College Bound English at BVHS

Critical Lens Blog Task--due Thursday, October 27

2011-09-29T13:06:00.002-05:00

Select any exhibit and analyze it with 300+ words. Use the "Critical Lenses 101" flexbook. Look in the EXACT way the "Critical Lenses 101" flexbook tells you to as a critic. Ask the EXACT questions the "Critical Lenses 101" flexbook tells you to ask. Have the "Critical Lenses 101" flexbook with you as you study your exhibit and as you write this blog task. You must use at least four vocabulary words from the flexbook to earn maximum credit. Remember: grade = your effort to improve your intellect.

“EXHIBIT” = novel, play, song, job, sculpture, film, poem, concert, painting, myth, sketch, poster, artwork, photograph, t-shirt, television show, biography, board game, military situation, college visit, speech, advertisement, event, place/building (school, office), game, brochure, practice, rehearsal, ritual, haircut/style, website, routine, suit coat, celebrity...

(View and write about the pictured film, Full Metal Jacket, for this blog task or extra credit if you'd like.)

Literary Criticism Research Blog Task--due Thursday, October 13

2011-09-20T14:51:00.006-05:00

Click on "Literary Criticism & Theory Links" on the right hand margin of this blog until you find something to research that you 1) like and 2) enjoy. With 300+ words, summarize what you researched and apply your new knowledge to One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. The links will grant you insights into a way to interpret Kesey's novel. Make a connection from the theory to the novel. (If you need, you may look up other sites that provide critical theory on literature by websearching.)

Do not write in vague, fluffy, meaningless, empty ways. Use specific references and terms.

Critical Lens Analysis--due September 29

2011-09-14T13:19:00.005-05:00

“EXHIBIT” = novel, play, song, job, sculpture, film, poem, concert, painting, myth, sketch, poster, artwork, photograph, t-shirt, television show, biography, board game, military situation, college visit, speech, advertisement, event, place/building (school, office), game, brochure, practice, rehearsal, ritual, haircut/style, website, routine, suit coat, celebrity...JERSEY SHORE is much more interesting when viewed under the lenses! This is a picture of four ids, is it not?

One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest & Literary Criticism/Theory Blog Task--due Thursday, September 15

2011-08-17T14:48:00.005-05:00

How can you use the lenses to interpret One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest more compellingly than the casual reader? Type 200+ words discussing your knowledge of the lenses and what they help you uncover in Kesey's terrific text.

(Pictured is famous feminist theorist Virginia Woolf.)

Practice Blog Task--Performed in class on Tuesday, 8/30

2011-08-15T13:00:00.004-05:00

Type 100+ words expressing an epiphany (or "aha" moment) you experienced during our study of The Lion King. Which lens is most helpful or revealing for you? What have you learned from the "Lenses 101" flexbook I made for you? What has been most interesting thus far?

Also, in a separate comment, sincerely compliment a classmate's statement from class or a classmate's work on this blog task.

7th Period Blog Task--due Thursday, May 5

2011-04-28T13:54:00.005-05:00

Pi survives much peril. So do you, each day. What is your survival story? What tries to defeat you? What do you survive? What endangers you? Type 227+ words to illustrate.

Who/What is your "Richard Parker"?--due Tuesday, April 12

2011-03-16T08:24:00.008-05:00

Pi Patel stuck with Richard Parker is a fascinating analogy to the human condition.

Pi = humans and humanity

Richard Parker = death, fear, danger, mortality, knowledge, ignorance, obstacles, suffering, mistreatment, motivation, beauty, awesomeness, power-- which are all part of the HUMAN CONDITION. We are stuck with many obstacles, but we live on. We have enormous potential and power, too.

In your life, what specifically is your "Richard Parker"? Write 314+ of your own words answering this question.

Compliment the Novel--due Tuesday, April 5

2011-03-16T08:13:00.005-05:00

Compliment a specific feature or element (symbols, word choice, pacing, exposition, characterization, conflict, chapter length, narrative structure...or choose your own from a literature website) of Yann Martel's great novel Life of Pi. Show at least three specific examples of Martel's use of your selected feature or element. Quote each of your three examples. Write 314+ of your own words.

Literacy Autobiography Lens Analysis--due Tuesday, December 14

2010-11-02T15:20:00.023-05:00

Your Literacy Autobiography essay--in which you examine how you have gradually become a fine reader, writer, listener, speaker, and thinker--is due Friday, December 17.

Include the MLA citation. Example: Munsch, Robert N. The Paper Bag Princess. Buffalo, NY: Firefly Books, 2009.

This blog task relates directly. Select a children's book and analyze it through one, two, or all three lenses. Keep in mind my model demonstrations over The Paper Bag Princess & Fix-it. Analyze with 300+ words. Look up and use at least three "tough terms" from the Critical Lens 101 Handout.

This blog task is worth 100 points, so do not include filler/fluff. Analyze & dig. Respond with passion, polish, and proof.

Bloom's Literary Reference--due Tuesday, Nov. 30

2010-11-02T15:06:00.009-05:00

Harold Bloom is a famous literary scholar. This is his picture. Our BVHS Library has access to his collections of essays about famous literature, including One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. Go to the BVHS website and under "Student Resources" click on "Library" to find the Bloom's Literary Reference Online. Once there, login and search for One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. Take time to study an essay about Cuckoo's Nest, then write 300+ words of your own responding to the essay. Summarize the essay you read. Include the title and the author of the essay to which you're responding. Copy/paste 30-40 additional words from the actual entry you study at Bloom's Literary Reference Online.

OR you may search for 1984 by George Orwell, then summarize and respond to an essay about Eric Arthur Blair's great dystopian novel.

This blog task is worth 100 points, so do not include filler/fluff. Analyze & dig. Write with passion, polish, and proof.

Username: "brandon" Password: "valley"

Critical Lens Analysis--due Tuesday, Nov. 16

2010-09-29T08:24:00.012-05:00

Select any exhibit and analyze it with 150+ words. Use the "Critical Lenses 101" handout. Use at least three terms/words from the "Critical Lenses 101" flexbook that you haven't used before. Look in the EXACT way the "Critical Lenses 101" handout tells you to as a critic. Ask the EXACT questions the "Critical Lenses 101" handout tells you to ask. Have the "Critical Lenses 101" handout with you as you study your exhibit and as you write this blog task. If you do not refer to the "Critical Lenses 101" handout enough or effectively, your grade will be cut in half because you are not following directions and are not thinking in the directed way.

Also, add 150+ words response to Professor Patrick Hicks's presentation today. Did you learn? Do you look forward to college more now? Will you use critical lenses in classes taught by Hicks and others? (If you do this blog task far in advance, type your predictions for the visit by Prof. Hicks. What will professors be like? Heard a lot? Ready for them?)

This is a picture from Half Nelson, a phenomenal film starring Ryan Gosling (of The Notebook) about a great teacher who is also addicted to harmful, horrible narcotics.

College Writing--due Tuesday, Nov. 2

2010-09-29T08:14:00.009-05:00

What will college writing assignments be like? What will professors demand? What skills must we/you work on this year? What have you heard from siblings/friends currently in college? To earn a great grade, research a college English/composition course by searching online for a college you're considering--you can fairly easily find a syllabus or site that will enlighten you. Include the link you found. (You may also click on the college links in the right hand column of this blog.) Write 300+ words answering these questions. Pictured is Dr. Brian Bedard of USD, one of my favorite writing instructors.

Critical Lens Analysis--due Tuesday, Oct. 19

2010-09-08T09:24:00.008-05:00

“EXHIBIT” = novel, play, song, job, sculpture, film, poem, concert, painting, myth, sketch, poster, artwork, photograph, t-shirt, television show, biography, board game, military situation, college visit, speech, advertisement, event, place/building (school, office), game, brochure, practice, rehearsal, ritual, haircut/style, website, routine, suit coat, celebrity (like Brian Urlacher of the Chicago Bears, pictured here in an Old Spice advertisement)...

