Online Journal Entry #9

“What is wonderful about great literature is that it transforms the man who reads it towards the condition of the man who wrote.” ~E. M. Forster
Next week, we will begin a unit on Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird. As I mentioned last week, this novel has been banned frequently throughout our country in the past fifty years since it was published. Even today, it inspires strong feelings in all those who read it--some of whom love it and some of whom hate it. You will be able to decide for yourself in the coming weeks, but for now, tell me about a book that you already love. Is there any book that's had a significant impact on your life to date? What about a favorite novel that you could read again and again anytime you have the time and inclination? Is there a book you have any fond memories of reading in school? Something you had to read for class and found it wasn't as bad as you thought it might be? Come on, whether you love to read or not, tell me about a book you've read (not the one you described two weeks ago for your book review unless you are going to tell me something new about it and how it has changed your life!) and what it has meant to you.

Online Journal Entry #8

An article in the News-Leader recently caught my eye as controversy has divided an area high school over whether or not to remove certain books from the school library. As our next unit covers a novel frequently banned, I thought I would ask your opinion about it. Please visit Mrs. Schreffler's blogsite http://schreffblog.blogspot.com/, read the entry entitled "Banning Books! Are You Crazy?!" Then post a comment here describing your opinion of book banning. BE SURE to come back here to post as I do not grade postings on Mrs. Schreffler's site! :)

The fact is that censorship always defeats its own purpose, for it creates, in the end, the kind of society that is incapable of exercising real discretion. ~Henry Steele Commager

Online Journal Entry #7

The man who does not read good books has no advantage over the man who can't read them. ~Mark Twain
Book Reviews. I haven't forgotten about them, we've just been busy, haven't we? I hope you have been remembering to READ though!! Maybe one day this week, we'll go over the guidelines; but for now, keep reading your book and look for those elements of plot development we've been discussing in class. While you're at it, you might be looking for examples of conflict, figurative language, foreshadowing, and theme!! But, for this week's journal entry, I want you to tell me the name of the book you've chosen, its author, and a brief description of its exposition (what two things make up exposition again?). Also, tell why you chose this particular book and what you think of it so far!! Just give us an overview for now and then go back and read, Read, READ!! And don't forget about those Personal Narrative revisions!! :)

Online Journal Entry #6

It was one of those perfect English autumnal days which occur more frequently in memory than in life. ~P.D. James

Ah, autumn. The air is getting cool and crisp. The leaves are beginning to change. It's as if a whole new spirit is in the air. What is your favorite thing about this time of year? AND ... what would you do, if you had a perfect fall day to spend however you wanted?

Online Journal Entry #5

All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing. ~Edmund Burke
As we are preparing for our performances of Sophocles' Antigone, we must stop to consider Antigone's actions. Whether out of personal rebellion or moral conviction, Antigone stands up for her beliefs. Have you ever had to make a stand for anything or anyone? Why was it important for you do to so at that time? Tell me about the situation and why you felt the need to take action OR what you wished you would have done when you had the chance, but didn't do for some reason. Why is it important to make a stand for some things, and why is it not important at other times? When is it okay to challenge people or ideas and when is it wrong? Come on, take a stand: Tell me what YOU think!