Final Thoughts

Final grades have been posted.

Your exam grade shows on CANVAS.

There was no way for me to show you your final grade on CANVAS or on MYCOMPLAB. I added the total points from each to determine the final grade.

If you have questions, feel free to send me a note on CANVAS or via e-mail: patricia.eaton@estrellamountain.edu

Thank you for an outstanding semester!

Exam Thursday!

Class Work

Here are the directions for writing the exam. You need to have the draft now!

• Write the introduction. Capture the attention of the reader. Set your requirements. Quote experts as support. Keep in mind that the experts do not have to agree with you. You can quote an expert and then disagree.
• Describe all three "good" spots to study on campus, but make sure it is clear that one is the best.
• Consider listing thim in order of importance - good, better, best. If you feel that one or two are equally good, that is OK. Just be sure to provide specific examples to explain why.
• Write an amazing conclusion. Consider referencing a quotation from one of the quotation sites to add interest to the end.
• Provide the Works Cited page. Use in-text citations when you quote your classmates or the experts.

See the side board for the peer editing instructions.

Be sure your final copy is posted in CANVAS by 10:00 am today, December 5, 2013.

 

December 3, 2013 - Tuesday

 

Class Work

 

 

 

1. We will finish the presentations. At the end of the presentations, turn in the notes you took. Just hand the paper copies to me. There will be a slot on CANVAS, but it will say that a paper submission is required. Once you give me the notes on paper, you have completed the assignment.

 

 

 

Exam Preparations . . .

 

 

 

Reminder: You MUST come to class on Thursday to complete and to submit the exam. Thursday is our last day of class and the EXAM date for this course.

 

What is your favorite place to study? Jot down a brief description of the spot. Where is it? What is there? Is technology important? What about background noise? How about music? What do you need to successfully study?

Step 1: Talk to the others at your table and see what they do to create a study space. Add any appropriate comments to your notes. Give credit to the speakers.

 

Step 2: Conduct research. Find out what the experts say about the perfect place to study. Read at least two articles and note 7-10 "things" that must be present in the perfect study spot. Keep track of your sources. Be sure you know the specific source of the information. For example, one source might note that a quiet environment is best because . . . Give credit to that source.

Step 3: Create a Works Cited page in EasyBib or other citation spot.

Step 4: For 15 minutes, walk around campus and look for three study spots. Take notes. What attracts students to that spot? What do you see and hear? What technology is present? How visible or private is the place?

Step 5: Return to class and discuss the best place or places on campus to study.

• Write the introduction. Capture the attention of the reader. Set your requirements. Quote experts as support. Keep in mind that the experts do not have to agree with you. You can quote an expert and then disagree.
•  Describe all three "good" spots to study on campus, but make sure it is clear that one is the best.
• Consider listing thim in order of importance - good, better, best.  If you feel that one or two are equally good, that is OK. Just be sure to provide specific examples to explain why.
• Write an amazing conclusion. Consider referencing a quotation from one of the quotation sites to add interest to the end.
• Provide the Works Cited page. Use in-text citations when you quote your classmates or the experts.

Step 6: Bring your draft to class on Thursday. There will be a brief peer editing activity to begin the exam. You will have the rest of class to polish your essay and post in CANVAS - yes, CANVAS.

The space will not be created until class time on Thursday. Remember, you MUST come to class on Thursday to participate in the exam. This is EMCC policy!

November 26, 2013 - Tuesday

Class Work

It is time to present your PowerPoint show! Check last Thursday's blog for guidelines.

2. When you are a member of the audience, you will be taking notes on the presentation. Use paper. All computers and electronic "things" should be left alone during the presentations. (100 pts.)
3. You may ask questions at the end of each presentation.
4. When you are presenting, remember to look at the audience and speak with authority.
5. There is no additional homework over the holiday weekend. Use the time to catch up on missing work.

Happy Thanksgiving!

We have class next Tuesday. We will be going over the exam assignment. The exam is next Thursday - one You must be physically present on exam day. This is school policy.

November 21, 2013 - Thursday

Class Work

The final copy of the cause/effect/solution essay is due today. Post in MyCompLab

Hand me the paper copy of your draft along with the peer editing sheet from Tuesday.

This is what we started on Tuesday.

We discussed the PowerPoint presentation! You will be using the information from your essay to prepare a PowerPoint presentation.
Slides:
1 Title Page to include your name , date and  title of your presentation
2-3 defining and/or describing the problem. Prove that a problem exists.
2-3 sharing the causes of the problem.
2-3 explaining the effects of the problem
2-3 giving solutions and calling us to action!
1 Works Cited page.


