MERRY CHRISTMAS

Mrs. Coco or anyone. Am I allowed to use as my book source a data base that has the book I need on it it has been cited already too. Because when I went around town to the library and other locations the book was either not returned or it was checked out so I'm in a rather unlucky predicament. So the librarian directed me to it saying it was relatively the same thing. So I'm not sure if to use it or not. If anyone could respond I would really appreciate it it. Thanks.

Books

1)The Name of the Wind

2)The Wise Man's Fear

3)The Doors of Stone (yet to come out)

1)The Warded Man

2)The Desert Spear

3)The Daylight War (yet to come out)

The Inheritance Cycle

The Alex Rider Series

(The best by far were the bolded ones, but the others captivated my interest for a while in case you run out of options)

*If you don't care about language or what I like to call the real world, The Lies of Locke Lamora and Red Seas Under Red Skies were good, but not exactly PG. A lot of people died. A lot of bad language.

OMG!

I can finally write on this yayy!

Hunger Games book list

WHO took (I'm sure by accident) my Hunger Games book sign-out sheet? Tevin? Clarissa?

Help!!!

for those of you out there whodrive make sure to wear your seatbelts because the po-po is out fo yah. trust me i learned the hard way

Poe

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4s9V8aQu4c

Kinda creepy...But then again, we are talking about Poe.

To readers (Ms McCarthy)

If you are a big reader I would recommend getting a kindle, not just for convenience but I get more out of certain books because of some things like it highlights parts of the book that are either important or are good quotes (I've used some of those quotes in some of my work). Those two books I posted are full of transcendental quotes that are both good life guidelines and as an English teacher I think you would love more than even I did, and I've read both of them twice. So, if you plan on reading those books I posted earlier, and read a good amount, you should get a kindle (it also saves you money if you buy books instead of borrowing them from a library).

Are these Transcendental?

I accept chaos, I'm not sure whether it accepts me.

“Sometimes it's not enough to know what things mean, sometimes you have to know what things don't mean.”

“If you try to be anyone but yourself, you will fail; if you are not true to your own heart, you will fail. Then again, there's no success like failure”

I think of a hero as someone who understands the degree of responsibility that comes with his freedom.

Need answer ASAP!

This weekend!

Hey Family!
I'm sure today went fine, thanks for being the best ever!
If you don't finish Emerson's Nature, bring your book home...it's online, but the entire essay is very long.
Also, don't forget to set your clocks back an hour! See you Monday!

Homework 11/1 (to be completed by 11/2)

Here is the HIGHLY anticipated short story by Washington Irving. Sorry it took so long I had to wait to get home to upload it because our computers at school are crazy slow today!

The Devil and Tom Walker TEXT

Read the story, and if you would like to follow along, use the study guide to help your understanding.

There will be a reading check and a mini-project tomorrow to apply your knowledge of the story.  Any questions? Ask on here! Take advantage of this BLOG!!!

Attention people who read books...

If anyone reads anymore, which might not be the case, I'm trying to popularize a series that is fairly unknown but I think is better than almost any other book I've read. (Mrs. Koko I think you'd liked it.) The name of the first book is The Name of the Wind and the second is The Wise Man's Fear, but the third hasn't come out yet. They're long books so they should occupy anyone (again, if you're out there...) who reads.

HOMEWORK 10/13 (FOR 10/14)

Here is a site that contains the 13 virtues.

13 Virtues

Complete the study guide, especially the explanation and examples. If you simply copy his precepts, you will not be very successful on this assignment (AKA you will not receive credit).

ALSO, DON'T FORGET ABOUT THE VOCABULARY QUIZ TOMORROW! 70 WORDS!!!

ok can anybody tell me what the vocab hw is?

Forever Lazy

I came home today, turned on my t.v.......and the forever lazy commerical was on. No joke. I almost died.

Help Mee!!! :(

Can anybody provide me with the words for this week please....I left my vocab sheet in my chair.... yea i know smart right....

There's a app on the android market

HOMEWORK for 9/26 (weekend homework)

IF you do not finish "The Crisis," it is homework.

Here is the TEXT:

The Crisis TEXT

As young scholars, this should be FASCINATING to you! This is the basis for all American persuasion, including the advertisements, movie trailers, political speeches and campaigns you see every day...everything you hear and read can indirectly be attributed to people like Thomas Paine...this stuff is UNBELIEVABLY, undeniably SATURATED in rhetoric and persuasion..just think, it made all patriots wage war, and everyone on the fence decide to revolt against England as well. What have you done lately? Can you even effectively persuade me to give you a homework pass???

Friday 9/23--- WORK!!!

Hi, my LOVES!!

I am not feeling well and am super stressed about my upcoming wedding...before I get so sick that I'm snot-faced and red-eyed at my "I Do's," I am taking today off to rest and sort out the chaos.

Be ULTRA-nice to Ms. Walker, your substitute (as if I have any doubt that you will be).

1. You have a vocabulary quiz that I've made "kind of" easy (by splitting it up into 'chunks'...eww, gross word).
2. After this, you are to read "The Crisis" by Thomas Paine and complete the corresponding study guide, identifying persuasive appeals and basic rhetorical devices.  Here's the deal:

-In each box, you could easily identify 10 different specific instances...give me at least 5 or 6.

BTW, an APHORISM is a saying about life...something you'd find in a fortune cookie...I'll give you one...

Thomas Paine says, "What we gain to cheap, we esteem too lightly"....what does this mean?

FOR PERSUASIVE APPEALS:

In each box, you can either give me concise example from the text, or actually QUOTE the text, including page numbers (for instance, T.Pain tells a story about listening to a guy outside a pub talking about wanting "peace in my day." T.Pain talks about how selfish this guy is because his 8-year old kid is standing right next to him...this is hugely PATHOS and ETHOS...write these instances down!)

FOR RHETORICAL DEVICES:

- Put specific quotations with page numbers...if it's long, throw ellipses (...) in btw. phrases.

YOU CAN DO THIS....it's advanced, because you are SUPER ADVANCED! I wouldn't give you this if I didn't  think you were intelligent enough to handle it :) 

COMMENT OR ASK ON HERE IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS...DON'T JUST NOT DO IT, YOU HAVE NO EXCUSE TO BE CONFUSED!

