TKAM - 12/15/15

Writing Pormpt: After reading, I wonder…

          One of the questions To Kill a Mockingbird left with is: what happened when Jem woke up? I'm wondering what he thought of his new broken arm. What was his reaction? I would imagine that he would be shocked, because I feel he wouldn't rember what happened, considered he was knocked unconscious and has a concussion. 

           I was also wondering what Jem did remember about the attack. If he remembers anything, he probably knows who was the one to kill Bob. I also wonder what was going through his head during the attack. Probably something that has to with getting out alive, and saving his sister.

           Other than wondering what Jem's side of the story was, I would like to know what happens with Dill. Does he continue to come back every summer? Do him and Scout continue to be "engaged"? Do they ever get married? If I had to guess I would say that Scout and Dill continue to be friends and engaged, and unless they meet someone else, I do think that they would get married. I know that Dill seems very serious about getting married, and they act so cute together. If they don't get married I definitely think they will continue their lives being very close to each other.

            Other than wondering what the continuing story is like for Jem and Dill, I wonder what will happen with everyone else. Will Anut Alexandra ever stop trying to change the family? Will anything happen to Calpurnia. Will Jem and Scout grow together, or apart, based on what they recently went through. What's going to happen to Bob Ewell's kids now that he is dead. I'm also wondering if Walter Cunningham will become more apart of Scout's life. 

TKAM - Character Relationships

Writing Prompt: Think about the two characters.  Note at least two ways they are alike and two ways they are different. From there, decide what relationship each has with Scout and what effect they have on her.

          Both Aunt Alexandra and Atticus have an impact on Scout. Aunt Alexandra is the strict Aunty that is pushing her towards lady-like adulthood, while Atticus is the father that lets her be herself and run wild. They have thier similarities and differences, but in the end they are just doing it for the love and protection of Scout. They both effect her in different ways, and we have seen that through the eyes of Scout. 

         Atticus and Aunt Alexandra are very different in the ways they greet Scout. Atticus lets her be free and run wild. He also lets her do things ladies wouldn't normally do, like ware overalls instead of a dress and camisole. This is very different from Aunt Alexandra because, unlike Atticus, she is pushing Scout to become lady-like, because she currently isn't. Aunt Alexandra knows Scout will have an easier time is she alters her life style, but living with Atticus, who has different views, makes it very hard for to be the lady Aunt Alexandra wants her to be.

          Atticus and Aunt Alexandra are also simsimilar because they both do what they do because they love Scout, and want to look out for her. Aunt Alexandra tries to help Scout mature so she can better her life. She is living a way no girls live, and Aunt Alexandra is trying to look out for her by helping her turn into more of a lady. Atticus looks out for Scout too. He does this by letting her Tomboy self. Being the father, he also helps her through life problems. 

          They are also similar because they both feel that they are doing what's best for Scout, and what will help her live life happy. By living the way Aunt Alexandra wants her to live, Scout would be somewhat confined, and wouldn't be able to be the wild curious person she is. Aunt Alexandra believes it is best for her to act this way because that's what all ladies do, and she needed to start being a proper lady. Atticus is different because he lets her be free, because by doing this she will never be confined and this will leave her life a happy one, because she was always able to be the curious explorer she is. The reason this is similar is because, although they think about this differently, in the end they were just doing what they thought was best for Scout.

          Atticus is the somewhat, stern father figure in Scouts life, and Aunt Alexandra is kind of the strict voice that is helping her do like everyone else. In other words, helping her be more ordinary and normal. They both have an effect on Scout because they both help her through life and help to mold her into an amazing kid, teenager, and adult. AuntvAlexandra has the effect of showing Scout how she is unique from others like her, and Atticus has the effect of showing her that that's a good thing. Being different from others, and being your self, is not a thing you change, just because your not the proper lady you should be. Maybe Aunt Alexandra will rub off on Scout and she will effect her by turning her more ladylike, and showing her the the necessary skills a women needs to learn before they grow up and go off on their own. 

Compare Maycomb - Primary Source Analysis

Delano, Jack. Houses in the Nigro Section of Eutaw Alabama. 1941. Library of 

          Congress, Eutaw.

                    To me, this picture represents Maycomb in many ways. Maycomb is a tired old town with clay roads and grass on the sidewalks. When I look at this picture I instantly notice the lack of buildings and people. In the book, it says implicitly says that Maycomb is a small town. The fact that there are many people in this photo, made me think this was a small town. Since there aren't many people in this photograph, it makes the area look almost deserted. I also noticed that there is lots of grass around, which makes me think there is a farm nearby, which also ties this place in with Maycomb.

                    I think this picture was made for people to see this place. I believe that the person who took this picture found inspiration in this image, and that's why he/she took this picture. Maybe this person found this inspiring, and they wanted to share their inspiration with other people, and maybe even inspire them. 

          If I had to guess, I would say that this picture was taken in the 30's or 40's. Just by looking at it I can tell it is hot, which makes me think it is in the South. I also look at this picture and think these people are poor, based on where they live and what their house looks like. Their house looks run down and their clothes look old and dirty. Either from working very hard, or because they don't have many clothes, so they can't always put on a clean pair.

          The main reason I chose this picture to represent Maycomb, is because the area looks like a old, tired, unpopulated town, which is exactly what I would image Maycomb to be like. The area looks like it could include farms, and house, and a main townhall-like building, just like the real Maycomb.

Theme Blog - Paper a Towns

          I would say that the theme of Paper Towns is to chase after what you want in life, no matter what has to be left behind. I think this because of the development of characters, setting, and plot throughout the story. There are different ways the story shows this theme, and the main in way is through the characters. 

