Monday, November 28, 2016

What's your sentence?



Last words are remarkably important in Shakespeare's Macbeth. Macbeth's and his wife's last words echo each other unwittingly. We know that King Jame's ancestors indeed have the last word historically as he gains the throne of England quite out of the blue. Last words matter; they led to a legacy. When you leave DCHS, what is it you hope people will say about you? What will your legacy be, in one sentence? What is your sentence? 




Post a photograph with you and your sentence by December 5. 




Monday, October 17, 2016

Macbeth


Helpful Links: 
Full Text is available here, with links to aid understanding of lines.

5-Minute Biography on Shakespeare

Introducing Macbeth: Why Shakespeare wrote the play the way he did

When the Hurlyburly's Done: Shakespeare's Witches

No Fear Shakespeare: Macbeth


Homework:
Oct. 18/19: On the back of your notes on "Shakespeare's Witches," write about how you might direct the opening scene of Macbeth. Come to class ready to share.

Oct. 20/21: No homework.

Oct. 28/31: Study for quiz over Act 1.

Nov. 1-11: Word Journal for your Act and word (See examples below.)




Monday, September 12, 2016

Friday, September 9, 2016

A Draft of my Boast:



Remember: Your boast is due in class Monday/Tuesday of next week. 
Best of luck, poets!

Thursday, August 25, 2016

The Hero's Journey-- Inspired by Joseph Campbell




Joseph Campbell was an American mythologist, meaning he studied the stories of native peoples, The Hero with a Thousand Faces, Campbell inspired authors, directors, musicians, scholars, and everyday bibliophiles to reconsider their beloved stories from a perspective of this heroic cycle. The importance of this cycle is described in chapter 1 of How to Read Literature Like a Professor, which you are encouraged to (re)visit for our upcoming class discussions and papers. 

In preparation for our next class, take some time to consider your favorite full-length movie OR favorite piece of literature. Then, use The Hero's Journey  (http://www.readwritethink.org/files/resources/interactives/herosjourney/heros_journey.html ) to track the movie/book's hero through the cycle, to see how well it holds up for your particular selection. Be sure to read the descriptions of each part of the cycle, enter events as specifically as you can (although your particular selected text may not fit the model exactly, but do what you can), and print them out the final product to bring to class August 30th or 31st. 

Wednesday, August 24, 2016

Group Essay Assignment

Group Essay Assignment 
In “A Rose for Emily” William Faulkner challenges readers to use his surprising use of plot, characters, setting, point of view, and symbols in order to develop several theme commenting on life in the modern American south. As a group, you will write an essay in which each of you contributes one body paragraph interpreting an aspect of the story and tying it to a theme that your group chooses to develop across the entire essay. Just as in all essays, you will need an introductory and concluding paragraph to introduce the theme that the rest of the paper explains and to rest it's importance at the end. You must write these two bookend paragraphs collaboratively. Due: August 30/31, at the beginning of class.  
  • Is typed, double spaced, 12-point, Times New Roman font. 
  • Uses 1" margins on all sides. 
  • Includes one paragraph per page with the author's/authors' name(s) in the MLA heading at the top left corner of the page. For example, each group member's name will be on the heading for the introduction, since you will write this and approve it all together. Each body paragraph will have it's own heading to help me know which group member wrote which essay. The conclusion should include all names once more.  

Individual Rubric 
*Note: Distracting errors (e.g. spelling, grammar, usage, mechanics) will result in a 1 point deduction for each occurance.** 

Masterful 
100% max  
Skilled 
90% max  
Able 
80% max  
Developing  
60% max  
Theme 

20 points 
The group developed a theme that speaks to the complexities of the text, what it means, and how it makes meaning.   
The group developed a theme that speaks to a larger human experience based upon a discussion of "A Rose for Emily." 
The group developed a theme that is actually more of a cliché, moral, or topic.   
The group failed to develop a theme that is recognizable throughout the paper. They don't seem to be clear on what the story is about.  
Introduction 