Cuckoo's Nest Excerpt Analysis--due Tuesday, Oct. 5

2010-09-05T13:40:00.008-05:00

(1) For this task, type a favorite excerpt of 30+ words directly from the novel, placing quotes before and after the copied words and including the page number. If you are copying quotes that are in the novel already, be sure to place single quotes where Kesey has double quotes.

(2) Then, discuss in 300+ words why this excerpt enlightens, entertains, puzzles, provokes you--why this excerpt is a favorite.

Kesey is a literary genius who has improved countless minds with this insightful and insane narrative. Know his great novel inside the mind and out.

Critical Lens Analysis--due Tuesday, Sept. 21

2010-09-04T13:36:00.002-05:00

Select any exhibit and analyze it with 300+ words. Use the "Critical Lenses 101" handout. Look in the EXACT way the "Critical Lenses 101" handout tells you to as a critic. Ask the EXACT questions the "Critical Lenses 101" handout tells you to ask. Have the "Critical Lenses 101" handout with you as you study your exhibit and as you write this blog task. If you do not refer to the "Critical Lenses 101" handout enough or effectively, your grade will be cut in half because you are not following directions and are not thinking in the directed way.
“EXHIBIT” = novel, play, song, sculpture, film, poem, concert, painting, myth, sketch, poster, artwork, photograph, t-shirt, television show, biography, speech, advertisement, board game, military situation, college visit, event, place/building (school, office), game, brochure, practice, rehearsal, ritual, haircut/style, website, routine, suit coat, celebrity (like Lady Gaga, pictured)...

Follow-Up Practice Blog Task 9/14 Tuesday

2010-08-31T11:48:00.005-05:00

(1) Read a few other students' responses to the question about subliminal messaging with The Lion King & Abercrombie clothing advertisements.

(2) Write and explain why you agree or disagree with another student's thoughts, mentioning the other student by name; the comment you post here must be 150+ words.

Practice Blog Task 9/14 Tuesday

2010-08-31T10:33:00.017-05:00

To practice blogging, respond to this question. Leave your last name in the window with your response. You will have blog tasks due throughout this year, most due on a Tuesday before midnight.

Of course little kids do not analyze The Lion King like we scholars do, but subconsciously and subliminally, do they become racist, sexist, bigoted while viewing this popular film? (First time hearing/seeing a Hispanic man they associate that voice with a hyena, the only Hispanic voice they've ever heard. Hyena=bad. Then, Hispanic=bad. Right?)

Similarly, doesn't advertising have subliminal effects? You cannot help it sometimes--you just have to buy those Abercrombie & Fitch clothes, even though they are absurdly overpriced. Right? Subliminal messages have deep, lasting impacts on the mind, right? They make you feel bad that you don't look like their models, then sell you the solution to your depression/negative self-esteem: their disgustingly-overpriced clothes!

Type 150+ words and think hard. Consciously, you only noticed the poised, petite, comfortable, confident, cute girl in the sweater that costs $183. Subconsciously, though, you also noticed the reason she is so happy: her sweater got her a hot guy whose eyebrows, hair, jaw, and style (also Abercrombie gear) are also flawless!

At what are those three pictured together gazing?
Who leans together to stare at something like they are?

More like "Aberzombie & Witch"...

Author/Artist Email Replies Spring 2010

2010-05-21T15:36:00.006-05:00

The comments here are the email replies we received from Yann Martel, Tomislav Torjanac, Andrea Offermann, and Tomer Hanuka.

1-4: 1st Hour
5-8: 3rd Hour
9-12: 5th Hour
13-16: 6th Hour
17-20: 7th Hour

Sculpture Poetry

2010-05-20T00:40:00.000-05:00

Type your poems here. I'd be thrilled to have you share them with the world. First you traced with your eyes--then with your hands. Then you moved and bellowed noises, some bizarre, others modest. The result was a collection of fantastic poetry.

This is a picture of one of my favorite poets, T.S. Eliot. My son's middle name is a tribute to Eliot, whose "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock" is utterly brilliant.

Critical Lens Analysis--due Tuesday, May 18

2010-03-23T14:58:00.015-05:00

The task is the same, but the lens used may be different and the exhibit/subject/topic must be different. These three are training you to remain a critical thinker for life, one who challenges the norm, questions "reality," and contemplates on deeper levels than most civilians.

With this class, you're constantly working on How To Think. Colleges will want thinkers who do precisely what these blog tasks demand (I know because I consistently ask my professor friends at various area private and public colleges and universities). Complain if you'd like, but all these exercises are done for you, to help you improve your intellectual capabilities for college.

Select any exhibit and analyze it with 400+ words. Use the "Critical Lenses 101" handout. Look in the EXACT way the "Critical Lenses 101" handout tells you to as a critic. Ask the EXACT questions the "Critical Lenses 101" handout tells you to ask. Have the "Critical Lenses 101" handout with you as you study your exhibit and as you write this blog task. If you do not refer to the "Critical Lenses 101" handout enough or effectively, your grade will be cut in half because you are not following directions and are not thinking in the directed way.

“EXHIBIT” = novel, play, song, sculpture, film, poem, concert, painting, myth, sketch, poster, artwork, photograph, t-shirt, television show, biography, speech, advertisement, event, place/building (school, office), game, practice, rehearsal, ritual, haircut/style, website, routine, brochure, suit coat...

Three sample exhibits: "Halo," a popular video game; "American Gothic," a famous painting by Grant Wood; and "The Singing Butler," a famous painting by Jack Vettriano

Critical Lens Analysis--due Tuesday, May 11

2010-03-23T11:01:00.010-05:00

Select any exhibit and analyze it with 400+ words. Use the yellow "Critical Lenses 101" handout. Look in the EXACT way the "Critical Lenses 101" handout tells you to as a critic. Ask the EXACT questions the "Critical Lenses 101" handout tells you to ask. Have the "Critical Lenses 101" handout with you as you study your exhibit and as you write this blog task. If you do not refer to the "Critical Lenses 101" handout enough or effectively, your grade will be cut in half because you are not following directions and are not thinking in the directed way.

Two sample exhibits: a Syracuse basketball game and a men's suit

Critical Lens Analysis--due Tuesday, April 27

2010-03-23T10:58:00.010-05:00

Select any exhibit and analyze it with 400+ words. Use the yellow "Critical Lenses 101" handout.

“EXHIBIT” = novel, play, song, sculpture, film, poem, concert, painting, myth, sketch, poster, artwork, photograph, t-shirt, television show, biography, speech, advertisement, event, place/building (school, office), game, brochure, practice, rehearsal, ritual, haircut/style, website, routine, suit coat...

Two sample exhibits: Sarah Palin & "Married With Children" a popular sitcom

Tomer Hanuka Artist Interaction

2010-03-20T12:49:00.000-05:00

These are excellent questions my students posed to Tomer Hanuka, accomplished Israeli artist. Hanuka responded with insights and thoughtfulness that will inform our writings.

My Favorite; How About Yours?

2010-03-20T11:52:00.000-05:00

Life of Pi is my favorite book because it has math, philosophy, religion, spirituality (different from religion), science, nature, ethics, adventure, and everything else anyone could look for in a novel. I found and read this book when I was hungry. I was hungry for the steaks I sold and for knowledge I sought. I remember the summer when I was working as a butcher (at Hy-Vee) and a book-seller (at Barnes and Noble). I'd combine the two jobs to work 15 hours most days, including weekends, trying to get a good start paying my students loans. It was a maddening pace, during which I actually spent a lot of my wages on the two products I peddled: steaks and books. One book that caught my eye had a tiger and a boy on a boat together. It was eye-level on the shelf in the bookstore's new release and staff recommendations section. Once I owned it, I couldn't sleep because my mind was so activated. This is my favorite. What's yours?

(And by the way, Martel is the ultimate "thought criminal"--he sends various books to political leaders to remind them they have the power to influence and create change.)

Life of Pi Test 4/16/09

2010-03-20T09:27:00.000-05:00

Last year, the seniors created the test you will take this year. Here it is, almost exactly as it will appear in class.

