Syntax Essay

Thursday was a word day on the syntax essay, or an opportunity to create an original rhetorical analysis. During class tomorrow, we will start work on diction and how authors create patterns of phrasing to convey their purpose.

Superman & Me

After spending quality time analyzing the purposes of Sherman Alexie's paragraphs, you will construct a 3-4 paragraph essay (you can do 5 if you feel the urge), on this prompt: How does Sherman Alexis utilize syntax to reflect his purpose in "Superman and Me"?

Syntax

After our last vocab quest -- a team effort, we reviewed our 6 forms of syntax (simple, compound, complex, compound-complex, cumulative, and periodic) by definition, identification of sentences, and creation of sentences. For homework, read "Superman and Me" selection, annotate, and identify the purpose of each paragraph. Be specific with your purposes and do not limit yourself to just "to entertain" or "to explain" or anything else vague.

Rhetorical Analysis

During class, we added three words to our vernacular. We have three left in this unit and for vocabulary in Adv. Comp.

Meanwhile, we began rhetorical analysis - the "what" and the "why" the author uses strategies and writing organization to express a theme or argument. This involves the rhetorical triangle: the speaker, the audience, and the subject. In addition, this brings on the three musketeers of rhetorical appeals: logos, ethos, and pathos. During class tomorrow, we will review standard rhetorical terms, and you will be constructing a rhetorical analysis of your own.

C/C Test

The whole hour was dedicated to the compare & contrast essay prompt writing. If you were absent, you will need to make this up by the end of the week.

C/C Prep

Sorry for the delay in updating the blog. After much grading and Scholar Quiz competition, here is the recap of Friday's class: began our last unit of vocabulary, reviewed Grammar Quest, completed notes for the compare and contrast prompt on Monday. I will be making copies of the group notes for class, and you will use these to help provide evidence for the compare and contrast essay prompt. You will have the entire class time to work on the prompt, so be ready to start immediately. Starting Tuesday, we will begin rhetorical analysis work.

Researching STL

We will start a new round of vocabulary experts on Friday - the last round of your high school English class career! I know the feeling is bittersweet.

Meanwhile, you will have a compare and contrast essay prompt on Monday during class time. In order to have enough ethos to compose a specific, detail-oriented writing, you are working with a group to take notes on 10 locations in the STL area. By the end of the day Friday, I will need the group notes to make copies for all of your group.