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... a journey through the world of senior-year English at Bridgeton (NJ) High School and, in particular, the A7 classroom of D. L. Price and his students
Friday, January 30, 2004
THERE'S SOMETHING HAPPENING HERE
With all the snow closings this week, the afterschool workshop on rubrics that I am presenting for our Paideia people has been rescheduled for Monday and Tuesday (weather permitting). Here are three good web sites to help with understanding and using rubrics in the classroom:
1. Creating Rubrics
2. Rubistar
3. Rubric Maker
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
We compared the ideas expressed in Robert Frost's poem "Mending Wall" with those in the Simon and Garfunkle composition "I Am a Rock."
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
We began our reading of William Shakespeare's play The Tempest. Shakespeare's dated language poses problems for most of today's students, so we will be featuring some web sites to help students better understand the play.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
The famous radio western, The Lone Ranger, was heard for the first time on this day in 1933. The program ran for 2,956 episodes and came to an end in late 1954.
George Seaton (Stenius) was the first voice of the Lone Ranger. Jack Deeds and Earle Graser followed in the role. However, it was Brace Beemer who is best remembered as former Texas Ranger, John Reid. He played the part of the black-masked ranger, fighting for frontier justice for thirteen consecutive years.
Riding alongside the Lone Ranger was Tonto, the Indian who had rescued him from death and nursed him back to health after an outlaw ambush had massacred his entire company. The part of Indian scout, Tonto, was played for almost the entire run by a bald-headed Irishman named John Todd. Jim Jewell also fondly referred to the Lone Ranger as ‘kemo sabe’. Jewell produced and directed the series for many years. Silver played the part of the rangers horse, while Scout was Tonto’s steed.
Clayton Moore [1949-1952 & 1954-1957] and John Hart [1952-1954] as the Lone Ranger, and Jay Silverheels as his faithful Indian companion, Tonto, took to the TV airwaves for years. Moore and Silverheels would also make 1956 and 1958 film versions of The Lone Ranger.
No show began as dramatically as The Lone Ranger with Rossini’s William Tell Overture and the voice of announcer proclaiming, “A fiery horse with the speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty ‘Hi-yo, Silver!’ The Lone Ranger rides again!”
And, at the end of each show, with a “Hi-yo, Silver, away!” and the sound of hoof beats fading into the distance, you would almost believe that there was a silver bullet lying by your radio.
WRAP IT UP
On this date in 1969 The Beatles made their last public appearance -- at a free concert at their Apple corporate headquarters in London. The group recorded "Get Back" and were also filmed for the movie Let It Be. In that same year, but five months later, I made my last appearance as a student at BHS, never realizing that I would spend another 35 years covering the school as a reporter or working in A-Hall as an English teacher.
Well that it's for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
With all the snow closings this week, the afterschool workshop on rubrics that I am presenting for our Paideia people has been rescheduled for Monday and Tuesday (weather permitting). Here are three good web sites to help with understanding and using rubrics in the classroom:
1. Creating Rubrics
2. Rubistar
3. Rubric Maker
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
We compared the ideas expressed in Robert Frost's poem "Mending Wall" with those in the Simon and Garfunkle composition "I Am a Rock."
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
We began our reading of William Shakespeare's play The Tempest. Shakespeare's dated language poses problems for most of today's students, so we will be featuring some web sites to help students better understand the play.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
The famous radio western, The Lone Ranger, was heard for the first time on this day in 1933. The program ran for 2,956 episodes and came to an end in late 1954.
George Seaton (Stenius) was the first voice of the Lone Ranger. Jack Deeds and Earle Graser followed in the role. However, it was Brace Beemer who is best remembered as former Texas Ranger, John Reid. He played the part of the black-masked ranger, fighting for frontier justice for thirteen consecutive years.
Riding alongside the Lone Ranger was Tonto, the Indian who had rescued him from death and nursed him back to health after an outlaw ambush had massacred his entire company. The part of Indian scout, Tonto, was played for almost the entire run by a bald-headed Irishman named John Todd. Jim Jewell also fondly referred to the Lone Ranger as ‘kemo sabe’. Jewell produced and directed the series for many years. Silver played the part of the rangers horse, while Scout was Tonto’s steed.
Clayton Moore [1949-1952 & 1954-1957] and John Hart [1952-1954] as the Lone Ranger, and Jay Silverheels as his faithful Indian companion, Tonto, took to the TV airwaves for years. Moore and Silverheels would also make 1956 and 1958 film versions of The Lone Ranger.
No show began as dramatically as The Lone Ranger with Rossini’s William Tell Overture and the voice of announcer proclaiming, “A fiery horse with the speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty ‘Hi-yo, Silver!’ The Lone Ranger rides again!”
And, at the end of each show, with a “Hi-yo, Silver, away!” and the sound of hoof beats fading into the distance, you would almost believe that there was a silver bullet lying by your radio.
WRAP IT UP
On this date in 1969 The Beatles made their last public appearance -- at a free concert at their Apple corporate headquarters in London. The group recorded "Get Back" and were also filmed for the movie Let It Be. In that same year, but five months later, I made my last appearance as a student at BHS, never realizing that I would spend another 35 years covering the school as a reporter or working in A-Hall as an English teacher.
Well that it's for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
Thursday, January 29, 2004
THERE'S SOMETHING HAPPENING HERE
Back to school after a second snow closing this week. At first, yesterday was to be a delayed opening, but on a second look at road conditions, our superintendent decided to cancel classes.