Each of you will be assigned one chapter of Life of Pi. There are exactly 100 chapters. For your assigned chapter, you must create one content-based question/prompt (may be multiple-choice or true/false). For your assigned chapter, you must also create one essay question/prompt. In mid-May, you will take the Life of Pi test, which will have precisely 100 content-based questions and an essay question that you will select. Post your two questions/prompts here so you and your classmates can study. See my examples below.

Example of a content-base question/prompt: Chapter 95--Which of the following options was not part of the ordeal Mr. Tomohiro Okamoto and Mr. Atsuro Chiba went through on their way to Benito Juarez Infirmary in Tomatlan? (a) rented a car (b) suffered a flat tire (c) had monkeys steal their food (d) had their motor "cannibalized" of parts by a mechanic (e) were overcharged by a second mechanic

Example of an essay question/prompt: Chapter 95--How do these two men add authenticity to Martel's narrative--and how do they help us interpret Pi's story?

Student-Author Interaction: Yann Martel's Responses

2010-03-20T09:10:00.000-05:00

I will post Yann Martel's direct responses to our questions here. These are his exact words, copied from emails I receive.

2009 Yann Martel Questions & Responses

2010-03-20T07:39:00.000-05:00

Each of our class periods asked author Yann Martel a question. Here are the questions and his responses he typed from Portugal.

Partner in Thoughtcrime Project: Apply the Lenses to an Adult Short Story or a Children's Book--due Thursday, April 8

2010-03-19T07:56:00.009-05:00

Type 400+ words here, analyzing your selected short story or book with the Critical Lenses. You may use any combination of the Marxist, Feminist, & Freudian Lenses.

Include both of your names and the title and author of your short story or children's book.

Analyze as deeply and critically as possible. Use at least five terms from the "Critical Lenses 101" yellow handout to earn more points. Indicate which exact lenses you are using. Indicate how the yellow handout helps you think more critically.

Analyze as deeply as I did with The Paper Bag Princess, I Know a Rhino, and Princess Smartypants. Go way beyond/below the obvious. A surface interpretation will not be accepted. Summarize very little--only when necessary to communicate your interpretations.

Perhaps you will analyze Edgar Allan Poe's master narrative, "The Cask of Amontillado" (picture above).

Make-Up Blog Task (If you were gone Wednesday, March 17, when we did ning work.) Due Tuesday, March 23

2010-03-15T07:51:00.003-05:00

Type 200+ words about (1) what you get about 1984 thus far; (2) what you don't get about 1984 thus far; and (3) your reactions to having Professor Patrick Hicks of Augustana College here. Did he help prove this novel is brilliant and relevant?

Model Essay & Model Presentation Assessment--due Tuesday, March 2

2010-02-16T16:45:00.019-06:00

In 400+ words, assess (judge, evaluate) the model essays and model presentation I have provided you. You have essays by Tom Eitreim, Erik Hanson, Casey Strand, and by yours truly (me). Do these models help you? In what ways do they help you? What, specifically, will help you as you attempt to create your own projects? What strategies will you use from them? Though his essay is intelligent, I think Eitreim summarizes Spiderman far too much; doing so probably hurt his grade at SDSU, too, I think (unless his professor instructed him to summarize--I guess having to summarize does make one view extremely carefully and closely; I saw Tom Eitreim this weekend--he was following the assignment guidelines). The first weeks of this College Bound English unit have been modeling, which is my effort to show you what I expect regarding the length and depth of the critical thinking required for film deconstruction. Does seeing model essays help you? Did my model team presentation on Apocalypse Now, Platoon, & Full Metal Jacket help you? How? Why?

Will you use a Feminist, Marxist, or Freudian lens in your film analysis?

I just corresponded with Dr./Prof. Skip Willman (see his sweet guitarist picture here), one of many terrific professors at USD, and he told me you are doing precisely what he would like you to before entering his and Dr./Prof. John Dudley's composition/writing/English/literature/critical thinking courses. (After an undergraduate career at Augustana College, I earned my Master of Arts in Literature degree from USD last summer.)

(These are pictures from two films I cannot stop watching once I discover they're on television: The Shawshank Redemption & Gladiator.)

Film Terms Glossary & Different Shot Types Handouts--due Thursday, February 25

2010-02-16T16:23:00.006-06:00

For this blog task, first select five terms from the Film Terms Glossary handout (yellow) and write 200+ words on how these five terms (A) will help you write a scholarly, analytical essay and/or (B) will help you perform a scholarly, analytical team presentation . How do these terms enlighten your knowledge, help you think critically, and be less ignorant? What, precisely, will you say in your individual essay and/or team presentation?

Second, select five terms from the Different Shot Types handout (blue) and write 200+ words on how these five terms (A) will help you write a scholarly, analytical essay and/or (B) will help you perform a scholarly, analytical team presentation. How do these terms enlighten your knowledge, help you think critically, and be less ignorant? What, precisely, will you say in your individual essay and/or team presentation?

You should have a total of 400+ words in a single comment on this blog task. Remember, this number is a minimum. Doing half as much will demonstrate half as much time and effort invested. But, of course, do not sacrifice quality for quantity, either. Do a thorough, critical, committed job.

Both of these handouts may be accessed at our class wikispace as well.

(This is a poster advertising one of my recent favorite films, Lymelife, an independent movie with a small budget, but powerful themes and messages. The tagline on the poster reads "THE AMERICAN DREAM SUCKS." It is the duty of our storytellers to show us life as it really is--this movie succeeds indeed.)

It is more than likely that you will experience units like this one in your required freshman writing/composition courses, I'm proud to let you know.

Film Deconstruction develops and requires many skills, including:

detail analysis

symbol interpretation

cultural representation exploration

literary device recognition

artistic technique assessment

Film Deconstruction Links--Due Tuesday, February 23

2010-02-05T15:35:00.005-06:00

Select three links on the right-hand column of this class blog, under the heading "Film Deconstruction Links." Explore and read these three links thoroughly. Then write 150+ words per link--450+ total words--summarizing what these links offer and responding to each link's usefulness to your understanding of film analysis and to your understanding of collegiate expectations of critical thinking. Copy/paste a little information that you find particularly useful and interesting (does not count toward your 450+ words). Professors want to combat ignorance by any means necessary; they want you thinking as critically as possible. Good thing you're doing such good work these days.

(This is actor John Malkovich in the Coen Brothers' film Burn After Reading, which is a puzzling character study. The characters are brilliant people merging with moronic people; this merger creates awful behavior by them all. Casey Strand wrote about this film--see the sample essay I gave you.)

Anticipation Guide Topics--Due Tuesday, February 16

2010-02-05T15:26:00.008-06:00

Select three statements from the "Anticipation Guide for Film Deconstruction Unit" handout you received in class. For each of the three statements you select, write 150+ words--for a total of 450+ words--explaining why you agree or disagree with the statements. To what extent do you agree with these statements? Why? Be thorough. Be scholarly. Prove you're thinking hard about your Team Presentation and Individual Essay. (A Marxist "reading" of Cinderella enlightens us and exposes a lot of underlying, subconscious meaning. The only/best way to get fame, power, and wealth--to climb the "social ladder"--is by being beautiful and having a Fairy Godmother? Be sure to use the critical lenses we have studied in your Individual Essay.)

Film Deconstruction Debate--Part 1 due Tuesday, February 2; Respond to Another Student--Part 2 due Tuesday, February 9

2010-01-11T11:48:00.020-06:00

For Part 1, answer these questions: Why is it productive to write analytically about film? Why do universities devote entire courses (and film study programs/film study majors/film study minors) to writing analytically about film? Does deconstructing a film--rather than casually watching--increase or decrease the enjoyment of the film? Why? Having this debate here and in class will decidedly increase critical thinking levels. Write 300+ words to earn points. For Part 2, respond to another student, agreeing, disagreeing, and/or building on what s/he typed. Write 300+ scholarly words to generate critical thoughts. When you are done with Part 2, you will have two comments on this blog task. These are pictures of three of my all-time favorite films, Mean Girls, P.S. I Love You & Office Space.

