This is where I feel the campus closure. In an ordinary year, this would be my favorite weekend. I'd be curating everyone's Masterpiece Academy presentations, reading final essays, and heading into a week of feasting, reflection, and celebration with you all.
Instead, I'm back on the course blog, wondering where/how you are.
Thanks to those of you who have contributed pieces for "Surviving With Class." I'm beginning to stitch those together into one document that we can edit and share on Monday.
Thanks to those of you who have posted your final reflection, and/or gotten in touch with me about final grades.
I'm writing today because there are things happening in the world that directly affect our lives. As a teacher, a father, and a caring human being, I cannot turn a blind eye to the fact that racism, violence, and economic inequality continue to plague our country and our community. We need to discuss this. Please comment to this post with any ideas you want to share, or questions you'd like to ask, and I will make space in Monday's 1:00 meeting for this.
Please plan on attending either Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday at 1:00.
And understand: racism and inequality isn't something that happens to other people. There is no "them" -- even racists are different versions of us. As painful as they are, this is also about more than the deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Aubery, and Breonna Taylor, and so many other people of color who have suffered at the hands of those sworn to protect and serve. The pandemic is not evenly distributed. People of color, and especially poor people of color, are suffering disproportionately. If we are ever going to get anywhere with regard to healing and improving this country's tradition of racism, we must speak to it and act on our convictions. NOW.
Having said all that, I hope you and your families are well and enjoying a peaceful weekend. See you Monday.
Saturday, May 30, 2020
may 29 w online meeting #47
For your MOM: [If you haven't been doing a minute of mindfulness each
day -- if you've been telling yourself you're too busy, you're too
stressed, it doesn't matter, whatever-- stop cheating yourself. Give yourself the gift of a minute. Better yet, give yourself 5-10.]
JOURNAL TOPIC: Today it's foggy and overcast where I live. But here on the central coast we have microclimates, so the weather might be different a few miles away. The same is true with how people are treating the coronavirus. In some communities, people are being really careful and maintaining social distance and cleaning protocols, and in other communities people are getting together without masks. What's the weather -- and the attitude -- like where you live?
- OR -
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
Today on Zoom we talked about the idea (which originated as a quote in Shakespeare's Hamlet) that, "Brevity is the soul of wit." What does this mean? How do you see the relationship between the power of language and how much language we use to express ourselves? (title: BREVITY IS THE SOUL OF WIT)
JOURNAL TOPIC: Today it's foggy and overcast where I live. But here on the central coast we have microclimates, so the weather might be different a few miles away. The same is true with how people are treating the coronavirus. In some communities, people are being really careful and maintaining social distance and cleaning protocols, and in other communities people are getting together without masks. What's the weather -- and the attitude -- like where you live?
- OR -
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
Today on Zoom we talked about the idea (which originated as a quote in Shakespeare's Hamlet) that, "Brevity is the soul of wit." What does this mean? How do you see the relationship between the power of language and how much language we use to express ourselves? (title: BREVITY IS THE SOUL OF WIT)
Friday, May 29, 2020
final spring semester grades
Hi. I know there has been a lot of confusion about grades, and I have received emails from some of you, so just to clarify:
- Credit/No Credit is the default grade everyone will be receiving, unless they specifically request letter grades
- UNLESS they have a grade of A or A-, in which case I took the liberty of entering the letter grade
- So
- If you have a B, and you want that on your transcript, please contact me (via comment to this post or email) and let me know.
- Also please contact me if you have any questions or need clarification.
Thursday, May 28, 2020
may 28 w online meeting #46
For your MOM: [If you haven't been doing a minute of mindfulness each
day -- if you've been telling yourself you're too busy, you're too
stressed, it doesn't matter, whatever-- stop cheating yourself. Give yourself the gift of a minute. Better yet, give yourself 5-10.]
JOURNAL TOPIC: In a normal year, everyone would be gearing up for finals week and eyeing the exits for summer. How do you feel about the end of school this year? Are you looking forward to having a break for summer vacation?
- OR -
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
Today on Zoom we read and discussed two poems by Emily Dickinson: "Hope is the thing with feathers" and "Because I could not stop for death." The poems deal with vastly different subjects, but they also have some things in common: 1) they reify abstract ideas through the use of metaphor, b) they use figurative language to paint pictures in the mind of the reader, and c) they use specific meters to create a sense of rhyme and rhythm. Perhaps most importantly, they both deal with topics that exist in all our lives. Over this time period, hope seems especially important. Please read both and post your thoughts (title: THE POEMS OF EMILY DICKINSON)
JOURNAL TOPIC: In a normal year, everyone would be gearing up for finals week and eyeing the exits for summer. How do you feel about the end of school this year? Are you looking forward to having a break for summer vacation?
- OR -
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
Today on Zoom we read and discussed two poems by Emily Dickinson: "Hope is the thing with feathers" and "Because I could not stop for death." The poems deal with vastly different subjects, but they also have some things in common: 1) they reify abstract ideas through the use of metaphor, b) they use figurative language to paint pictures in the mind of the reader, and c) they use specific meters to create a sense of rhyme and rhythm. Perhaps most importantly, they both deal with topics that exist in all our lives. Over this time period, hope seems especially important. Please read both and post your thoughts (title: THE POEMS OF EMILY DICKINSON)
final reflection
As everyone is considering Credit/No Credit versus Grades this week, I'm mindful that we are ending this most unusual semester without the benefit of sharing a feast, celebrating, and adjourning our learning journey together.
Since we won't have the opportunity to talk in person, I am asking that each of you publish one last post on your blog, in which you reflect on what you've learned this year. REMINDER: your learning includes what we studied together, but it also includes what you have experienced throughout the year, including these last few months.
Here is a suggested title and an outline for you to follow. As always, you are free to build on this and include anything else you think is important. I look forward to reading your thoughts. I will enter final grades on Aeries Friday afternoon and Saturday morning.
(title: FINAL REFLECTION FOR AMERICAN LITERATURE 2019-2020)
"This year was unlike any other..."
1. From the beginning, what made our course different than any other course you have ever taken?
2. As you look back on our experience together, what did you find most meaningful?
3. As you consider the work you've done, what are you most proud of?
4. Is there anything you wish you would have done differently, or better?
5. As you look forward, what did you learn in this course that will help you for the future?
6. Are you choosing the Credit/No Credit option, or a grade? If you're choosing a grade, what grade do you believe you've earned? Why?
Since we won't have the opportunity to talk in person, I am asking that each of you publish one last post on your blog, in which you reflect on what you've learned this year. REMINDER: your learning includes what we studied together, but it also includes what you have experienced throughout the year, including these last few months.