I'm finally on here!!!!!

It only took me a month ya know haha but at least I got it!

Old Spice | Sea Captain

Persuasion Homework.

http://http://youtu.be/T3tidwW1gGM

Rise of the Planet of the Apes. Trailer

Persuasion Homework

My Persuasive Example - Sun Drop Commercial

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qsuCFbFjxKg&feature=email

Persuasion homework: love146

http//www.youtube.com/watch?v=xAmoJj86Cy4&feature=relmfu

Persuasion homework

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HqVBKO_QM3o

Original Billy Mays OxiClean Ad from October 2000

Persuasion Homework - "FOOTSTEPS"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iyPHB-TbtZU

Persuasion Homework

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xc2L2DkIK-w&feature=fvwrel

Party Rock Anthem-Kia Soul Hamster Commercial [HD]: Party Rock Anthem-LM...

Hey Ms. McCarthy!

Hey! Sorry I've been out so long, I've been super sick :(

Ryan L. said you told him the "Persuasion" notes would be on the Blog. I can't find them, I'm not very good at this Blog yet :/

Oh and the "Persuasion Is All Around You" homework, is that due Monday or it Monday nights homework?

Persuasion: The Forever Lazy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PRDhVy_7OUs&feature=related

Persuasion: St. Jude's Children Hospital

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pxmU3FVfkRA

Sad :(

Of Plymouth Plantation HOMEWORK Tues 9/13

OH MY LORD!!! After several, no joke, hours of trying to post this, here it is.

Okay, so below is the link to the excerpt with the questions at the bottom:

Of Plymouth Plantation text and study questions

HAVING TROUBLE UNDERSTANDING WHAT THE HECK BRADFORD IS SAYING???
Tomorrow we will use the study guide below to better comprehend his antiquated and complex language. Feel free to use it as a guide (duh) while you read...it asks questions in chronological order of the events.

Plymouth Plantation Study Guide

Interesting Link (Christian):
The Pilgrim Vs. Puritan Debate: What's the Difference?

A copy of what Jasmine posted

 Although I am not offereing my political stance or opinion on the war in Iraq for obvious reasons, the blog Jasmine poasted to help you consider a different perspective on your homework is enlightening:
I am not a fan of any war, but one cannot deny that those over there are doing what they can, and their efforts are honorable, and commendable:

-Over 400,000 kids have had up-to-date immunizations.

- School attendance is up 80 percent from levels before the war.

- Over 1,500 schools have been renovated and rid of the weapons stored there so education can occur.

- The port of Uhm Qasar was renovated so grain can be off-loaded from ships faster.

- The country had its first $2 billion-barrel export of oil in August.

- Over 4.5 million people have clean drinking water for the first time ever in Iraq.

- The country now receives two times the electrical power it did before the war.

- 100 percent of the hospitals are open and fully staffed, compared to 35 percent before the war.

- Elections are taking place in every major city, and city councils are in place.

- Sewer and water lines are installed in every major city.

- Over 60,000 police are patrolling the streets.

- Over 100,000 Iraqi civil defense police are securing the country.

- Over 80,000 Iraqi soldiers are patrolling the streets side by side with U.S. soldiers.

- Over 400,000 people have telephones for the first time ever.

- Students are taught field sanitation and hand-washing techniques to prevent the spread of germs.

- An interim constitution has been signed.

- Girls are allowed to attend school.

- Textbooks that don't mention Saddam are in the schools for the first time in 30 years.

If You Need Help Here Are Some Facts

http://mrminority.blogspot.com/2005/02/positive-things-being-done-in-iraq.html




Good Luck :)

Here is a little more about Olaudah Equiano

pbs.org/wgbh/aia/part1/1p276.html

Equiano, HOMEWORK 9/8/2011

Hello, everybody!

Here's the link to Equiano's slave narrative. Be thorough and thoughtful, I am checking your specific answers tomorrow for you to receive credit.

The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano

Yea. I went there

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6yRTpk9u4VQ

Im so excited :)

Yay! Im finally on the blog, haha after like two weeks have gone by.

Homework 9/2

Happy Friday, First Block! As you all know, you have a homework assignment that is due on Tuesday, 9/6.

Please read an excerpt of Columbus' journal from "back in the day." Follow the link below for the text:

From The Journal of the First Voyage to America - Columbus

Here is the study guide in case you either a) forgot it in your folder, or b) want to type in your answers: I think the best thing you can do is copy and paste this document in a word document; however, you may actually be able to edit and save as your own GoogleDoc (let me know if that's possible!)!


Columbus Study Guide


I'm especially interested to hear about the last question, but it's all important! Have a good weekend!

Extra points make me happy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7wdocv1lOO8

Great story

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K1aGxco-wcA&feature=related

It's also from a great movie!

Earth On Turtle's Back

So the illustrations aren't as great as Ms. McCarthy's but I guess they will do(:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZOxrvbA_KCE&feature=related

Bonus Points

Who's paying attention to our blog?

The first three people to post a link to an appropriate YouTube video that has something to do with Native American culture or literature (including, but not limited to, myths) gets 5 bonus points on either the quiz we took today, or the vocab quiz tomorrow.

Ready? Go!

Ok I'm in the blog now I think.

Sooo....

If one person already has a Native American name (Big Tree Fall Hard,) I suggest we all adopt new personas...

Let's begin with Christian...Little Man Big Words

Haha, just kidding, you guys!

TEAM AWESOME

hah ryan im team awesome now

Figuring out posting via phone

Posting using your phone for internet access sucks.. I havent had internet at my house since Irene though, even though she was a joke. Time Warner Cable needs to get on that.

hey

Team Awesome....

Am I the only 1 in team awesome? Cause that's what it looks like.

HURRICANE!!!!

Hey First Block!

If you are checking this out this weekend, I know you can't comment, BUT....

You can have until TUESDAY to get your forms signed, get supplies, etc...I bet some of you left that stuff in your folders banking on having school today.

Don't sweat it! Be safe!

Welcome, First Block!

This blog will serve as a means to communicate with each other.  I will be posting daily homework assignments, links to media relevant to classroom activities or discussion, and answering questions.