Remember that an effective PowerPoint presentation should follow these guidelines.
Create three slides for your presentation.
Have two students "proof" your work using the chart like the one below.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ORxFwBR4smE Short how not to do a PowerPoint

Layout · Photographs, graphic design, and clipart are useful and enhance the presentation · Title, author, and course identification are on the first slide · Works Cited page is the last frame and is in MLA format

Fonts · Font size is at least 16 · Footless Font is used · Color is of a deep enough contrast to be easily read · Font colors are limited to three or four throughout the presentation

Text · Bulleted points are limited to no more than six per slide · Six or fewer words per bullet are used · Headlines are effective · Spelling is correct · Punctuation is correct · End punctuation or no end punctuation is consistent when using bullets · Upper and lower case is used correctly · Animation is limited and necessary · Sound is limited and effective

Content · A work of art is included · Point/thesis is clear · Supporting elements are evident · Introduction captures the attention of the audience · Conclusion contains a strong message · Clear steps for a “call to action” are obvious

Watch, laugh, and learn...
Tips for effective presentations...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ENOvAGQ5UlU

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=whTwjG4ZIJg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wXILI9Q1jIw Two minute how not to give a speech - find the errors

Sign up for your presentation slot.
1. We begin on Tuesday.
2. You must have your presentation on a jump-drive. E-mailed projects take too long to find. Be ready. Also, your presentation must be submitted in CANVAS. It is possible to pull it up from there.
3. Your presentation should be no longer than 5 minutes and no shorter than 2 1/2 minutes. (Yes, this is a change.)
4. If you are absent when it is your turn to present, you may be docked 10 points from the final presentation grade unless you contacted me in advance and made other arrangements.

Questions?

Let's practice. You will be given an object to use for a 45second presentation. Enter the "stage" and talk to us about the object.
1. Tell us what it is.
2. Show it to us.
3. Tell us a "story" about the object.
4. Look at us.
5. Speak up. We need to hear you.
6. Stand professionally.

November 19, 2013 - Tuesday

Class Work

This was the homework:Write your draft. Bring a paper copy to class on Tuesday. Do not post! Print here if you are short on ink.

This is where we left off on Thursday and where we will begin today.

A. Do you have problems with any wild critters? Read what deer can do! It's hard to believe that "Bambi" is a menace!
Essay #2 "Practical Wildlife Management"

B. After reading the article, we will peer edit your work! You need to be in groups of four.
C. The power of humor - "So Earth Had This Boyfriend ..." Yes, humor can be used to convince others.

D. A final word from Al Gore - "The Plan That Saved the Planet" - 2009 - (Read the article. What is the claim? What are the reasons? What evidence is given? Is there a "call to action?" Is this a present, past, or future essay?

Homework
It is final copy time! Polish your draft and post the final copy of your cause/effect/solution essay in MyCompLab. Be sure that the MLA formatting is correct on your original and that the Works Cited page is correct as well. This is worth 100 points. Give me the paper copy of your draft along with the peer editing notes on Thursday. The draft and notes are worth 30 points.

If time permits today, we will discuss the PowerPoint presentation! You will be using the information from your essay to prepare a PowerPoint presentation.
Slides:
1 Title Page to include your name , date and  title of your presentation
2-3 defining and/or describing the problem. Prove that a problem exists.
2-3 sharing the causes of the problem.
2-3 explaining the effects of the problem
2-3 giving solutions and calling us to action!
1 Works Cited page.

Presentation Date: November 26

November 15, 2013

Class Work

1. How is your research coming along? (Share) Write your topic/issue on a post-it note and post on the board. Groups will be formed according to interest.

2. What proof do you have that a problem exists? What are your sources? (Write on post-its and post below your topic.)

3. What are the causes of the problem? (List and post above the problem.)

4. What will be the effects if this problem is not solved? (Take about 15 minutes to look for solutions. Keep track of your sources. (EasyBib - perhaps?) Write at least two effects on post-its and post under the problem.

5. Solutions . . . take a few more minutes and find at least three possible solutions. People are very concerned their time and money. Be sure to tell the readers how doing what you are asking them to do to solve the problem will not be a horrible problem for them when it comes to their time and money. Clearly tell the readers what they need to do to make a difference.