Here is a suggested title and an outline for you to follow. As always, you are free to build on this and include anything else you think is important. I look forward to reading your thoughts. I will enter final grades on Aeries Friday afternoon and Saturday morning.
(title: FINAL REFLECTION FOR AMERICAN LITERATURE 2019-2020)
"This year was unlike any other..."
1. From the beginning, what made our course different than any other course you have ever taken?
2. As you look back on our experience together, what did you find most meaningful?
3. As you consider the work you've done, what are you most proud of?
4. Is there anything you wish you would have done differently, or better?
5. As you look forward, what did you learn in this course that will help you for the future?
6. Are you choosing the Credit/No Credit option, or a grade? If you're choosing a grade, what grade do you believe you've earned? Why?
Wednesday, May 27, 2020
may 27 w online meeting #45
For your MOM: [If you haven't been doing a minute of mindfulness each
day -- if you've been telling yourself you're too busy, you're too
stressed, it doesn't matter, whatever-- stop cheating yourself. Give yourself the gift of a minute. Better yet, give yourself 5-10.]
JOURNAL TOPIC: If you could travel anywhere in the world this week, where would you go?
- OR -
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
Today on Zoom we read "The Monkey's Paw" (click the title to read if you missed it, or watch the recording below). The theme we discussed is that we should be careful what we wish for, because we might GET it. This might seem illogical - shouldn't we wish for the things we want, and hope that we get them? Isn't that the whole point of wishing? The thing is, sometimes the things we wish for come to us in ways we would never wish for (this is where you should read the story for a powerful example). So, today's post is this: either in a nonfiction essay/reflection, OR in a fiction story, describe what happens when an SMHS student goes to sleep on March 13 wishing for no more school this year. And gets her wish, in the form of a pandemic.
JOURNAL TOPIC: If you could travel anywhere in the world this week, where would you go?
- OR -
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
Today on Zoom we read "The Monkey's Paw" (click the title to read if you missed it, or watch the recording below). The theme we discussed is that we should be careful what we wish for, because we might GET it. This might seem illogical - shouldn't we wish for the things we want, and hope that we get them? Isn't that the whole point of wishing? The thing is, sometimes the things we wish for come to us in ways we would never wish for (this is where you should read the story for a powerful example). So, today's post is this: either in a nonfiction essay/reflection, OR in a fiction story, describe what happens when an SMHS student goes to sleep on March 13 wishing for no more school this year. And gets her wish, in the form of a pandemic.
Tuesday, May 26, 2020
may 26 w online meeting #44
For your MOM: [If you haven't been doing a minute of mindfulness each day -- if you've been telling yourself you're too busy, you're too stressed, it doesn't matter, whatever-- stop cheating yourself. Give yourself the gift of a minute. Better yet, give yourself 5-10.]
JOURNAL TOPIC: What do you make of all the craziness out there?
- OR -
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
Today on Zoom we decided to take it easy today. Most of you have writing to do, whether that's your journal, your blog, "Surviving With Class," your Big Question, or your final reflection blog post. Our "meeting" lasted just a few minutes, and you don't have a new post today. Hope to see you and/or hear from you -- we're meeting again at 1:00 tomorrow.
JOURNAL TOPIC: What do you make of all the craziness out there?
- OR -
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
Today on Zoom we decided to take it easy today. Most of you have writing to do, whether that's your journal, your blog, "Surviving With Class," your Big Question, or your final reflection blog post. Our "meeting" lasted just a few minutes, and you don't have a new post today. Hope to see you and/or hear from you -- we're meeting again at 1:00 tomorrow.
final grades
Have you posted anything on your blog since March 13?
Have you written anything for "Surviving With Class"?
Have you written a final reflection about what you learned from this course, this year, this pandemic?
Have you let me know whether you want Credit/No Credit or a letter grade?
Asking for a friend who is entering grades this week.
Have you written anything for "Surviving With Class"?
Have you written a final reflection about what you learned from this course, this year, this pandemic?
Have you let me know whether you want Credit/No Credit or a letter grade?
Asking for a friend who is entering grades this week.
Friday, May 22, 2020
may 22 w online meeting #43
For our MOM: [Close your eyes. Feel your feet on the floor. Remember that the past is past, the future hasn't happened yet, and the only thing that matters right now is this moment. Give yourself the gift of the full 60 seconds.]
JOURNAL TOPIC:
Describe the ultimate sandwich. Type of bread? Ingredients? Condiments? Make us drool.
(Full disclosure: if I'm buying the ultimate sandwich, I'm heading for a French Dip at Phillippe's in LA, or a Godmother at Bay Cities in Santa Monica, or a pastrami at The Refuge in San Carlos, or a Reuben at Brent's Deli in Northridge, or a gator po' boy at the New Orleans Jazz Festival; if I'm making my own, it's the one my kids call the "World's Greatest" -- King's Hawaiian rolls smeared with pesto, then salami, turkey, & provolone. I've never published that before. You're welcome.)
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
Today on Zoom we decided to celebrate together for the rest of the semester. This will take the form of bringing short stories and poems to our meetings, so that we can trade ideas and authors and learn from each other. In today's post, make a list of the top three poems, short stories, books, and/or plays you've ever read. (title: MY TOP THREE)
JOURNAL TOPIC:
Describe the ultimate sandwich. Type of bread? Ingredients? Condiments? Make us drool.
(Full disclosure: if I'm buying the ultimate sandwich, I'm heading for a French Dip at Phillippe's in LA, or a Godmother at Bay Cities in Santa Monica, or a pastrami at The Refuge in San Carlos, or a Reuben at Brent's Deli in Northridge, or a gator po' boy at the New Orleans Jazz Festival; if I'm making my own, it's the one my kids call the "World's Greatest" -- King's Hawaiian rolls smeared with pesto, then salami, turkey, & provolone. I've never published that before. You're welcome.)
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
Today on Zoom we decided to celebrate together for the rest of the semester. This will take the form of bringing short stories and poems to our meetings, so that we can trade ideas and authors and learn from each other. In today's post, make a list of the top three poems, short stories, books, and/or plays you've ever read. (title: MY TOP THREE)
may 21 w online meeting #42
For our MOM: [Pick a spot on the wall. Try to bore a hole through it with your eyes. Breathe.]
JOURNAL TOPIC: If school opened tomorrow, would you and your family trust it to be safe? Why/why not?
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST: Compare the dialogue in the section we read today, between Lieutenant Scheisskopf, Major Metcalf, and Clevinger, with the dialogue between Abbott & Costello in their comedy routine "Who's On First" (video at bottom). Why does Joseph Heller create this style of ridiculous dialogue? Usually people talk to each other because they want to understand and be understood. Metcalf and Scheisskopf say things that make no sense and contradict each other -- and occasionally even themselves! (title: WHAT ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT?)
