student provided prompt

Chanler: What would happen in a world where it was the child's choice to go to school? Would you go to school?


If there was a world where children had the choice to go to school it would be unproductive. I know children "hate" school, but that is only because it has boring and dull moments. It also makes you wonder why would have to learn information you "will never use". Don't get me wrong, school is boring, stressful, and lame; however, it prepares you for a bright future. Most adults with cool and interesting jobs had to attend school to achieve that job. School is a great invention. I may sound like bit of a nerd but I can see a clear picture of how I will use certain skills in my future life. The teachers don't want to be there to bother you. They are generous enough to take their time and set us up for a good life. We should appreciate them more.

If I had the choice, yes I would go to school. I want to attend collage and go through all of the steps to have a wide variety of job options. I want to be smart enough to get a good paying job that may be able to take care of a family. Lots of students on the other hand would not go to school. In my opinion I think the students that would agree with me are fortunate enough to attend a private school. Private school is a privilege. I think all kids needs school but it is obvious that majority of kids would not go to school if they didn't have to. I think also some kids would do "home school"; however, interacting with other kids is good for you social skills that will be needed later in life.


READING TIMES:

LOFT  (i loved this book so much)
by William Goulding

And then there were six ( i am almost done with this and then i will continue in the series)

12-5 (45 min)
12-6 (30 min)
12-7 (20 min)
12-8 (45 min)


150 min

Writing Center Experience

This semester I visited the writing center to improve my literary analysis final draft. I booked and appointment with Ellery. I decided to go to the writing center because I was not pleased with my rough draft grade. When I got there I was slightly uncomfortable because I felt out of place. I felt like I did not belong there and that people were going to laugh or judge the way I write. Luckily my thoughts and feelings were incorrect. Ellery immediately greeted me and I suddenly could breath again. haha. I got out of final draft and began reading it line by line to her. As each line passed, we would discuss whether the sentence made sense or not. If it made sense we continued reading. If it sounded weird or appeared to have errors she would give me advice on how I could change a few things to improve that sentence and clarify the point I was trying to prove.

In my paper I noticed how many silly errors I had by just reading it aloud to her. I caught the majority of my errors just by reading. Granite, Ellery does know more about writing papers than I do through experience and practice. My papers fluency and structure was much better and precise. I didn't jump from point to point anymore. I feel like the writing center is a major help because when you revise your own paper you read it over and over and in a way you get used to it. When someone else takes a look at it they point out things you didn't notice after multiple read throughs. It's very helpful and I deffidently plan to book another appointment at the writing center to improve my papers.

reading update

Title: The Power of six

11/29 (20 min)
11/30 (20 min)

Title: Lord Of The Flies

11/28 (10 min)
11/29 (30 min)
11/30 (20 min)
12/1 (30 min)

Free Post

Yesterday was my great-grandma's birthday. She turned 96 years old. Her name is margeritie but we call her ''Dee Dee''. I was so excited to spend the afternoon with her. I am constantly worried when God will deicide it's her time, so every moment I spend with her is speical. Even though she's old, she says she is still young at heart, and I believe that. Dee is the type of person that still messes with you and tells funny stories. For her birthday my Uncle Brain came in town from PA to see her. We then showed up at the nursing home and suprised her. We signed her out and brought her to our house. She smilied the entire car ride, and I drive because I am now street legal. My dad cooked us a very good lunch/dinner and she was thrilled. Next we sang happy birthday to her and cut her cake. She loves ice cream, so we had her favorite flavor with the cake. I really think she had a good day, and that really means a lot to my whole family. We all acknowledge the fact that anything could happen to her so seeing her happy allows us all the get a good night sleep. :)

Blog Prompt

Prompt: How do you determine you routines?


I choose a different routine almost everyday. Those people that have the same morning routine are crazy! I like to do different scheduleds eachday. I get bored with the same thing over and over again. Anway, I don't really choose a routine. I tend to go with the flow. If I wake up extremly tired, then I'll take a quick shower to wake me up. If I wake up and am so hungry, I go get food. The main thing I am perticular about is when I put my uniform on. I wont put it on before I eat. I like to eat inconfort and get ready in comfortable clothes. My mood veries often in the morning. Somedays  I wake up and am like sunshine, I want to talk and laugh; however, other times I go hours without looking or talking to people. My mom gets real;y annoyed on those days. My mom wants me to do the same routines so she knows if she needs to get me breakfast; however, I am trying to convince her that changing it up is way more interesting. It's weird to see my opinion about routines in the morning verses my sisters. My sister has to do the same thing over and over again. I always try to tell her to do what I do, but she just laughed and said thats weird. I am ow courious about other peoples routines, so If you comment tell me how you do it.