Get Going on Your Film Deconstruction Essay--due Tuesday, January 26

2010-01-11T11:46:00.009-06:00

Which film are you deconstructing in your essay? What features/aspects (camera work, lighting, soundtrack, pacing, sequencing, dialogue, etcetera) of this film are you analyzing deeply, carefully, deliberately? Further, answer some questions here from the handout I gave you entitled "Film Deconstruction Paper." Lastly, answer these questions, inserting various features/aspects into the blank: Why is _______________ like that? What effect does ________________ have/create for the viewer? If you answer these questions fully, you will be a Deconstructionist. Write 300+ scholarly words here to earn points--up to 40.

(No Country for Old Men painting from blakeloosli.com.)

Our Favorite Films--due Thursday, January 21

2010-01-10T13:13:00.005-06:00

What are some of your favorite films? Why are these films your favorite? What about them makes you like them--what features/aspects are excellent? How do they affect you (scare, entertain, delight, puzzle, inspire, etcetera)? Are you able to relate to the protagonist(s)? Why do you care about the characters and what happens to them? What about the plot, setting, or ___________ helps you like this film? Why is this film memorable for you? Write 300+ scholarly words here to earn points. Do not merely summarize your favorite films. Answer my questions above.

(This is a picture of actor Charlie Sheen in one of my favorite films, Platoon, winner of many awards, including Best Picture, in 1986.)

Ad Analysis Research -- Due December 22

2009-12-02T07:29:00.006-06:00

Click on a few of the sites under "Advertisement Analysis Links" on the right hand column of this class blog. Select two that are particularly enlightening and interesting. To earn points, type 300+ words describing and summarizing what you found. Also, discuss how and why these two links are enlightening and interesting--especially to your paper and your group's work.

Furthermore, search for links like these and post one web address for us to follow and be enlightened. What about this link that you found is enlightening and/or interesting?

Essay Introduction & Conclusion--due Tuesday, Dec. 15, before midnight

2009-11-20T07:54:00.010-06:00

Type a draft of your introductory paragraph and the concluding paragraph here. Each should be five-seven sentences, right, to make a solid, standard paragraph?

A solid paragraph has a topic sentence, supporting ideas, then a clincher with a transition to the next paragraph.

An introductory paragraph should start with something that stimulates interest, that grips a reader. Your introductory paragraph must end with your thesis statement, which is the most important claim you want to argue throughout your essay. The thesis statement must be arguable, not factual. Then, throughout your paper, you provide evidence to argue and "prove" your thesis statement's validity.

A concluding paragraph should have a connection to the introduction. Your paper should start and end with a connection to a single reference or idea. Do not include "In conclusion...". Do broaden away from the specific points you have asserted throughout the body of your essay.

Be sure to include a few of each of the four sentence types. Label them clearly so I can find them quickly. Practice will improve your writing, I assure you.

(These gaming ads always look way more epic and sweet than the actual game, don't they? These ads also include text that basically tells/instructs young people to reject their parents, jobs, homework, and responsibilities to just play the game!)

Essay Extension--due Tuesday, Dec.1, before midnight

2009-11-20T07:46:00.017-06:00

What else--other than the ad itself--will you discuss in your advertisement analysis essay? Psychology, sociology, history? What will your outline/plan look like? To earn points, type 300+ words here, expanding your ideas. Notice how Bridget Olson, Erik Hanson, Andrew Rogen, and Mallory Ageton look at larger cultural topics--their specific analyses of their selected ads lead to broader examinations of our cultural approaches and mindsets.

(Your paper should also include, if you were using the ad on the left for example, a discussion of Jennifer Lopez's film career & roles. Further, JLo's biography would help you examine the reasons she is chosen for this ad. What does JLo represent? Who is being targeted by this ad? When was this ad prominent--when JLo was truly popular, right? Who she's married to matters. The films she has been in matter. Maid in Manhattan, which is basically Cinderella or Pretty Woman, objectifies her rather blatantly. What makes her essential to Deseo? What symbols are present? How is the ad's form effective? At whom is JLo looking? What is she doing? What is happening in the ad? What is being conveyed/portrayed? What does the imperative (command) statement "let desire lead you" mean? Why is there a classy, urban floor beneath a natural, utopian setting? You have options, you see.)

Be sure to include a few of each of the four sentence types. Label them clearly so I can find them quickly. Practice will improve your writing, I assure you.

Ad Analysis Practice--Due Tuesday, 11/17, by midnight

2009-11-09T16:01:00.007-06:00

Select an interesting and provocative advertisement in a magazine. Describe every aspect of its imagery & text. Explain why this ad fits the readers of the chosen magazine. Then analyze the ad thoroughly, perhaps with a Feminist critical lens. What is this ad selling other than the specific product? A myth, dream, lie? What are the messages to the consumer? Think hard to type 350+ words total and use proper paragraph structure (five-six sentences each). You might use your selected ad in your extended analysis, the four-page paper due January 6. (Keeping in mind the notes I gave you about the Brett Favre Wrangler ad to the left, analyze like we have in class continually.)

In addition to your 350+ words, be sure to write two of each of the four sentence types (Simple, Compound, Complex, & Compound-Complex) about the ad you select. Be clear about where you have used the four distinct sentence types, proving you know what they are and what they look like. Here is a Compound-Complex sentence about this Brett Favre ad, for example: Because Favre is so famous and talented, yet humble and "country," he relates to a huge range of consumers and he makes an ideal icon for Wrangler.

Simple = only one I.C.

Compound = two+ I.C.

Complex = only one I.C. & one+ D.C.

Compound-Complex = two+ I.C. & one+ D.C.

Cuckoo's Nest task due Thursday, 10/1, by midnight

2009-09-20T17:07:00.006-05:00

Choose one statement of the 25 on the Anticipation Guide. Posting on this blog at the "comments" below, write 325+ words, in decently structured paragraphs of five-seven sentences each, disagreeing or agreeing with the statement. Support your assertion with mention of (1) your life, (2) the novel, and (3) a famous quote you find online or elsewhere. You must mention all three.

Analyzing One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest due Saturday, Sept. 12, by midnight

2009-09-10T07:20:00.005-05:00

Respond to these questions as fully and as intelligently as you can:

A.) In what specific ways have you been forced to conform (conditioned, controlled, vegetized, roboticized, zombiefied, brainwashed) so that your individual traits may only be used to benefit the/a system you're a part of? How are you shunned or when you do not do what you "should"? What are your general thoughts about conformity? Is "independent thought" possible?

B.) In what specific ways have you been allowed or encouraged to be a free-spirited individual who cultivates all the particular, inherent talents and abilities you were given?

And how is our great motto this year, "Like No Other," ironic and connected to our study of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest? Is this the main problem these men face--they simply are "different"? (By the end of the novel, you will have an enlightened perspective, thanks to Kesey.)

"Have it Your Way" Short Writing: 50 Points, Due Saturday, April 25, by Midnight.

2009-04-16T13:42:00.000-05:00

Copy/paste 62.8 words--the insights/thoughts/word you find most compelling--said by artist(s) on this blog (you have four choices; use one or two artists--click on the comments on the posts below). Write 314+ words agreeing, disagreeing, extending, and/or reacting to their insightful words. Really think hard and critically. Do not type fluff to fill the 314 minimum. Invest some time and thought. Be as original as you possibly can.

Andrea Offermann of Germany, Tomer Hanuka of Israel, Tomislav Torjanac of Croatia, and Joanna Barnum of the United States will undoubtedly offer you stimulating thoughts to work with. Like these four, you are becoming better and better thought criminals all the time.

Joanna Barnum Artist Interaction

2009-04-02T14:11:00.005-05:00

Stimulating, thoughtful imagery and insights:

Fiction's (Un)Intended Effects

2009-03-31T07:36:00.006-05:00

"Fiction is true because it speaks about what it means to be human. It's reality, often times, being so superficially analyzed, that is false." --Yann Martel

Respond to the quote above and/or to these "Functions of Fiction" and "Functions of the Artist"--do you agree that Life of Pi or other books we've read this year accomplish these functions?