JOURNAL TOPIC: If school opened tomorrow, would you and your family trust it to be safe? Why/why not?
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST: Compare the dialogue in the section we read today, between Lieutenant Scheisskopf, Major Metcalf, and Clevinger, with the dialogue between Abbott & Costello in their comedy routine "Who's On First" (video at bottom). Why does Joseph Heller create this style of ridiculous dialogue? Usually people talk to each other because they want to understand and be understood. Metcalf and Scheisskopf say things that make no sense and contradict each other -- and occasionally even themselves! (title: WHAT ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT?)
Thursday, May 21, 2020
may 20 w online meeting #41
For our MOM: [Pick a spot on the wall. Try to bore a hole through it with your eyes. Breathe.]
JOURNAL TOPIC: If school opened tomorrow, would you and your family trust it to be safe? Why/why not?
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
In yesterday's reading we discussed Lieutenant Scheisskopf, whose name is German, and means, um, er... why did author Joseph Heller have so much fun with names in this book? What is his tone toward the characters, and what was he trying to tell readers? (title: WHAT'S IN A NAME)
A SPECIAL NOTE TO STUDENTS WHO TOOK THE AP EXAM YESTERDAY:
Hi y'all, CONGRATULATIONS on completing the 2020 AP exam! I hope you felt confident and successful. Thanks to those of you who joined the today's zoom call and shared your experiences. Take the rest of the day off. Tomorrow (Thursday) we will discuss "Surviving With Class," final projects, grades, and course evaluations. If there's time after that we will continue with Catch-22. Needless to say, this has become a very, er, interesting year, and I'm proud of you for persevering.
JOURNAL TOPIC: If school opened tomorrow, would you and your family trust it to be safe? Why/why not?
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
In yesterday's reading we discussed Lieutenant Scheisskopf, whose name is German, and means, um, er... why did author Joseph Heller have so much fun with names in this book? What is his tone toward the characters, and what was he trying to tell readers? (title: WHAT'S IN A NAME)
A SPECIAL NOTE TO STUDENTS WHO TOOK THE AP EXAM YESTERDAY:
Hi y'all, CONGRATULATIONS on completing the 2020 AP exam! I hope you felt confident and successful. Thanks to those of you who joined the today's zoom call and shared your experiences. Take the rest of the day off. Tomorrow (Thursday) we will discuss "Surviving With Class," final projects, grades, and course evaluations. If there's time after that we will continue with Catch-22. Needless to say, this has become a very, er, interesting year, and I'm proud of you for persevering.
Monday, May 18, 2020
may 18 w online meeting #40
For our MOM: [Pick a spot on the wall. Try to bore a hole through it with your eyes. Breathe.]
JOURNAL TOPIC: If school opened tomorrow, would you and your family trust it to be safe? Why/why not?
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
In today's reading, Yossarian toyed with Milo about his "syndrome." Why does Yossarian like his syndrome and want to keep it? (title: TOO SICK - OR WELL - TO DIE)
JOURNAL TOPIC: If school opened tomorrow, would you and your family trust it to be safe? Why/why not?
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
In today's reading, Yossarian toyed with Milo about his "syndrome." Why does Yossarian like his syndrome and want to keep it? (title: TOO SICK - OR WELL - TO DIE)
SO EXCITED!!!
Special Edition of Family Story Time today, featuring at least one very special guest star from...
my family!
Join us at 3:00 P.M. All family members ages 0-199 welcome. Here is the invite:
David Preston is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Family Story Time
Time: May 18, 2020 03:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86473787220?pwd=OGJvQVZYcWN2Z2ptY1Z3MjBzempBUT09
Meeting ID: 864 7378 7220
Password: 604061
One tap mobile
+16699006833,,86473787220#,,1#,604061# US (San Jose)
+12532158782,,86473787220#,,1#,604061# US (Tacoma)
Dial by your location
+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown)
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
Meeting ID: 864 7378 7220
Password: 604061
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kg2058gGs
my family!
Join us at 3:00 P.M. All family members ages 0-199 welcome. Here is the invite:
David Preston is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Family Story Time
Time: May 18, 2020 03:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86473787220?pwd=OGJvQVZYcWN2Z2ptY1Z3MjBzempBUT09
Meeting ID: 864 7378 7220
Password: 604061
One tap mobile
+16699006833,,86473787220#,,1#,604061# US (San Jose)
+12532158782,,86473787220#,,1#,604061# US (Tacoma)
Dial by your location
+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown)
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
Meeting ID: 864 7378 7220
Password: 604061
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kg2058gGs
Saturday, May 16, 2020
caption contest
Write your caption for this photograph in a comment to this post. The best one will receive an A.
For life.
new pages for final projects & catch-22
Please check out the newest pages on the course blog, and comment or email if you have any questions:
CATCH-22
FINAL PROJECTS
CATCH-22
FINAL PROJECTS
may 15 w online meeting #39
For our MOM: [Feet on the floor. fingers on knees. Close your eyes. Let
your thoughts float away like leaves on the surface of a stream, until
all that's left is this moment. Breathe.]
JOURNAL TOPIC: If the government gave every employer enough money to get through the pandemic without firing anyone -- so that everyone had job security and their regular paycheck -- how would life be different for you right now?
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
In today's reading we met Hungry Joe, the first character who is (at least sort of) like the traditional soldier in books and movies. He is described as a hero who has flown more missions than anyone -- but when he doesn't get sent home, he stops celebrating. First he loses his temper and then, if his nightly nightmares are any indication, he loses his mind. On p. 39, we read: "And suddenly it all made sense. Why not every night, indeed? It made sense to cry out in pain every night."
What does this passage mean? What made sense? (title: HUNGRY JOE MAKES SENSE)
JOURNAL TOPIC: If the government gave every employer enough money to get through the pandemic without firing anyone -- so that everyone had job security and their regular paycheck -- how would life be different for you right now?
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
In today's reading we met Hungry Joe, the first character who is (at least sort of) like the traditional soldier in books and movies. He is described as a hero who has flown more missions than anyone -- but when he doesn't get sent home, he stops celebrating. First he loses his temper and then, if his nightly nightmares are any indication, he loses his mind. On p. 39, we read: "And suddenly it all made sense. Why not every night, indeed? It made sense to cry out in pain every night."
What does this passage mean? What made sense? (title: HUNGRY JOE MAKES SENSE)
Friday, May 15, 2020
reminder: family story time today at 3:00
Hi,
If you have a younger sibling (or your abuela really loves Dr. Seuss!), please plan on joining us today at 3:00 for this week's installment of family story time.