The snow closings are greeted with mixed responses here. Some teachers, such as myself, love the days off. Others prefer no snow days and an earlier June out. The same feeling hold true for students.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
We watched and then discussed an excerpt from the Pink Floyd video The Wall, focusing on the theme of alienation. The album )of course no referred to as the CD) brought the phrase "we don't need no education" to public discourse.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
We gave back students' Can't You See the Real Me Collages, which had been on display for the month. Many students said this was their favorite assignment so far this year. Hopefully all students learned more definitive answers to the question who am I by participating in the Paideia coached project.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
On this date in 1845, "The Raven" by Edgar Allan Poe, one of the most known poems ion American literature, was published for the first time in the "New York Evening Mirror". Poe took the pen name, Quarles, in signing the poem.
WRAP IT UP
Robert Frost, whose poem "Mending Wall," honors students are examining this week died on this date in 1963. In class, we are always talking about how the ear is a much editor than the eye. Here are Frost's thoughts on that subject: "The ear is the only true writer and the only true reader."
Well that it's for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
Back to school after a second snow closing this week. At first, yesterday was to be a delayed opening, but on a second look at road conditions, our superintendent decided to cancel classes.
The snow closings are greeted with mixed responses here. Some teachers, such as myself, love the days off. Others prefer no snow days and an earlier June out. The same feeling hold true for students.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
We watched and then discussed an excerpt from the Pink Floyd video The Wall, focusing on the theme of alienation. The album )of course no referred to as the CD) brought the phrase "we don't need no education" to public discourse.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
We gave back students' Can't You See the Real Me Collages, which had been on display for the month. Many students said this was their favorite assignment so far this year. Hopefully all students learned more definitive answers to the question who am I by participating in the Paideia coached project.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
On this date in 1845, "The Raven" by Edgar Allan Poe, one of the most known poems ion American literature, was published for the first time in the "New York Evening Mirror". Poe took the pen name, Quarles, in signing the poem.
WRAP IT UP
Robert Frost, whose poem "Mending Wall," honors students are examining this week died on this date in 1963. In class, we are always talking about how the ear is a much editor than the eye. Here are Frost's thoughts on that subject: "The ear is the only true writer and the only true reader."
Well that it's for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
Tuesday, January 27, 2004
THERE's SOMETHING HAPPENING HERE
Winter is here. Monday was a snow day closing. Today was a 90-minute delayed opening. As expected, the wintry weather caused cancellations and schedule adjustments.
Our new English 101 dual credit course with Cumberland County College debuted today with 21 students. The class, which is serving as a pilot for the entire county, will definitely prove interesting.
In this blog, we are going to continue to focus on our regular college prep senior English, but we will have reports on the new program when warranted.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
We went over the midterm examination. The grades ranged from 37 to 100. The two sections that seemed to cause the most difficulty were editing (which focused on subject-predicate agreement) and persusaive reading (an excerpt from John F. Kennedy's 1961 inaugural speech).
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
Also went over exams. Not much difference here. Grade range was 34 to 100, while the problem areas again were editing and persuasive reading.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
Thomas Alva Edison of Menlo Park, NJ patented the electric incandescent lamp on this date in 1880. We’ve been turning it on ever since ... and just think how many books have been read by lamplight. While not as romantic as candlight, it makes reading much easier on the eyes.
WRAP IT UP
On this date in 1984 pop singer Michael Jackson’s hair caught on fire during the filming of a Pepsi commercial in Los Angeles. Pyrotechnics did not operate on cue, injuring the singer. Jackson was hospitalized for a few days and fans from around the world sent messages of concern. Of course, Jackson, the king of bizzare behavior, is back in the news these days for a far more seedy, but no less explosive story. Jackson, however, has long tried to proclaim his normality. "I'm just like anyone. I cut and I bleed. And I embarass easily," he once told an interviewer. Okay, if you say so.
Well that it's for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, kepp on thinking
Winter is here. Monday was a snow day closing. Today was a 90-minute delayed opening. As expected, the wintry weather caused cancellations and schedule adjustments.
Our new English 101 dual credit course with Cumberland County College debuted today with 21 students. The class, which is serving as a pilot for the entire county, will definitely prove interesting.
In this blog, we are going to continue to focus on our regular college prep senior English, but we will have reports on the new program when warranted.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
We went over the midterm examination. The grades ranged from 37 to 100. The two sections that seemed to cause the most difficulty were editing (which focused on subject-predicate agreement) and persusaive reading (an excerpt from John F. Kennedy's 1961 inaugural speech).
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
Also went over exams. Not much difference here. Grade range was 34 to 100, while the problem areas again were editing and persuasive reading.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
Thomas Alva Edison of Menlo Park, NJ patented the electric incandescent lamp on this date in 1880. We’ve been turning it on ever since ... and just think how many books have been read by lamplight. While not as romantic as candlight, it makes reading much easier on the eyes.
WRAP IT UP
On this date in 1984 pop singer Michael Jackson’s hair caught on fire during the filming of a Pepsi commercial in Los Angeles. Pyrotechnics did not operate on cue, injuring the singer. Jackson was hospitalized for a few days and fans from around the world sent messages of concern. Of course, Jackson, the king of bizzare behavior, is back in the news these days for a far more seedy, but no less explosive story. Jackson, however, has long tried to proclaim his normality. "I'm just like anyone. I cut and I bleed. And I embarass easily," he once told an interviewer. Okay, if you say so.