10 points 
The group both built a very clear sense in the reader of what to expect and engages the reader artfully.  
The group built a very clear sense in the reader of what to anticipate, specifically using a thesis statement to guide her along.  
The group generally prepares the reader for what's to come, but it may be very general or incomplete.  
The group does not specify what the essay will argue or reveal; in deed, it doesn't seem to serve a particular purpose.  
Individual Body Paragraph- Element of Fiction 

30 points 
The author clearly reveals the significance of the story's plot, setting, characters, point of view, or symbols in a way that a) illustrates a creative or novel perspective and b) uses specific references to the story to explain his/her point. The point is specific and singular.  
The author clearly reveals the significance of the story's plot, setting, characters, point of view, or symbols in a way that a) illustrates depth of understanding and b) uses specific references to the story to explain his/her point. The point is specific and singular.  
The author discusses the story's plot, setting, characters, point of view, or symbols in a way that uses references to the story to explain his/her point. The point and/or explanation may be too general for the reader to determine why it matters.  
The author discusses the story's plot, setting, characters, point of view, or symbols. It may not be clear that he/she understands how the element of fiction functions, he/she may have serious errors in recalling the story, or he/she never references the text.  
Individual Body- Support of the Theme 

30 points 
The author artfully and interestingly uses the element of fiction to justify the theme the group is arguing is present in the story. The line between what the story means (the theme) and how the element of fiction (how the author crafts the meaning) is clear, strong, and even creative.  
The author uses the element of fiction to justify the theme the group is arguing is present in the story. The line between what the story means (the theme) and how the element of fiction (how the author crafts the meaning) is supported with evidence.  
The author claims that the element of fiction supports the theme, but there is little justification made. The line between what the story means (the theme) and how the element of fiction (how the author crafts the meaning) is stated directly and argued, but with minimal evidence 
The author claims that the element of fiction supports the theme, but then simply assumes the reader sees it without needed evidence.  
OR  The theme is mentioned in passing, but not discussed in connection with the plot, character, setting, etc.  
Conclusion 

10 points 
The group creatively engages the reader's attention again as it recounts the thesis and it's importance to readers or the group itself.  
The group restates what the paper as a whole was about, stating explicitly why the point of the paper matters.  
The group summarizes what the paper has been about.  
The group presents new ideas or largely parrots the introduction paragraph.  


Below is an example of how each page of the essay might be formatted, based upon authorship. 
Albus Dumbledoor
Bilbo Baggins
Emily Grierson
Dr. Lynch
AP Literature- 1st Period
August 26, 2016

     This is our introduction paragraph. The whole group wrote it. Well, except for Emma. She just kind of scowls at us every time we meet to write. Anyways, it’s a pretty nifty introduction, right?! Fine. It’s lame. Yours will be much better, with fancy things like a thesis and content that helps your teacher know what to expect in the rest of the paper. Okay. I think this is plenty.




1
Albus Dumbledoor
Dr. Lynch
AP Literature- 1st Period
August 26, 2016


       Here, I shall spout some sort of wisdom, of stories long untold, namely “A Rose for Emily” and the ways in which the character of this miserable Ms. Emily Greirson unfolds across the story. Our first knowledge of Ms. Grierson is that she has died. Indeed….
                                                        …In conclusion, the pitiable Ms. Greirson is shrouded in more than merely dead.




2
Biblo Baggins
Dr. Lynch
AP Literature- 1st Period
August 26, 2016


       Right. Well, I suppose our story begins with a sort of point of view, which, as fate would have it is not quite as straight forward as one might think. You see…
                                                  …In other words, the old expression “it takes a village” is turned on its head, isn’t it?



3
Emily Greirson
Dr. Lynch
AP Literature- 1st Period

      For the record, this assignment is beneath my dignity. I’ve never stooped to such indignities in all my life. I’ll have you know that….
                                      …So you can put that in your pipe and smoke it.






4
Albus Dumbledoor
Bilbo Baggins
Emily Grierson
Dr. Lynch
AP Literature- 1st Period
August 26, 2016


       Clearly, “A Rose for Emily” comments upon…. From the point of view, characterization of Emily, and another reason that we failed to get around to (honestly Emily!), Faulkner weaves together a tale that leads the reader to consider….