Here is the zoom invitation:
David Preston is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Family Story Time
Time: May 15, 2020 03:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83142643329?pwd=Z3FGZ3ZJY0JBRHlFV2NBMEpNc0lPUT09
Meeting ID: 831 4264 3329
Password: 858446
One tap mobile
+16699006833,,83142643329#,,1#,858446# US (San Jose)
+13462487799,,83142643329#,,1#,858446# US (Houston)
Dial by your location
+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown)
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
Meeting ID: 831 4264 3329
Password: 858446
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kevaGiJz2P
If you have a younger sibling (or your abuela really loves Dr. Seuss!), please plan on joining us today at 3:00 for this week's installment of family story time.
Here is the zoom invitation:
David Preston is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Family Story Time
Time: May 15, 2020 03:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83142643329?pwd=Z3FGZ3ZJY0JBRHlFV2NBMEpNc0lPUT09
Meeting ID: 831 4264 3329
Password: 858446
One tap mobile
+16699006833,,83142643329#,,1#,858446# US (San Jose)
+13462487799,,83142643329#,,1#,858446# US (Houston)
Dial by your location
+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown)
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
Meeting ID: 831 4264 3329
Password: 858446
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kevaGiJz2P
Thursday, May 14, 2020
may 14 w online meeting #38
For our MOM: [Feet on the floor. fingers on knees. Close your eyes. Let
your thoughts float away like leaves on the surface of a stream, until
all that's left is this moment. Breathe.]
JOURNAL TOPIC: Who do you trust? Why? Who don't you trust? Why not?
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
In today's reading we saw Doc Daneeka complain about trust -- when he was lying -- and we learned exactly what the Catch-22 is. In your own words, explain the Catch-22. (title: CATCH-22)
JOURNAL TOPIC: Who do you trust? Why? Who don't you trust? Why not?
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
In today's reading we saw Doc Daneeka complain about trust -- when he was lying -- and we learned exactly what the Catch-22 is. In your own words, explain the Catch-22. (title: CATCH-22)
Wednesday, May 13, 2020
may 13 w online meeting #37
For our MOM: [Feet on the floor. fingers on knees. Close your eyes. Let your thoughts float away like leaves on the surface of a stream, until all that's left is this moment. Breathe.]
JOURNAL TOPIC: Describe something you've done that made time go by so sloooowwwwlllyyy that you thought it would never end. What do you think caused this impression? (And, if you've been joining us or following the reading, do you agree with Dunbar on the subject?)
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
The narrator in T.S. Eliot's "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock" seems like he's stuck. Eliot uses imagery to convey the idea that time, and love, and a personal sense of fulfillment is passing the narrator by. Choose a simile or a metaphor from the poem. Explain how it contributes to the tone or theme of the poem. (title: I SAW THE ETERNAL FOOTMAN)
JOURNAL TOPIC: Describe something you've done that made time go by so sloooowwwwlllyyy that you thought it would never end. What do you think caused this impression? (And, if you've been joining us or following the reading, do you agree with Dunbar on the subject?)
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
The narrator in T.S. Eliot's "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock" seems like he's stuck. Eliot uses imagery to convey the idea that time, and love, and a personal sense of fulfillment is passing the narrator by. Choose a simile or a metaphor from the poem. Explain how it contributes to the tone or theme of the poem. (title: I SAW THE ETERNAL FOOTMAN)
the love song of j. alfred prufrock
Yesterday we read about T.S. Eliot in Catch-22. Here is one of Eliot's most famous works:
The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock
By T. S. Eliot
The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock
By T. S. Eliot
S’io credesse che mia risposta fosse
A persona che mai tornasse al mondo,
Questa fiamma staria senza piu scosse.
Ma percioche giammai di questo fondo
Non torno vivo alcun, s’i’odo il vero,
Senza tema d’infamia ti rispondo.
A persona che mai tornasse al mondo,
Questa fiamma staria senza piu scosse.
Ma percioche giammai di questo fondo
Non torno vivo alcun, s’i’odo il vero,
Senza tema d’infamia ti rispondo.
Let us go then, you and I,
When the evening is spread out against the sky
Like a patient etherized upon a table;
Let us go, through certain half-deserted streets,
The muttering retreats
Of restless nights in one-night cheap hotels
And sawdust restaurants with oyster-shells:
Streets that follow like a tedious argument
Of insidious intent
To lead you to an overwhelming question ...
Oh, do not ask, “What is it?”
Let us go and make our visit.
In the room the women come and go
Talking of Michelangelo.
The yellow fog that rubs its back upon the window-panes,
The yellow smoke that rubs its muzzle on the window-panes,
Licked its tongue into the corners of the evening,
Lingered upon the pools that stand in drains,
Let fall upon its back the soot that falls from chimneys,
Slipped by the terrace, made a sudden leap,
And seeing that it was a soft October night,
Curled once about the house, and fell asleep.
And indeed there will be time
For the yellow smoke that slides along the street,
Rubbing its back upon the window-panes;
There will be time, there will be time
To prepare a face to meet the faces that you meet;
There will be time to murder and create,
And time for all the works and days of hands
That lift and drop a question on your plate;
Time for you and time for me,
And time yet for a hundred indecisions,
And for a hundred visions and revisions,
Before the taking of a toast and tea.
In the room the women come and go
Talking of Michelangelo.
And indeed there will be time
To wonder, “Do I dare?” and, “Do I dare?”
Time to turn back and descend the stair,
With a bald spot in the middle of my hair —
(They will say: “How his hair is growing thin!”)
My morning coat, my collar mounting firmly to the chin,
My necktie rich and modest, but asserted by a simple pin —
(They will say: “But how his arms and legs are thin!”)
Do I dare
Disturb the universe?
In a minute there is time
For decisions and revisions which a minute will reverse.
For I have known them all already, known them all:
Have known the evenings, mornings, afternoons,
I have measured out my life with coffee spoons;
I know the voices dying with a dying fall
Beneath the music from a farther room.
So how should I presume?
And I have known the eyes already, known them all—
The eyes that fix you in a formulated phrase,
And when I am formulated, sprawling on a pin,
When I am pinned and wriggling on the wall,
Then how should I begin
To spit out all the butt-ends of my days and ways?
And how should I presume?
And I have known the arms already, known them all—
Arms that are braceleted and white and bare
(But in the lamplight, downed with light brown hair!)
Is it perfume from a dress
That makes me so digress?
Arms that lie along a table, or wrap about a shawl.
And should I then presume?
And how should I begin?
Shall I say, I have gone at dusk through narrow streets
And watched the smoke that rises from the pipes
Of lonely men in shirt-sleeves, leaning out of windows? ...
I should have been a pair of ragged claws
Scuttling across the floors of silent seas.