          The character, Margo, always travels to places without notifying anyone, and in this book, she disappears suddenly without any explanation why. This has left Quentin, the main character, in confusion. Margo has left clues to show Quentin where she has gone. When Quentin finally finds her, she reveals that she never meant for Quentin to actually find her. This shows that Margo intended to leave abruptly without telling anyone, because she was trying to find something more meaningful and exciting about life. In doing this she has left everything and everyone behind, and unlike all the other times she has left, she is not coming back thins time.

          Parts of the setting also help this theme. Margo has disappeared to New York, which is far away from her friends, school, and life back in Flordia. This shows that she has chased life, and it has taken her far  Which shows that she is willing to leave many things behind, considering her far distance from home. This also shows that she is not scared or afraid to leave her life behind to chase after life.

Quarter 1 Reflection Blog

     I do not believe my bogs have changed much since August. I pretty much write the same. I wouldn't say this is a bad thing. Though it might not seem like my blogs have gotten "better", I still continue to write in a way that I consider good, and I am proud of that. I do believe that my blogs will continue to progress as the school year goes on. They will surely start to improve once I start learning and using some new vocabulary words.

     I would say that my research skills have improved a little bit. If I were to compare now with a few years ago, I would say that I have done great in developing my research skills. I have learned that it is best to check multiple sites for information, because you always have the chance of getting incorrect information. I consider that to be one of the most important pieces of information I have learned.

     I have learned so many things about the world, and I hope to learn more in the future. I like that I get to learn what's going on around the world, and what important things are happening. Although I have not leaned many positive things, I enjoy learning the negative things, because those things are also important. Also, I like to know what's going on around the world I live in. 

Paper Towns

Writing Prompt: Write a journal entry as if you were a certain character form your reading

          Once I found out that Margo was in the Paper Town of Algoe, New York, I knew I had to go. I had to go now. Even if that meant missing graduation. Surprisingly, my parents understood, and let me go. I was all ready to go in my brand new car, that my parents bought me for graduation. I thought I was going alone, but then I found out that my two best buddies, Radar and Ben, were ready to come with me. Along with Ben's girlfriend, and Margo's best friend, Lacey.

          In the rush to leave, there was no time for packing food or anything. We were on a 21 hour car trip and we forgot to pack food. Radar had calculated that we needed to go at 72 mph at all times, if we were going to make it on time. We only had time for four, six minute stops, for gas and food. Right now, all we have is gum, half a Snickers, and were weren't stopping for another four and a half hours. Along with that Ben really has to pee.

          I'm really excited for this trip. I think it will be a really good time. Honestly, I think it's the most fun I've had since the last time I've spent hours behind a steering wheel of a minivan. I wonder if Margo created this journey for us on purpose. Maybe that's one of the things she was figuring get out, and writing in her black journal. 

Of Beetles and Angels - Life Lines poem

"Always Try Hard"

Our parents told us that we could do anything 

If we worked hard 

And treated others with respect

My brother helped a man find a house and a job,

Encouraged him,

And gave him money when he could,

Even though my brother

Had so little himself

My brother was determined. 

His heart had been inspired by the strength of God. 

He believed God wanted him to try "impossible" things

Of the gifts we give, 

The greatest 

Is to see beauty

In each other

Anyone of us, 

However small and helpless we may feel, 

Can spark unimagined changes

Juxtapose Aow and OBAA

          My article, Refugee crisis divides Europe amid fresh tragedy," is like the book Of Beetles and Angels in many ways. One way they are similar is the different connects between individuals. In Of Beetles and Angels there are refugees, of coarse, and there is also information on refugees in my article. Along with that, my article also includes people who really care about the protection of the refugees. In "Refugee crisis divides Europe amid fresh tragedy" it talks about German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Francois Hollande. The article says, "…vocal supporters of a refugee redistribution program, called on their fellow European nations to help shoulder the responsibility for the unprecedented amount of refugees arriving in the European Union." This shows that these people are doing what they can to help the situation. In Of Beetles and Angels an important person who did their best to help was a girl named Beth. The book says, "Beth found a sponsor, the Bethel Presbyterian Church." It also says, "Bethel went to work immediately on finding us an affordable home…" This shows that Beth did a really good thing to help and her help turned into something even greater.

          Another connection between the book and the article is the events. Both the book and the article include similar events. I include the death of all the many refugees an event. Both, the article and the book, include information on the many lives lost, and the cause of these lost lives. The book says, "Many refugees died from a sickness…" This shows the cause for some of the lives lost. In the article it says, "…at least 13 refugees - six of then children - drowned off the coast of Turkey…" This shows the lives lost during the refugee's walk to their new home. The book also talked about the many children that didn't make it to their destination.

          War in society has nothing but negative effects on the society and its people. As you can see from the book, war caused many people to flee their homes and become refugees. The article says, "…roughly 10,700 asylum seekers walked into Austria from Hungary…" This shows that over 10,000 people have be forced to leave their home. This is information tells you one of the negative effects war can have on people and society.

Bad Girls Don't DIe - Summer Blog 4 7/11/15

Writing Prompt: Why did you choose this to read? Give at least 3 reasons


          One reason I chose this book to read is becuase it seemed very interesting. Once I read the back, I knew right away that this book was going to be as good one. Another way this book made me think it was going to be a interesting one to read, is the introduction. This book has a strong introduction that really pulls the reader in.