Well that it's for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, kepp on thinking
Friday, January 23, 2004
THERE'S SOMETHING HAPPENING HERE
Midterm exams are finished for my senior classes and we recorded a historic first - for the first time in more than 20 years all students were present to take the midterms. This means no makeups, no incompletes.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
No exams.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
Midterm exams for periods 9 and 10.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
Salvador Dalí, Spanish painter, writer, and member of the surrealist movement, died on this day in 1989 in Figueras, Spain, at the age of 84.
WRAP IT UP
Let it never be asserted that Dali had a limited opinion of himself. The artist, known for his melting clocks and apocalyptic visions, said: "Each morning when I awake, I experience again a supreme pleasure - that of being Salvador Dali."
Well that it's for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, kepp on thinking.
Midterm exams are finished for my senior classes and we recorded a historic first - for the first time in more than 20 years all students were present to take the midterms. This means no makeups, no incompletes.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
No exams.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
Midterm exams for periods 9 and 10.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
Salvador Dalí, Spanish painter, writer, and member of the surrealist movement, died on this day in 1989 in Figueras, Spain, at the age of 84.
WRAP IT UP
Let it never be asserted that Dali had a limited opinion of himself. The artist, known for his melting clocks and apocalyptic visions, said: "Each morning when I awake, I experience again a supreme pleasure - that of being Salvador Dali."
Well that it's for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, kepp on thinking.
Thursday, January 22, 2004
THERE'S SOMETHING HAPPENING HERE
Midterm exams continue.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
No exams.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
Period 5 had its exam today. It marked the first time all year that all 26 students were in class at the same time.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
On this day, fifteen years apart, Arthur Miller's The Crucible (1953) and Thornton Wilder's Our Town (1938) premiered.
Although both were poorly reviewed to start, The Crucible would
win a Tony and Our Town a Pulitzer; and both would become not
only classics of American theater, but classic, opposite
statements on the idea of community living.
WRAP IT UP
Who says reading isn't an active activity? British author D. H. Lawrence, in a letter written on this date in 1925, contended: "An author should be in among the crowd, kicking their shins or cheering them on to some mischief or merriment.... Whoever reads me will be in the thick of the scrimmage, and if he doesn't like -- if he wants a safe seat in the audience -- let him read somebody else."
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
Midterm exams continue.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
No exams.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
Period 5 had its exam today. It marked the first time all year that all 26 students were in class at the same time.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
On this day, fifteen years apart, Arthur Miller's The Crucible (1953) and Thornton Wilder's Our Town (1938) premiered.
Although both were poorly reviewed to start, The Crucible would
win a Tony and Our Town a Pulitzer; and both would become not
only classics of American theater, but classic, opposite
statements on the idea of community living.
WRAP IT UP
Who says reading isn't an active activity? British author D. H. Lawrence, in a letter written on this date in 1925, contended: "An author should be in among the crowd, kicking their shins or cheering them on to some mischief or merriment.... Whoever reads me will be in the thick of the scrimmage, and if he doesn't like -- if he wants a safe seat in the audience -- let him read somebody else."
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
Wednesday, January 21, 2004
THERE'S SOMETHING HAPPENING HERE
Midterm exams continue. Today periods 4 and 7.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
Periods 7 had its exam today.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
No exams.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
White Noise by Don DeLillo received the American Book
Award on this day in 1985. There is no better short description
of the book than DeLillo's: "It's about fear, death, and
technology. A comedy, of course." This passage is from page 1,
the chairman of Hitler Studies at College-on-the-Hill observing
his Autumn ritual -- "the day of the station wagons":
I've witnessed this spectacle every September for twenty-one
years. It is a brilliant event, invariably. The students greet
each other with comic cries and gestures of sodden collapse.
Their summer has been bloated with criminal pleasures, as always.
The parents stand sun-dazed near their automobiles, seeing images
of themselves in every direction. The conscientious suntans. The
well-made faces and wry looks. They feel a sense of renewal, of
communal recognition. The women crisp and alert, in diet trim,
knowing people's names. Their husbands content to measure out the
time, distant but ungrudging, accomplished in parenthood,
something about them suggesting massive insurance coverage....
WRAP IT UP
British author George Orwell of 1984 and Animal Farm fame, who died on this date in 1950, once wrote: "Progress is not an illusion, it happens, but it is slow and invariably disappointing."
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
Midterm exams continue. Today periods 4 and 7.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
Periods 7 had its exam today.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
No exams.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
White Noise by Don DeLillo received the American Book
Award on this day in 1985. There is no better short description
of the book than DeLillo's: "It's about fear, death, and
technology. A comedy, of course." This passage is from page 1,
the chairman of Hitler Studies at College-on-the-Hill observing
his Autumn ritual -- "the day of the station wagons":
I've witnessed this spectacle every September for twenty-one
years. It is a brilliant event, invariably. The students greet
each other with comic cries and gestures of sodden collapse.
Their summer has been bloated with criminal pleasures, as always.
The parents stand sun-dazed near their automobiles, seeing images
of themselves in every direction. The conscientious suntans. The
well-made faces and wry looks. They feel a sense of renewal, of
communal recognition. The women crisp and alert, in diet trim,
knowing people's names. Their husbands content to measure out the
time, distant but ungrudging, accomplished in parenthood,
something about them suggesting massive insurance coverage....
