If you are looking for the sample paper, it is on the Homework page of this website and is labeled “Night Analysis.” There you will also find a copy of the sample Works Cited, the SOAPSToneS handout, and the Source/Note Card handout. Do not forget that you may check the format of your citations and your Works Cited at the Citation Machine online.
Please remember that the second half of your syllabus (pertaining to brush strokes) is off by a day. Your first homework regarding brush strokes will be Thursday, 2/12/09. Please pay attention in class for revisions.
Every year for the last twelve, I have had the same resolution with regard to school: to be a better teacher than I was last semester. I know that sounds boring to you students, but I am always thinking and re-thinking, spinning my wheels to make things meaningful for you; there are 90 of you each semester, so that’s a daunting task!
The good news is that today, before I even see most of you for the first time, it’s still a possibility. I haven’t become exhausted or developed a mental block or had my enthusiasm curbed by some unexpected bump in the road. The even better news is that the same is true for you; right now, you have an entirely new opportunity to do better than you ever have. Imagine that you’re starting with a 100%; you have an A right now; how will you keep it?
If you have not yet passed a portion of the Alabama High School Graduation Exam, you may attend after-school or Saturday tutoring sessions FREE of charge. Just listen to the morning announcements or ask Mrs. Murphree for details. Do not wait until your senior year to take care of business!
When I was in my junior year of high school, I brought home a less than acceptable grade to my parents. My father said, “I want you to do better than this next time.” I responded with a sigh and said,”I’ll try.” My dad said, “Don’t try - do it.” Huh? What’s that supposed to mean.
Well, if you say you’ll try, in a way, you give yourself an out…maybe you’ll get it done, maybe you won’t. No pressure, right? Sometimes trying is commendable; maybe we’re not especially talented in an area, so trying it, even if we’re afraid or embarrassed, is a big step. But when we know we’re capable, it’s not really a matter of trying; it’s a matter of making up our minds that we are going to get the job done.
This semester there may be times when trying is the best you can do; however, if you’re like me, most of the time it’s laziness, not lack of ability, that keeps you from doing. Want to get a grade in English better than the one you had last year? Just DO it!