Functions of Fiction

Show beauty and possibilities of language.
Create meaning; make events matter.
Make symbols mean something.
Make nothing mean something.
Order, structure, and understand the world.
Order and attempt to understand what it means to be "human."
Open the world up to us.
Understand life.
Understand self.
Lift our spirits.
Reveal, examine, explore, show, explode something.
Teach us something (stories can accomplish this better than lectures, right?).
Relate past to present to future.
Give us perspective.
Make us wonder.

Functions of the Artist/Author

Be a cultural analyst/evaluator.
Challenge or upset the status quo, which glazes over and oppresses (be a renegade or watchdog).
Explore/expose the "taboo."
Discuss the "undiscussable."
Examine the question--does "honesty" = "truth."
Instruct and delight us.
Make us explore beliefs, views, ethics.

2009 International Artist Interaction & Insights

2009-03-23T15:10:00.005-05:00

How are novels (literary fiction) like paintings, sculptures, photographs, songs, themes (musical) and/or scores?

Andrea Offermann, renowned artist from Germany whose piece "The Ship Sank" is right here, responded to this question. Click the "comments" to read her exceptional perspectives.

Mr. Goheen and Mr. Kessler responded intelligently, too. Now that you're farther into the novel, what do you say?

Tomer Hanuka's Art

2009-03-22T12:32:00.002-05:00

Tomer Hanuka's art is fascinatingly revealing and symbolically-driven. He has responded expertly to my questions. What do you wonder about his choices in representing this novel? (He has told me that growing up in Israel, under the constant threat of annihilation, is much like Pi's experience under/with Richard Parker's rule.)

Student-Artist Interaction: Andrea Offermann's Interpretation and Artwork

2009-03-20T08:51:00.001-05:00

Andrea Offermann--How are art and literature connected? How does the analysis of one help the analysis of the other? How were you able to transfer your reading of Life of Pi to the canvas? How does this book lend itself to visual creation? Please tell us about your reading and painting process. Thank you very much.

BVHS Students--Post questions for Ms. Offermann here, if you would like.

This is Offermann's painting "Pink Elephants". "This image plays with our belief of what is real. Which world is the real world? The world inside the elephant? Or the world around it? How do we prove which is real? And after all, what does real mean?" (www.tinyshowcase.com/artwork.php?id=670).

Complementary Artwork for Life of Pi

2009-03-19T22:25:00.000-05:00

Yann Martel has said that much of the artwork submitted in the global Life of Pi art competition complements (adds to) the reading/interpretation and doesn't replace conceptualizations. What Life of Pi artwork has stimulated your interests? Why? How? (This is a painting by Andrea Offermann, entitled "Screaming Match." You'll read/see it soon. Offermann earned second place, I think, in the contest for the illustrated version of the novel. Tomislav Torjanac of Croatia was the winner of the prestigious contest.)

Student-Author Interaction: Your Questions

2009-03-17T15:48:00.000-05:00

If you could ask Yann Martel himself something about Life of Pi, what would it be?

Student-Artist Interaction: Tomislav Torjanac's Interpretation and Artwork

2009-03-17T09:14:00.000-05:00

Tomislav Torjanac won the global contest and was chosen to illustrate the new edition of Life of Pi. Tomislav Torjanac--How are art and literature connected? How does the analysis of one help the analysis of the other? How were you able to transfer your reading of Life of Pi to the canvas? How does this book lend itself to visual creation? Please tell us about your reading and painting process. Thank you very much.

BVHS Students--Post questions for Mr. Torjanac here.

Literary Devices Discourse

2009-03-16T15:37:00.002-05:00

How do literary devices make writing and reading more interesting? What can they add to a reading experience? What are your favorite devices to write with; what are your favorite devices to read?

When Pi Patel cooks spicy Indian food for Yann Martel: "Each time it's the same: my taste buds shrivel up and die, my skin goes beet red, my eyes well up with tears, my head feels like a house on fire, and my digestive tract starts to twist and groan in agony like a boa constrictor that has swallowed a lawn mower" (42-43).

This is a tiger of the Sundarbans region of Bangladesh. Breath-taking.

The Asymptotic Nature of Life of Pi

2009-03-15T09:30:00.001-05:00

This novel definitely has asymptotes. Throughout its plot, Martel's story approaches the impossible, but can never be quite labeled as "impossible." Similarly, a curve on a graph will approach an asymptote, but will never, ever connect with that asymptote.

The graph { f(x) = 1/x } on the left comes to mind: a math metaphor.

f(x)=1/x

Much of the novel is almost unbelievable. What do you buy? What do you sell?

Deconstruction Practice--Due Tuesday, March 17, at Midnight

2009-03-08T22:27:00.006-05:00

Which film deconstruction that we performed in class most stimulated your critical thinking skills? Which film deconstruction that we performed in class relates most closely to your four page paper?

Refer to the right side of this screen for what earns you points. This is an image from Mean Girls, a highly "deconstructible" film.

Film Freewrite--due Tuesday, March 10, by Midnight

2009-02-26T21:46:00.014-06:00

Freewrite (even ramble) about the film you're close viewing/deconstructing for 200+ words. Answer the questions I pose to you on the "Film Deconstruction Paper" handout.

It is not enough to merely state that a film is good or bad, or its aspect is good or bad. For example, it is not enough to say that The Shawshank Redemption is "powerfully written" or "expertly acted." What is real close viewing is noticing that we need the old, institutionalized prisoner named Brooks to be let out and sent to that apartment before Red goes there. That plot device creates tension for us and misleads us expertly.

You should also include the three required sources you plan on using: the online film review, the article found through our BVHS library database(s), and the printed physical book source. Refer to my sample paper and to the Kaleb Paulsen Stepbrothers example. Your grade will reflect your intelligent use of sources and your critical thinking level.

This exercise will help you generate ideas you did not know you even had for your paper which is due March 17, Tuesday. Show critical awareness to earn credit--up to 30 points.

See my sample paper about We Own the Night. See Eitreim's and Hanson's, too. Also, see my other site called Liticism for important samples and links.

Lord of the Flies Similarities & Differences--due Thursday, March 5, by Midnight

2009-02-26T21:39:00.003-06:00

Use all of our exercises--notes, discussions, lectures--to accomplish this exercise. Write 200+ words, showing similarities and differences Lord of the Flies has to anything you have ever read, seen, or heard. We've begun this exercise in written and spoken form already; now, structure and expand your ideas. Jack is like the Joker, but how? In what scenes?

Be specific and use all the critical thinking skills you've developed to earn up to 30 points. Show you've invested some time and some thought.

Lord of the Flies, Project 2090, and Film Deconstruction Paper: In class on Wednesday, February 11.

2009-02-10T12:17:00.008-06:00

(1) Type two excerpts from Lord of the Flies (pp. 7-75) and include their page numbers.

The first excerpt must display a revealing dialogue exchange between characters. What is not being said that should be said? What might a character's words be masking/covering? What do these words reveal about a character? What is being heard or not heard by the intended listener? What could/should be said that is not? Is Golding accurate in his depiction of the speech patterns of young boys?

The second excerpt must show masterful use of language to show--not tell--the reader a setting or action. What sense(s) is Golding stimulating? (see, hear, touch, taste, perceive/feel)

(2) Type your initial ideas for what your group will do for Project 2090, which will be held from April 14-20. You get wisdom from elders, then share it with the class, presenting for 45 minutes. To whom will you speak? What will you ask these wise, venerable, respectable interviewees? Will you have up to 15 minutes of filmed material? What sort of handout will you have? What sort of powerpoint slides will you have? (leave the republican vs. democrat stuff out)

How, specifically, will we prevent WWIII (LOTF) and dystopia (1984)?

How will we, as a society, heed the urges of our collective reason and/or superego?

How will we remain unique, if that's possible?

How will we be better Americans?

How can we think for ourselves?

(3) What are you thinking for your film deconstruction paper? Are you leaning toward comparing the two LOTF film versions, or selecting your own single film to deconstruct? (I saw Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist last night--and could definitely deconstruct many aspects of it.)

