Tues. June 16, 2015. Test Prep: Excerpts

Today, we went over the second reading prototype for the final exam. You were given the readings and the questions to answer and expected to use active reading skills and process of elimination skills. I have posted the "Draft" answers from the prototype on the board for you to examine. The answers for the reading you got today will be posted tomorrow.

Mon. June 15, 2015: Multi-source essay prep

Today, students were given time to plan for their multi-source essay. This is the one that they WILL NOT be able to have a cheat sheet for.

Fri. June 12, 2015: Cheat Sheet Creation Day

Today, we discussed the cheat sheet you get to create for the multi-source essay (see earlier blogs). I then gave you class time to prepare for this. Remember: the earlier you get it in the better.

Thurs. June 11, 2015: Test Prep

Today, we examined the "draft" reading the students completed earlier in the term. I also informed the class that they will get a cheat sheet in which they can put down point form information for the essay question they have already received and that they want to write on. The cheat sheet CANNOT address any information that can be used anywhere else on the test (e.g: no mention of information from a source for the essay that they have not received a solid question on or information about literary devices, conventions, essay structure). This cheat sheet can have no more than 75 words on it.
Keep in mind that you are writing on a multi-source essay question.
I must have the cheat sheet no later than the end of the school day on June 22. If it is not done as requested, it will be returned (if it is not done as requested and the test is the next day, you will not receive it - get these in early in case they need revision).
In discussion about the "Draft" questions, we discussed transition words (how to choose wisely) and finding the main point in a paragraph/essay.

Wed. June 10, 2015: Catch-up

Today was the make-up day for students who could not get their work in as a result of the power outage. We will start with the review for the final tomorrow.

Tues. June 9, 2015: Update on Deadline: READ

The power interrupted computer usage today, so I have extended the deadline for all remaining assignments (including the independent novel study) until tomorrow at the end of lunch. You will get class time tomorrow to get these things completed. I cannot argue with an act of God (weather disruption).

Thurs. June 4 to Tues. June 9, 2015: Writing Class

During this time, students will have access to computers in order to complete all assignments. The deadline for all assignments, including the independent novel study and short story critiques, is at the end of the day on Tuesday, June 9. There will be no extensions. Many of you have completed your work early. If this is the case, get the work handed in.

Tues. June 2, 2015: Computer work time

Today, you had access to the computers to work on assignments. The deadline is Tuesday, June 8 at the end of the day. I will not accept anything later. In other words, it's best to get things in early.

Mon. June 1, 2015: Test Prep and Important Due Date Change

Today, due to the power outage, the computers were down for one of these B30 classes.  I initially planned to give you computer time to work on your independent novel study assignment and short story critiques, but, of course, I had to change my plans. Instead, you worked on a draft piece and questions form the first part of the exam (a prototype) so you could assess your knowledge of conventions and reading/answering time.
Your deadline for all assignments has therefore been moved from the end of the day on Monday, June 8, to the end of the day on Tuesday, June 9.

I also gave you a comma usage exercise to read and do and information on possible questions for your single-source major essay. I highlighted the possible questions/topics in pink. If you were not here, these are in your portfolio.