And the afternoon, the evening, sleeps so peacefully!
Smoothed by long fingers,
Asleep ... tired ... or it malingers,
Stretched on the floor, here beside you and me.
Should I, after tea and cakes and ices,
Have the strength to force the moment to its crisis?
But though I have wept and fasted, wept and prayed,
Though I have seen my head (grown slightly bald) brought in upon a platter,
I am no prophet — and here’s no great matter;
I have seen the moment of my greatness flicker,
And I have seen the eternal Footman hold my coat, and snicker,
And in short, I was afraid.
And would it have been worth it, after all,
After the cups, the marmalade, the tea,
Among the porcelain, among some talk of you and me,
Would it have been worth while,
To have bitten off the matter with a smile,
To have squeezed the universe into a ball
To roll it towards some overwhelming question,
To say: “I am Lazarus, come from the dead,
Come back to tell you all, I shall tell you all”—
If one, settling a pillow by her head
Should say: “That is not what I meant at all;
That is not it, at all.”
And would it have been worth it, after all,
Would it have been worth while,
After the sunsets and the dooryards and the sprinkled streets,
After the novels, after the teacups, after the skirts that trail along the floor—
And this, and so much more?—
It is impossible to say just what I mean!
But as if a magic lantern threw the nerves in patterns on a screen:
Would it have been worth while
If one, settling a pillow or throwing off a shawl,
And turning toward the window, should say:
“That is not it at all,
That is not what I meant, at all.”
No! I am not Prince Hamlet, nor was meant to be;
Am an attendant lord, one that will do
To swell a progress, start a scene or two,
Advise the prince; no doubt, an easy tool,
Deferential, glad to be of use,
Politic, cautious, and meticulous;
Full of high sentence, but a bit obtuse;
At times, indeed, almost ridiculous—
Almost, at times, the Fool.
I grow old ... I grow old ...
I shall wear the bottoms of my trousers rolled.
Shall I part my hair behind? Do I dare to eat a peach?
I shall wear white flannel trousers, and walk upon the beach.
I have heard the mermaids singing, each to each.
I do not think that they will sing to me.
I have seen them riding seaward on the waves
Combing the white hair of the waves blown back
When the wind blows the water white and black.
We have lingered in the chambers of the sea
By sea-girls wreathed with seaweed red and brown
Till human voices wake us, and we drown.
may 12 w online meeting #36
For our MOM: [Feet on the floor. fingers on knees. This moment. Think, or don't. Breathe.]
JOURNAL TOPIC: [Choose your own.]
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
Today we read about Colonel Korn's "genius policy" -- the only people permitted to ask questions were those who never did." What effect do you imagine this would have? Does it remind you of school? (title: KILLING THE CURIOUS CATS)
JOURNAL TOPIC: [Choose your own.]
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
Today we read about Colonel Korn's "genius policy" -- the only people permitted to ask questions were those who never did." What effect do you imagine this would have? Does it remind you of school? (title: KILLING THE CURIOUS CATS)
Monday, May 11, 2020
may 11 w online meeting #35
For our MOM: [Feet on the floor. fingers on knees. This moment. Think, or don't. Breathe.]
JOURNAL TOPIC: You don't have to look too hard to find bad news these days, so today practice looking at life from a different perspective. What's the best thing about the pandemic?
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
Yossarian says everyone is out to kill him. Why does Clevinger tell Yossarian he's crazy? Do you agree? (title: CRAZY LIKE A FOX)
JOURNAL TOPIC: You don't have to look too hard to find bad news these days, so today practice looking at life from a different perspective. What's the best thing about the pandemic?
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
Yossarian says everyone is out to kill him. Why does Clevinger tell Yossarian he's crazy? Do you agree? (title: CRAZY LIKE A FOX)
new zoom invitation
GAH! My Zoom account recycled, so when I just went online (it's 1:00) to start the meeting, it wasn't there!
Here is the new invitation. I'll be on for a while, please join ASAP.
David Preston is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Dr. Preston's English Courses
Time: May 11, 2020 01:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Every day, until Jun 4, 2020, 25 occurrence(s)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/76079306264?pwd=V1BiTGdGdjNWL2pHZ1ltT0I4eDVkQT09
Meeting ID: 760 7930 6264
Password: 0AD4DG
Here is the new invitation. I'll be on for a while, please join ASAP.
David Preston is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Dr. Preston's English Courses
Time: May 11, 2020 01:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Every day, until Jun 4, 2020, 25 occurrence(s)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/76079306264?pwd=V1BiTGdGdjNWL2pHZ1ltT0I4eDVkQT09
Meeting ID: 760 7930 6264
Password: 0AD4DG
may 8 w online meeting #34
For our MOM: [Feet on the floor. fingers on knees. This moment. Think, or don't. Breathe.]
JOURNAL TOPIC: Describe a time you were afraid to do something -- for all the right reasons. In other words, describe a time that a healthy sense of fear led you to make a good decision.
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
When Heller describes the men in the army hospital, he describes them as dishonorable and deceitful -- why? And how does he manage to get across the idea that they are somehow innocent and decent after all? How does this make any sense? (title: LIFE DURING WARTIME)
JOURNAL TOPIC: Describe a time you were afraid to do something -- for all the right reasons. In other words, describe a time that a healthy sense of fear led you to make a good decision.
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
When Heller describes the men in the army hospital, he describes them as dishonorable and deceitful -- why? And how does he manage to get across the idea that they are somehow innocent and decent after all? How does this make any sense? (title: LIFE DURING WARTIME)
may 7 w online meeting #33
For our MOM: [Feet on the floor. fingers on knees. This moment. Think, or don't. Breathe.]
JOURNAL TOPIC:
Describe a time you laughed during a moment when it was absolutely not appropriate. What got you started? Did realizing what was happening make you stop, or laugh harder?
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
Describe author Joseph Heller's tone toward Yossarian and the other soldiers in Catch-22. How does Heller's tone make the book more relatable, and how does it get the idea of satire across? (title: SOLDIERS OF MIS/FORTUNE)
JOURNAL TOPIC:
Describe a time you laughed during a moment when it was absolutely not appropriate. What got you started? Did realizing what was happening make you stop, or laugh harder?
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Meeting
4. Post
POST:
Describe author Joseph Heller's tone toward Yossarian and the other soldiers in Catch-22. How does Heller's tone make the book more relatable, and how does it get the idea of satire across? (title: SOLDIERS OF MIS/FORTUNE)
Friday, May 8, 2020
final grading
Final grades for this course will be entered on Aeries by 4:00 P.M. PDT on June 4, 2020.