Your job is to:
-Use this blog to download texts, study guides, etc...
-Ask and/or answer questions about anything
-Post grandma-appropriate links to videos, art, music, etc... that pertain to our classroom community.
-KEEP THIS BLOG GOING AND INTERESTING! I want to see you on here every day!

When you receive an "invitation" to our blog, please come on here and ADD A COMMENT below to let me know you've gotten on okay! I need you to post by Tuesday night for credit (the slip is due Monday)!

An Episode of War

Follow the link below to read "An Episode of War."

"An Episode of War"

READ AND COMPLETE THE STUDY GUIDE!!!

Movie Day

Hey we should watch movies in class tomorrow because no one is going to be there and i don't check out until 11am. Also i'll bring the movies

Any luck?

Okay, I did NOTHING differently from the way I usually share documents with you guys, so I have NO idea why it's trippin' on me!

Try now, I just made it completely public to everyone....someone PLEASE respond and say it's working!

From "Civil Disobedience"

HOMEWORK 4/26

Read the excerpt from Thoreau's "Civil Disobedience" and thoroughly (Thoreau-ly) the questions on the study guide you received in class today.

Read the essay here:
"Civil Disobedience" text

Here's the study guide if you forgot it:

Study Guide - "Civil Disobedience"

Emerson's "Nature"

HOMEWORK 4/12: Read the excerpt below from Ralph Waldo Emerson's "Nature," an essay that established the first philosophies of the Transcendentalists.

Emerson's "Nature" text

Answer the corresponding study guide questions you received in class. The study guide is below if you forgot it:
"Nature" Study Guide

found animosity in lyrics

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iXUldhi2f2E

So sad, ultimate loyalty.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J3TM9GL2iLI

another doc

"The Crisis"

Morgan,

I can't upload the study guide, so please do your best on additional paper.
The above is a link to a new document I created; if you cannot get this to work, I don't know what to tell you. Sorry!

"The Crisis"

Read the following essay by Thomas Paine and identify the persuasive appeals and rhetorical devices on your study guide.  BE PREPARED FOR TOMORROW WITH SEVERAL EXAMPLES FOR EACH SECTION TO RECEIVE CREDIT!

T-PAINE'S "THE CRISIS"

Your examples in each box can be direct quotations (in part or full) or simple summaries of a section. FOR EXAMPLE, under "Pathos," you can briefly describe the child analogy he gives about the man he sees outside the pub but under "Antithesis" you can easily quote "I call not upon a few but on all," perhaps underlining or italicizing the opposing images. SO, I just gave you two.

This will be on the midterm, and if we do not have a significant number of you tomorrow who have completed it, we will not go over it and you will be responsible for its information on your own. AKA DO YOUR HOMEWORK!

Brad Devore found lyrics for apathy Band: Dope Song: We Are

http://www.mp3lyrics.org/d/dope/we-are/

Shane's Response

At first this gave me a feeling of outrage in that this principal would want to strip the individuality and culture out of these students. I don’t really understand how a person in their right mind could say something like this. I do understand that the principal wants there to be less racial and ethnic segregation but this is not the right approach to complete this goal. I can’t say that I even agree with any of this, the only thing I can say is that the principal dose not see in anyway raciest because he does not discriminate against any particular race or ethnic group.

I think that Prager has a point in that we judge people too much based on the race and ethnic group. Prager is saying that we need to focus less on our race and ethnic group and more on our common goal of education. This is a good goal but denying people there ethnicity is not the way to accomplish this. I think it is impossible to teach this way because it is seen throughout history that you cannot suppress people’s race or ethnicity.

Haleigh's (Awesome) Post

Just wow, this dude is just wrong. You shouldn't make people forget or not care about their ethnics and who they really are. I am a very not-violent person, and this letter just made me so mad, you know? I made my dad read it so he could rant and rave with me. I truthfully think that that speech should be crumpled into a ball and set on fire in a trash can. And yes some people "harp on superficial characteristics" as skin color or how we dress, but I see it as something that binds us together and gives us individuality. No one has the exact same skin color which gives us individuality, and how we dress kind of defines our "groups" and what we are labeled as. What he wants to do is take away what give us our characteristics, because for me what makes me me is my pride in my Philippine culture, the bright colors of my clothes (and my awesome skinny jeans) and make up, and my hand-me-down jewelry. But then again, as my dad keeps saying, we should get back to education, he thinks schools have strayed from the path of just teaching. But he and I both disagree about the choice against no longer talking abou drugs, or practicing safe sex (dont blush Ms.McCarthy). This letter hits all the sensitive areas and it basically designed to get the reader upset or angry. I really like that little jab at the end about the pledge.

Who's going to be the last to post?!?!?!

As I mentioned, a prize (of my choosing, which you know will be corny) will be reward to the last post of the night before 11pm...HOWEVER, for those of you still in the running (probably on purpose), make sure you at least COMMENT on someone's post soon so that you get full points!

I am THOROUGHLY enjoying reading your responses...I know I'm a dorky English teacher, but I deeply appreciate the thought and time you are putting into your responses; heck, I'm reading these at 10pm on Friday night!  PLEASE read other people's ideas and feelings about this controversial topic, even if you don't respond; I think we can all benefit from a little mind expansion.

Thank you for being you.  I LOVE this class.

Sakoya's response

After reading Prager's speech i experienced mixed feelings. I did agree with some of his points but mostly i strongly disagreed with them. The point i strongly disagreed with in the speech was when he wanted to eliminate clubs and classes that taught or celebrated ethnic values. Yes, we are all Americans but we should also be able to celebrate and educate others on the culture which we are from freely and students wouldn't be able to do that by eliminating the clubs or classes that "exercised" this. Prager also contradicted himself by saying that the only identity he would care about would be the individual identity. By establishing a dress code Prager isn't allowing the students to express them selves as individuals. Pragers attempt to completely eliminate profanity is ludicrous and seems to be a hard to task to accomplish. Prager can't be everywhere monitoring students vocabulary. I'm not saying that using profanity in a learning environment is okay to do, but as teenagers we really don't think twice about it especially when communicating with friends. Since we are teenagers and should know right from wrong Prager would think that we wouldn't need classes like sex education, but in a time like now where there is a increased rate in teen pregnancies students would need these classes. The fact that prager is trying to change the school to better education is great, but some of his rules are past extreme.