6. Write your solutions on post-its and post under the effects.

7. You just created a wonderful "outline of this essay!" You are ready to write your draft.

8. Let's take a look at four sample essays. Are there any fisher-folk in the class?
Essay #1: "Evening the Odds"

9. Do you have problems with any wild critters? Read what deer can do! It's hard to believe that "Bambi" is a menace!
Essay #2 "Practical Wildlife Management"

10. The power of humor - "So Earth Had This Boyfriend ..." Yes, humor can be used to convince others.
11. A final word from Al Gore - "The Plan That Saved the Planet" - 2009 - (Read the article. What is the claim? What are the reasons? What evidence is given? Is there a "call to action?" Is this a present, past, or future essay?

Homework
Write your draft. Bring a paper copy to class on Tuesday. Do not post! Print here if you are short on ink.

November 12, 3013

Class Work

What articles did you locate? What topics are of interest to you?

1. Finish viewing An Inconvenient Truth and answer the questions. (
See Thursday's blog for the questions.)
2. Write an in-class review of the documentary.
http://homeworktips.about.com/od/EssaysTypes/a/How-To-Write-A-Film-Review.htm

Homework

Select an issue related to the environment. Clearly define/describe the problem. Be ready to share your information with the class. You need at least one "authority" to agree with you that a problem exists. Be prepared to share your source with the class. You are not posting this; you are sharing this.

Also, find out the causes of your problem. Create a list of causes. There may be many causes, or there may be just a few. Be ready to share those as well along with your sources. (This is a great time to create an annotated bibliography on EasyBib to keep track of your information!)

November 7, 2013

Class Work

Peer Editing Activity

Let's look at one more essay: "The Bounty of the Sea" (handout)



http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/sideshow/what-the-world-would-look-like-if-all-the-ice-melted-015759322.html  See what might happen to Florida!

See what you might find in your garden! http://news.yahoo.com/a-snake-the-size-of-a-school-bus--it-happened-before--and-could-happen-again-153534343.html

Watching An Inconvenient Truth

An Inconvenient Truth – Questions

After viewing the documentary, answer the following questions.

1.       Why does the film open and close with serene images of nature: lush green leaves and a gently flowing river on a sunny day, followed by Al Gore’s voice-over about this peaceful place? What is the impact on the viewer?

2.       In this film, Gore narrates a moment in 1989 when his six-year-old son dropped his father’s hand, ran into the street, and was severely injured. How does this personal story relate to Gore’s mission?

3.       Much of the film consists of scientific facts and charts. Think back and answer the following:

·         Why do we have global warming?

·         What is the relationship between carbon dioxide and temperature?

·         How does global warming contribute to an increase in the number and severity of storms, hurricanes, tornadoes, and typhoons?

·         How can global warming cause both violent precipitation as well as droughts?

4.       Explain the significance of each of these references from the film:

·         The findings of core drills

·         The thawing of the permafrost, the splitting of the Ward Hunt ice shelf, and the disappearance of the Larson ice shelf

·         The Arctic ice cap disappearing

·         The image of a canary in a coal mine

·         The image of the frog in the cooking pot

5.       Cite three ecological consequences of global warming in the animal and plant communities.

6.       Gore used quotations from several memorable people.  Explain how they apply to the topic of global warming.

·         Mark Twain: “What gets us into trouble is not what we don’t know; it’s what we know that just ain’t so.”

·         Upton Sinclair: “It is difficult to get a man to understand something when his salary depends upon his not understanding it.” Consider citing specific ways that this statement is illustrated throughout this film.

·         Stephen Pacala and Robert Socolow in Science magazine: “Humanity already possesses the fundamental scientific, technical, and industrial know-how to solve the carbon and climate problems.”

7.       Explain the significance of the film’s title An Inconvenient Truth.


Homework

Locate two articles on an environmental issue that is important to you. Be ready to identify the problem and the causes. Be able to find the articles in class. Post the URLs in MyCompLab.
Also identify the problem and list the causes. (20 pts.)

 

 

         

November 5, 2013 - Tuesday

Class Work

1. Please write your claim on one of the boards. Remember, for homework you posted your claim(s), reasons, and evidence in Canvas.
2. Reasons answer the question, "Why?"
3. Evidence is the proof that basically finishes a "because" statement.
4. At your table, talk through your outline. As you listen to each other, ask questions.
5. For homework, write your draft. You are to take a strong stand - one side or the other - and convince your readers that reality television is good or that reality television is bad. Bring a paper coy of your draft to class on Thursday and post in MyCompLab. (25 pts.)
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"Notes" from Mother Nature

Take your phone/camera. Either working alone or in pairs, stroll around the campus and take pictures of messages from Mother Nature. Listen in class for the instructions. From your pictures, post your favorite in Canvas and write the "thesis" statement or message from Mother Nature.