WRAP IT UP
British author George Orwell of 1984 and Animal Farm fame, who died on this date in 1950, once wrote: "Progress is not an illusion, it happens, but it is slow and invariably disappointing."
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
Tuesday, January 20, 2004
THERE'S SOMETHING HAPPENING HERE
Midterm exams continue. Today - periods 3 and 6.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
Period 3 had its midterm.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
No midterms.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
This was a big day in U.S. record stores in 1964 as the first album by The Beatles was released. The LP, Meet the Beatles, became a huge success and was #1 on the charts by February 15, 1964. The British Invasion had begun. Yeah! Yeah! Yeah!
WRAP IT UP
Director David Lynch, the mind behind my favorite television series Twin Peaks and the totally bizzare movie Eraserhead, was born on this day in 1946.
Lynch once said: "The whole world is wild at heart and weird on top." I don't know about the world, but Lynch's films are weird - wonderful, but weird nonetheless.
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
Midterm exams continue. Today - periods 3 and 6.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
Period 3 had its midterm.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
No midterms.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
This was a big day in U.S. record stores in 1964 as the first album by The Beatles was released. The LP, Meet the Beatles, became a huge success and was #1 on the charts by February 15, 1964. The British Invasion had begun. Yeah! Yeah! Yeah!
WRAP IT UP
Director David Lynch, the mind behind my favorite television series Twin Peaks and the totally bizzare movie Eraserhead, was born on this day in 1946.
Lynch once said: "The whole world is wild at heart and weird on top." I don't know about the world, but Lynch's films are weird - wonderful, but weird nonetheless.
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
Friday, January 16, 2004
THERE'S SOMETHING HAPPENING HERE
Midterms began today, with students taking their 2nd period test and then attending half-hour classes for the rest of their subjects. The kids were, to use the common educational vernacular, completely off the wall. Their behavior was so obnoxious and bizzare that many teachers are convinced we should have no classes following midterm exams, but should instead use our final exam format. It will be interesting to see if any changes are forthcoming.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
We previewed the six-part midterm examination. The test is skill-based and involves readings from Guy du Maupassant, John F. Kennedy, John Donne, the King James Bible and Sly and the Family Stone.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
We made final preparations for the start of the new dual credit English course with Cumberland County College which begins Jan. 26.
Students who need schedule changes will receive them next week during the midterm exam period.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
On this date in 1964 Hello Dolly! opened at the St. James Theatre in New York City. Carol Channing starred in the role of Mrs. Dolly Levi. The musical was an adaptation of Thornton Wilder’s play, The Matchmaker. The show, with an unforgettable title song, was hailed by critics as the “...possible hit of the season.” It was possible, all right. Hello Dolly! played for 2,844 performances. And, it returned to Broadway in the 1990s, again starring Carol Channing.
WRAP IT UP
One of the raging debates today in BHS was can the Eagles finally win an NFC and get to the Super Bowl. Often times, it seems the importance of sports to many of us gets overblown. President Teddy Roosevelt had this to say on that subject: "I believe in rough, manly sports. But I do not believe in them if they degenerate into the sole end of any one's existence. I don't want you to sacrifice standing well in your studies to any over-athleticism; and I need not tell you that character counts for a great deal more than either intellect or body in winning success in life. Athletic proficiency is a mighty good servant, and like so many other good servants, a mighty bad master. "
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
Midterms began today, with students taking their 2nd period test and then attending half-hour classes for the rest of their subjects. The kids were, to use the common educational vernacular, completely off the wall. Their behavior was so obnoxious and bizzare that many teachers are convinced we should have no classes following midterm exams, but should instead use our final exam format. It will be interesting to see if any changes are forthcoming.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
We previewed the six-part midterm examination. The test is skill-based and involves readings from Guy du Maupassant, John F. Kennedy, John Donne, the King James Bible and Sly and the Family Stone.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
We made final preparations for the start of the new dual credit English course with Cumberland County College which begins Jan. 26.
Students who need schedule changes will receive them next week during the midterm exam period.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
On this date in 1964 Hello Dolly! opened at the St. James Theatre in New York City. Carol Channing starred in the role of Mrs. Dolly Levi. The musical was an adaptation of Thornton Wilder’s play, The Matchmaker. The show, with an unforgettable title song, was hailed by critics as the “...possible hit of the season.” It was possible, all right. Hello Dolly! played for 2,844 performances. And, it returned to Broadway in the 1990s, again starring Carol Channing.
WRAP IT UP
One of the raging debates today in BHS was can the Eagles finally win an NFC and get to the Super Bowl. Often times, it seems the importance of sports to many of us gets overblown. President Teddy Roosevelt had this to say on that subject: "I believe in rough, manly sports. But I do not believe in them if they degenerate into the sole end of any one's existence. I don't want you to sacrifice standing well in your studies to any over-athleticism; and I need not tell you that character counts for a great deal more than either intellect or body in winning success in life. Athletic proficiency is a mighty good servant, and like so many other good servants, a mighty bad master. "
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
Thursday, January 15, 2004
THERE'S SOMETHING HAPPENING HERE
Many seniors received exciting news today - they passed the state exam in reading, writing, and math on their second try. For those students, it is no more SRA tests and Saturday classes.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
We read two articles dealing with the video version of Pink Floyd's The Wall which we will view clips of after midterms.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
We explored the short science fiction story "Zoo" by Edward Hoch, which details the abiding curiosity of life forms about other life forms.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
On this date in 1967 Ed Sullivan told The Rolling Stones to change the lyrics and the title to the song, "Let’s Spend the Night Together", or “be off my riiiillly big shew!” So, the Stones gave in... changing the tune to "Let’s Spend Some Time Together".