How might a director and producer make LOTF differently than another?
Or, what might you say about a single film, if that is your route?

Othello Blog Exercise #2: Due Wednesday, January 28, by Midnight

2009-01-14T12:44:00.012-06:00

Type 100+ words directly from Othello--verbatim (word for word).

Translate Shakespearean English to 21st Century Brandon English (also 100+ words). You do the translating; do not copy/paste a translation from a website. This will not take you all week/night.

Type 100+ more words, personally attaching to this scene or verbal exchange. How does this scene or verbal exchange relate to you or your world? In what ways are you wiser--and therefore more aware--because of what this scene or verbal exchange has made you consider?

300+ words = 30 points (This is a picture of the ever-important symbol, the handkerchief.)

In-Class Genuine and Free Forum: Completed During Class Tuesday, January 27

2009-01-13T16:12:00.013-06:00

This is the third major work by Shakespeare you have studied during your high school experience. What do you genuinely think, (with no fluff or b.s. permitted)? Why Shakespeare at all? How is he/is he not genius? Is his language relevant? If you despise Shakespeare, why do so many people enjoy his works? If you love Shakespeare, why do so many people loathe his works? You may type as much/little as you like, as long as you are honest and invested. Say something that really matters to you here.

You must respond to this post and to two other student comments, which will make this a legitimate discussion forum. A good way to get someone to respond to your comment is to include a question for someone to directly answer. Or, be boldly opinionated enough--without being childishly offensive--to generate a response.

Here's some boldness: Some people would say/think these things; I would not. "If you cannot or will not appreciate and love Shakespeare, you are an idiot." or "If you love Shakespeare, there is something wrong with you--you are out of touch with reality and need your brain examined (you might need a lobotomy, in fact)." or "If you don't like Shakespeare, you are not a human being, because human beings feel emotions and Shakespeare's plays are packed with emotional scenes and speeches." or "If you love Shakespeare, you are not tough, manly, or cool." or "If you do not love Shakespeare, you do not fully live." or "If you enjoy Shakespeare, you are wasting your time with out-of-date language and stupid stories of love, revenge, and so on, that will never help you think any better or get anything you don't have already. WASTE OF TIME."

Are we becoming academically lazy? Or would more interesting, relevant, and current material help us THINK CRITICALLY (the main purpose of this class) well enough and/or better than Shakespearean material? For instance, what would help you in life better, a Shakespeare semester course elective, or a film history and criticism

semester course elective? Couldn't we learn about evil through/with "The Hills Have Eyes"? Couldn't we learn about love through/with "The Notebook" or "Twilight" or "One Tree Hill"? Be "easier" and better, right? Maybe we cannot get emotionally involved in Othello, because we are too busy trying to understand what is being done and said?! Maybe we shouldn't even try to get emotionally attached to Shakespeare, but isn't that the point of drama?

Maybe we should cut all that is too tough: Anatomy, Trigonometry...?

Othello Blog Exercise #1: Due Saturday, January 24, by Midnight

2009-01-13T13:02:00.005-06:00

Become any character in one of these three ways (300+ words & 30 points):

Write your thoughts as you are off the screen/stage. What is bothering you? What do you know? What do you not know? What are you pleased about?

Write an autobiography of your past, prior to the action where Othello starts. Where are you from? What has your life been like? Who has been good/bad to you? What has happened to you to shape your current behavior and thinking?

Write what a bystander (really minor character not even mentioned in play) would be thinking, observing, but not saying. Why are you not intervening? What should you do, but cannot because you are not important enough? (I had a student be a spider in a corner once; you could be a guard, friend, maid--let's see who is creative.)

Characters to choose from:
Othello
Iago
Desdemona
Roderigo
Cassio
Emilia
Montano
Brabantio
Bianca
Lodovico
Duke of Venice

YOU ARE A GOOD WRITER AND--AFTER THESE TWO EXERCISES BELOW--YOU WILL KNOW why YOU ARE A GOOD WRITER. You use variety, that's why.

2009-01-06T10:11:00.005-06:00

In-Class Syntax Blogging 1: S & CD Sentences

2009-01-04T19:22:00.012-06:00

For this exercise, you must (1) type 10 simple sentences, 5 of which have one prepositional phrase and 5 of which have two prepositional phrases; and (2) 10 compound sentences of varying length. Remember the eight coordinating conjunctions you need to make compound sentences: "and, or, for, nor, but, so, yet, ;". With syntax variety, you will be smarter and your writing will be better (hey--I just typed a compound sentence right there.)

This picture is of Prof. Mark Van Wienen, a former Augustana writing teacher I learned a lot from/with (now at Northern Illinois).

DUE SATURDAY NIGHT 10:00 P.M. IF YOU DO NOT FINISH DURING CLASS.

In-Class Syntax Blogging 2: CX & CD-CX Sentences

2009-01-04T19:06:00.009-06:00

For this exercise, you must (1) type 10 subordinating conjunctions; (2) type 8 complex sentences, 4 of which must have the dependent clause first, 4 of which must have the independent clause first; and (3) type 4 compound-complex sentences. If you complete this exercise, you will have a better understanding of syntax variety (hey--I just typed a complex sentence right there).

This picture is of Prof. Robert Dornsife of Creighton University in Omaha, a great writing teacher with whom I shared ideas during winter break.

DUE SATURDAY NIGHT 10:00 P.M. IF YOU DO NOT FINISH DURING CLASS.

Advertisement Analysis: Ads & Art--Due Friday, December 12

2008-12-10T10:27:00.004-06:00

You all remember the short story by Kurt Vonnegut entitled "Harrison Bergeron"? Do advertisements "handicap" our thinking? I think they do, if we are following a show closely or if we are driving carefully or if we are focusing on __________, then have our focus interrupted by the ubiquitous ads.

Listen to this audio clip from "On the Media," then post a 200+ word reaction (just click the play button). Is this audio clip interesting? What good points does it make? You may include your reactions to what Greta Beller and Whitney Moser presented--or any other exercises, presentations, or discussions we have held in class. First, consider the following questions carefully, then begin typing. At what point does advertising become intrusive? How can we possibly think/buy/decide for ourselves, if we are continually bombarded with messages? How much mind control does the media wield? Is the whole industry corrupt? Why do we obsess over the lives of celebrities? Are the self-esteems of people affected, really, by advertising? This comment is due Friday, December 12, at 11:00 p.m. and is worth 30 points. Remember to type your class period number at the beginning of your comment.

(This ad depicts two young people who, because they use VO5 hair products, are able to find the courage to rebel against Communist China. Seen it on television? The line between movie and advertisement has become a blurry one. Movies have ads in them. Advertisements try to be as much like movies as they can be. Is it good that advertisers attach such major concepts like individuality to their products? Can doing so ever be harmful?)

Pop Culture Pursuit & Thesis Statement Ideas--Due Friday, December 5

2008-11-24T14:52:00.015-06:00

Here are the directions for this two-part comment:
(1) Click on one--or a couple--of the "Advertisement Analysis Links" in the right-hand column of this, our class blog. Learn something from one or more of these links and respond in 150+ words. (These directions are supposed to be vague, because we then get a lot of independent, interesting thinking generated.) (2) Post a possible thesis statement for your advertisement analysis essay. Thesis statements must be arguable and must get the reader ready for the points you will then make in your paper. Here are three good examples I've created using the three papers you've examined--Bridget Olson's: Through a(n empty) promise of increased promiscuity and desirability, VO5 Extreme hair product makes consumers reevaluate gender roles, then feel compelled to get Extreme hair products to be valued and unique. Erik Hanson's: By utilizing all of the powerful psychological connections men have to sex, Peak Long Life antifreeze strategically creates top-of-mind awareness for its product. Andrew Rogen's: With its advertisement featuring the Pussycat Dolls, Verizon Wireless is deeply and negatively affecting the overall psyche and self-esteem of young girls--globally, not only in America--and using sexual images to get our attention, then make us associate getting respect and attention with sexuality only. Andrew Dohrman's: By "Americanizing" itself through a comparison to an unstoppable, driven celebrity and by implying its car can grant personal ownership of the road, emotions, and life, Subaru, a Japanese company, effectively influences consumers. Nicole Okins's: By comparing men to unevolved beasts, Trojan condom ads ethically urge women to be safe, yet harmfully make women believe Trojan condoms can change men, making their male mates more intimate, romantic, and committed.