(If you are using your phone, you can e-mail the picture to yourself and then post it in Canvas.)

If you are using a stand-alone camera, you will need to do this from home.

Due: Thursday - CANVAS Give me the paper copy of the rest of your notes. (20 pts.)

*****************************************************************************

" Saving the Songs of the Sea"

This is an in-class reading activity. Listen for the instructions to the Save the Last Word for Me strategy.

• You will be given the article. Read it. Highlight important words, lines, and phrases.
• Now, pick the top three. Write each on a note card.
• On the back of the note card, explain why that word, line, or phrase is important of meaningful to you.

The rest of the directions will follow...

*********************************************************************************
If time permits, we will also read "The Bounty of the Sea." Questions to follow...

Octber 31, 2013 - Thursday

Class Work


Think about it:

Television is often blamed for having a harmful effect on children.
Do you think this criticism is merited?
In what ways does TV exert a negative influence on children?

In what ways does TV exert a positive influence on youngsters, or does it?  

 Now, substitute "reality television" for TV in the above statement.

• Can the same be said about Reality Television?
• Does it have a harmful effect on children?
• Does it have a harmful effect on adults?
•  Is there anything positive about it for either audience?
• What did your research show? Prove your stance.

"Becoming a Videoholic by Robert Barry (Handout) This essay is also found on the Internet, but it takes a bit of seeking to find! Search in Yahoo by typing in the title and the author. It is the first PDF file. Scroll down once you download as the first page you see is questions only.

In "Becoming a Videoholic," student Robert Barry writes about the subtle addiction to using the VCR. His essay is an informational process analysis. What is his purpose in writing about this topic? Does he reveal this purpose to his reader explicitly or implicitly?

Using Transitions:

Look for transitions in the essay. Underline or highlight them.

http://www.studygs.net/wrtstr6.htm

 

 
Using Evidence to Convince

Before you can convince others, you must know what they already feel about the topic.

1. Are these television addicts, casual viewers, or folks who only read books?
2. How old are they?
3. Are they professionals, students, or struggling folks?
4. Are they likely to agree or disagree with you?
5. What are their likes and dislikes?

Knowing the answers to these questions will help you develop reasons why they should believe and agree with you.

Now, look at your research. What seems to be the best proof that Reality Television in general or a specific reality show, such as Duck Dynasty, has a positive OR negative impact on that audience; therefore, it should be embraced or avoided.

You must take a stand! You should not write this paper and support both sides.

• What counts as evidence?
• What kind of evidence is best?
• How much evidence is enough?

This will be a "brief " or outline of your paper. Basically this is using the Claim/Reasons/Evidence chart we used in the past.

Look at the chart on the board.

Work on it now. Post in MyCompLab. (Due Tuesday)

Take a stand - state your claim.
Provide three reasons.
Provide two pieces of evidence for each reason. List the sources you will use.

You may begin your rough draft once you post your "brief".

Class Work

A,  Discussion about the reality of reality shows. What did you watch? What did you discover?
What ratings would you give these shows? Why do we watch? Should we?
B.  Conduct research. (5 minutes each question ...finish at home if necessary) We will share after each round of research.
(Group by show or type of show to conduct the research.)

1. What is the definition of reality TV?
2. What is the history of reality television shows? When did they start?
3. Who watches?
4. How many watch?
5. How many reality shows are on television today? You might consider breaking it down by station. (ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX, TBS, History, Travel, Food Network, Disney, etc.)
6. Are there any dangers associated with these shows? Find evidence.
7. Are there any plus factors associated with these shows? Find the proof.
8. How real are the people in the shows?
9. What "fame" or "infamy" comes to those who star?
10. How do these shows compare to dramas and comedies that air?
11. How much money is generated by these shows?
12. What toys, gizmos and gadgets are now available because of the show? How much money is being generated by the sales, or are they selling? (SHOW ME THE MONEY!)
13. Who sponsors these shows? What does this tell you about the viewers?
14. Have there been any negative or positive incidents reported in the news that could be related to these shows?
15. Ask at least three others what they think of your show. Be sure to record their exact words. Get the correct spelling of each name.
16. What other questions should be answered? Some will come to mind as you conduct research.

Pick ONE type of reality show or one reality show to use for your research. This may be the one you watched for homework. Or, you may change shows.
C. Keep track of your sources in EasyBib if you wish. Print an MLA style bibliography. www.easybib.com
D. Take notes in WORD. Post your notes and your working bibliography in CANVAS. Your notes and working bibliography are due on Thursday.


