but his wild imagination often led to even wilder, more fantastic
adventures in real life. Snoopy knew that you must have a big dream if you are going to lead a big life.
9. Action creates reality.
As Charlie Brown was reminded time and again after prodding from Linus: it takes action to bring about change. Though he often failed, Chuck took action quite regularly – and every now and again things would go his way.
10. Laugh every day!
While the kids themselves may not have seen the humor in the things they did, Schulz made sure that we did. Life is only as serious or as humorous as YOU make it. Lighten up. Go play softball. Fly a kite. Dance with your dog. Smile... it makes people wonder what you’re up to.
Directions: Look through the lessons from Charlie Brown, decide on one that you identify with and write about how it applies to you, how you use it in your daily life, how it helped you get through a particular situation, or something similar.
1. It’s okay to be afraid... just don’t let your fears control you.
Charlie Brown often sat in bed and spoke of his fears, but no matter how scared he was he always did the things he wanted to do.
2. Persistence wins out.
Charlie Brown often lost, failed at much, but he never gave up. Even though he knew Lucy was going to pull the football away before he could kick it.... Even though he knew the tree was going to eat his kite... Even though he knew his team would lose the ball game… he kept on trying.
3. It’s what you think of yourself that counts.
Linus carried a security blanket for years and his friends laughed at him. They also laughed at him because he
believed in the Great Pumpkin. Pigpen was a walking cloud of dust and dirt and was often regarded unkindly. Both characters, however, were always proud of themselves and believed they were as good as anybody else – and they were right.
4. Sometimes you need to talk.
One thing the “Peanuts” gang understood was the importance of talking things out. Whether leaning up against Schroeder’s piano or atop the brick wall, they always discussed what was of concern to them.
5. Sometimes you need to listen.
Even crabby, self-indulged Lucy knew the importance of listening. She started the famous Psychiatry Booth where any and all could come and be heard.
6. Do what you love to do.
Through all their adventures, Schroeder remained constant in his appreciation of Beethoven and his love of playing the piano. He loved to play piano and that’s what he did, regardless of the circumstances. Charlie Brown flew his kite, played baseball and football, not just to win (he knew he wouldn’t), but because he loved to do those things.
7. It’s important to have friends that care.
The Peanuts gang was made up of individual characters, each with their own foibles and talents, but through it all they were always there for each other.
8. Big dreams lead to big things.
Snoopy was the biggest dreamer of them all, but his wild imagination often led to even wilder, more fantastic
adventures in real life. Snoopy knew that you must have a big dream if you are going to lead a big life.
9. Action creates reality.
As Charlie Brown was reminded time and again after prodding from Linus: it takes action to bring about change. Though he often failed, Chuck took action quite regularly – and every now and again things would go his way.
10. Laugh every day!
While the kids themselves may not have seen the humor in the things they did, Schulz made sure that we did. Life is only as serious or as humorous as YOU make it. Lighten up. Go play softball. Fly a kite. Dance with your dog. Smile... it makes people wonder what you’re up to.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
2.9.12 Tech. Writing periods 2, 5, 6
Worked on the Dream Job unit material in the library. Tomorrow, during class, you must make contact with me to show me how you are progressing through the material. You may send me material as well to show me your progress.
Remember this entire unit is due Thursday, February 16.
Remember this entire unit is due Thursday, February 16.
2.9.12 Contemporary Lit. periods 1, 4, 7
We compiled a list of important message/beliefs gathered from your interview with a role model (assignment given earlier this week). Discussed them a bit and then using either the one the student received from their mentor or one on the list, students wrote about how the message/piece of advice/belief will impact their future.
This was turned in along with the notes by the end of the period.
This was turned in along with the notes by the end of the period.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
2.8.12 Technical Report Writing Periods 2, 5 and 6
Dream Job Unit
1. Create an ad 8 x 10 in size of a dream job. It’s okay to fluff up credentials. Think ahead; where you’ll be. Ask yourself questions: Where you would like to live, what can you see yourself doing at age 40, what type of education, how much, where, previous experience (remember it still needs to be appropriate for a high school audience. The ad should be created in Publisher, use color, list the basic requirements someone applying for this job should possess, and have contact information.
2. Resume: may use Word or other program. List references on a separate sheet: Name of reference, contact number and association to you.
3. Create a letter of application
a. Identify job you’re applying for
b. Explain why your qualified
c. Ask for an interview
4. Follow up letter
a. Thank for the time – refer specifically to the date and time of the interview
b. Address something specific from interview
c. Express continuing interest
5. Acceptance letter
a. Acknowledge the job offer specifically.
b. Confirm when you will arrive, getting the proper paperwork, meeting with human resources person.
6. Decline letter
a. Acknowledge the job offer
b. Respectfully decline with giving a brief reason (don’t go on an on about it. You want to keep the door of opportunity open)
7. Asking for more time letter
a. Express interest in job
b. Request more time, explain a short time is needed before a decision can be made.
All letters should be done in letter format (full block - everything lines up on the left hand margin). Type everything. Turn in on time. Use class time wisely.
You have some creativity in this project. All letters are to be from you to a prospective employer.