          Another reason I chose this book to read is becuase it is by Katie Alender. Before this I read a book called Famous Last Words, which was also by Katie Alender. Famous Last Words was an amazing book that I thoroughly enjoyed. I thought the author did a good job on that book, so I decided to read another book written by the same author, to see how I feel about the author, and her work. I can tell you that after this book, I can list Katie Alender as one of my favorite authors. In fact, I have a few other books written by her.

          A third reason I chose this book to read is becuase it is in the horror genre. Recently, I have taken an intrest in book of the horror and horror/mystery genre. Bad Girls Don't Die is a book that fits into that category, so I thought I would give it a read. I have to say that I am glad I took a chnace with this book, becuase it is definitely a good one.

Bad Girls Don't Die - Sumer Blog 3 7/5/15

Writting Prompt: If you could change what you're reading, how would you change it?

          Just so the reader understands, this book is about a family who lives in an old house. Long ago at this house, a little girl died because of some school kids that thought she was a witch, and was weird because she over obsessed with dolls, which was inappropriate for her age. The family that lives there now is not ordinary. The mom is always working, the oldest daughter is semi-goth and is rebellious, the youngest girl, though 13, is over obsessed with dolls, and acts like a little kid. The dad seems to be disliked, or ignored, most of the time, by the rest of the family. Recently the 13 year old has been changing. Her blue eyes go green sometimes, she starts to talk with lauguage that hasn't been used in many years, and she can't remember her actions sometimes.

          Something I would change is the length it took for the story to get interesting. I felt the build up time to the interesting parts took too long, and I was starting to get bored with the book, when I had barley started. It almost took 100 pages for he story to take off. This isn't the the first time this has happened, but in the long run, the very long build up helps me understand the story more. Though the long build up can be helpful, it can be annoying and uninteresting, that's why I would change that part.

          Another thing I would change is the amount of explanation used for Alexis, the semi-goth, rebelious oldest daughter. She has pink hair, is very rebelious, and hangs out with the "Death Squad". This sounds like someone who might be the goth type, yet she is described as a person who will not wear all black, or all the black, dark stuff, that people would expect. Especially not go to the extremes (spiked necklaces, black veils with spiders on it, etc.) Like her "best friend". I would change it so she was expliained a little more. Maybe her styles, or her attitude. Something that will make me understand Alexis al little more.

          Though there are things that I might think of changing, I would rather have this book just the way it is, then change anything about. The unexplained things, the over exlplained things, the unnecessary things, are all part of the book, and I wouldn't change a thing about it.

       

Famous Last Words - Summer Blog 2 - 6/27/15

Writing Prompt: Write a journal entry as if you were a certain charcter from your reading.

          I just went through my stepfather's computer, and I found some pretty weird things. First of all, he seemed to have some very specific information about the murders. I know this might seem crazy, but I think he might be the murderer. Reed came up a few minutes ago and took the computer away, becuase he was going to give it back to Jonathan. I was freaking out becuase I was opening files I wasn't suppose be openeing, and I forgot to close the window. Fortuantly I came up with a good enough lie, and Reed didn't suspect anything. At lest that's what I thought.

          Jonathan, my stepfather, had the dates the people went missing, there intials, and the names of the fake directors that tricked them into coming to the place where they got murdered. Along with that, he also had the movie that the death scene was being used from, and a chart that furthered my suspicions. I don't know what is going on, but I sure do hope that the murderer isn't a person living in my own house.

          I tried to tell Reed, Jonathan's assistant, about it, but he denied it. I hope he doesn't think I'm crazy. Although he seemed p-retty calm about it. Like he was sure Jonathan wasn't the killer. Could Reed have anything to do with it...nah. I'm going to do some research on this. I'll tell Wyatt about this at school tomorrow, and see what he thinks about it. I'm sure he will help me figure this out. He always does.

          This whole situation has just got me really confused. I don't know what to think anymore. I haven't heard from the ghost in a while. That's good, I guess. I just hope I find some information that proves me wrong about my stepfather being the Hollywood Killer.

Famous Last Words - Summer Blog1 - 6/25/13

Writing Prompt: Is the setting described well enough that you can put a picture of it in your mind? Why or why not?

          Just so the reader understands, I am reading a murder/horror book. It is about a girl who moved to hollywood with her famous stepdad and ordinary mother. There is a murderer that kills people by reanacted famous death scenes from well know movies. Along with that, the main character, Willa, sees strange things that no one else can see. Her "visions" seem to tie in with the murders. On top of that, she is being haunted by a famous movie star that killed herself in Willa's new house long ago. As all this happening, she is also having trouble with her "friends" at her new school. Of coarse there is a love interest, in this case it's her stepfather's assistant, Reed. Though Willa thinks he is perfect, there seems to be another guy that she is starting to take interest in: the school weirdo, Wyatt.

          At times the setting is described so well that I can picture all the details as if I were living in that moment. At other times, the setting is described well and I can picture it, but not well enough so that I feel like I am there. Then there are times where I feel the setting is described in a way that is not very detailed, and it is not always easy to picture what is happening, or what the setting looks like. Although, overall I would say that this book gives great detail most of the time, and I can often picture the situation in my head.

          An example of a moment when the setting was outstandingly detailed would be, "Her house was light brown with a pointy roof nad colorful flowers everywhere. It looked like Hansel and Gretel's cottage -- if Hansel and Gretel had been millionaries. Marnie's bedroom was much pinker than I would have expected, with fushia walls and a huge white fairy-tail bed. A makeup vanity with a biground mirror was pushed up against on wall, and the chandelier above the bed dripped with teardrop-shape crystals. The carpet (what you could see of it anyway, between piles of clothes, books, and papers) was plush and white." I feel this grives very good detail to what the room looks like. I could picture the room very well.