John L. - Prager's Speech

As i read over this there were many more things that I do not agree with the things i can agree with from my own opinion. I do agree with a couple of his idea but not many. I do want to point out that this is my opinion.

I do not agree on a lot of what he is changing. One of many is that he will end all non-american celebration from the school.Myself i think these are the things that bring us together and not tear us apart as i am thinking he is trying to portray here. My opinion on is that many people like me like to embrace other cultures and learn more about them and what they do for a living and how they celebrate traditions around there society. Another thing I did not agree on was that he was going to end clubs that divide the students on what they do. To me this makes me thing that he is going to drop all the clubs. Because if there is more than one club at the school then you are already dividing students on certain things. Another thing i caught as i was reading was that he says "Your clubs will be based on interests and passions", but what he doesn't add is that all the clubs are going to be more about american culture and nothing else. Like me many students do not want a dress code. Even though i wear a collared shirt and blue jeans almost everyday it think students should represent themselves on how they dress. The dropping of self-esteem programs shocked me. Some people like to do these programs to make them feel much better than they already do toward themselves. Ending the classes that could keep students from doing bad things could bring a negative turn to the school. Most the the students parents will come to the school/school board to make the school show these programs to the students to teach the rights and wrongs to certain things. One thing i missed was that he says "If the only extracurricular activities you can imagine being interested in are those based on ethnic, racial, or sexual identity, that means that little outside yourself really interest you." Many people like to learn more about where they came from and how they got to where they were from them and how much it has changed since that time. "If you want classes taught in your native language... this is not your school." As i read this I read this I thought to myself, I don't really know any classes that taught in different languages other than the language classes that are taught at our school. I do think though that if the student doesn't have a good grasp on English that we do give the student notes in there native language

I do agree on some things he does address. One of which would be would be to not care about the the students race. As i read over it one more time i say that it also says "honor" the ethnicity of the student. When i saw this it made me think that he wouldn't care about the other cultures and disregard any traditions or celebrations they might celebrate. He does mention that the only thing a person should be recognized is by your individual identity. I think most students already do this by voices there opinions to other students/friends. I do also like he is trying to make students who are not native to America take and learn English. And that he is making every student know and learn how to decipher the different tools used in the English language. i think this essential because most of the students are going to become future voters and it would be a good idea to learn how to understand more about everyone is saying. The last thing I sort of agree on is the language used during school. I do think the language of the students should be more formal and there should be less obscene language. Myself i do tend to drop a "F bomb" every once in a while but i am trying my best not to say those words. Most people learn these words form there parent s and think it is alright to say them and don't think there are any consequences for saying these words.

There were a couple of things I was confused on. One of these were that they wouldn't teach any language other than English. Prager also said that there would be clubs to learn languages you do not already speak. I thinks this i sorta contradicting what he is saying in the speech. Another one of these things is that he says there will be clubs on based on interest and passions. As i read that i automatically thought maybe students want to learn about other cultures and languages.

I do like how Prager is trying to embrace students with more american culture. he does show that he cares a lot more about America than he does anywhere else. I think he is trying to ASSIMILATE students that come from different cultures. I don't like how he drops everything about other cultures ,which I would keep as many as i could for students to learn more about certain cultures.

T-Time's Response

After reading Prager's speech my first response was that it is a bad idea to eliminate race and ethnicity divisions. However, I have to agree with what he is trying to do. Without separations everyone would be seen as equal and only what you do is what matters. While I do agree with what he is saying, I think that some parts of it are a bit extreme. For example banning the clubs that will cause division. A club is going to cause division because its a group of people that believe or like something and a whole different group of people might hate that same thing. I also have to disagree with the dress code because what you wear has nothing to do with learning and people are still pretty much equal if they're wearing different clothes. While somewhat extreme Prager's plan seems okay to me because it focuses on increasing academic success while there is equality.

I agree with Prager when he says that we harp on certain characteristics such as skin color and the languages we speak. It shouldn't matter. We are way to caught up in that and forget about who people really are. We seem to have a system of stereotypes, where we don't accept people just because of the way they look.

Prager's opinion about education is that it should only be American based things. I agree with this but I don't think its a good idea to completely forget about other cultures. Learning about other cultures and different languages is a good thing because it expands our horizons. Only learning English and American topic/ideas makes someone very one dimensional because they haven't been exposed to anything else. It could be optional to learn about other cultures instead of completely getting rid of it. That way people who wanted to learn more could and others don't have to.

I do not think that it would be possible to teach this way because schools are made up of so many different races and ethnicities that it would be very difficult to change what is taught this much. I feel like if there was a school that was like this no one would go there because like I said before the students there would be very one dimensional. Students from other schools would be more exposed and this would make them more competitive for like college and jobs. I also think that many students would get bored with what was being taught and there wouldn't be much variety.

Adamson's Response

Wow. My initial response to this was how he is pretty much correct about everything he was saying. I agree that no one should be judged or treated any differently based on where you came from, what your race is, or even your gender. But i do not agree on the fact that he said that no other language would be taught and the only focus would be on English and the American culture. I feel that when you are in a school learning you need to broaden what you study and not just be focused on one thing the whole time you are in school. There are other things out there waiting to be discovered and learned about but you cant discover those things if your strictly tied down to one specific thing. I also agree that the bad language that is used has gotten out of control. When we hear others say it then we automatically think that its ok to say but in the end its not.

I do somewhat agree on what he says about us basing what we think about someone based on the color of the skin or language spoken. When there is not much going on about the skin color or language spoken you still know that somewhere it is going on even though we thought we had gotten rid of that problem years ago, but to this day it still exists in some people.

Prager's opinion about the American Dream is that he wants to teach only things that will be based on American culture. He only wants the English language spoken and taught throughout the school. He feels that other languages, religion or history of other cultures does not matter because we are in an American society not some other society. As of now i do not think that we as an American are heading in this direction because there is too much information that should be taught about other countries due to the fact of the relation we have with the other country such as purchasing oil barrels and other goods.

I do not feel it is possible to teach in this way because you have so many different religions and races that are attending these schools to just completely stop teaching what is being taught now even though this is America. Other countries are just to important to learn about and study then to just give them up and learn nothing about. Someday it could be that country that is helping us through the bad times, so in the end we all just need to learn about everything we can.

