This week in ELA class, we'll present our book talks and begin with our first unit on Short Stories.
On Monday, Mr. Reynolds will model a book talk, and he'll use one of the best books he read from this past summer: The Book Thief, by Markus Zusak. Then, we'll have a chance to finish our index cards and practice presenting our books with partners within class.
On Tuesday, we'll spend the class presenting our books, and learning how to speak effectively in front of our peers, and also be great listeners.
From Wednesday through Friday, we'll begin our first short story, "Harrison Bergeron" by Kurt Vonnegut. This futuristic story takes place in the year 2081, and we'll have a blast acting it out in front of the class, and then discuss some of its big themes: equality, fighting injustice, and young people stadning up to authority figures. We'll also read a great short story by Roald Dahl entitled, "Lamb to the Slaughter."
Be sure to review your notes on the Plot Chart, and come to class ready with a pen or pencil, your ELA binder, and a willingness to dive right in! I can't wait to see the great writing, discussion, and learning we'll all have this week!
Showing posts with label public speaking. Show all posts
Showing posts with label public speaking. Show all posts
Monday, September 14, 2009
Monday, September 7, 2009
A New Week: The Courage to Speak!
Meeting all of you last week was a tremendous time for me. I have so enjoyed our laughter together, our writing together, and our time of learning about what challenges this year offers us.
Throughout this week, we'll focus on the theme: Things aren't always what they seem. We'll hear some powerful stories about this idea, and also have the chance to write about and share our own.
Also, we'll begin preparing for our book talks based on summer reading. Jerry Seinfeld jokes that in America, the number one fear is public speaking, while the number two fear is death. We'll try to prove him wrong as we become more comfortable speaking in front of one another--and we'll try some uncommon practice routines to help us get ready for our talks.
Be sure to take good notes as we discuss the elements of a good speech, and write your index cards and practice them at home this week.
I believe that each of you will give a stunning talk!
Throughout this week, we'll focus on the theme: Things aren't always what they seem. We'll hear some powerful stories about this idea, and also have the chance to write about and share our own.
Also, we'll begin preparing for our book talks based on summer reading. Jerry Seinfeld jokes that in America, the number one fear is public speaking, while the number two fear is death. We'll try to prove him wrong as we become more comfortable speaking in front of one another--and we'll try some uncommon practice routines to help us get ready for our talks.
Be sure to take good notes as we discuss the elements of a good speech, and write your index cards and practice them at home this week.
I believe that each of you will give a stunning talk!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