********************************************************************
Homework

1. Enhance your research. Fill in the gaps. Be ready to begin writing on Thursday.

October 24, 2013 - Thursday

Class Work

1. Peer Editing Activity . . . You need to have your essay available for viewing in a Word document. Have it showing on the screen or have a paper copy. Take a few moments to get ready.

Homework: Write the final draft of the definition paper. Post in MyCompLab. (100 points)

2. What do you think about Reality TV? Do you watch any of these popular shows:

• Duck Dynasty
• Real Housewives of ___________________
• Honey Boo Boo
• Pawn Stars
• Gator Boys
• Alligator Hunters
• Ice Road Truckers
• Storage Wars
• American Pickers
• Etc. (Let's add to the list!)

What makes these shows so popular?

3. Let's play the doubting/believing game! You will need paper and pen or the laptops . . . your choice. Listen for the rules.



Read the article from TV Guide and see if their points are points you would make.
http://omg.yahoo.com/news/why-reality-tv-good-us-220500198.html



Also, read "When Reality TV Gets Too Real"
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/10/08/business/media/08reality.html?pagewanted=all

Homework

1. Watch one "reality" TV show.
Create a Plus/Minus chart.
On the plus side, note what was real.
On the minus side, note what was staged.

In addition, write a paragraph or two and try to convince your readers to watch or not watch the show.

Post in Canvas. (15 points)

October 22, 2013 - Tuesday

Class Work

1. Sharing art . . . at your table, share the art slide you located. Select one person from each table who will share their work with the class.

 2. How is your research coming along? Have you filled in all of the spaces on your graphic organizer? What questions do you still have?

 3. Let's look at some samples:

• First, let's define what it means to be someone from Arizona. Take a look at the chart - how would you fill in the spaces?
• "What is a Yankee?"

http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/composition/definition.htm

• "A Few of My Favorite Things" (handout)
• "Break it to Them Gently" (handout)
• "The Notebook" (handout)
• "Quiet Heroes" (handout)

As we study these essays, look for the categories in the graphic organizer. How did the author define the topic?

• Dictionary Definition?
• Historical Information
• Literary/Media link?
• Personal definition/example?
• News about the word?
• Definitions of others?
• Famous quotations?

It is time to get started. Here is an outline that should help you:

http://www.northland.cc.mn.us/owl/Doing%20the%20definition%20essay.htm

For homework: Read one more sample essay that is included in the link above.

Write your draft. Post it in MyCompLab. (25 pts.)

October 17, 2013

Class Work

1. How is your research coming along? How many spaces have you completed on the graphic organizer?
2. I would like to see your annotated bibliographies - either print a paper copy or simply make it visible on the computer.
3. Looking at art - Locate a piece of art - photo, sculpture, painting, or other medium which represents your chosen topic.
Let's practice:
 Looking at Art

• What is the title of the work? How does the title help you to understand the message? What is the message?
• How does this work relate to your topic? Discuss.
• What is the most obvious image in the work. To where is your eye drawn?
• Look at the colors. Are they symbolic? Would the message be different if the colors were different? Explain.
• Study the shading and shadowing. How do these elements impact the overall message?
• How do the lines and angles impact your eye as you study the work?
• Who is the artist? When was the work created? Is the artist's message about a specific event in history? What was going on in the world when the work was created? Is the art universal - speaks to people of all times and in all places, or is it limited to the audience for whom it was created.
• How does the work relate to us in 21st century America?

Time:

 

Here are some other questions to consider when looking at art:

http://www.kinderart.com/artspeak/artart3.shtml

Post a paragraph or two in Canvas - yes, in CANVAS. The space is available in Assignment #10. Include the picture in the post. Give credit to the artist, if known. Paragraphs should read like paragraphs, not lists.

Consider looking up a bit of information about the artist and the work. Why was it created? When was it created? Was it popular at the time? Does the title of the work give you any hints about the art? Where was it created? Do you know where this art is kept today?

On Tuesday, you will share your art selection with the class and lead us through the questions and explain how that work of art relates to your term. This of this like an art gallery tour, and you are the docent!


4. Sample essay: "I Know It's an Object, But is it Art?
5. "What is a Yankee?" http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/composition/definition.htm

Tips for writing a definition paper are also available on the link listed above.

6. Let's look back at your graphic organizers for writing definition papers. How is your research coming along? What information do you still need to locate?
For homework, continue with the research. Add to your annotations as you locate information about your term. Bring your notes/annotations/research/graphic organizers to class on Tuesday.
 