This comment is due Friday, December 5, at 11:00 p.m. and is worth 30 points. Remember to type your class period number at the beginning of your comment.

2008-11-23T12:14:00.000-06:00

Advertising Theory

View SlideShare presentation or Upload your own. (tags: innovation marketing)

Advertisement Analysis: Group Presentation Example

2008-11-18T12:57:00.001-06:00

Masculinity Myth (Group Example)

View SlideShare presentation or Upload your own.

From the "What" to the "How/Why" of Cuckoo's Nest

2008-11-12T12:37:00.002-06:00

REMEMBER, YOU MAY USE PROF. BEDARD'S QUESTIONS FOR YOUR 800+ WORDS; YOU MAY USE 1, 2, OR ALL 3: (1) Does the individual life still matter? (2) Will I conform or not conform to the dictates of my society? (3) If I choose to conform, what price am I willing to pay to preserve my sense of individuality?

How does Kesey create certain effects in the reader? Why does he make certain decisions in the construction of his book? Post your initial thoughts here. Once you're done with your essay, you'll post it here, too. It is due on Tuesday, November 18, at 11:00 p.m. and must be 800+ words with 5-6 paragraphs and 3+ quoted excerpts.

Some interesting thoughts from this address (Darren N. pointed it out to me): http://www.lakelandschools.us/blogs/serichsen/?page_id=19

Themes
Kesey introduces a number of topics and themes in his novel. Review the list and discuss which topic/theme you think is worthy of discussion. How does Kesey introduce the topic/theme? How does Kesey develop the topic/theme? Which characters are important in that development? What is the significance of the topic/theme? Begin by posting a comment regarding a specific theme and how it pertains to the novel. Agree or disagree with a previous comment; add more information to another student’s perspective.

freedom vs. control
hope vs. despair
friendship vs. isolation
physical/moral courage
role of nature
sacrifice
self-reliance
sexuality
role of women
society & the individual
conformity
morality
power of humor/satire
use of recurring symbols

REMEMBER, YOU MAY USE PROF. BEDARD'S QUESTIONS FOR YOUR 800+ WORDS; YOU MAY USE 1, 2, OR ALL 3: (1) Does the individual life still matter? (2) Will I conform or not conform to the dictates of my society? (3) If I choose to conform, what price am I willing to pay to preserve my sense of individuality?

Cuckoo's Nest Test Friday, November 14

2008-10-27T07:21:00.004-05:00

Post your test prompt here. Remember, it can be a true/false statement or a multiple choice statement/question. Put your class period and test item number in front of your information. Also, include the correct answer/response, if you want your classmates to know. I'll explain all directions clearly in class. You'll earn five points for this exercise; you'll also do well on the test if you study here, of course.

Cuckoo's Nest Link & Reason for Popularity Due Tuesday, November 4

2008-10-24T12:32:00.005-05:00

Find an interesting site--one that enlightens your understanding/thinking of Cuckoo's Nest--and post its address here. You could search using the book's title, a character's name, an aspect of the movie, anything related. Your site link may not be the same as another student's. In 100+ words, explain why the site you found is enlightening. Plus, in 100+ words, speculate about this book's popularity. Why is this book so colossal in American literary and actual history? What makes it better than others? Do you like it? This exercise is due on Tuesday, November 4, at 10:00 p.m. and is worth 20 points. (I took this image from www.thedock.ie)

Homework Blog Comment: Image Excerpt

2008-10-10T13:06:00.001-05:00

Type a 50+ word excerpt from One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest that helps your mind visualize something poignant. Your 50+ word excerpt may not be the same as another student's. Then, write 80+ words explaining your choice. Imagery is a literary device Ken Kesey employs masterfully. See my example, which is the first comment on this post; yours should look a lot like mine. And remember to type your period number before your comment. This exercise is due on Monday, October 13, at 10:00 p.m. and is worth 20 points.

To See More Vocabulary Quiz Definitions

2008-10-09T09:03:00.005-05:00

Do you get the connections we made to the films The Terminator, The Matrix, I, Robot, and others involving the Man vs. Machine theme? Have you seen other movies or read other material that includes this Man vs. Machine theme? Do you like these books and/or films? Are they interesting? We need and fear technology at the same time! Type your class period number in front of your comment, which will help you see more vocabulary quiz definitions now and in the future. (This is not the homework blog post, which is below. This comment is voluntary and made with the hope of seeing more definitions.)

In-Class Blogging Monday, October 13

2008-10-07T14:39:00.007-05:00

Today, during class, you have three options. You must do two of the three options today. You must type 40 minutes worth. Here are your options: (1) You are Nurse Ratched. Type using first person. Become her. What are your thoughts of McMurphy? What is your home like? What is your life like outside the mental institution? (2) Have you been programmed to think, believe, hate, love something? Who programmed you? How have you been programmed? (3) Who are the enforcers of conformity in our school? At social events? At games? At work? Is it possible to be a nonconformist? Do you conform, entirely or slightly? Intentionally? Remember to type your class period number in front of your comment.

You Ever "Grown" or "Shrunk" Instantly?

2008-09-26T13:53:00.008-05:00

Write 300+ words about a time when you "grew" or "shrunk" instantly, figuratively speaking, of course. This exercise is due Saturday, October 4, at 10:00 p.m. and is worth 20 points. Remember to type your class period number in front of your 300+ words.

This is a picture of Will Sampson as Chief Bromden.

Cuckoo's Nest: Three Questions

2008-09-24T12:49:00.007-05:00

Once you've read some pages (p. 41 is due Wednesday, Oct. 1), type three questions you have here. These questions will shape our discussions and help us excavate more. The more analytical your questions, the better. None of your questions may be the same as any other student's. This exercise is worth 10 points and is due at 10:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 1. Remember to type your class period in front of your three questions.

(This picture is the Ken Kesey, the author, with his bus called "Further." He was Head of the hippies in the '60s; the Merry Pranksters and others joined him on psychedelic journeys.)

One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest Anticipation Guide

2008-09-23T15:05:00.001-05:00

Cuckoos Nest Anticipation Guide - Upload a Document to Scribd

Some Context

2008-09-23T13:03:00.001-05:00

Cuckoo’s Nest Introduction - Upload a Document to Scribd

One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest Prediction

2008-09-23T12:14:00.006-05:00

Any guesses as to the plot, characters, setting, theme, tone of or about the novel/movie One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest? We start this book on Friday. And remember: type your period number in front of your comment.

"My Fair Lady": Stimulating or Stale?

2008-09-18T12:55:00.007-05:00

Are you finding the lyrics stimulating? Yes or no? (You must fill the margins with your thinking. Don't forget to mention and highlight 5 movies, 2 books, 2 historical events, and 2 pieces of important art within your response to these lyrics. This exercise is designed to get you to interact in an academic fashion with a major work from the canon [canon = the "best" of a genre; in this case the genre is drama]. It is due Friday, September 26, and is worth 200 points.)

Remember to type your class period number before your comment.

Function of Fiction: Pygmalion

2008-09-17T12:43:00.000-05:00

Choose a function of fiction or of the artist, from your notes, and argue yes/no that Pygmalion accomplishes your chosen function. You'll need to have read a few pages or scenes to accomplish this. Remember to type your class period number in front of your comment.

The Working Poor

2008-09-15T13:44:00.003-05:00

What are the core problems for Willie and Sarah Goodell (from the yellow handout)? Who should be in charge of making their situation better? At which point does the government need to step in? Do you want to borrow this revealing book to read about the rest of the cases?

Remember to type your class period number in front of your comment.

Show your parent(s) this handout. What do they think of Willie and Sarah Goodell's situation?