Per my earlier post on this subject, students who are participating at this point -- on the zoom calls and/or by posting work on blogs -- are guaranteed a grade of A or B in this course. Students who are not participating will receive a grade based on the last progress reports from when school was open.
Based on what I have learned from the CSU and UC systems, and what I learned from SMJUHSD in this morning's English Department meeting, here is a summary of how I will account for your final grades on your Spring Semester report card. If you have any questions about your final grade, or if you want to share a preference that is different from what you read here, please email me at dpreston.learning@gmail.com.
NOTE: If you earned a grade of C, D, or F up to the point that campus closed, and you haven't participated since campus closed, and you're not trapped under something heavy, I have no idea what you're thinking -- this is the easiest A or B you could ever ask for, do some work and come and get it!
Per my earlier post on this subject, students who are participating at this point -- on the zoom calls and/or by posting work on blogs -- are guaranteed a grade of A or B in this course. Students who are not participating will receive a grade based on the last progress reports from when school was open.
Based on what I have learned from the CSU and UC systems, and what I learned from SMJUHSD in this morning's English Department meeting, here is a summary of how I will account for your final grades on your Spring Semester report card. If you have any questions about your final grade, or if you want to share a preference that is different from what you read here, please email me at dpreston.learning@gmail.com.
- If you have earned a grade of A or B, either by virtue of your current work or by virtue of your performance up to the point that campus was closed, I will enter that as your final grade when the reporting window opens.
- If you earned a grade of C or D up to the point that campus closed, I will enter "Credit" for your final grade. If you earned a grade of F up to the point that campus closed, I will enter "No Credit" for your final grade.
NOTE: If you earned a grade of C, D, or F up to the point that campus closed, and you haven't participated since campus closed, and you're not trapped under something heavy, I have no idea what you're thinking -- this is the easiest A or B you could ever ask for, do some work and come and get it!
textbook returns
We don't have this challenge as a course, but in case you know anyone
who needs to return textbooks, here are the dates students are being
asked to come to campus on the following dates. Times are listed by last
name: A-L 9 AM - Noon; M - Z 12:30 - 3:30
9th Grade: May 21
10th Grade: May 28
11th Grade: June 2
12th Grade: May 26
9th Grade: May 21
10th Grade: May 28
11th Grade: June 2
12th Grade: May 26
Thursday, May 7, 2020
may 7: preview
Thanks to everyone who voted in the Book Poll!
Today we will start reading Catch-22 by Joseph Heller.
The book was the first of its kind. It became so famous that the phrase "Catch-22" became part of the English language. Before, there wasn't a label for moments like this (taken directly from the book):
United States Army General George Patton once said, "Compared to war, all other forms of human endeavor shrink to insignificance." Whatever people think of war, they don't usually think to make fun of it. However, as we talked about on Tuesday, Catch-22 is a satire set in World War II. Instead of viewing the topic as heroic, savage, or even serious, author Joseph Heller applies logic and the keen observation of an omniscient third-person narrative to point out the absurdity of it all. It still seems strange to use the words "war" and "funny" in connection with one another, but Heller is skillful, and his tone has a purpose. As with all satire, expressing anger through humor has the potential to point out what's wrong in the world and move the reader to support improvement -- I'd like to imagine that, somewhere, someone is writing a satire about this crazy moment in American history.
You can read some background on the book and the author HERE.
You can read the whole thing, thanks to Ms. Ragland (*whose website is a bit of a mystery), HERE.
I will be using a well-worn copy that I inherited from my Dad.
See you online at 1:00!
(P.S. Since there were also some votes for The Secret Life of Bees, The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao, and a write-in for The Secret Garden, I want to remind you that you can read any of those -- or whatever else you like -- and write up a literature analysis on your blog. I'll even meet with you on Zoom at a separate time to discuss!)
Today we will start reading Catch-22 by Joseph Heller.
The book was the first of its kind. It became so famous that the phrase "Catch-22" became part of the English language. Before, there wasn't a label for moments like this (taken directly from the book):
"There was only one catch and that was Catch-22, which specified that a
concern for one's own safety in the face of dangers that were real and
immediate was the process of a rational mind. Orr was crazy and could
be grounded. All he had to do was ask; and as soon as he did, he would
no longer be crazy and would have to fly more missions. Orr would be
crazy to fly more missions and sane if he didn't, but if he was sane he
had to fly them. If he flew them he was crazy and didn't have to; but
if he didn't want to he was sane and had to. Yossarian was moved very
deeply by the absolute simplicity of this clause of Catch-22 and let out
a respectful whistle."
Chapter 5, pg. 55
United States Army General George Patton once said, "Compared to war, all other forms of human endeavor shrink to insignificance." Whatever people think of war, they don't usually think to make fun of it. However, as we talked about on Tuesday, Catch-22 is a satire set in World War II. Instead of viewing the topic as heroic, savage, or even serious, author Joseph Heller applies logic and the keen observation of an omniscient third-person narrative to point out the absurdity of it all. It still seems strange to use the words "war" and "funny" in connection with one another, but Heller is skillful, and his tone has a purpose. As with all satire, expressing anger through humor has the potential to point out what's wrong in the world and move the reader to support improvement -- I'd like to imagine that, somewhere, someone is writing a satire about this crazy moment in American history.
You can read some background on the book and the author HERE.
You can read the whole thing, thanks to Ms. Ragland (*whose website is a bit of a mystery), HERE.
I will be using a well-worn copy that I inherited from my Dad.
See you online at 1:00!
(P.S. Since there were also some votes for The Secret Life of Bees, The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao, and a write-in for The Secret Garden, I want to remind you that you can read any of those -- or whatever else you like -- and write up a literature analysis on your blog. I'll even meet with you on Zoom at a separate time to discuss!)
reminder: family story time at 3 PM today
If you or your family would like to join us, please email me for the link and password.
Wednesday, May 6, 2020
may 6
For our MOM: [Breathe. Keep doing that.]
JOURNAL TOPIC:
What's the biggest opportunity you have in your life? What are you going to do to pursue it?
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. A note from me
A NOTE FROM ME:
Today was the first school weekday (including Spring Break) since campus closed that I did not host a zoom meeting for us online at 1:00. The reason is that I went to school today. I went there because, for reasons I will never understand, I had to complete an individual form for each student "changing" your progress report grade -- actually handwriting your name, your student number, your graduation year, and your course grade, along with my signature and the reason (my internet connection glitched on the day of the Aeries deadline).
I pride myself on doing what needs to be done for my students, so if that's what administrators required to file a grade for you, I was going to do it. I sat at my desk in our classroom and I took nearly two hours to complete a form for every student in every period I teach. Then I scanned the forms in batches and emailed them to the administrators who asked me to do this.
That's not why I'm writing this.
