Monday, November 26, 2012

English II Love Journal

Does falling in love change a person? What might motivate someone in love to behave as he or she would have never behaved before? You might think of your own experiences and observations as well as love stories you have read or seen in the movies.

English III Civil Disobedience Journal

The phrase "civil disobedience" was coined by Henry David Thoreau when he chose to disobey a law he considered unjust. Think about people who hold rallies, boycotts, or hunger strikes today to protest a perceived injustice. Do you think they are abusing the role of citizens or fulfilling that role in a responsible way? Why/Why not? When protesters accept beatings, imprisonment, or even death as a consequence for disobeying laws they view as unjust, are they criminals or patriots?

English IV Women's Rights Journal

The basic concept behind the issue of women's rights is that women and men are equally human and should have equal stature in society. Few westerners now challenge that concept, yet many dislike or reject such labels as "feminism," preferring instead to speak of "human rights" or "women's rights". What do these three labels mean to you? Write a brief explanation of which term you find most meaningful and why you prefer it over the other two terms.

Monday, November 5, 2012

English III Thanatopsis Journal

What is the main theme/philosophy surrounding Thanatopsis,and what characteristics make it Romantic? Do you think Bryant's youth (he composed Thanatopsis at sixteen) plays a part in how he views mortality? How might he have written Thanatopsis 20-50 years later?

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

English III Journal (Freedom and Equality)

What does freedom and equality mean to you? Are these rights something you take for granted or do you hold them precious? What is the difference between liberty and democracy? Which one (liberty & democracy) is more important to you?

Thursday, September 20, 2012

English IV Carpe Diem Poem

Develop and hone lyrics for the Carpe Diem poem/ song in any style. Your song/poem must have a distinct tone, imagery, and must use various forms of figurative language.

Monday, September 17, 2012

English II (Preach IT!)

Religion in the South at that time was the backbone of people’s lives. Ms. Angelou relates an amusing anecdote about a church service gone out of control. Southern Fundamentalist churches are known for their high-energy services. Compare the passion of the church service Ms. Angelou described with a service of another religion. What are the similarities? What are the differences? Is one religion more devout than another? Choose a religion you would like to use as a comparison. You must be either very familiar with the religion you choose, or research it through sources such as family members, friends, clergy, the library, or the Internet. 150 words

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

English IV Middle Ages

Summarize your research on the Middle Ages by addressing the following in a 150 word response: * What were the main features of feudalism, and how did feudalism change the social structure of Anglo Saxon England? * How did the influence of the Church grow in England and how was religion seen by Kings and the masses? * How did the Black Death or bubonic plague cause the end of feudalism?

Tuesday, September 4, 2012

English III Journal- Fear as a Motivator

Many people would agree that fear is one of the most powerful motivators of human behavior. Fear of injury makes us buckle our seat-belts. Fear of failure makes us study or work harder. Edwards and other pastors used harsh warnings in their sermons to make "sinners" understand the danger of their actions and situation by actually FEELING the fear and horror of their sinful state. Do you think fear is a great motivator? Write about what motivates you and whether you would use fear to motivate someone else.

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

English IV Journal #1 (Archetypes & Heroes)

Beowulf is an ancient tale about a hero who faces violence, horror, and even death to save people from danger. The epic took place many years ago, but this story still speaks to people today, perhaps because so many of us are in need of a rescuer... a hero. Take a moment to invent and develop a contemporary hero. You must create your own hero. Describe your hero, and analyze him/her using these questions *What sort of evil or oppression does your hero confront? * WHY does he/she confront evil? What is the motivation? *What virtues does your hero represent?