(letter format)
Date
(Inside address)
Name of person
Company
Company address
City, State, Zip
Salutation
Body of letter
(Closing)
Sincerely,
Thank you for you time,
Sign your Name
Print your Name
Make sure to use the ‘print preview’ to look at your letter before saving/printing to make sure that the text is balanced on the page with white space. In other words…the letter isn’t all squished at the top of the page.
The application letter and follow up letter will fill a page, so balance will be relatively easy. The other 3 letters are much shorter (the body section) so you will have to look at it using the print preview and space it to balance the letter out on the page. Attempt to have the same amount of white space on the top and bottom.
When this project comes in, the ad will be on top, followed the letter of application, the resume, the references and then the rest of the letters in the order that they appear on the other side of the this paper.
1. Create an ad 8 x 10 in size of a dream job. It’s okay to fluff up credentials. Think ahead; where you’ll be. Ask yourself questions: Where you would like to live, what can you see yourself doing at age 40, what type of education, how much, where, previous experience (remember it still needs to be appropriate for a high school audience. The ad should be created in Publisher, use color, list the basic requirements someone applying for this job should possess, and have contact information.
2. Resume: may use Word or other program. List references on a separate sheet: Name of reference, contact number and association to you.
3. Create a letter of application
a. Identify job you’re applying for
b. Explain why your qualified
c. Ask for an interview
4. Follow up letter
a. Thank for the time – refer specifically to the date and time of the interview
b. Address something specific from interview
c. Express continuing interest
5. Acceptance letter
a. Acknowledge the job offer specifically.
b. Confirm when you will arrive, getting the proper paperwork, meeting with human resources person.
6. Decline letter
a. Acknowledge the job offer
b. Respectfully decline with giving a brief reason (don’t go on an on about it. You want to keep the door of opportunity open)
7. Asking for more time letter
a. Express interest in job
b. Request more time, explain a short time is needed before a decision can be made.
All letters should be done in letter format (full block - everything lines up on the left hand margin). Type everything. Turn in on time. Use class time wisely.
You have some creativity in this project. All letters are to be from you to a prospective employer.
(letter format)
Date
(Inside address)
Name of person
Company
Company address
City, State, Zip
Salutation
Body of letter
(Closing)
Sincerely,
Thank you for you time,
Sign your Name
Print your Name
Make sure to use the ‘print preview’ to look at your letter before saving/printing to make sure that the text is balanced on the page with white space. In other words…the letter isn’t all squished at the top of the page.
The application letter and follow up letter will fill a page, so balance will be relatively easy. The other 3 letters are much shorter (the body section) so you will have to look at it using the print preview and space it to balance the letter out on the page. Attempt to have the same amount of white space on the top and bottom.
When this project comes in, the ad will be on top, followed the letter of application, the resume, the references and then the rest of the letters in the order that they appear on the other side of the this paper.
2.8.12 Contemp. Lit Periods 1, 4, and 7
Continuing with writing about our beliefs...
Below are 10 statements. Choose 1 and write about 10 minutes on why you chose the statement; how does it apply to you and your life. Then, choose 1 other one and do the same - write for about 10 minutes on why you chose the statement.
We then paired up in class and shared our thoughts.
Quotes:
1. The good or ill of a man lies within his own will. - Epictetus
2. The greatest and most important problems in life are all in a certain sense insoluble. They can never be solved, but only outgrown. - Carl Jung
3. The greatest thing about man is his ability to transcend himself, his ancestry, and his environment and to become what he dreams of being. - Tully C. Knoles
4. The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts...take care that you entertain no notions unsuitable to virtue and reasonable nature. - Marcus Aureliuc
5. The life given us by nature is short, but the memory of a life will spend is eternal. - Cicero
6. The love we give away is the only love we keep. - Elbert Hubbard
7. The measure of success is not whether you have a tough problem to deal with, but whether it is the same problem you had last year. - John Foster Dulles
8. The miracle is not to fly in the air, or to walk on the water, but to walk on the earth. - Chinese Proverb
9. The more you lose yourself in something bigger than yourself, the more energy you will have. - Norman Vincent Peale
10. The only discipline that lasts is self-discipline. - Bum Phillips
Below are 10 statements. Choose 1 and write about 10 minutes on why you chose the statement; how does it apply to you and your life. Then, choose 1 other one and do the same - write for about 10 minutes on why you chose the statement.
We then paired up in class and shared our thoughts.
Quotes:
1. The good or ill of a man lies within his own will. - Epictetus
2. The greatest and most important problems in life are all in a certain sense insoluble. They can never be solved, but only outgrown. - Carl Jung
3. The greatest thing about man is his ability to transcend himself, his ancestry, and his environment and to become what he dreams of being. - Tully C. Knoles
4. The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts...take care that you entertain no notions unsuitable to virtue and reasonable nature. - Marcus Aureliuc
5. The life given us by nature is short, but the memory of a life will spend is eternal. - Cicero
6. The love we give away is the only love we keep. - Elbert Hubbard
7. The measure of success is not whether you have a tough problem to deal with, but whether it is the same problem you had last year. - John Foster Dulles
8. The miracle is not to fly in the air, or to walk on the water, but to walk on the earth. - Chinese Proverb
9. The more you lose yourself in something bigger than yourself, the more energy you will have. - Norman Vincent Peale
10. The only discipline that lasts is self-discipline. - Bum Phillips
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