          An example of when the detailing was not all that great would be, "It was a nice room, with a big window looking down over the backyard. The furniture was heavy wood and clearly eaxpensive...The pictures on the walls were of fruit and sailboats." I do think that there i8s good detailing being used here, but I just feel like more detail could've been used, or more of the room could've been explained.

"Paradox and Dream" Reflection

"Paradox and Dream" Reflection

Paradox: "Americans overindulge their children and do not like them; the children in turn are overly dependent and full of hate for their parents."

          This means that parents will do whatever they can to make their children happy, even though the parents dislike them, and the children will continue to be rude and mean to the parents. Also, that parents might do to much for their children, which makes the children hate the parents.

          I can relate to this because I have seen a case like this many times. I have seen some of my friends constantly be rude to their parents when their parents have tried really hard to make them happy. I have also experienced this, becuase I am this way too.

Paradox: "Our lives as we live them would not function without electricity, but it is a rare man or woman who, when the power goes off, know how to look for a burned-out fuse and replace it."

          This means that, even though we spend most of our time around and using electricity, we don't know how to fix it when it gets broken. If our phone stops working, we won't know what to do to. In turn, we go to the phone store. What we do is we look on Google looking for the answers, but if our device isn't working, then we can't look on Google, and we won't know what to do.

          I can relate to this because I have been around when a person freaks our when their phone stops working and they don't know what to do. I think that it is true that ..."it is a rare man or woman who, when the power goes off, know how to look for a burned-out fuse and replace it."  I have never seen a person try and fix their problem when a power outage occurs. They just assume it will turn back on itself, and so they wait in the dark. I've always wondered how we can be so involved in technology, and not know how to use it.

Symbolism - What Represents Me (5-15-15)

          I think a pineapple represents me. The reason I feel a pineapple represents me is becuase it is different on the inside then it is on the inside, like I am. A pineapple is hard and has spike like things on the outside. On the inside it it soft and juicy. People might think of a pineapple as a hard weird food that wont taste good. Then they see the inside and they think differently becuase it is soft and has a more friendly look to it.

          I think this represents me becuase I am quiet and shy on the outside, and that's what people think of me. On the inside I am fun, crazy, and the exact opposite of shy. People might think of me as a quiet, shy girl, but when they get to know me, I turn into someone completely different. Like a pineapple seems to turn into something completely different.

Commented on: Omar, Emily, Diana, Sonny, and Saul

Final Reflection

          One of the three most important things I have learned this year is: How to write a proper paragraph. Before Mrs. Larson's class I did not know about topic sentences and all that, and now that I do, I can write a proper paragraph. I am glad for that.

          Another important thing I learned was all of the new words and vocabulary that are now in my personal dictionary. The words like melancholy, dismal, and mediocre, are now words that I can use in my everyday life to make my sentences more sophisticated.

          A third important thing I learned this year in Mrs. Larson's class was how to write an argumentative essay. Before I don't even think I knew what that was, but know I can write one and persuade my reader in any direction I want them to go. Outside of school that might not be an important skill I will need, but I am glad I learned it just in case a moment like that comes up.

          Something we did last year that I think I will remember for the rest of my life is, how to write a paragraph correctly. Whenever I write a paragraph, whether or not it is in English class, I always remember to include a topic sentence and supporting details. I know that I will always remember these skills and will use them for all of my life.

          The nicest thing someone in our class did for me this year would probably be someone putting down my chair. It might not be a big thing but, you get what you get. Or the nicest thing would be all the parties we had and the people bring the treats. Even though the treats were for everyone, I count them as someone doing a nice thing for me. Either that or Mrs. Larson actually letting us have those parties and bring those treats, considering how much she doesn't like crumbs in her room.

          Something I taught my classmates this year is that...hmm...maybe that I'm shy? I don't know. I don't think I taught my teacher or classmates anything this year. If I did then I didn't realize that I had.

          My writing skills is the area that I have improved on a a lot this year. I thought I had already learned a lot of writing and that I was already a pretty good writer, but I learned some more skills. What my writing skills have helped me on is my blogs, article of the weeks (AOW), and the poems we wrote. I think that all the poems I wrote is something that I have accomplished that I am most proud of.

          The most challenging part of this year was the vocabulary we had to study every week. The AOW's were pretty hard at times as well. The vocabulary was a challenging part because we had to study a lot of words (a lot in my opinion) in a week and we had to memorize the definition, part of speech, AND spelling. The AOW's were challenging at times becuase we had to really think on some questions and sometime it was a lot of challenging work. In my opinion anyway.

          I think the best piece of writing I did this year was my Rose Poem (link included). I thought this was my best becuase I really thought about it and tried hard on it. I will always remember and be proud of this piece. I am also proud of the alternative ending I wrote for "The Lady or the Tiger" (link included). I think this is a great piece becuase I used great detail, and tried hard to create an interesting alternative ending. It is hard to choose form both of those but I think my Rose Poem wins that contest.

          Of the books I read this year, I think that Pride and Prejudice and Zombies was my favorite book. I also liked the book Skinny. It is defiantly a hard decision. I just cant decide which one I liked better. They were both so great!

          I would give advice to the students of next years class by saying try hard, do your best, listen, and always do your work. I would tell them to really focus on doing your work, listening, and trying hard. Oh wait, that's all of them. Anyway, that is really the most important things you will need. There will be a lot of work. You just have to fight through it and try your best. Trust me, it will all be worth it in the end. If I can get through it, then so can you!