5


Tuesday, August 16, 2016

August 16- "A Rose for Emily" by William Faulkner






Your homework tonight is to read "A Rose for Emily," a short story by William Faulkner about an old Southern woman who leads a mysterious life in a the small town of Jefferson, Mississippi. This is a great little story to discuss while we are polishing up our recollection of literary elements. Upon reading the ending, develop a theory about Emily and Homer's relationship and why it ended the way it did. Come to class ready to talk about  it.

**Note: Yes. There are resources online that can tell you what experts think about this story, plot elements, the relationship between these two characters. I'd rather you think your own thoughts, rather than simply let others think for you. There's no substitute for original, free thinking.**

Monday, August 15, 2016

Welcome to AP Literature and Composition!

Douglas County High School
AP Literature and Composition Syllabus
Dr. Lynch
Fall 2016
770-651-6000


The AP English Literature and Composition course engages students in careful reading and critical analysis of imaginative literature. Through the close reading of selected texts, students deepen their understandings of the ways writers use language to provide both meaning and pleasure for their readers. As they read, students consider a work’s structure, style, and themes, as well as such smaller-scale elements as the use of figurative language, imagery, symbolism, and tone. (Excerpt taken from the 2015 College Board course description)

We will talk each class about some vital aspect of literature, ranging from the author’s craft to genre-specific forms and elements to a work’s socio-cultural importance. Through these discussions, we will consider the ways that seminal works in the English language speak to the author’s audience, across time, and to us in the year 2016. Our conversations will also allow us to consider why and how this is so through close reading, strategic analysis, and personal reflection. In addition to reading both deeply and widely across the year, this is a writing-intensive course designed to encourage writing to understand, writing to explain, and writing to evaluate. Students will additionally be asked to write creative assignments as well, not in order to create masterpieces in the context of this class (although master work is welcome), but rather to gain an appreciation for the discipline particular literary forms require and to demonstrate an understanding of how they work from the inside out. In short, we will read like writers and write like readers.

Performance Standards/ Objectives:
  • Students will generate pieces of writing that meet the demands of the Advanced Placement Exam in English Literature and Composition.
  • Students will read texts that represent both classical and contemporary literature in the following genres: drama, fiction and poetry.
  • Students will develop their ability to discuss important ideas based upon their reading of challenging literature.
  • Students will develop their ability to analyze, discuss and write about poetry.

Texts
Provided texts will come from our textbook, The Bedford Introduction to Literature. In addition, we will read from classroom novels, such as 1984, Frankenstein, Great Expectations, among other possibilities from the AP Literature and Composition suggested authors list.


Required Materials:
·         Composition Book (no spiral notebooks, please)
·         Binder with Tabs Labeled-
o   Course/Exam Info.
o   Notes
o   Handouts
o   Writing- Current
o   Writing- Returned
·         Notebook paper
·         Pen (blue/black only)/Pencil


Reading Assignments- Students are expected to read all assignments with care and on time. Students who are not used to regular reading assignments outside of class would do well to plan time in their schedule for this reading in a space free from distractions. In addition, students should be prepared to discuss readings in class, so notes are a useful aid.

Formal Writing Assignments­- Students will write a number of critical and creative assignments. Critical assignments will include explications of poetry and drama and performing close readings of short fiction and novels. Critical papers will generally be between two-to-three pages long, with the exception of a longer research paper. I will often require rough drafts; we will talk in class about how to document the drafting process using Word Track Changes or Google Docs. All formal essays must be typed (12-point Times New Roman font), double-spaced, revised (for organization and meaning), and edited (for errors).


Writing Processes- Writing is often seen as a lonely activity. I don’t believe this is accurate. In this class, while students are responsible for the content of their final drafts, we will use a Writing Workshop approach to drafting, revising, and editing work together. This includes time during class reading and discussing each other’s writing with the goal of growing as writers together. For this reason, students who come to class without drafts of assigned papers will miss valuable feedback and suggestions from their classmates.

In-Class Writing Assignments- In addition to formal papers and original works of literature, students will engage in informal writing assignments that offer opportunities to reflect on readings/understandings, puzzle over complicated questions, make sense of discussions, and plan ideas for formal writing tasks. Students will write in-class essays in the preparation for the AP Language and Composition Exam that they will take in the fall. The purpose of these writing tasks will serve to help students get used to writing, revising, and editing a strong literary analysis essay in the 40 minutes that they will have during the exam.


