Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Scout Thematic Journey Assessment

Miss Been
Introduction to Literature
Scout Thematic Journey Poster

Due: Wednesday/Thursday May 12/13
Deadline: Friday May 15


To Kill a Mockingbird is a book that has several themes and motif’s running through it. Scout, our narrator, walks through the process of discovering a variety of truth’s about life- the themes and motif’s represent these truths.
Create a map of Scout’s “Thematic Journey”.
1. Synthesize the information we have explored in class to identify a General Theme (may be any of the ones we explored or may be a completely new theme you have thought of)
2. Identify 10 events which help develop this theme, the setting where the events took place, and the lessons learned from each event, and at least 5 quotes that connect the theme to different events.
3. Organize all of the events into a map format- tracking Scout’s journey of discovery. The map needs to include the following:
a. The setting of Maycomb mapped out as you imagine it. At least the places where your events took place must be included, although you may include more.
b. 10 events tracked in chronological order on the map. I would put a “path” or dotted line that leads us from event to event. Each event should be titled and briefly summarized in 1-2 sentences.
c. Lesson learned for each event- explain how this event contributed to the overall theme.
d. 5-10 quotes that show the connections between the event and the lesson in various events.
e. Paragraph answering the question: What did Scout learn? This will synthesize the lessons you have explored. Consider this a concluding paragraph.

Lesson Plan for Introduction to Literature- 9th Grade Video

Unit: To Kill a Mockingbird
Lesson: Thematic Analysis
Essential Question: What did Scout learn from her experiences and observations in To Kill a Mockingbird?
Standard: 2.3 Show how the theme or meaning of a selection represents a view or comment on life, using textual evidence to support the claims.
Objective:
1. Students will understand the concept of learning lessons through our “life journeys”
2. Students will analyze a variety of themes by connecting them to various events from the novel
Assessment:
Formative: discussion, group posters and presentation
Summative: Scout Thematic Journey Map

Activities:
1. Think/Pair/Share-
What have you learned in your own personal journey over the past 8 months of high school?
a. 5 minutes- students journal quietly on question
b. 5 minutes- students discuss ideas with each other
c. 10 minutes- students share with the whole class
2. Thematic Gallery Walk- students will journey from table to table and brainstorm on various events that could be connected with different themes
a. Students divided into 5 tables, each table has a blue sheet with a theme written on it:
i. Loss of Innocence
ii. Injustice
iii. Walking in Someone’s Shoes
iv. Bravery in the midst of Isolation
b. Students will spend five minutes at each table, adding events and explanations for different events
c. Group is responsible for synthesizing information at the last table they are at, presenting to the class a summary of “What Scout learned” about that particular theme

Introduction to Literature Gr 9

Saturday, May 8, 2010

Letter of Intent

To Whom it May Concern,
I am secondary English teacher currently teaching in an international school in Abuja, Nigeria who is moving back to the states this summer. As a 1994 graduate in secondary English education from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, I have taught courses at both the middle and high school levels, including AP Language and Composition, AP Literature and Composition, and Speech.
I began my teaching career ten years ago at the Denver Street School where I taught at-risk middle and high school students. I then moved on to work at Academy Charter School, teaching Core Knowledge curriculum for 7th and 8th grade. I am currently teaching at the American International School of Abuja in Nigeria. I have worked here the past four years and have been involved in the process of developing a rigorous high school program which focuses on preparing students for top universities in the United States and United Kingdom.
Throughout my teaching career, I have been involved in extra-curricular activities with the students. At both Academy Charter and the American International School, Abuja I have directed and/or produced several dramatic productions including Hurricane Smith and the Search for the Golden Monkey, Twelfth Night, Romeo and Juliet, and The Importance of Being Earnest. I have also advised middle and high school student councils, working with them on student-led events, service learning projects and fundraisers.
A passionate educator, I am looking for a position in which I can incorporate my experience and skills in order to challenge and motivate the next generation. I am especially interested in bringing back my experiences in competitive academic settings to the urban environment. I will be finished teaching in Nigeria mid-June. Feel free to call me at (303)859-5093 (works internationally) or email me at martinabeen@hotmail.com.
Thank you for your interest,
Sincerely,
Martina Been