OMAM Blog - Analyze Ending - 3-11-15

Writing prompts:
1. Analyze the ending of the book versus the ending of the movie (Section 3)

2. What are your general thoughts, feelings, reactions of Of Mice and Men? What had the most profound impact on you or your understanding of the novella? Who would you recommend this book to and why? (Section 4)

         The flashback at the end of the movie shows George and Lennie walking away towards the sunset. This flashback leaves the audience with a sad feeling at the end of the movie. The reason it is a sad feeling is becuase it is the last time you see George and Lennie together, after Lennie gets shot. Also, the flashback is accompanied by sad, slow music, which adds to the feeling.

          At the end of the book the reader is sad, but the feeling is kind of taken away by the lines that came at the very end of the book. In the book, the reader feels less sorrowful then at the end of the movie.

          I think the director chose a different ending then what's in the book becuase you get stronger feeling with the way the movie ended, then how the book ended. In the movie it ends in a happy memory, and in the book it ends with all the men of the ranch gathered around Lennie at the brush. I think the director wanted the audience of the movie to have a stronger feeling and you get to see more of the sadness that Gorge felt, and it makes you feel extreme sadness as well. I feel that if the movie ended the way the book did, it wouldn't be as good. It is nice to change some things os it is  not exactly what the book is. Also, having an alternate ending might make a person want to read the book and see what that is like, and see how it is the same or different and how it makes them feel.

          The line of dialogue that ends the book is, "'Now what the hell ya suppose is eatin' them to guys?'" This line of dialogue tells the reader that the speaker does not know what has happened and that he does not know the importance of the situation. This line leaves the reader with a feeling of confusion and wonder. It leaves them with confusion because Carlson (the one saying the line) obviously doesn't know the seriousness of what has just happened. It leaves the reader with wonder becuase they don't know why he is saying that like he doesn't know whats going on, so the reader wants to know more about the situation, and how the people feel.

          I personally really enjoyed the book. I am not the type of person who reads a book more than once, so I would read this book again. If I was that type of person, then I would definitely read this book again. I can say that this is once of my favorite books and I would defiantly recommend other people to read it. I don't have a specific person or group of people that I would recommend this book to, but even if I did, I just think everyone should read this book and be familiar with George, Lennie, and the rest of the guys. The part where Curley's wife is being absolutely terrible to Crooks, is what had the most profound impact on me. There is no specific part that had a big impact on my understanding of the novella. It was all of it, really.

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AOW Impressions 5-5-15

          From the Article of the Week (AOW) gallery walk I have learned many things. From earthquakes in Nepal to Free water in California.  I have learned many different things about many different topics from many different parts of the world. I've gained more information on NASA, Mercury, Malala, The Baltimore Riot, and fluoride.

          Usually, the things I learn from an AOW gallery walk include negative information. This AOW gallery walk included a pretty good mix of negative and positive topics. For example, I learned that the recommended amount of fluoride is going to be changed becuase this was a safer decision. This topics is not completely positive, but it certainty isn't negative.

          Also, the information I learned about Malala was a positive topic. I learned that some of Malala's attackers were found. This is not a negative, but a positive topic. There were other non-negative topics, but I thought this was the main one.

          I think the information that would most effect me would be the fluoride topic. I learned that the amount of fluoride that was used is dangerous to people and can effect us in a negative way. Learning that the amount was going to be change to a safer number, is reassuring and effects me in a positive way.

          Overall, the different topics, articles, and information I learned was very interesting and informative. I learned about the things that do effect me, ad the things that don't effect me as much. I learned about the positive and negative things that are going on in this world. I also gathered lots of information on lots of different things that I can help other people understand.

Dream Poem 5-1-15

Writing Prompt: Write a short poem expressing what happens when you have a dream and it doesn't come true

I had a dream

I a really, really awesome dream.

I was going to big,

"gonna be a movie star" I said.

I was wrong.

My dream got crushed.

Crushed like an ant,

crushed like a bee.

Melancholy.

That's all I felt.

I was mad too,

yes.

But sorrow was my main feeling.

I thought, and thought, and thought

"I'll find a new dream" I said.

"There are too many movie stars these days anyway"

Of Mice and Men 3-27-15

Writing Prompts:

1) Brainstorm the different types of conflicts, create a chart that addresses the conflict, and the effect that the conflict has had on the plot so far.

2) From your brainstorming session, choose at least two conflicts to explore more in depth. Be sure to include textual evidence and support and also identify the effect that the conflict has had on the plot so far.

Pages Read: 37 - 66

          When Candy had to choose whether or not to let Carlson kill his dog, it was a Man vs Self situation. So far in the plot Candy has been devastated by this. I know this becuase the book says, "Candy lat still, staring at the ceiling." pg 49. I think this shows that Candy didn't want to talk to anyone and just wanted to be in his own little world. Also, when page 53 when it says, "He didn't look at old Candy, who still faced the wall." I think this means that Candy didn't want to look at Carlson, who had killed his dog, or at the gun, becuase it was used to shoot his dog. So far in the plot you see that this decision was one Candy was not proud of.