A Note about Academic Honesty: Plagiarism (that is using someone else’s ideas, words, without giving them credit) will result in a 0% for that assignment; you may regain up to 50% of the grade by re-completing the assignment (or an alternative assignment) entirely after school or during lunch in Dr. Lynch’s classroom and presence and at her convenience. In addition, disciplinary action will be taken. (See the DCHS policy on plagiarism.)
*NOTE: This syllabus is subject to change without prior notice*

Expectations

1.      Be respectful, if not kind.
In this class, we are to treat each other with empathy and kindness, both face-to-face and otherwise. Our language will be respectful whether we agree or disagree, whether we understand each other or not. We must also show respect for our time, understanding that we have none to waste on anything unworthy of serious thought, as well as our environment by keeping it tidy.
2.      Be responsible, if not passionate.
In this class, students are expected to come to class:
ü  On time.
ü  Prepared.
ü  Aware of assignment deadlines.
ü  Ready to learn.
Sometimes being responsible requires us to ask questions when we are unsure of what’s expected of us. In addition, do what you know is right, regardless of the actions of others.
3.      Be appropriate, if not thoughtful.
Students are expected to conduct themselves as mature, well-mannered young adults. This means using keeping contributions to class and small group discussions relevant and meaningful and practicing habits that you will soon use either in college or the workplace. If you’d likely get fired one day for an action, it doesn’t belong here. 
4.      Be involved, if not fully-present.
Participate to the fullest extent that you can. This means, not only being present in body, but in mind as well; for this reason, students should not be on their cell phones unless specifically instructed by the teacher. Furthermore, stay on task. Ask questions. Answer questions. Take notes. You only get each day once; take advantage of every one of them.
5.      Be honest, if not authentic. 
When we make mistakes in this class, they are opportunities to learn. Should a student realize he/she has made a mistake, let’s talk and move forward together. Don’t make excuses or cover them up.
Students are to complete their own work—both in and out of class.







Classroom Management

In order for each student to feel safe and comfortable in my classroom, a positive and respectful attitude is expected of all students, this includes respecting others’ thoughts, work, feelings, and individuality. If a student does not demonstrate positive behavior, I will visit with him/her and we will try to resolve the issue together. If this proves unsuccessful, students will call their parent at home or work and explain their behavior. The third offense will be a disciplinary report to the office. Any negative behavior that continues will result in a conference with the student, parent(s)/guardian(s), the teacher, and an administrator.



Class Policies

Late Work- Late assignments (not related to an absence), will receive a 10% deduction for each school day that is it late, regardless of whether our class meets that day or not.

Extra Credit- I do not offer extra credit assignments in this course. Rather, I will (on occasion) offer extra credit points on individual assignments if students perform additional learning tasks.

Make-Up Work- Students will have 1 school day for each day absent to make up missed work. It is the students' responsibility to determine what was missed and get work to Dr. Lynch.

Reassessment- Students may reassess or revise/edit a summative assignments (a test, essay, or project with a failing score) IF all related classwork and homework has been and IF the student demonstrated effort in preparation.

Cell Phones- Cell phones must be on MUTE and out of site unless Dr. Lynch has specifically requested their use for an engagement.

Food and Drinks- Water is always allowed in class in a container with a lid. Other food and drinks are not permitted in class.














Acknowledgements
The syllabus will be kept by the student in his or her notebook or binder. This page will be kept on file by Dr. Lynch. A full copy of this syllabus will be available on the class webpage for future reference.
I have read and understand all of the classroom procedures and expectations for AP Literature and Composition.  I understand that this is a reading and writing-intensive course with rigorous expectations. It is my responsibility to inform Dr. Lynch of any questions or concerns regarding any information provided in this syllabus.
Student name _____________________________________________ 
Student signature___________________________________________Date_________ 
I have read and discussed the classroom procedures and expectations with my child.  I understand it and will support it. 
Parent/Guardian signature ___________________________________Date_________