 

Class Work

1. Returning to the topic . . .At your table,  make a list of relationships. The list might include the best relationship you know of. Perhaps it is the love a mother has for her child. Maybe it is the affection one has toward a partner.  It could be the excitement of a new relationship. It might be the love a husband has for a wife and a wife has for her husband after many years of marriage. What about friendship? Love lost even counts.

2. Sharing of Love Songs...do this at your table / Groups of 3 or 4/

After viewing/listening/reading lyrics, share what is similar and what is different about these songs... What makes them  popular?

2. Think about a childhood friendship. Think of the "who, what, when, where, why, and how" of that relationship. ( Group according to birthday months . . . Jan/Feb/March = Group 1, April/May/June = Group 2, July/Aug/ Sept = Group 3, Oct/Nov/Dec = Group 4.

• Tell the others in your group about that friend or those friends. Person with the birthday closest to today begins. Sharing goes around the circle clockwise.
• Now that you have heard the stories of others, what is similar about the early friendships? What differs?

3. Think about your first sweetheart. This might have been a childhood crush. The person might have someone you knew from the neighborhood or from school. Perhaps your first "crush" was on someone who never knew you even liked him or her. Talk about it in your groups. Did the relationship end painfully or happily? Discuss.

Homework: Read: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A22952-2004Apr18.html "Boy Friend: Between Those Two Words, a Guy Can Get Crushed"

Decide who in your birth-month groups who will be A, B, C, and D.

Answer the following questions:
     A. Copeland refers to the Greek myth of Tantalus who is punished by the god who deny him the ability to reach water to quench his thirst or to pick succulent fruit that hangs just beyond his grasp. Conduct a bit of research on the myth ... read more... and explain why Copeland used this literary allusion in her opening. Are there additional examples in the essay that could be linked to the myth?
     B. How does Copeland support her view that although no one talks about the "friend-crush", it is actually quite common?
     C. Copeland believes that it is usually the male in the friendship who is  "crushed." Why do you think that males are more apt to be the "victims" in a friend-crush . . . or are they? Support with evidence from the article and from your observations in life.
     D. How does Matt Brochu's crush story end? How does the columnist finally come to an understanding of his crush? Was the ending a surprise? Was there evidence in the essay that pointed to the conclusion?

Discuss as a group on Thursday. Share answers. As a group, post in Canvas. List all names on the answer sheet. Post in the person's spot whose name is closest to the beginning of the alphabet. You will post on Thursday. A space will be provided for the posting. Be ready with your part.


4. Think about  your first true love. How did you meet? How long did it last? How did it end, or did it? Discuss at your table.

5. Now it is time to come up with a topic. What one word related to relationships will you define?

6. Begin working on the Definition Graphic Organizer. (handout) For homework, continue your research. Keep an annotated bibliography in EasyBib. www.easybib.com
Don't forget to start a new project before creating entries. I will check annotated bibliographies on Thursday. You will need to call up your project on EasyBib or give me a paper copy. This is a work in progress. There is no space for posting just yet.

October 10, 2013 - Thursday

Class Work

1. First, participate in a peer editing activity. Remember, the writer must take a stand. You topic relates to some aspect of Body Art. The paper should be 3-5 pages long.

• Have the paper showing on the screen in a Word document. You can copy/past it from MyCompLab into Word.
• Sit in groups of four - no exceptions!
• Listen carefully to the directions.

For homework, write the draft copy of your essay. Use MLA formatting. Post in MyCompLab. (50 pts.) Use the space for the DRAFT. Do NOT post in the Final Copy space.

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Bring in the lyrics to a popular love song. You may also include a YouTube link if one is available and is appropriate for a PG13 audience.

2.Back to the relationship topics...

Tina Turner once sang, "What's love got to do with it?"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pu8KFlfzk3Y

In class on Tuesday, we briefly talked about the advantages and disadvantages of on-line dating.

For homework, you will need to read an additional article.

Handout only: "Virtual Love" by Meghan Daum

As you read the article, look for what Daum says are the advantages and disadvantages of on-line dating. In addition, answer questions 1-8 under Thinking About the Text. Post your answers in MyCompLab. You do not need to type the questions. Be sure to number your answers. Answers need to be written in complete sentences. (40 pts.)

What is the answer to Tina Turner's question? What is love? How does it impact relationships?

Discussion: What is the best relationship you know of? Perhaps it is the love a mother has for her child. Maybe it is the affection one has toward a partner.  It could be the excitement of a new relationship. It might be the love a husband has for a wife and a wife has for her husband after many years of marriage.

