Due 11/10: Paragraph Outline for Where are you Going…

1. You are to outline a paragraph for Where are You Going… Follow the format posted on the board (Recreated here):

I. Topic Sentence
A. Write out your first quotation.
1. Analyze the quotation. DO NOT SUMMARIZE.
B. Write out your second quotation.
1. Analyze the quotation. AGAIN, DO NOT SUMMARIZE.

Keep in mind:
1. Your topic sentence should have an observation and an assertion/argument. Often, the more nuanced the observation, the more interesting the argument/discussion. A nuanced observation requires close reading and good control.
2. Choice of evidence in literary writing is a BIG DEAL! Yes! It is the most important choice because your argument is totally dependent on it as it illustrates and illuminates your argument. Accordingly, do not summarize the quote. Rather, analyze it and connect it to your argument. If you can think of nothing to say about your chosen evidence, choose again. Truth be told, you should always gather evidence around a controlling idea before crafting an argument. I will teach you all of the above.

Due 11/10: Politics and the English Language Precis

1. Precis on Politics and the English Language–This will be your first précis and first project/essay grade for this quarter. This requires that you have at least Control of the source article.  The precis should be typed and single-spaced (1-2 pages). Keep in mind the tips listed on the board. Use proper heading for the class (In the upper left corner; single spaced):

Your Name
English 1A (or 2A)
11/10/17

You should use the following title:

Precis: Politics and the English Language (centered)

The precis should be turned in by 4 pm on Friday (you can either give it to me personally or place it in my mailbox).

Due 11/10: Politics and the English Language

1. Precis on Politics and the English Language–This will be your first précis and first project/essay grade for this quarter. This requires that you have at least Control of the source article.  The precis should be typed and single-spaced (1-2 pages). Keep in mind the tips listed on the board. Use proper heading for the class (In the upper left corner; single spaced):

Your Name
English 4B
11/10/17

You should use the following title:

Precis: Politics and the English Language (centered)

The precis should be turned in by 4 pm on Friday (you can either give it to me personally or place it in my mailbox).

Due 11/9: Paragraph Outline for Where are You Going…

1. You are to outline a paragraph for Where are You Going… Follow the format posted on the board (Recreated here):

I. Topic Sentence
   A. Write out your first quotation.
       1. Analyze the quotation. DO NOT SUMMARIZE.
   B. Write out your second quotation.
       1. Analyze the quotation. AGAIN, DO NOT SUMMARIZE.

Keep in mind:
1. Your topic sentence should have an observation and an assertion/argument. Often, the more nuanced the observation, the more interesting the argument/discussion. A nuanced observation requires close reading and good control.
2. Choice of evidence in literary writing is a BIG DEAL! Yes! It is the most important choice because your argument is totally dependent on it as it illustrates and illuminates your argument. Accordingly, do not summarize the quote. Rather, analyze it and connect it to your argument. If you can think of nothing to say about your chosen evidence, choose again. Truth be told, you should always gather evidence around a controlling idea before crafting an argument. I will teach you all of the above.

Due 11/7: Where are You Going…

1. Read and annotate Joyce Carol Oates’ Where are you Going, Where have you Been?  Review the annotating expectations below. Focus your annotations on thematic observations. I am very interested in what you annotate and why you annotated it!

*Note: If you were absent the day a handout was distributed, it is your responsibility to print a copy (click the link above) or see me for one before class.

*Annotation expectations: You are expected to annotate as or after you read each night.  This is mandatory.  You will learn how to provide some focus to your annotations. Ultimately, focused annotating prepares you for your reading responses, your formal essays, and class discussions.  To annotate is to supply with critical or explanatory notes:

  • Identifying lines that resonate with you, confuse you, or make you want to know more
  • Asking questions of general thematic/philosophical value
  • Tracking the development of a theme that may connect to one or more of the philosophical readings or other fiction
  • Identifying and defining new vocab

** Merely underlining or highlighting the text will earn you a D, at best.

If you would like more annotating guidance, click here!