          When Curley starts to beat up Lennie, it was a Man vs Man situation. Curley comes into the bunkhouse looking for his wife and sees Lennie smiling, so he starts to beats him up. So far in the plot it has made Lennie afraid of the ranch, and makes him want to leave it more then he already does. I think this will cause some more trouble later becuase Curley will want revenge on Lennie for crushing his hand during the fight. On page 65 it says, "'I won't tell,' said Curley. He avoided looking at Lennie." In this situation it seems like Curley is scared of Lennie, but I still feel he will find some other way to win. Whether he will try and get him kicked out, try and beat him up again, or try and make him leave, I think some way Curley will try and get Lennie for what he did.

          When Curley accuses Slim of being with his wife, it was a Man vs Man situation. Slim calls Curley's wife things like "...good lookin'..." but it doesn't mean he is with Curley's wife. Curley and the other men in the bunkhouse go out with Curley becuase they think Slim and Curley are going to have some kind of fight. When the men return to the bunkhouse, Slim is really mad at Curley for accusing him, and Curley is trying to apologize. So far in the plot it has made thing weird and tense between Slim and Curley. I think we will see this have some negative effects later on in the book.

Commented on: Mia Devin Diana

Of Mice and Men Blog 4-20-15

Writing Prompts:
1) Describe the atmosphere of the ranch and the bunkhouse. Be sure to include characteristics of different character that were formally or informally introduced to is in this chapter. Support your choice with textual evidence.

2) Why doesn't Curley's wife have a name? What message, if anything, is John Steinbeck trying to send by not giving her a name? Support your choice with textual evidence and interpretation.

Pages Read: 0 - 37


          The bunkhouse was "...a long, rectangular building..." with "...small, square windows, and...a solid door with a wooden latch." The bunkhouse was filled with bunks and shelves where the occupants could put their personal belongings. This shows that it was not very fancy looking and had just enough space and objects for what was needed.

The atmosphere of the bunkhouse seems to be a mix between friendly and mean or tense. There are friendly people, such as Slim and Candy, make the atmosphere a friendly and kind environment. Rude or mean people, such as Curley and The Boss, make the atmosphere of the bunkhouse a little negative. The ranch might be a little different considering it includes other workers, such as Lennie and George. The atmosphere might be sad or depressing because of the hard work and labor the people must do. The atmosphere could also be a kind of happy environment because the people might have that kind of attitude and vibe. The atmosphere could also be a mixture between both of those things. There will probably be some kind people, and some people that cause negative feelings.

          It seems like the people at the ranch are a mixture of kind an not kind people. Slim, for example, was very kind to Lennie and George. When Slim speaks, he talks in a friendly tone and speaks with kindness. Carlson also seems to be friendly toward the George and Lennie. People, such as Curley, seems to dislike the new workers. By the way Curley fixes his body when around the two, shows his feeling towards George and Lennie. On page 25 it states, "He glanced coldly at George and then Lennie. His arms gradually bent at the elbows and his hands closed into fists, he stiffened and went into a slight crouch." This shows that Curley has some negative feelings about George and Lennie.

          The Boss seemed like a guy that was strict, but understanding. It didn't question George to much when things got suspicious. Candy described him as a "...pretty nice fella...gets pretty mad sometimes, but he's pretty nice." This shows that the boss is a kind person, at least in Candy's opinion.

          Candy is an "old swamper" and tries to gain trust and respect from George and Lennie. Candy gives them information on the ranch and the people there. He is very kind and helpful towards George and Lennie. Candy also has a very old dog that Carlson wants to replace with one of Slim's new pups.

          I think Curley's wife doesn't have a name because in this time women were not treated equal to men. Curley's wife not having a name shows that she belongs to Curley. I think John Steinbeck is trying to send a message that says: women didn't or shouldn't have the same equal rights as men. Instead of giving her a name, Curley's wife is always referred to as "she","her", "girl", or " woman.

Commented on: Siari, Jared (the text is black so you will have to highlight to see it), Justin

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time 3-13-15

Writing Prompt: If the author were here, what would you ask him/her?

          I haven't really gotten far in the book but I already have questions I want to ask the author. The author of this book is Mark Haddon. A question I would ask Mark Haddon is: Does this story connect with you in some way? I would ask this because the book The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is about a boy with mental illness, and I was wondering if the author connected with this in any way. For example, does the author have a mental illness? Does the author have a friend with a mental illness? Does Mark Haddon have a family with a mental illness? Things that have to do with the connection the author has to mental illness in general.

          Another question I would ask Mark Haddon is: How did you get the idea for this story? This question would probably connected with the connection Mark Haddon has with this book. I want to know if Mark has any real strong reasons for this book. For example, Is this based on something you've witnessed? Does this have something to do with you? Things that would help me find out how this book came to be.

          A different question I would ask Mark Haddon would be: Was it hard to write this book? This might also go in with the connection with this book. If Mark had a connection with the book then maybe this book wasn't so hard to write. If the author did not have a connection with this book, and it was all made up from the mind, then it might've been difficult to think of and create.

Commented on: Bianey, Emily, and Saul

Poetry Reflection 3-23-15

          Poetry is an important part of my life. It can express different feelings that might not be said out loud. Poetry is a large and significant part of my wold. I feel like poetry has helped me become a better writer and person. If poetry wasn't in my life, I probably wouldn't be the same.

          I believe that poetry belongs to everyone. Whether you are a girl, boy, child, or adult. No matter what you are in to. It doesn't matter what your likes or dislikes are. Everyone can find an interest in poetry. I say this because there are many different kinds of poetry. If a person doesn't like types of poetry, then write your own!

          The life and experiences of a poet can greatly effect the poems that he/she create. I have learned this from Edgar Allan Poe. Edgar Allan Poe had a very hard life. Many bad things happened to him. In result, his poems were often dark and sad. Some examples of this would be his poems "The Tell-Tale Heart" and "The Raven". These poems have a negative tone and vibe. This is just one of the many ways I have learned that a poet's life effects their poems.

