Blog 17 - Reality TV

DUE TUESDAY, FEB. 26, 2013

Reality television programs, which feature real people engaged in real activities rather than professional actors performing scripted scenes, are increasingly popular. These shows depict ordinary people competing in everything from singing and dancing to losing weight, or just living their everyday lives. Most people believe that the reality these shows portray is authentic, but they are being misled. How authentic can these shows be when producers design challenges for the participants and then editors alter filmed scenes?

Do people benefit from forms of entertainment that show so-called reality, or are such forms of entertainment harmful? Specific explanations and examples for the topic are key to receiving full credit.

A minimum of 2 paragraphs for this topic is required with at least a 2-3 sentence response to someone else's blog post--building upon it or re-thinking it.

Blog 16 - Imagination and Fact

In The Crime of Sylvester Bonnard, French writer Anatole France writes, “To know isnothing at all; to imagine is everything.” Why might one argue that imagination is more valuable than facts? Using an example from literature, history, science, film, or your own experience or observation, write an essay analyzing the worth of imagination. Please remember to use two different types of examples in your paragraphs as well as elaboration and specific details. Also, respond to another person in a few sentences.

Active and Passive Voice PowerPoint Notes

Active and Passive Voice from Lina Ell

Blog 15 - Free Write

DUE TUESDAY FEB. 12, 2013
For this particular blog response, you have the freedom to write anything you'd like, so long as you make it a multi-paragraph, creative and original post. The piece you choose can be fiction or non-fiction, depending on your preferences or particular talents. Have fun! Go nuts!

Newspaper Assignment Handout

Each member of the newspaper group will contribute a minimum of 3 articles on a variety of topics - approved by the teacher and the editor (selected by vote). One of the articles can be an editorial or opinion piece on any subject. Remember, in order for the newspaper to be the most appealing, the articles have to refer to recent news, important events, and things that the student population cares about. You may choose local, regional, national, or world news, just remember to do the research and make it interesting. Use the sheets provided to plan out your topics and organize your information. Also, browse articles in a similar section or on a similar topic for help.

CLICK IMAGE for Brainstorming Worksheet and Writing Tips.

Qualities of a Feature Story/Sample Leads AND Active and Passive Voice Grammar Worksheet

CLICK IMAGE for "Qualities of Feature Story" worksheet.

 

CLICK IMAGE to download "Active/Passive Voice" worksheet.
 

Independent Browsing of a Newspaper for Quality Articles - Summary Worksheet

After browsing several articles in your favorite sections of the online newspaper (I recommend New York Times or Chicago Tribune), choose your top 3 articles/editorials, summarize each, and fill out the worksheet attached. Due at the end of the period on Thursday.

"Do Opposites Attract?" and "Dealing with Homework" Articles - Sample Styles PLUS Six Rules for Writing Straight Leads

CLICK PICTURE for a copy of the sample articles.

CLICK IMAGE for notes on "Leads."

Feature Article

CLICK ME for notes on feature articles.