Handout: "Private Lives" Read the article. Underline at least three powerful words, lines, or phrases. Post them on sticky-notes. Place on the board. Be sure to read what has already been posted before posting yours. If the same lines have been selected, place your note by the one already there. A discussion will follow.

We are moving toward the next writing piece which will focus on a definition of a term related to relationships. Think broadly. You will not be limited to "love stories." We will study more possibilities next week.

October 8, 2013 - Tuesday

Class Work

1. Let's meet your audience. At your table, share with the others. This is posted in MyCompLab. Just read it to the table members. Then, discuss what you plan to include in the paper to convince them.

2. Here are some more tips for writing an argumentative essay:
http://www.roanestate.edu/owl/argument.html

3. Let's go back to "Cry Wolf" and look at the documentation.

http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/composition/argument_sample.htm

You will need to document your sources and use internal reference notes.

http://leo.stcloudstate.edu/research/mlaparen.html

http://virtual.parkland.edu/walker102/mla.htm


For homework, decide which stories, statistics, interviews, and/or researched information will result in the best introduction. Save the leftovers for the conclusion. Keep track of your source on EasyBib or citation site of your choice.

Write your draft. Remember, you must take a stand. You must convince your audience of your opinion.  Post your working bibliography at the end of your draft.

Post in MYCOMPLAB.

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Moving on . . .

Parsing a rock...parsing a person . . . What are the qualities of the perfect date in 2013?

For homework, read "Virtual Love" by Meghan Daum. In MyCompLab, post a one or two paragraph reaction to the topic of the essay. Here is the link:

http://masf212.wordpress.com/2006/06/01/love-special-modern-romance/

 
Post in MyCompLab.

October 3, 2013 - Thursday

Class Work

We saved this for today... Conduct a bit of research to get ready to write a persuasive essay about body art.

 

• Are there any statistics that would help you make your point?
• Who needs to know your point of view - identify your audience (Post in MyCompLab - see below)
• Has your term been in the news? Find a story or two.
• Use the notes from the group research to reference the history of your topic.
• Has the body art been prominent in the media - movies, television, recordings, YouTube, etc?
• Is the body art featured in a song or poem?

Answer the questions. Please bring your answers to class. Be sure to keep track of your sources. EasyBib is a good place to do this. Annotate each source for note keeping purposes.

Let's take a closer look at "audience."

Your task with the next essay is to write to a specific audience to convince that audience that your chosen type of body art is OK or to convince that audience that your chosen type of body art should be avoided.

The first step is to decide on a position - for or against.

Second, identify your audience. Who needs to hear your thoughts? What are their values? What common ground do they share with you? How might you qualify your position to influence their opinion? Is your audience friendly, or is your audience against your stance? What does your audience already know about your topic and stance?

Handout: Sample Audience Profile

Your task is to write an audience profile. Try to be as specific as possible and include such information as economic status, gender, age, interests, and values. Are the members of the audience friendly or hostile? What claim will you make? What reasons will you need to provide to convince them that your claim is valid? What type of evidence will you need to convince them? Take the next 10 minutes to describe your audience. Post in MyCompLab.

Now that  you know your audience, how will you convince them? Please visit: http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/composition/argument.htm

Let's look at the ways in which a writer convinces an audience.

When considering the various persuasive techniques that might be used, know that the best question to ask is, "Does this make sense?" If the answer is, "Yes," then you have correctly used argumentative techniques.

We will look at part of the sample essay in class. Please finish reading it and the annotations for homework. "Cry Wolf" is a good example of a persuasive essay. Simply click on the "sample essay" link at the site noted above.
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Claims, Reasons, and Evidence

A good argumentative or persuasive essay is developed with a claim, reasons why that claim is true, and with evidence that the reasons are accurate.

To learn more about Argumentative Writing go to MyCompLab.

• Go to Resources.
• Click on Writing
• Click on Writing Strategies
• Select Argument
• Work through the modules for homework

In addition, complete Comprehensive Diagnostic Test #1 in MyCompLab.

October 1, 2013 - Tuesday

Class Work

MyCompLab is now ready for you to register.
Course: EatonEnglish101 8:00 am
Course ID: eaton76645

1. Please return to your Body Art groups. This was the assignment:
Group Activity:

• History of tattoos
• History of hair design
• History of piercings
• History of body modifications
• History of clothing/fashion design
• History of make-up.( War paint counts!)

Join one of the five groups listed above. You will conduct a quick Internet search and look for the beginnings or history of your body art assignment. Consider:

• Where did it begin?
• Why was it done?
• Did age have anything to do with the "ritual?" Was it a ritual?
• How was it done? What were the materials/tools that were used?