Jane Gullickson, Esteemed Alum

2008-09-12T10:10:00.005-05:00

Isn't Jane Gullickson great? My hope is that she infects us with her enthusiasm, abilities, and concern for others. Our loosely-planned agenda: 1) examining college life--at USD or any institution; 2) taking Spring Break to East St. Louis; and 3) working in government at Pierre.

Do these children have chances to be like Jane? What are the answers to making sure everyone in America truly has all the opportunities they deserve? And did you see the Challenger newspaper article about Jane (this week)?

Literary Terms & Devices: What Professors will Expect You to Know

2008-09-10T13:09:00.001-05:00

Literary Terms

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Why literature at all?

2008-09-10T08:11:00.011-05:00

Have you determined the purpose of literature in schools at all? Have you determined the purpose of literature in life?

(Sometimes it's hard to care about subjects in school. Math, for instance. I've not done any algebra for years, yet I know it was good for me because I worked on skills in sequencing, direction following, focusing, prioritizing, reasoning, problem solving, logic creating, and so on. Math helped me think better, simply put. Does literature? In what ways?)

This is Prof. Brian Bedard of USD (South Dakota Author of the Year); he helped me this summer see more about/in/around literature than I ever had.

The House on Mango Street Life Connection

2008-09-08T10:35:00.000-05:00

Select one vignette that relates closely to a life experience you've had. Explain how your emotions were like Esperanza's.

Favorite Vignette

2008-09-07T17:08:00.003-05:00

Which vignette is your favorite? Why is it stimulating for you? (Even if you do not enjoy Cisneros's book, surely one vignette resonates with you.)

If you comment here, the definitions you seek will appear at my plans page, perhaps in time for you to study them before the quiz.

Sandra Cisneros reading from The House on Mango Street

2008-09-07T12:46:00.001-05:00

What is your response to this reading by Cisneros?

Images in The House on Mango Street

2008-09-02T13:12:00.002-05:00

Thursday, you will have to analyze an image--like Prof. Dyer showed us--in Sandra Cisneros's The House on Mango Street. This in-class writing assignment will be worth 20 points and will help your critical reading skills. What images are you considering using? The bike (work together for increased mobility)? Black storeowner? Mean nun? Lonely women in the windows (people who can't or won't cross thresholds)? Trees growing from concrete? Red clowns? High heels? Linoleum roses? Streetlight (American Dream)?

1984 Real-World Connection

2008-07-15T07:33:00.002-05:00

Winston Smith lives in a world governed a lot differently from ours--or is it different?

Why Blogging?

2008-07-14T13:15:00.000-05:00

Welcome Brandon Valley Teachers! Now that you've created a Google account and read Jeff Felix's assertions, post your comments here. All reactions and questions are more than acceptable. We'll all learn from each other, which is called collaboration, right? (Decidedly a 21st Century skill.)

Common Craft Video on Blogs

2008-06-30T18:22:00.002-05:00

11 Advantages in Teaching

2008-06-20T14:39:00.003-05:00

11 advantages of using a blog for teaching

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11 advantages of using a blog for teaching

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TeacherTube

2008-06-17T10:35:00.002-05:00

12-Word Novels

2008-06-16T10:40:00.003-05:00

Life of Pi Reactions due Monday, May 19, by 10:00 p.m. (200 points)

2008-05-03T10:42:00.008-05:00

1350+ YOUR OWN WORDS. 319+ MARTEL'S WORDS. 25+ ARTISTS' WORDS. 25+ EXPERT'S WORDS.

You must complete 3 written reactions (short essays), each of 450+ words. Additionally, you must include 319+ quoted words from Martel's novel. 450 x 3 = 1350 + 319 = 1669 total words. You must also include the views of one expert (religious, scientific, mathematical, historical, or other kind of expert). Of the 3, 1 topic/question must come from list created by students at our blog; 1 topic/question must come from Tomislav Torjanac's or Andrea Offermann's responses; and 1 topic/question must come from the Life of Pi anticipation guide (the blue sheet I gave you when we began this book).

_____ 1. We can see a lot of ourselves within animals.
_____ 2. Animals can see a lot of themselves in us.
_____ 3. Zoos are great places for animals to be.
_____ 4. The Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha—and the Great Plains Zoo in Sioux Falls—brings a lot of revenue to the city; so, the animals are being exploited for the monetary gain of people.
_____ 5. Inside we are all African.
_____ 6. There is one religion that is accurate.
_____ 7. Wanting to survive comes naturally to any organism.
_____ 8. All Islamic people are bloodthirsty.
_____ 9. Your mom should be there for you every step of the way, until you are 25.
_____ 10. Your dad should be a stern disciplinary force; otherwise, you will not learn valuable lessons.
_____ 11. There should be a “pecking order” among siblings; it is healthy, productive, and proper for the older and bigger to dominate (“survival of the fittest”).
_____ 12. Mankind is the cruelest of all beasts, because when we hurt other people, we realize they are being hurt; when cats play with and eat mice, the cat has no idea that the mouse is in pain. This makes people the least respectable of all species (concept from Mark Twain’s The Damned Human Race).
_____ 13. Good authors can provide endless thinking opportunities; without them, life would be dull.

_____ 14. It is one of the big tragedies in history—that people have caused extinction of species.
_____ 15. Global warming is not a big deal; in fact, it is being exaggerated by the media.
_____ 16. Seeing traumatic events will never leave your psyche.
_____ 17. Art is essential in schools and in life.
_____ 18. In their behavior, animals are as predictable and purposeful as people are.
_____ 19. The Pacific Ocean is a source of wonder, inspiration, danger, and awe.
_____ 20. Murder is all right when executed in self-defense.
_____ 21. Losing your mother is like losing the sun above you.
_____ 22. It is wrong to want to be alone.
_____ 23. Adults need reading groups (monthly book clubs) to keep their minds stimulated.
_____ 24. Your heart and mind have to work together to fully sustain your being.
_____ 25. In our minds, a constant battle is waged between good (superego) and bad (id).
_____ 26. People are irrationally obsessed with animals: our children’s books, our stuffed toys, our mascots, our pets, our television programs and characters...

Art's Relevance in Today's--and Tomorrow's--World

2008-05-01T14:01:00.006-05:00

Is art relevant today? How? Why/why not? Will art remain relevant? Should art be promoted and developed in schools? (By "art," I mean written art, i.e. novels & poetry; visual art, i.e. paintings and sculptures; and performed art, i.e. plays and oral interpretation--and music, of course.)

Are You "Getting" It?

2008-05-01T10:46:00.009-05:00

Are you "getting" this book? I will answer all of your questions to help you. You "get" this book, you'll "get" the literature in ENGL 200 at the University of X.

Zoos and Nature

2008-05-01T07:48:00.010-05:00

What is impressive/intriguing about zoos? What is impressive/intriguing about weather/nature? What is the most impressive or scary moment you've witnessed with an animal? What is the most impressive or scary moment you've witnessed from the weather/nature? And how was the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha? Here's a spectacular excerpt where Pi describes the weather just before the Tsimtsum sinks: "I felt very brave. It was dark still, but there was enough light to see by. Light on pandemonium it was. Nature can put on a thrilling show. The stage is vast, the lighting is dramatic, the extras are innumerable, and the budget for special effects is absolutely unlimited. What I had before me was a spectacle of wind and water, an earthquake of the senses, that even Hollywood couldn't orchestrate. But the earthquake stopped at the ground beneath my feet. The ground beneath my feet was solid. I was a spectator safely ensconced in his seat" (102-103). He was safe for only a little while longer.

Life of Pi Task 1 (20 points, 100+ words due Sunday, April 27, by 10:00 p.m.)

2008-04-16T15:29:00.005-05:00

(1) Type an excerpt of 50+ words from Life of Pi here--an excerpt that uses literary devices you recognize, or an excerpt that simply amuses you. (2) Using 100+ words of your own, explain the effects the literary devices have on you (or any reader) and/or explain why this excerpt is amusing to you.

Literary Theory

2008-04-10T22:04:00.002-05:00

Literary Theory: Crash Course

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Browse these common theories. When considered singularly and collectively, they're useful approaches to great works of literature for interpreting and finding meaning.

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