WRAP IT UP
Speaking of walls, scientific giant Sir Isaac Newton had these thoughts on the subject: "We build too many walls and not enough bridges."
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
Many seniors received exciting news today - they passed the state exam in reading, writing, and math on their second try. For those students, it is no more SRA tests and Saturday classes.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
We read two articles dealing with the video version of Pink Floyd's The Wall which we will view clips of after midterms.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
We explored the short science fiction story "Zoo" by Edward Hoch, which details the abiding curiosity of life forms about other life forms.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
On this date in 1967 Ed Sullivan told The Rolling Stones to change the lyrics and the title to the song, "Let’s Spend the Night Together", or “be off my riiiillly big shew!” So, the Stones gave in... changing the tune to "Let’s Spend Some Time Together".
WRAP IT UP
Speaking of walls, scientific giant Sir Isaac Newton had these thoughts on the subject: "We build too many walls and not enough bridges."
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
Wednesday, January 14, 2004
THERE'S SOMETHING HAPPENING HERE
BHS received its long-awaited 3rd assistant principal today. Orville Harris started his new position one day after being approved by the school board. Mr. Harris replaces Steve Lynch, who became principal of the Quarter Mile Lane School in September.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
Class attendance was down due to a student government meeting, but that didn't stop the few attending students from engaging in an insightful debate about the good and bad points of walls.
The discussion served as a starting point for an examination of articles and video clips dealing with Pink Floyd's CD The Wall.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
We explored Kurt Vonnegut's story "Harrison Bergeron," a cautionary science fiction tale about a future world in which everyone is truly equal.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
On this day in 1990, The Simpsons TV series first aired. Arguably one of the most creative, literate series ever to air, the long-running show has been replete with countless literary references. One of those classics was a meet-the-bard spoof entitled "MacHomer." In that Shakespeare-sparked episode Homer cries "Bring on the Duff, and damned be him that first cries, 'Hold,
enough!'" Happy 14th birthday, Simpson family and friends.
WRAP IT UP
Charles Dodgson, much better known by his Alice in Wonderland pen name of Lewis Carroll, died on this day in 1898. These are the last two stanzas in the poem by
which Carroll introduces his story:
Thus grew the tale of Wonderland:
Thus slowly, one by one,
Its quaint events were hammered out-
And now the tale is done,
And home we steer, a merry crew,
Beneath the setting sun.
Alice! A childish story take,
And, with a gentle hand,
Lay it where Childhood's dreams are twined
In Memory's mystic band.
Like pilgrim's wither'd wreath of flowers
Pluck'd in a far-off land.
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
BHS received its long-awaited 3rd assistant principal today. Orville Harris started his new position one day after being approved by the school board. Mr. Harris replaces Steve Lynch, who became principal of the Quarter Mile Lane School in September.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
Class attendance was down due to a student government meeting, but that didn't stop the few attending students from engaging in an insightful debate about the good and bad points of walls.
The discussion served as a starting point for an examination of articles and video clips dealing with Pink Floyd's CD The Wall.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
We explored Kurt Vonnegut's story "Harrison Bergeron," a cautionary science fiction tale about a future world in which everyone is truly equal.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
On this day in 1990, The Simpsons TV series first aired. Arguably one of the most creative, literate series ever to air, the long-running show has been replete with countless literary references. One of those classics was a meet-the-bard spoof entitled "MacHomer." In that Shakespeare-sparked episode Homer cries "Bring on the Duff, and damned be him that first cries, 'Hold,
enough!'" Happy 14th birthday, Simpson family and friends.
WRAP IT UP
Charles Dodgson, much better known by his Alice in Wonderland pen name of Lewis Carroll, died on this day in 1898. These are the last two stanzas in the poem by
which Carroll introduces his story:
Thus grew the tale of Wonderland:
Thus slowly, one by one,
Its quaint events were hammered out-
And now the tale is done,
And home we steer, a merry crew,
Beneath the setting sun.
Alice! A childish story take,
And, with a gentle hand,
Lay it where Childhood's dreams are twined
In Memory's mystic band.
Like pilgrim's wither'd wreath of flowers
Pluck'd in a far-off land.
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
Tuesday, January 13, 2004
THERE'S SOMETHING HAPPENING HERE
Plans are moving ahead for the dual credit English program in which students will get BHS and Cumberland County College credits. Right now, students are anxious to know exactly who will be in the program and how it will affect their current schedule. The guidance department is working on the switches and students will be notified as soon as possible.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
Practicing for improved editing, we worked on using consistent verb tenses. In other words keeping the past with the past, the present with the present, and the future with the future.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
Practicing for improved editing, we worked on using consistent verb tenses. In other words keeping the past with the past, the present with the present, and the future with the future.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
On this day in 1941 James Joyce died in Zurich at the age of
fifty-eight. Even without the dislocation of WWII, Joyce's last
years were beset with difficulties -- the schizophrenia of his
daughter, the breakdown of his son's career and marriage, his own
poor health, ongoing battles over Ulysses and new worries about
Finnegans Wake. "Though not so blind as Homer, and not so
exiled as Dante," wrote biographer Richard Ellmann, "he had
reached his life's nadir."