Prepare a brief presentation for the class. Feel free to use PowerPoint to show pictures or to point out amazing facts! Keep track of your sources. Create a Works Cited page for the group. What sources did you use?

 

You have 15 minutes to coordinate. Each person in your group needs to have a part. Prepare a slide or page that provides names and assignments. I need that when your group begins.

 

2. Presentations: Take notes during the presentations. Notes will be collected. You may hand write the notes. Bulleted lists are fine.

 

3. At your table, read your Body Art story. One volunteer from each table will share with the class. Others may volunteer to share. Listen for:

A. Details

B. Plot

C. Dialogue

D. Message/purpose

 

4. How does one persuade in writing? What tools can you use? What techniques work?

Consider how products are sold to you. Grab a magazine. Glance through it and concentrate on the ads. What is done to get you to spend your money on the products? (Focus on three ads. Respond in writing to the following:

 

• Consider the colors used
• Determine the target audience.
• What is your first impression? To where is your eye drawn?
• Look at the presentation of the product
• Observe the others in the picture.
• Read the words.
• Bottom line: Would you spend your money on the product? If so, explain. If not, what would need to happen to get you to purchase the product?

5. For homework, post your reactions to the ads in Canvas.

• Three ads
• Answer the questions
• 10pts. each

6.Save this for Thursday... Conduct a bit of research to get ready to write a persuasive essay about body art.

• Are there any statistics that would help you make your point?
• Who needs to know your point of view - identify your audience
• Has your term been in the news? Find a story or two.
• Use the notes from the group research to reference the history of your topic.
• Has the body art been prominent in the media - movies, television, recordings, YouTube, etc?
• Is the body art featured in a song or poem?

Answer the questions. Please bring your answers to class. Be sure to keep track of your sources. EasyBib is a good place to do this. Annotate each source for note keeping purposes.

 

 

September 26, 2013 - Thursday

Class Work

1. EMCC Writing Rubric Review: You need to have a copy of your "I Am A Writer" essay showing on the screen or printed on paper. I will give you a paper copy of the rubric.

2. Register for EasyBib: www.easybib.com

3. We will register for My Comp Lab on Tuesday. I ran into trouble creating the course.

4. Let's talk about body art.

5.  What do you think about body art? Do you have piercings or tattoos? If so, is there a story? (sharing) Consider your hair - styling it is also a form of body art. You might have a story about it as well! How about the way you dress? Have you ever worn something that "changed you or impresses or shocked others?
Make up is also body art. Do you have any stories to go with a make-up experience?

6. Group Activity:

• History of tattoos
• History of hair design
• History of piercings
• History of body modifications
• History of clothing/fashion design
• History of make-up.( War paint counts!)

Join one of the five groups listed above. You will conduct a quick Internet search and look for the beginnings or history of your body art assignment. Consider:

• Where did it begin?
• Why was it done?
• Did age have anything to do with the "ritual?" Was it a ritual?
• How was it done? What were the materials/tools that were used?

Prepare a brief presentation for the class. Feel free to use PowerPoint to show pictures or to point out amazing facts! Keep track of your sources. Create a Works Cited page for the group. What sources did you use?

Homework

Part I: Read "Under My Skin" by Jon Bowen http://www.salon.com/1999/06/23/tattoo/

Answer the following questions for "Under My Skin." Be prepared to discuss in class.

1. How do the anecdotes about himself and his tattoo artist ("Flash Gordon") enrich this essay?

2. Bowen deliberately shifts from first person "I" to second person "you" as he describes the process of getting a tattoo and reconsidering the tattoo. Find three examples of the second person perspective as you evaluate this strategy.

3. Find three examples of Bowen's use of humor, catchy phrases or lively tone to keep this informative essay from becoming tedious or predictable.

4. The author uses allusions that may be familiar to many readers. Do you know the origin of "Flash Gordon", "tabula rasa" or "to undo or not to undo - that's the question?" How do references to familiar characters or phrases help or hinder an essay?

5. Evaluate Bowen's inclusion of direct quotations from tattoo technicians and medical specialists to describe the reasons for removal, the degree of pain, and the results. How does Bowen keep this research from making his essay too technical or inaccessible for the readers?

(Questions from Between Worlds pp. 32-33.)

Post your responses in Canvas. You do not need to type the questions. Simply number the answers. This is due Tuesday.

Part II
Write the final copy of your introductory essay - The Writer in You. Post the final in Canvas. Please print a paper copy for me to use.

Part III
On paper, write out your personal Body Art story. This should be about a page long. Post in Canvas.