Joseph's Response

My initial reaction to Prager's speech was like a "is he really saying this" thing haha. I was surprised that he would say something like that. I am half anf half on this writing. I think that every little thing he said was not right and i strongly disagree with it. In my opinion, I think that people in this world who stays with our own color and and talk to the people who speak there language are lame. I hangout with all people no matter what color or language they best speak. this guy is wrong for saying that we only circle around with people with the same skin color and the same language they speak. This guy thinks about america wrongly. He trying to teach young people the wrong thing. He's gonna make younger people to think that all people should speak english and like worship America, and only America. I don't think that a lot of people with follow what we is saying. people make there own clubs to be with the people they think have they same opinion and same idea.

I can see on the other hand that he doesn't want any one to stand out in a bad way. If every one is the same then no one has the write to say any thing negative to any one else. It's to protect everyone and make sure that no one gets hurt. But I would hate that every one acts the same because I think every person has a different style and is a different person. This one of the things i wouldn't care about just because the way he came out with it. At the end, in a way I do see where he is getting to. He just didn't really say it the right way.

Love Joseph

Z-Man moZZarella's Response to Prager's Speech

I both agree and disagree with Prager’s ideas for this high school. Sure, it seems racist and otherwise prejudice, but in a way it does make some sense. Don’t get me wrong, I am an open-minded and accepting person regardless of race, religious beliefs, etc. I’m not some propaganda eating ‘patriot’ of America, but we are Americans in this country and in these schools. Prager suggests abolishing clubs and other extra-curriculars which focus on race and religion, which might be pushing it but could be tweaked to make actual sense and reduce prejudice and racism. He does push some of his ideas to extremes, but he also makes a point regarding the idea of everyone accepting each other based on merit and character rather than ethnicity and beliefs.

If everyone in a school, or even the country, regarded themselves as American, would that not reduce the amount of prejudice and racism present? When one calls themselves an African-American, does it not immediately divide them from other Americans? If it was possible to break away from these terms which ultimately divide each other into categorical groups, there would be nothing to hold against each other. It is no doubt that the United States has had a long and violent history regarding racism and prejudice, especially when compared with other countries. I have never heard of an African-Englishman, or a Chinese-Frenchman, which gives the idea that the sense of unity and tolerance in other countries highly outweighs the same values in our own country. If we could break down these hypothetical barriers and unify as Americans rather than Chinese-Americans, German-Americans, African-Americans, etc, etc, it would no doubt bring us together in a way never seen before in this country.

I’m not saying we could totally disregard each other’s heritage and traditions, but instead let them be a personal affair. I know people will join together with a common cause or characteristic, and that’s perfectly fine. But yet you must still take into consideration the country in which you live, ITS rich heritage and tradition, and make them also a personal affair and integral part of your life too. You need not throw away your individuality, but instead combine it with other’s individuality and use it to create a stronger sense of nationalism and pride in the United States, but also in schools.

Can’t we forget all about what divides here at this school and become Laney Bucs, proud and loud, making us a stronger and more unified school?

Jaziel Brown

I felt the Mr.Pager's speech was okay, he spoke from his perspective of things. His ways to improved the school system i must say was austere.The ideas i agreed about was looking past your ethicity, it showed me that he was more than just an principal who want to be. By him looking past that it showed me that he had good intenstions, no matter what color you were he wanted you to do your best an beyond. I agree with the language an how we conduct ourself, i think this is something intergal because it shows that he holds us at high standard. Shows that he excepts more than just average from the student at his school. The things i really disagree on is him take us away from politics and propaganda. I feel like that should be something that student should be warned about everyday, also better yet informed an educated about. From my perspective i dont think that was prudent in showing us good examples of what is important an in what is'nt.In a way i agree but im reallly understanding the question correctly, but if so i think we do look at color sometimes, an judge or use jargon such as cruse word to express our selfs when were argry.Mr.Pagers opining about American education is more important to him, them teaching them about life an the risk that its carrys.Its like he's more interested in teaching us about American culture,then the basic of like life. It's very disconcerting to know that someone we look up to with high authority has low morals! I do not agree on the direction it is heading in i think that i could lead to student having to drop out , our even worst life may be premently ruined because a princpial wanted to make a high school, as the vision in his OWN eyes.I do not thinkits possible to teach in this way, i think Mr.Prager need to do a self check before wanting to conduct an high school again. Its like building a car all the part are assembled but you forgot to put on the brakes. I think that if they keep teaching in this way the school is bond to be in a reck.

Shawn's Response

I respect the ways that Prager feels he can improve the school, but some of his opinions seem too radical to actually be accepted at a high school. I agree with a lot of the stuff he talked about, but when he talked about how he wanted to eliminate students' cultural identity's, I think he went a little far. Just because a club is broken up into groups based on race, doesn't make it a bad thing. Usually students work better when they're able to work in a group that they can relate with, such as, if they have the same religion, same race, or whatever. Prager took a swing at political correctness in his speech, but eliminating student's ability to express their beliefs through certain after school clubs, would prevoke a much more negative response from parents, students, and, perhaps, even from teachers. eliminating these clubs would cause the schools students to fall far behind academically compared to other schools in the state, country, and world. In his paraghraph about the English language, he says he wouldn't offer classes in a native language, which wouldn't work because you have to complete at least two years of a foreign language to graduate. I also disagree with his decision to take away classes that inform students about how harmful smoking, drinking, and unprotected sex are. I mean, this would be a great idea; if you're ok with having a school full of drunk, pregnant, smokers. If the school were to actually eliminate the cultural beliefs of students and fauclty and the "bodily safety" classes, it would cause the schools problems to rise instead of decline. Lastly, I feel like his closing statement about students not knowing the words to the Pledge of Alegiance, is way too far. Students know the Pledge, ,amy just choose not to repeat it, noone can make them say it though, this is America, not Communist Russia.