WRAP IT UP
In 1938, the first animated feature Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs opened at Radio City Music Hall on this date. And so was born the song of working people everywhere: "hi ho, hi ho, it's off to work we go."
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
Plans are moving ahead for the dual credit English program in which students will get BHS and Cumberland County College credits. Right now, students are anxious to know exactly who will be in the program and how it will affect their current schedule. The guidance department is working on the switches and students will be notified as soon as possible.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
Practicing for improved editing, we worked on using consistent verb tenses. In other words keeping the past with the past, the present with the present, and the future with the future.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
Practicing for improved editing, we worked on using consistent verb tenses. In other words keeping the past with the past, the present with the present, and the future with the future.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
On this day in 1941 James Joyce died in Zurich at the age of
fifty-eight. Even without the dislocation of WWII, Joyce's last
years were beset with difficulties -- the schizophrenia of his
daughter, the breakdown of his son's career and marriage, his own
poor health, ongoing battles over Ulysses and new worries about
Finnegans Wake. "Though not so blind as Homer, and not so
exiled as Dante," wrote biographer Richard Ellmann, "he had
reached his life's nadir."
WRAP IT UP
In 1938, the first animated feature Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs opened at Radio City Music Hall on this date. And so was born the song of working people everywhere: "hi ho, hi ho, it's off to work we go."
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
Monday, January 12, 2004
THERE'S SOMETHING HAPPENING HERE
There was extremely positive news on the BHS academic front today. Of the 42 seniors tested for the soon-to-be-in-place Cumberland County College dual credit English program, 23 students, or more than 50 percent, scored in the range to be placed in a college-level English composition class.
The class is scheduled to start on Jan. 26 and run until May. Students will receive both high school and college English credits. The nicest thing is that students won't have to pay for the pilot program - all costs are being assumed by the Bridgeton district and CCC.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
Practicing for improved editing, we worked on the concept of correctly using comparatives and superlatives, a most bestest lesson.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
Practicing for improved editing, we worked on the concept of correctly using comparatives and superlatives, a most bestest lesson.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
Today was a significant day for black literature. On this date in 1965, playwright Lorraine Hansberry, the author of A Raisin in the Sun, which is one of the most widely read plays in American high schools, died. Also on this date in 1952, Walter Mosley, a current best selling mystery writer, was born.
WRAP IT UP
Also born on this date in 1954 was controversial communicator Howard Stern, who is mostly responsible for bringing shock jock radio to the airwaves. When he was ready to move to television, Stern said: "Late night television is ready for someone like me... standards have gone to an all-time low." Stern opponents would agree that his TV debut and continuing presence has proved his assertion all too true.
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
There was extremely positive news on the BHS academic front today. Of the 42 seniors tested for the soon-to-be-in-place Cumberland County College dual credit English program, 23 students, or more than 50 percent, scored in the range to be placed in a college-level English composition class.
The class is scheduled to start on Jan. 26 and run until May. Students will receive both high school and college English credits. The nicest thing is that students won't have to pay for the pilot program - all costs are being assumed by the Bridgeton district and CCC.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
Practicing for improved editing, we worked on the concept of correctly using comparatives and superlatives, a most bestest lesson.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
Practicing for improved editing, we worked on the concept of correctly using comparatives and superlatives, a most bestest lesson.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
Today was a significant day for black literature. On this date in 1965, playwright Lorraine Hansberry, the author of A Raisin in the Sun, which is one of the most widely read plays in American high schools, died. Also on this date in 1952, Walter Mosley, a current best selling mystery writer, was born.
WRAP IT UP
Also born on this date in 1954 was controversial communicator Howard Stern, who is mostly responsible for bringing shock jock radio to the airwaves. When he was ready to move to television, Stern said: "Late night television is ready for someone like me... standards have gone to an all-time low." Stern opponents would agree that his TV debut and continuing presence has proved his assertion all too true.
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
Friday, January 09, 2004
THERE'S SOMETHING HAPPENING HERE
Our midterm examination schedule has been released and exams will start on Friday, Jan. 16th and end on Friday, Jan. 23rd.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
Completed Act III of Ibsen's A Doll's House by reading about Nora leaving Helmer and the children.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
We viewed "The Eye of the Beholder" episode from The Twilight Zone. As always, most students enjoyed the twist at the end of the video tale.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
On this day in 1324 Marco Polo died in Venice. The Travels of
Marco Polo, dictated by Polo several years after his return from
decades in the land of Kublai Khan, became an influential book in
Renaissance Europe -- though some publishers were so dubious of
the hyperbole that they titled the book, The Million Lies. The
path to Xanadu led to New York via Eugene O'Neill: his play Marco
Millions opened on Broadway this day in 1928.
WRAP IT UP
Black literature lost a great voice on this date in 1946 when Countee Cullen, the author of several poems we will examine later this year in Academic English, died.
On his chosen form of writing Cullen once said: "My poetry, I think, has become the way of my giving out what music is within me."