I gave myself enough time, I thought, to get the job done and get back home in time to get online with you. But when I arrived at school, I turned the corner of our building and came face to face with security guards (not ours, private uniforms) and three homeless people. None of them were wearing masks, gloves, or any other protective gear.
I am proud that our campus provides shelter and meals for so many in need. And, once I knew to expect people there, I walked a wider circle and kept a safe social distance.
But that first interaction concerned me. I wasn't prepared for it. I wasn't wearing my own mask because I had no reason to expect people would be just hanging out in that part of campus, much less sitting and standing so close to the parking lot entrance, so close together, without protection.
So, everything took longer than I planned. It took me longer to walk around, and it took me longer to clean up when I got home. It took me a lot longer to compose myself, ask myself what (if anything) I should share with you, and decide on this.
I don't pretend to have a crystal ball or know what is right for each student. So, I am encouraging each of you to start a conversation with your parents/guardians about what you want to see happen in the fall. If seven people on campus pose a risk, what will happen when there are more than three thousand?
That's it for now. I'm going to take a deep breath in the healthy, quarantined comfort of my own home, and I look forward to seeing you all tomorrow at 1:00.
JOURNAL TOPIC:
What's the biggest opportunity you have in your life? What are you going to do to pursue it?
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. A note from me
A NOTE FROM ME:
Today was the first school weekday (including Spring Break) since campus closed that I did not host a zoom meeting for us online at 1:00. The reason is that I went to school today. I went there because, for reasons I will never understand, I had to complete an individual form for each student "changing" your progress report grade -- actually handwriting your name, your student number, your graduation year, and your course grade, along with my signature and the reason (my internet connection glitched on the day of the Aeries deadline).
I pride myself on doing what needs to be done for my students, so if that's what administrators required to file a grade for you, I was going to do it. I sat at my desk in our classroom and I took nearly two hours to complete a form for every student in every period I teach. Then I scanned the forms in batches and emailed them to the administrators who asked me to do this.
That's not why I'm writing this.
I gave myself enough time, I thought, to get the job done and get back home in time to get online with you. But when I arrived at school, I turned the corner of our building and came face to face with security guards (not ours, private uniforms) and three homeless people. None of them were wearing masks, gloves, or any other protective gear.
I am proud that our campus provides shelter and meals for so many in need. And, once I knew to expect people there, I walked a wider circle and kept a safe social distance.
But that first interaction concerned me. I wasn't prepared for it. I wasn't wearing my own mask because I had no reason to expect people would be just hanging out in that part of campus, much less sitting and standing so close to the parking lot entrance, so close together, without protection.
So, everything took longer than I planned. It took me longer to walk around, and it took me longer to clean up when I got home. It took me a lot longer to compose myself, ask myself what (if anything) I should share with you, and decide on this.
I don't pretend to have a crystal ball or know what is right for each student. So, I am encouraging each of you to start a conversation with your parents/guardians about what you want to see happen in the fall. If seven people on campus pose a risk, what will happen when there are more than three thousand?
That's it for now. I'm going to take a deep breath in the healthy, quarantined comfort of my own home, and I look forward to seeing you all tomorrow at 1:00.
Tuesday, May 5, 2020
may 5 w online meeting #32
For our MOM: [Close your eyes. Feel your feet connect with the floor. Feel your fingertips touching your knees, or each other. Breathe. Watch your thinking. That's it. Give it some time. When you're ready, open your eyes.]
JOURNAL TOPIC:
What is the history of Cinco de Mayo? (If you don't know, look it up.) Why do Americans celebrate it? Does the history or the culture matter, or is it just another excuse for companies to sell stuff and people to party?
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Yesterday's zoom'ers suggested that we read one more book this semester (I swear! It wasn't my idea! BUT I LOVED IT!) so I put up a poll with some titles to choose from and an invitation to suggest your own. During the call today we compared notes on what we know about these books, and I realized I forgot a classic: Catch-22. I'm not sure how far we'll get in the time we have remaining, but please have a look and see what you might like. Also, a pro tip: you can find full texts of many books for free at Google Books.
POST:
(Reminder. Please make sure to post your Fahrenheit 451 essay if it's not on your blog yet. Better late than never.)
JOURNAL TOPIC:
What is the history of Cinco de Mayo? (If you don't know, look it up.) Why do Americans celebrate it? Does the history or the culture matter, or is it just another excuse for companies to sell stuff and people to party?
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Yesterday's zoom'ers suggested that we read one more book this semester (I swear! It wasn't my idea! BUT I LOVED IT!) so I put up a poll with some titles to choose from and an invitation to suggest your own. During the call today we compared notes on what we know about these books, and I realized I forgot a classic: Catch-22. I'm not sure how far we'll get in the time we have remaining, but please have a look and see what you might like. Also, a pro tip: you can find full texts of many books for free at Google Books.
POST:
(Reminder. Please make sure to post your Fahrenheit 451 essay if it's not on your blog yet. Better late than never.)
family story time!
I wanted to make sure that everyone had a chance to answer the poll
-- the most popular time seems to be 3:00 P.M., so this Thursday, please
gather all the kids in your house, young and old (parents and
grandparents are invited too!), for our first family story time. We will
feature Dr. Seuss "The Sneetches" -- and if you think it's just for
little kids, well, you haven't read a children's book with me. There
will be something in it for everyone. Even if you're alone, you might
want to tune in -- unless you think that materialism, racism, and a
positive message for all humanity can't possibly be funny... and
ADORABLE! Looking forward to meeting everyone online.
*NOTE: Because this meeting will include little ones, I am more protective about security than you tough, social media-savvy high school types. I sent a private invitation to the people I remembered expressing an interest. If you haven't yet received the email, and you want to join this meeting, please email me at dpreston.learning@gmail.com and I will send you the zoom invitation and the password to get in. Think of it like the super-secret private club for the A-list -- but with me, little kids, and Dr. Seuss. :)
*NOTE: Because this meeting will include little ones, I am more protective about security than you tough, social media-savvy high school types. I sent a private invitation to the people I remembered expressing an interest. If you haven't yet received the email, and you want to join this meeting, please email me at dpreston.learning@gmail.com and I will send you the zoom invitation and the password to get in. Think of it like the super-secret private club for the A-list -- but with me, little kids, and Dr. Seuss. :)
blast from the past: fahrenheit 451 essay ideas
One of the things I've come to appreciate about Open-Source Learning and curating on blogs is that I can go back and see what I've learned and taught in the past. Just now I was looking through past courses for book ideas (based on yesterday's Zoom meeting) and I found a post from a couple years ago about the Fahrenheit 451 essay. I was struck by how similar the in-class process was to our online conversation over the past couple weeks. I miss seeing you all, but it's great to see how your ideas are evolving whether we're on campus or not. In case you're still working on the essay, and want a taste of nostalgia for the whiteboards in our room, I copied the post. Party like it's 2018.