Kendra's Response

My initial response to Prager's speech was that he was only talking about the way he felt, and did not really care about how anybody else did. To me he seems racist, only valuing Americans and acting is if they deserve all respect and are above and beyond every other race which is not true, I believe everyone should be treated equally. People should care about where your from and your race, not saying that it is extremely important, but that they could learn things from you and expand their views on the human race. If we block out these things and only focus on the individual identity and JUST Americans, then how can anyone ever know what it's like to come from somewhere else or have different values? I don't agree that "American public schools" were just created to better Americans, I believe they were created so that any person could come there to get an education, and also to socialize with people of different race and origins. People don't go to school just to affirm a certain identity, sure most students may have their own "groups" or "cliques", but it doesn't mean they don't associate with people of other races. I do think it is important to have your own identity, but to also be accepting of others. It was very rude for Prager to say that "If you wish to affirm an ethnic, racial or religious identity through school you will have to go elsewhere", everyone should be entitled to their own personal identity. If I was in that school and that was said to me, I wouldn't want to attend there. Also if schools want to have clubs based on race, religion, etc... then that should absolutely be okay. To me that is important, so that similar people can share their opinions and thoughts on their culture or identity. Take a Spanish club for example, many people who are from a Spanish decent could be in that club together and express themselves comfortably around things they are familiar with. And just because it's called Spanish club doesn't mean that you HAVE to be Spanish just to be in it. If you are interested in the culture or the language, you could join it and enjoy being around that environment; it is a good way for other people to learn about the culture. Prager also says that the only important language a student needs to know is English and that other languages will not be taught. This is completely absurd and wrong, if a person wants to learn a different language then that is their right and nobody should try to stop them. To me that is very racist for him to say that a person should only know their language and only that. Finally I think that he is wrong in saying there will be no more teaching of smoking, safe sex, global warming, etc... I believe this is wrong because every student does need to be aware of certain things like these. Of course they can be taught in their home, but what if some parents don't teach their kids about it? What if they do, but they only speak very vaguely about the topic? If a students parents don't teach them these things, then someone needs to properly educate them. They have a choice in taking classes for these topics, it's not like it is forced upon them; but for someone to think that these types of courses should be completely taken away is ridiculous to me. Overall, I think that Prager is very racist and doesn't have an open mind at all. I don't agree with anything his speech says, and I do not think that any principal should give this speech to their students.

After reading Prager's speech, my first thought is that he would have a hard time doing everything he proposes to do. He starts off by addressing the students and faculty and informing them that he is honored to be the principal of their school. But shortly after, he begins to tell them about how he is going to change the way the school operates. To be a good principal, you have to acknowledge the rules and policies that were in place before your arrival. It is acceptable to change a few things to better the educational environment but Prager is attempting to modify the way that students are taught along with student behavior. He wants to eliminate all obscene language on school property but he can't be in all places at all times. Just because he tells the students to watch their language doesn't mean that all foul language will disappear. He also informs the students that a formal dress code will be in place. This dress code will not allow the students to be themselves, for they are forced to show up to school dressed the same as every other student. I also do not agree with Prager's choice to end all ethnicity. Student diversity is an integral component of a good school. By "eliminating" ethnicity and identifying everyone as American, he is basically telling all of the students to forget where they came from, forget their ethnic background, and conform to the new standard that his is trying to push onto the students. Prager is also suggesting that the teachers only teach students things that are considered "american". I don't think that it is possible to teach that way. That would eliminate all of the history of other countries that ties in to the history of the United States. In my opinion, Prager is starting off his new job in a terrible way, attempting to change the way that a public school is run. I believe that not only the students, but the parents of the students attending this school will feel that their school will not be a positive educational environment. It is great that Prager wants to make the school a better place for the sake of education, but he is, without a doubt, going about it the wrong way.

Taylor's Response

To start off, I respect Prager’s emphasis on trying to make the school a better place. However, for the most part, I do not agree with the ways in which he feels the school should be improved. I feel that Prager’s idea of basically eliminating the focus on different ethnic groups, races, languages, religions, etc would never work and furthermore is very wrong, and maybe even unlawful. I feel ending such celebrations and clubs will just put an end to the school-sponsored activities he does not believe in, rather than his argument of making the school only care about the national identity of American. It is impossible for the administration of a school to prohibit gatherings based on race, religion, language, sexual orientation, etc. These aspects of someone will never be changed, or taken away, and therefore I believe they shouldn't be taken out of schools. If anything, I feel that more of these clubs and celebrations should be embraced. We can only grow, as Americans, if we are open to the other Americans around us. I do agree with Prager’s second proposal of teaching all students to read and write in English. Without doing so, as Prager argued, one will not be ready for the work force in America, as English is used as the primary language here. Even though I personally do not like the idea of a dress code, I can understand Prager’s point of view for that proposal. I also agree with Prager as he says “no obscene language will be tolerated anywhere.” Not only is such language unnecessary, it is insulting and could potentially cause many altercations in the school that could be avoided by implementing this rule. Similarly to the way in which I agree on the importance of one’s character, scholarship and humanity in schools, I also feel self-esteem programs are important as well. If they are eliminated, I feel some of these qualities may not be achieved by many students, and these programs can help a student get onto the right track, and eventually allow them to attain it themselves. Lastly, I do not agree with Prager’s outlook on the use of classes and warning against on topics such as smoking, caffeine, sexual harassment, global warming, safe sex, etc. For some students at the school, these classes and lessons about such topics are the only time the people are made aware of the problems. Therefore, if we eliminate these classes and lessons, I can only see the problems getting worse. Overall, I feel Prager wants to make schools focus more on education and making them a better learning environment, but the ways in which he proposes to do so in his letter seem completely wrong to me.

Kyle Hadel's Response

My initial response to this speech was one of surprise and concern. Due to the fact that in society today people strive to be as "politically correct" as possible, in my mind someone of prager's status should also be very politically correct in order to survive in the public school system. But personally i see the light in his statements, as Americans we claim to be attempting to unify but in reality we are more separated then ever. Finally I feel that prager's overall idea is a step in the right direction but he is taking it to far when he states that he will implement a dress code, condescendingly accuses the students of not knowing the pledge, and blatantly implements all these policies at one time. I feel that today being this aggressive will only get you removed immediately by the parents and students that do not identify with your policies, they would immediately put too much pressure on people above the status of principle.

I feel a better approach would be to implement some of these policies one at a time in order to allow the student body and their parents to adjust and realize what prager is trying to do. Second I feel that if he implements a dress code he will never be able to employ all his other policies due to the fact that he would make enemies of the student body immediately.