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
Our midterm examination schedule has been released and exams will start on Friday, Jan. 16th and end on Friday, Jan. 23rd.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
Completed Act III of Ibsen's A Doll's House by reading about Nora leaving Helmer and the children.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
We viewed "The Eye of the Beholder" episode from The Twilight Zone. As always, most students enjoyed the twist at the end of the video tale.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
On this day in 1324 Marco Polo died in Venice. The Travels of
Marco Polo, dictated by Polo several years after his return from
decades in the land of Kublai Khan, became an influential book in
Renaissance Europe -- though some publishers were so dubious of
the hyperbole that they titled the book, The Million Lies. The
path to Xanadu led to New York via Eugene O'Neill: his play Marco
Millions opened on Broadway this day in 1928.
WRAP IT UP
Black literature lost a great voice on this date in 1946 when Countee Cullen, the author of several poems we will examine later this year in Academic English, died.
On his chosen form of writing Cullen once said: "My poetry, I think, has become the way of my giving out what music is within me."
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
Thursday, January 08, 2004
THERE'S SOMETHING HAPPENING HERE
A debate continues around B6, the room where late-to-class students are housed for the period they are late. Proponents of the room say the hallways are much clearer than ever and problem students act out in B6, not in an active classroom with other working students. Opponents say B6 and its accompanying sweeping operations have actually increased lateness as students are simply opting to go there rather than report to class. It will interesting to see what decision the administration finally makes on this issue.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
Still reading Act III of Ibsen's A Doll's House.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
We examined the lyrics of Phil Ochs 1960s protest song "Outside of a Small Circle of Friends." Ochs was prompted to write the song after reading about the 1964 Kitty Genovese murder in New York City. That murder, where 37 people witnessed the killing and failed to do anything to help, still stands as an example of anti-Good Samaritan activity.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
In 1828, the first residential television sets are installed in three homes in Schenectady, New York. RCA and General Electric installed the sets, which displayed a 1.5-inch-square picture. However, televisions did not become common household appliances until the late 1940s.
WRAP IT UP
Speaking of television, comedian Groucho Marx had this to say on the subject: "I find television very educating. Every time somebody turns on the set, I go into the other room and read a book."
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
A debate continues around B6, the room where late-to-class students are housed for the period they are late. Proponents of the room say the hallways are much clearer than ever and problem students act out in B6, not in an active classroom with other working students. Opponents say B6 and its accompanying sweeping operations have actually increased lateness as students are simply opting to go there rather than report to class. It will interesting to see what decision the administration finally makes on this issue.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
Still reading Act III of Ibsen's A Doll's House.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
We examined the lyrics of Phil Ochs 1960s protest song "Outside of a Small Circle of Friends." Ochs was prompted to write the song after reading about the 1964 Kitty Genovese murder in New York City. That murder, where 37 people witnessed the killing and failed to do anything to help, still stands as an example of anti-Good Samaritan activity.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
In 1828, the first residential television sets are installed in three homes in Schenectady, New York. RCA and General Electric installed the sets, which displayed a 1.5-inch-square picture. However, televisions did not become common household appliances until the late 1940s.
WRAP IT UP
Speaking of television, comedian Groucho Marx had this to say on the subject: "I find television very educating. Every time somebody turns on the set, I go into the other room and read a book."
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
Wednesday, January 07, 2004
THERE'S SOMETHING HAPPENING HERE
At our staff meeting, superintendent Vic Gilson introduced our new assistant superintendent Dr. Patricia Montgomery.
Dr. Montgomery's low key remarks seemed to be well received by the majority of the staff. As one member put it, she "reminds me of a caring aunt."
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
We began reading Act III of Henrik Ibsen's A Doll's House.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
Almost 50 students took the accuplacer, a computerized placement test for Cumberland County College.
This was the first time CCC had offfered the web-based test at a site other than the college and, as expected, there were several glitches with the first-time attempt.
Now we will have to await the scoring results to see just how successful both the attempt and the students were.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
On this day in 1903, Zora Neale Hurston, novelist and folklorist, is born in Eatonville, Fla. Although at the time of her death in 1960, Hurston had published more books than any other black woman in America, she was unable to capture a mainstream audience in her lifetime, and she died poor and alone in a welfare hotel. Today, she is seen as one of the most important black writers in American history.
WRAP IT UP
As we begin a new year, most everyone wonders what type of year it will be for them. Ms. Hurston, whose most noted work is the novel Their Eyes Were Watching God , had an interesting insight into that question. "There are years that ask questions and years that answer,". Hurston said. So will 2004 ask or answer questions for you? Obviously, only the next 360+ days will tell.
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
At our staff meeting, superintendent Vic Gilson introduced our new assistant superintendent Dr. Patricia Montgomery.
Dr. Montgomery's low key remarks seemed to be well received by the majority of the staff. As one member put it, she "reminds me of a caring aunt."
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
We began reading Act III of Henrik Ibsen's A Doll's House.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
Almost 50 students took the accuplacer, a computerized placement test for Cumberland County College.
This was the first time CCC had offfered the web-based test at a site other than the college and, as expected, there were several glitches with the first-time attempt.
Now we will have to await the scoring results to see just how successful both the attempt and the students were.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
On this day in 1903, Zora Neale Hurston, novelist and folklorist, is born in Eatonville, Fla. Although at the time of her death in 1960, Hurston had published more books than any other black woman in America, she was unable to capture a mainstream audience in her lifetime, and she died poor and alone in a welfare hotel. Today, she is seen as one of the most important black writers in American history.