-----------------------------------
Based on our discussions and your contributions today (please see whiteboard notes at bottom), here is the essay prompt. Please make sure that your essay is posted to your blog no later than 11:59 P.M. Pacific Daylight Time on Sunday, May 6. If you have any trouble posting, please type or write the essay and bring the hard copy to class with you on Monday, May 7.
The feedback in class may be described in three categories: elements of the book, elements of Ray Bradbury's writing, and connections between the book and our lives in 2018. Therefore, please feel free to mix and match from the menu of options below. Please observe the minimum requirements as described, and please feel free to include more and/or your own original thinking.
I look forward to reading your work!
CORE PROMPT:
Fahrenheit 451 was published in 1953. What does the book have to offer readers in 2018?
CATEGORY 1: ELEMENTS OF THE BOOK (Include at least one)
CATEGORY 2: ELEMENTS OF THE WRITING (Analyze at least three to support your major points)
-----------------------------------
Based on our discussions and your contributions today (please see whiteboard notes at bottom), here is the essay prompt. Please make sure that your essay is posted to your blog no later than 11:59 P.M. Pacific Daylight Time on Sunday, May 6. If you have any trouble posting, please type or write the essay and bring the hard copy to class with you on Monday, May 7.
The feedback in class may be described in three categories: elements of the book, elements of Ray Bradbury's writing, and connections between the book and our lives in 2018. Therefore, please feel free to mix and match from the menu of options below. Please observe the minimum requirements as described, and please feel free to include more and/or your own original thinking.
I look forward to reading your work!
CORE PROMPT:
Fahrenheit 451 was published in 1953. What does the book have to offer readers in 2018?
CATEGORY 1: ELEMENTS OF THE BOOK (Include at least one)
- Themes
- Self-determination
- The role of technology in society
- How authorities attempt to control people
- Happiness
- Integrity
- Characters
- Montag as dynamic character: how did he change?
- Protagonist/antagonist: Montag v. Beatty
- Clarisse's influence on Montag-- and the plot
- How Mildred helped and hurt Montag
- Bradbury's technological predictions
- Seashells (ear buds)
- Parlor walls (parlor walls)
- Bradbury's social predictions
- Medics as mechanics
- Substitutes for happiness
- High school and college education
CATEGORY 2: ELEMENTS OF THE WRITING (Analyze at least three to support your major points)
- Characterization (direct and indirect)
- Syntax
- Tone/Mood
- Symbolism
- Synecdoche
- Figurative language
Monday, May 4, 2020
may 4 w online meeting #31
for our MOM: [All those times people said, "Thank God it's Friday." Now
it's kind of hard to tell one day from the next. Focus on something to
be thankful for TODAY. Feel free to meditate on this one everyday.]
JOURNAL TOPIC:
This morning my dog woke me up early for a walk, because he knows it's Monday and he thought it was a school day. So I had to explain the whole coronavirus thing to him all over again. How would you explain what's going on? (To a dog, or a small child, or an alien, or someone who just woke up from a coma they'd been in since November...)
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Our meeting (*in today's meeting we talked about the fall, our writing for "Surviving With Class," and books we might like to read before the end of the semester. I'll publish a separate post on these topics later this afternoon.)
POST:
Please make sure to post your Fahrenheit 451 essay if it's not on your blog yet. Better late than never.
JOURNAL TOPIC:
This morning my dog woke me up early for a walk, because he knows it's Monday and he thought it was a school day. So I had to explain the whole coronavirus thing to him all over again. How would you explain what's going on? (To a dog, or a small child, or an alien, or someone who just woke up from a coma they'd been in since November...)
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Our meeting (*in today's meeting we talked about the fall, our writing for "Surviving With Class," and books we might like to read before the end of the semester. I'll publish a separate post on these topics later this afternoon.)
POST:
Please make sure to post your Fahrenheit 451 essay if it's not on your blog yet. Better late than never.
Saturday, May 2, 2020
mindfulness & teen anxiety during quarantine
Happy Saturday! Or, is it...? I hope this finds you well. I also understand that you may not feel well, even if you are well. Whether you are keeping up with the course or not, I hope you you look in on the course blog occasionally -- like now, because this morning's Los Angeles Times featured an article with some ideas that can help you and your families deal with some of the feelings that come up when we're stuck and out of our routines. The article was written as a resource for parents, which you can tell by the tone (see that English-y thing I did there? ;). You may want to talk about it with them, or just be your own parent and practice using some of the strategies and resources. You can read the whole article HERE.
Some highlights:
Remember, practicing mindfulness can be as simple as feeling your feet on the floor, touching your fingers together, breathing, and letting thoughts come up and float away. If you want to focus on a particular thought or feeling, you can, but you don't have to -- the key is being aware of the present moment, right here, right now...
Stay mindful, be well, and have a great day.
Some highlights:
Remember, practicing mindfulness can be as simple as feeling your feet on the floor, touching your fingers together, breathing, and letting thoughts come up and float away. If you want to focus on a particular thought or feeling, you can, but you don't have to -- the key is being aware of the present moment, right here, right now...
Stay mindful, be well, and have a great day.
Friday, May 1, 2020
may 1 w online meeting #30
for our MOM: [All those times people said, "Thank God it's Friday." Now it's kind of hard to tell one day from the next. Focus on something to be thankful for TODAY. Feel free to meditate on this one everyday.]
JOURNAL TOPIC:
If you had 30 minutes alone with President Trump -- stop it, no hitting -- what would you say to him? What would you want him to know? What would you want him to do? (Actually, I just had a better idea. You can answer the first one, or maybe pick someone who could help: If you could meet with any political leader or famous person around the world who you think could make a difference and inspire change that would help us deal with the pandemic, who would you pick? What would you say, and why?)
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Our meeting
POST:
Please make sure to post your Fahrenheit 451 essay by 5:00 P.M.
JOURNAL TOPIC:
If you had 30 minutes alone with President Trump -- stop it, no hitting -- what would you say to him? What would you want him to know? What would you want him to do? (Actually, I just had a better idea. You can answer the first one, or maybe pick someone who could help: If you could meet with any political leader or famous person around the world who you think could make a difference and inspire change that would help us deal with the pandemic, who would you pick? What would you say, and why?)
-OR-
You can use your journal simply to write about life and your experiences in these unusual, challenging times.
AGENDA:
1. MOM
2. Journal
3. Our meeting
POST:
Please make sure to post your Fahrenheit 451 essay by 5:00 P.M.