My Poems:

Extended Metaphor Poem

Bio Poem

Where I From Poem

Two Voice Poem

Spine Poem

Found Poem

Nonsense Poem

Picture Poem

"Long Ago" (Nonsense Poem 3-25-15)

Zooming in might help you see better.

"Impossible" (Found Poem 3-23-15)

It seemed impossible,

I said fine.

Cruise around the neighborhood,

she told her brother.

Wash up,

She instructed.

Cleared away,

put on a pot of coffee,

wine glasses, cups, saucers.

Loud in the quiet house.

Image in the mirror looked almost unfamiliar.

Soft, flushed, expectant.

Under a summer tan.

Paleness,

Circle her eyes,

Stretch taut over her worried forehead.

          This poem is something that might be considered confusing. Even though it might be difficult to understand, I still think it has a lot of meaning and power. I myself don't completely understand this poem. I would want this poem to bring a neutral feeling to the reader. I don't believe that this would bring a positive, or negative feeling. I would say that this poem is about a person. Maybe a person feeling sad or insecure could enjoy this poem the most.

"Into the Wild" (Spine Poem 3-19-15)

I wanted to create a poem that sparked some curiosity and interested in a person. I also think that the line "Beastly beautiful creatures" might make a person who is dismal, feel better. This poem is not directed to any person, or any type of person. Happy, curious, and interested are the feeling I wanted the reader to experience when they read my poem.

"Who I am" Poem (Thinglink Poetry)

Commented on: Jeremiah's Blog, Diana's Blog, Lillian's Blog

Two Voice Poem (3-16-15)

Zoom in to clearly see words.

3rd Quarter Reflection

          Out of all of the books I have read this quarter, Skinny is my favorite. Though I am still reading this book, I know it is already the best one I've read. Skinny is about a 15 year old girl that weighs 310 pounds. She has a little voice that whispers all of the mean thoughts people are thinking about her. The name of this voice is Skinny. This girl takes a big risk and gets surgery to help her with her weight problem. Even though she is losing weight, Skinny does not leave her side. Skinny is by far the best book I have read this quarter.

          I think my writing skills is the thing that has improved the most this quarter. I always try to think of words that are more complex that what is usually used. For example, instead of saying good I would say wonderful or splendid. My vocabulary has also opened up thanks to the weekly vocab tests my class has to take.

          I think that something that I have accomplished that I am proud of this new year is every vocab test and every article of the week (AOW). At times the AOW's can be challenging, but I am always proud of myself once they are done and completed. Same the vocabulary tests. Studying takes time and can be boring, but I know that it will all pay of in the end.

          One challenging part of the third quarter has been having to write an AOW almost every week Sure this might seem simple at times, you read an article then write a few paragraphs about it, but sometimes it can be really challenging. There is usually a question that gets me stuck, therefore causing me to have a hard time completing the assignment. I always try my hardest to understand what I am having trouble with. I can usually work through my confusion, but it's still difficult to figure out.

          I have learn so many things about the world. I have learned what ISIS is and how they have been impacting the world. I have also learned how President Obama and the First Lady are trying to help girls get their education. I am grateful for all of the things I have learned. As a person who lives on Earth, I like to know what's happening on it.

          I feel like my blogs have greatly improved since August. All of the assignments and test that I have to do improve so many of my skills. I think my writing skills have improved very much, and that's why my blogs have gotten better.

Extended Metaphor Poem (3-12-15)

I had a few choices that day
I could stay silent
I could talk to the person next to me
Or I could get up and walk away

If I stayed silent
Then I might forever be alone
Never having a friend to talk to

If I spoke
I could create a best friend
A best friend that will forever be mine
I will need no one else in this world once we became friends

If I made the choice of walking away then--
Then I might create an enemy
An enemy that will cause me to have more enemies

Instead of getting enemies
I decided to create a friend
A friend that can introduce me to more friends
A friend that will make me more social
And make my life better

Of course there are bad things that can happen
This friend can be a negative influence
Or maybe she will introduce me to the wrong people
Oh well, it's worth a try

Now I have a best friend
A friend that makes me happy
A friend that completes me

I had a few choices that day
I'm just glad I didn't walk away

Bio-Poem for Skinny by Donna Cooner (3-11-15)

Pages Read: 1 - 86

Ever Davies

Hopeless, self-conscious, uneasy, shy

A character in Donna Cooner's story
Lover of Jackson Barnett, being skinny, and food
Who notices the rudeness of her step sisters, the long eyelashes of Jackson Barnett, and the voice inside her head
Who feels the pain of the operation, the pity of people when they look at her, and the support that Rat gives her
Who learns eating is not her world, and people can be mean
Who says "I'm fifteen years old and I weigh 302 pounds"
Who used to think Rat was serious but now knows he has a soft side
Major character in Skinny
A book that sparked Rebecca's interest

Commented on: Lillian's Blog, Joseph G's Blog, Bianey's Blog

"Weeping Rose" - Picture Poem

"Weeping Rose"

I am a rose

I am a dying rose

I am a thirsty rose

In desperate need of water

Clean, crystal clear water

So that I may grow,

and once again be beautiful

I am a rose

I am a weeping rose sagging to the ground as I slowly wither away

wrinkling and crinkling,

not able to stand much more of this pain

My leaves, my petals they are ripping away as the wind blows

My stem beginning to weaken

I am a rose

I am a vanishing rose

I have very few petals left and my leaves are all gone

Soon I will be just dust in the wind

Soon I will be nothing more than a breeze

Soon I will no longer be a rose

Looking for Alaska 2-26-15

Blog for week of February 23, 2015

Writing Prompt: 1.What does this book remind you of? 2. Is the setting described well enough that you can put a picture in your mind? Why or why not?