WRAP IT UP
As we begin a new year, most everyone wonders what type of year it will be for them. Ms. Hurston, whose most noted work is the novel Their Eyes Were Watching God , had an interesting insight into that question. "There are years that ask questions and years that answer,". Hurston said. So will 2004 ask or answer questions for you? Obviously, only the next 360+ days will tell.
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
Tuesday, January 06, 2004
THERE'S SOMETHING HAPPENING HERE
Often times when we read a book we really like, we want to know more about the author who wrote it.
Here is an author site where you can find links to selected writers
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
Students finalized their preparations for their conflict task rotation projects for their
latest novel readings, which came from a list of 100 books recommended for the college-bound students.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
We listened to a presentation about the Cumberland County College accuplacer test from college officer Melissa Wright. The computerized test will be administered to all BHS college prep seniors tomorrow.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
The animated Saturday morning TV series of shorts called Schoolhouse Rock premiered on ABC this day in 1973 with "Multiplication Rock." The short musical cartoons featured lessons in math, history, science, grammar, and more, with classics like "Conjunction Junction," "Interjections," and "The Preamble to the Constitution."
WRAP IT UP
I agree with teachers who say the only dumb question is the one not asked. Here is another look on the same subject. "Don't be afraid to ask dumb questions. They're more easily handled than dumb mistakes," American film writer William Wister Haines once said.
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking.
Often times when we read a book we really like, we want to know more about the author who wrote it.
Here is an author site where you can find links to selected writers
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
Students finalized their preparations for their conflict task rotation projects for their
latest novel readings, which came from a list of 100 books recommended for the college-bound students.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
We listened to a presentation about the Cumberland County College accuplacer test from college officer Melissa Wright. The computerized test will be administered to all BHS college prep seniors tomorrow.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
The animated Saturday morning TV series of shorts called Schoolhouse Rock premiered on ABC this day in 1973 with "Multiplication Rock." The short musical cartoons featured lessons in math, history, science, grammar, and more, with classics like "Conjunction Junction," "Interjections," and "The Preamble to the Constitution."
WRAP IT UP
I agree with teachers who say the only dumb question is the one not asked. Here is another look on the same subject. "Don't be afraid to ask dumb questions. They're more easily handled than dumb mistakes," American film writer William Wister Haines once said.
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking.
Monday, January 05, 2004
THERE'S SOMETHING HAPPENING HERE
One of the big local stories in any new year (and today marks our first day of school in 2004) is the birth of the area's first baby of the year.
But today's Bridgeton newspaper had a story on births that should give all of us pause. Seventy-four percent of the children born to city resident between July 1, 2002 and June 30, 2003 were born out of wedlock. That rate is 41 percent higher than the 2000 national average. Those statistics could easily translate into even more educational problems in the upcoming years for city schools.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
We explored an interesting article from The Philadelphia Inquierer about words and phrases that entered our vocabulary in the year 2003 such as embedded, spider hole, SARS and metrosexual.
As a companion assignment, students are to find a word that is new to them from their reading over the next week and "teach" that word to the class.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
In preparation for this week's accuplacer test for our proposed dual-credit English prgram with Cumberland County college, we examined sample questions from the reading comprehension and sentence structure portions of the compurterized assessment.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
On this day in 1825, twenty-three-year-old Alexandre Dumas
embarked on his self-proclaimed "career as a romantic" by
fighting his first duel, and having his pants fall down. Dumas'
memoirs are about as reliable as his mountain of historical
fiction and drama, but they tell the pants story in glorious,
comedy-of-errors, "Three Musketeers" detail.
WRAP IT UP
Noted African-American George Washington Carver, who was born on this date in 1864 and died on this same date in 1943 once had these powerful words to say about life: "How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and strong. Because someday in your life you will have been all of these."
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
One of the big local stories in any new year (and today marks our first day of school in 2004) is the birth of the area's first baby of the year.
But today's Bridgeton newspaper had a story on births that should give all of us pause. Seventy-four percent of the children born to city resident between July 1, 2002 and June 30, 2003 were born out of wedlock. That rate is 41 percent higher than the 2000 national average. Those statistics could easily translate into even more educational problems in the upcoming years for city schools.
FOR YOUR (HONORS) EYES ONLY
We explored an interesting article from The Philadelphia Inquierer about words and phrases that entered our vocabulary in the year 2003 such as embedded, spider hole, SARS and metrosexual.
As a companion assignment, students are to find a word that is new to them from their reading over the next week and "teach" that word to the class.
LIGHT MY (COLLEGE PREP) FIRE
In preparation for this week's accuplacer test for our proposed dual-credit English prgram with Cumberland County college, we examined sample questions from the reading comprehension and sentence structure portions of the compurterized assessment.
COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
On this day in 1825, twenty-three-year-old Alexandre Dumas
embarked on his self-proclaimed "career as a romantic" by
fighting his first duel, and having his pants fall down. Dumas'
memoirs are about as reliable as his mountain of historical
fiction and drama, but they tell the pants story in glorious,
comedy-of-errors, "Three Musketeers" detail.
WRAP IT UP
Noted African-American George Washington Carver, who was born on this date in 1864 and died on this same date in 1943 once had these powerful words to say about life: "How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and strong. Because someday in your life you will have been all of these."
Well that's it for today. So - until next time - keep on reading, keep on thinking