I do feel that prager has a point when he states that we as high schoolers focus to much on what is on the surface. We strive to fit in or stand out in a positive manner so to be popular or just to avoid being picked on. I feel that if he applies some of these policies then some or the majority of this will be eliminated.

In the end prager basically slaughters current public education with out ever directly referring to it. His policies are the opposite of what is considered acceptable, due to the fact that todays public education encourages individuality. For example the black community has developed meeting and groups that only identify with their own ethnicity, like black history month, black music awards, etc. would it be considered acceptable if we where to have a white history month or a white music awards? So, do i think what prager is trying to do is right, yes, but is it allowed, no, the world today would never allow it unless he went about it in a less abrupt way.

William Connor's Response

My initial impression of Prager is that he is rather pompous and a seemingly racist man. One argument that stood out to me was that about "e pluribus unum." Yes, it's from many one but that doesn't simply mean that all races should assimilate to this so called American culture. America, as was intended, should be a place of individual identity, freedom, and culture shouldn't be drawn out of that. It's in no way undermining the motto. Another thing which deterred me is that he blatantly stated that "people have their priorities backwards." First off, it bothers me that people care so much about the outward appearance of another, they'll still contain the same capability. In his final sentence also, he once more he made a relatively risky assumption stating that we probably don't know the words to the pledge as if he were all high and mighty. However, the way in which he set up clubs to revolve around the arts was quite interesting. "To think beyond yourself." Then again, he somewhat contradicts himself by implementing the importance of another language which is, in a sense, identified with culture. Furthermore, I appreciate his stand against obscene language.

I don't understand how one's race could even be overemphasized in the first place. Moreover, to take pride in your ethnicity is in no way narcissistic! Culture is not based around an individual, it's a whole group of people therefore it's in no way self oriented. Why should we even have to speak about our character? Does it not come out through observation of how we react to things throughout the day and what we say without trying to directly pinpoint our characteristics?

Pragers view on the education seems quite unusual to me however some aspects I can understand. He proposes that we not implement any sort of political matters into the education. I think this would ultimately lead to a large portion of the students having no sense of nationalism or understanding of the law. I think it's incredibly detrimental to be oblivious to the laws one must abide by and those that protect them. Although, at the same time, it seems smart to base the school system on academics, however, once more students are cut of from more abstract ideas

There is no doubt that it's possible to teach in this manner, but is it right, safe? To be blind of all that the world of education has to offer seems to me as counterproductive. Yes you'll be smart academically, but in what will you implement these skills?

Morgan Jones

I agree that people come into to schools and separate themselves due to their race, sex, religion and interests to form a “clique” or just your group of friends (whatever you call it its all the same). This is common among all people not just in high schools but the lack of differences in these areas will not stop human nature. I believe that for some they find their own personality in their race, sex, religion and interests. I know this because I define myself due to the fact I am a female, I am a Christian, I love to dance and I love AFJROTC these truths help me define who I am and what I do. He states that your individual identity is important but how can you take away the factors that help determine that and still know who you are. Many people embrace their culture and the fact that the U.S is made up of many different cultures is what makes us unique so I do believe there is an “American” culture per say it is everyone’s individual identities that make up our culture. I think that being around people who share the same culture, race, sex or religion is healthy and that interaction is needed in the life of the individual thus taking away groups that help you identify with these things is not healthy. I think that students who don’t speak fluent English should learn English because the US is the only country in which it expects natives to learn other languages to accommodate those who move here and won’t learn the language. Don’t get me wrong I think that every person should be at least bilingual but if you move to a different country other than the US you would have to learn their language to communicate with others. (Ms. McCarthy this one’s for you) I believe that students should take pride in the way they dress when they come to school and not where your pajamas and slippers but I believe that if a person s covered from their high chest to their knees( or close within an inch or so) I don’t think it should matter what it says or how it does it because the issue is that people show way to much skin these days and people of the opposite sex can’t concentrate.

Brad Devore on prager's speech

When i first read Dennis Prager's speech i was initially overwhelmed with a disposition of disgust and aggravation. I perceived Prager as a authoritarian that cares more about the public opinion than those of the concerned students, faculty, and parents alike. His speech was so played it is almost impossible to buy into it. If he were to become the principal the schools reputation would drastically diminish and eventually lose respect to even the most foolish critics. I was in shock when he said your culture and religion would not be honored. Though i do agree this is a country that has gained its own vast culture and traditions, but it is repugnant to even consider requiring somebody to leave behind a culture that they hold so much pride for.

One thing i did agree with in the speech was when he said it was integral to learn english, this being probably the only thing i agreed with. Though i agree that we must judge somebody on there character, where somebody comes from displays what they believe in and what they acknowledge as sacred. I believe that those who clench there culture even when faced with the threat of being considered a outcast shows the character that should be credited by overcoming odds that not many would face. Even though profanity is not always considered intelligent, Dennis Prager must endure the reality that not everyone in high school is perfect, nor is anybody else, in my eyes perfection is a blind goal only pursued by those who are senile enough to truly believe that they can attain perfection. One should not reach for unattainable goals but attempt to acquire realistic ambitions that can be grasped.

Basing academic grades on your clothes is absurd. Freedom is one of the few things students enjoy in school, taking away our freedoms is the most unamerican affair i can even imagine. This great country suffered a war and many obstacles to even gain independence in the first place. A wise man named Patrick Henry once said March 23, 1775 "Give me Liberty Or Give Me Death". Taking away the single thing that allowed our country was founded on is outrageous beyond belief. The ignorance of taking away the education of realistic threats such as smoking, health, drunk driving, and many other controversial subjects just shows how little Dennis Prager even comprehends about the real world. Although he can attempt to cloak the real problems high school students have failing to accept these real issues only shows the weakness of not only the school as a whole but the leader as well. A general that cannot command his soldiers is one that will fail in any and all aspects of anything he/she attempts.