Pages read: 56 - 147

          The book Looking for Alaska makes me think of I TV show I used to watch called "Zoey 101." The reason this book reminds me of that is because "Zoey 101" is a TV show that takes place at a boarding school just like the book does. Another reason why this book reminds me of "Zoey 101" is because the TV show is about a girl who goes to a boarding school that used to be only boys and how she makes friends and deals with different problems that she is faced with. Looking for Alaska is pretty much the same way. A difference is: Looking for Alaska follows a boy named Miles instead of a girl named Zoey.

          I feel like the setting is described very well but for some reason I can not always picture the scene in my head. There are many words and sentences that can help a person create an image of the setting or scene. I know that this takes place at a boarding school and author explains the shape of the buildings a few times but when it says something that describes the dorm room as being round I feel like if it were just a little more specific I could capture it perfectly.

          Having to do with the setting, there are some things that I can picture pretty easily. For example, when the book talks about the TV room and the way it looked. That part of the story was very specific and gave me a great image that helped me better understand the story by telling me the conditions of the place.

Commented on: Evie, Devin, Omar

Global Collaboration Reflect 2-20-15

          My level global awareness before entering 7th grade was not high. To me, global awareness means being aware of what is going on around the world. I think this is so because I don't try to know what is happening in the world, therefore I don't know. After entering 7th grade I feel that my global awareness has gotten better. If it weren't for having an article of the week (AOW) I wouldn't have been able to say that!

          After viewing the Indian and Swedish pen pal I know how different and similar things are compared to our life and our school. For example, my school has an A and B team for each grade and the Swedish school had a Red, Yellow, and Orange section in their school. Another difference is, everyone takes their shoes off while in the school. I wish we did that here! I bet their school is way more cleaner because of this. A similarity would be: we both have many classrooms for many different subjects and reasons.

          Since the collaboration my perspective on other cultures has changed a bit. Before, I didn't realize that middle school life in Sweden was very similar to middle school life in America. Different things like that are what have altered my perspective.

          Something shocking thing that I have learned so far is that, as I said earlier, life there doesn't seem that different from life here. I find it a little funny that their school is much bigger and has more classrooms than many other schools that I have seen. They have a wood room (kind of like a wood workshop where you build things), a needle room (a room with a bunch of sewing machines so people can make different things), a home economics class, and so many more. I wonder why they have all of these great things compared to our school.

Looking for Alaska 2/16/15

Writing Prompt: 1. Who is the most important character to you? Why? 2. Why did you choose this to read? Give at least 3 reasons.

Pages Read: 29 - 56

          To me, the most important character in this book is a battle between Alaska Young and Miles "Pudge" Halter. I know that Miles is the main character because the book is speaking in his point of view, or fist person. Even though this is so, I also feel that Alaska Young is an important charter because 1. the book has her name in the title, and 2. This is the girl that Miles is 'in love' with. Also Alaska comes up very frequently in the book.

          I chose this book to read for many reasons. One reason I chose this book to read is because it is by one of my favorite authors. That author is John Green. John Green also wrote Fault in our Stars, Paper Towns, An Abundance of Katherine's, and many more.

          Another reason would be: I have wanted to read this book for a while (because it's by John Green). Not just because it's by John Green but also because I think it sounded interesting. There is a 'before' and 'after' in the book. I just can't wait until I get to the after and find out after what!

          A third reason why I have chosen to read this book is probably because I know other people who have read it and they say it is good. I can't have other people reading and talking about a 'good' book without having the knowledge of what this book actually is! I have to say, those people were right. This book has caught my attention since the beginning. I can't wait to finish it!

Commented on: Mia's Blog, Justin's Blog, Jared's Blog

Poetry Response 2/16/15

Friendship Is The Best Ship Of All by Valerie M

Friendship is priceless,

And can never be forgotten,

Friendship is timeless,

And never rotten,

It takes more than hugs and kisses

To be a real friend,

the nature of friendship,

Requires a blend.

The road to a happy life,

May sometimes make us stumble.

But to have a friend to give us a hand,

Teaches us to be humble.

Good friends are hard to find,

Hard to lose,

And impossible to forget,

But when they fly away,

Your anger turns to regret

Sometimes in life, we need a special person

To listen while we talk.

A special person who will not discourage or judge,

But encourage us as we walk.

Friends are there

To help you along,

The journey through friendship,

Is always long.

In life,

There are big ships,

And there are small ships,

But the best ship of all,

Is friendship.

This poem is about friendship. It's about the importance of friendship and why friendship is an amazing thing. It talks about the ups and downs of friendship and how it is all worth it. In the end friendship is the most wonderful thing of all.

I think the author write this poem because she had a best friend in her life. I believe that the probably thought all of these things apply to her friendship and many others, too. Not only will it apply to other people and their friendship, it will connect with them because of this. I also think that the author may have wrote this specifically to connect with people and may not apply to their life at all.

While reading I thought of me and my best friend. Here is a picture of two best friends. I feel this picture relates to the poem well.

This poem reminds me of me and all of my closest friends. When I first read this poem it mainly reminded me of my most close best friend. This poem also made me think of all of the people in the world that have close and best friends.