Ah, we're almost juniors....

But not yet! Please keep very close track of your assignments and your activities over the next few weeks. Judging from the school's calendar, May is very busy. Add your personal calendar to that, and oh my.

Research papers begin April 30. Your task is to look at two short stories by an author and to use literary theory to discuss those stories. For example, do you believe that it is more relevant to look at "The Lottery" in reference to history or is it more interesting to examine the text in light of feminist theory? Either argument can be justified, you just need to validate your opinion. Likewise, consider The Great Gatsby. You could apply Marxist theory or historical criticism. Pick one and back up your choice with solid evidence.

We will spend the week of May 3 either in the library or in a computer lab. Please be sure to check your planner/agenda so that you report to the right room.

Good luck on your AP exams. Let me hear about a lot of fives next fall!

Homework for the Week of April 19, 2010

The Great Gatsby

Monday: Read chapter 4
Tuesday: Read chapter 5 and study for tomorrow's quiz
Wednesday: Read chapter 6 and complete a Nicenet post
Thursday: Read chapter 7 and "Big Ideas from Big Business" by Purinton
Friday: Finish the novel over the weekend

The Great Gatsby

Welcome back! Did everyone enjoy the wonderful weather? We'll just have to pretend that we did not study Thoreau and Emerson and head outdoors if the weather stays this nice!

All kidding aside, if this school year were a mile race, you would be entering the final lap in ten yards. Work hard during the fourth marking period. Effort can make the difference between B and B+ or an A and A-. All a college admissions counselor sees is your final grade. Finish the race with an A!

As we read The Great Gatsby, figure out why this piece of literature is often referred to as the first great American novel. Why is it different from Hawthorne or Poe? What makes this piece American? You should easily be able to list five or six reasons, not just one or two.

And a friendly reminder... PAPERS ARE DUE THIS TUESDAY! You should be editing a rough draft at this point.

I'll see everyone this Monday!

Mrs. Porter