The greatest leader is not the one that is disguised as perfect, but the leader that is willing and able to face and retaliate to problems whether they be minor or considerable. Dennis Prager's way of teaching will not work because he is unable to perceive the truth that we are not carbon copies but we are all unique in many aspects and for us to succeed we must stick together and may have to go the extra mile for certain students that are faced with considerable and complex issues that may have different solutions. Might I add that even the suggestion that Dennis Prager doesn't even believe i have the mental capacity or intelligence to articulate the Pledge of Allegiance stands as the single most demeaning and belittling thing anybody has ever inquired about me. Dennis Prager does not hold the sagacity to be a janitor, and i hold a considerable amount of respect for the janitors which is why I don't believe he should even attempt it.

Michael Casper's response!

My first impression of this speech was that, while his arguments made sense, he must be a real prick. His views on being American is like a warped version of Nativism. Although I agree with not tolerating obscene language - because it's just really isn't necessary - some things like the formal dress code I disagree with. Please, seven hours in small, hard chairs, with the air conditioning broken? I am not gonna be wanting to wear a polo. Also his complete disregard for other cultures is aggravating, because America is not a "melting pot," but rather a tossed salad, where many cultures come together to create a mixture of influence in our nation.

Now, I can see how he thinks that color, race, and gender are being overly-emphasized in our current school sytem and I can also agree that that's not what makes up your identity and humanity, but calling it narcissm is way over the line, and that's not true anyways because if you're interested in your culture, then you're not preoccupied with yourself, but of other people in your culture. Oh, and by the way, RELIGION ISN'T A PHYSICAL TRAIT. It's an interest, and therefore should fall in his "criteria" of allowed extracurricular activities. People can change their religion, just like they can change their interests, activities, disposition.

Overall, Prager is trying to make a monotone school. He thinks that schools are providing too much extra help just because of physical traits, when it's the individual that really counts. Things like academic achievement should probably be left solely up to academics, but it's a bit extreme to completely swipe the school of anything pertaining to culture. In my mind's eye, I see Prager as an quixotic individual who is ultimately a hypocrite because his rules and regulations do not follow his "want" for individualism.

Lastly, trying to avoid political issues is ignorant, because some of those issues are legitimate problems that need to be addressed at a public high school. If you think about the amount of time students spend at school (more than a quarter of the whole day), and the often-seen disconnect of students and their families, sometimes the public school is the only place where education for these issues is possible.

And that's what I think.

"A Speech Every American High School Principal Should Give"

Read "A Speech Every American High School Principal Should Give" by Dennis Prager.  Here is a link to the speech if you don't have your hard copy:
"A Speech Every American High School Principal Should Give"

In a thoughtful, well written response, consider your beliefs and opinions the following questions. For your original post, please post a NEW POST; then, respond to at least ONE of your classmate's posts by COMMENTING on it while, of course, respecting personal opinions and beliefs (sentential adverb, what?!).

Your rubric is as follows:
Blog Posting Rubric
You do not have to answer all of these, but think about them for your response. Support your feelings using the speech and even specific quotes you found particularly interesting/intriguing:

1. What are your initial reactions to Prager's speech? With which ideas that he presents do you agree? Are there any with which you disagree?
2. According to the speaker, Prager believes that we harp too much on superficial characteristics such as the color of our skin and the language we speak and not enough on our "humanity" and "character."  Do you agree? Why or why not?
3. What is Prager opining about American education? What does he propose we teach young people?  Do you agree that this is the direction we are heading?
4. Do you think that it is even possible to teach in this way? Why or why not?

I will be commenting as well. I hope you enjoy this exercise; get used to this form of discussion as many of your college courses will be set up this way!

YOU MUST POST AND COMMENT BY 11PM ON FRIDAY, MARCH 11TH TO RECEIVE CREDIT!

To Mrs. McCarthy

Hey Mrs. McCarthy is Shane my flight from Mississippi to Charlotte is being delayed for 2 hours due to technical problems so i think i get back into town at like 2:30a.m. or later so do you think i could get a one day on our homework because i do not have it with me to do. Wish i brought it!!!

just found disposition in a nonpoint song

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IkezwFMBN9Y

Mrs. McCarthy i found dismantle in song lyrics

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gEUraclR5yM

I found that Spongebob episode!!

i finally found it Ms. McCarthy!! :D
Squidward says Jargon lol.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CwIXbZuxfes&feature=related

Of Mice and Men Homework

Do we need to read pages 1-16 tonight?

What the Bleep Do We Kno

Hey Guys,

Happy two-hour delay!  Remember yesterday how we were talking about consciousness and the possibility that we cannot see things that we do not have a past experience with? We were talking about Native Americans and their inability to see Columbus' ships...

This is the clip from What the Bleep Do We Know, the film about which I was telling you....keep in mind that these abstract and often obscure concepts do not represent all of my own beliefs, they're just ideas.  Think for yourself!  At the very least, it's an interesting concept.

You can watch all the parts on YouTube, but here's the clip...start at about 2:15 if you don't want to watch the whole thing!

You can click on the link to make it bigger!
I would LOVE for someone to talk about this in class tomorrow...

EQUIANO VIDEO on YOUTUBE

Equiano Video
The link above is a powerful clip from the narrative...a different section but filled with sounds and images that evoke the emotional responses you may not have gotten from the text...I think it's AWESOME (and we're Team Awesome, so you should too!)

An Interesting Narrative (Homework 2/8)

So I was sitting at home, enjoying my dinner when BAM! I thought of you guys (awww) and realized in my CRAZY day that I never posted the story.

Here it is:
You can change the font or whatever you need to do to make it readable; I made paragraphs because I felt it might be easier to understand each section...for the details--->emotional responses part, just do your best to find details that should/will provoke emotional responses!

"An Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano"

So homework?

Did people take their books home?

I thought the narrative for homework was going to be posted on the blog.

Guess not.

Columbus

Columbus Text

Technical Issues?

Okay, so Michael, Katie and Adamson are having tech issues with downloading this file, so I am emailing them the story instead...does anyone else need this help?

If not, can you tell me what it looked like for you? Perhaps it's working for some but not for others...

Thanks! Sorry for the confusion, we'll spend some time looking at it tomorrow!

Museum Indians

hOMEWORK 2/2:

Read Museum Indians tonight and answer the study questions you were given today in class.

WELCOME TO OUR BLOG!!

Hey everybody! Welcome to our blog...

Please reply to this post to let me know you are on and everything is working!

Hope this can become more useful than it was last semester; let's make it that way!