Free Post

This weekend I had to complete my final drivers ed driving hours. My instructor Ralph was scary. We got into the car and he told me to head to bluebonnet. I got very nervous because I forgot how to get there. I decided to ask him where to go. He looked at me very dumb, but he still directed me as I asked. We were in the car about 30 minutes until he told me to go through the McDonalds drive through. I laughed inside. He made me order him a big mac with a sprite. I did great going through the drive through. Next he told me we were going to his house. I got very suspicious. Ralph said he wanted coffee. I pulled up to his scary house and waited. I had my dad on speedial just in case. After he came out he had no coffee in his hand. I decided not to question to him and just listen. We headed towards the interstate. I got so nervous. I hate the interstate because people go so fast it's insane. Sure enough I merged on perfectly. Ralph was listening to heavy metal music. He honestly made me feel uncomfortable. I kept looking at the clock waiting for my time to be up; however, I had 3 hours left. I don't know why they make you drive for long. We made at least 20 stops and finally it was time to go home. I was so happy when I pulled into my neighborhood. I parked the car and he began writing my report. He was supposed to do that while I drove but I think he forgot. Anyways, Ralph gave me a 96% on my driving grade. He told me I was very good and focused. He also said he enjoyed my company, which made me feel weird, but I laughed and thanked him anyway. I got out and went inside. My mom was so proud of me she took me to get an Icee. It was truly a good day.



reading:

The Power Of Six

11-5-13 (20 min at home)
11-6-13 (20min in the car)
11-7-13 (30 min at home)
11-9-13 (45 min in the car driving to hammond)
11-10-13 (20 min reading Lord Of the Flies)


135 min

Reflection to Island experience

During my English class on Friday my class and I were put into a situation where we had to pretend we were all stranded on a island with the class and scared first graders. We had to come up with a plan on how to survive and what we would do. Nobody took this seriously because the ''island'' we were on was the classroom floor. Anyway I was thinking what would really happen if this happen in real life. I think it would be smart if each person was assigned a task. The difficult part was getting and listening to everyone's contributing ideas. I think the boys should help get out food and find shelter. The girls should focus on the kids and doing less difficult things; however, we wouldn't throw all the work on boys. I think if it was real life, our class would go into panic mode and argue about everything. I would be so scared if it was real, especially at night. I wouldn't sleep. I'd be scared predators or scary people would get us. In the book we are reading some children are experiencing the same things we ''experienced'' at school. I'm eager to see how the children solve their issues verses how we did.

reading and literary analysis update times

Title: The power of Six
author: Pittacus Lore

10-29-13 (30 min)
10-30-13 (20 min)
11-1-13 (30 min)



LITERARY WORK


10-27-13 (20 min)
10-29-13 (20 min)
10-30-13 (20 min)
10-31-13 (15 min)

3 independent stories

For my independent stories I read The Nightingale and The Rose, Araby, and The Sniper. In the nightingale and the rose I really was intrigued throughout the entire story. The sad and hopeful moments made me want to continue reading. I like how the nightingale is so brave and daring to throw away her life to get the boy his red rose. I also was disappointed and surprised how the girl ended up being rude and mean about what she gets. She clearly stated that she liked the real jewels she was given rather than a rose that was worked so hard for. The way the nature and animals had roles in the story was really unique. The tree was very wise and determined to help the nightingale reach her heart. At first I wished that the boy knew what the nightingale did so he could feel a little better; however, I like the mystery and sweet thought the bird had. In Araby I didn't like how unfair his uncle was. I compared the two stories because they both involved a boy who had a major crush on this one girl. In Araby the boys aunt stuck up for him and allowed him to go to the bazaar and meet the girl. The girl in Araby was a sweet one unlike the nightingale and the rose. The last story I read was the sniper. This was different from the other two in so many ways. It was action packed and mysterious. The sniper ends up realizing his enemy he shot was indeed his brother. I didn't like how hidden he kept his feelings about shooting his brother.  I know the brother was actually an enemy but at some point you wonder was there any sympathy in his heart. In my opinion if my enemy was my sister and I killed her I would still have many parts of me that regretted it and felt bad. I am choosing the Nightingale and the rose because it was the most interesting and heart sensitive.


Reading:

I Am Number Four
10-22-13 (30min)
10-23-13(40min)
10-24-13 (1hour) (started reading Six's Legacies)


1hour and 70 min

Free Post (Church)

I am very happy Dr. D gave me a free post because I have been wanting to share why I like going to church. First off, I attend Healing Place Church. It is a huge church. Over 3,000 members are registered and attend the services. I like going to church because it allows me to connect with God in my own special way. Healing place also plays amazing live music a the beginning and end of each service. The team members work to make sure everybody is comfortable with the lessons and talks from week to week. The preachers don't preach. They spread the word and message of God. I always feel very connected and find myself relating to the message. My grandpa and I have never been close; however, going to church with him really makes me feel better. The thing I like most about my church is how fun it is. I never feel like I am at church when I am because the members are constantly involving the audience and showing funny videos that they squeeze into the lesson. I highly recommend this church to people because the staff and members are very welcoming and have so many opportunities to get you involved in.

Not only do I go to church. Healing place offers devoted. Devoted is for pre-teens and teens. They put the middle schoolers upstairs and high schoolers downstairs. It is every wednesday. I like devoted the most because everyone is in high school so you can make lots of friends. It is amazing. We make pancakes, watch videos, sing, dance...etc. We always start devoted off with 10-20 minutes of singing. The kids get so into it it's great. You see many girls and boys that seem so shy randomly just come alive. They sing and dance and pray and the best part is you feel so safe. I don't worry about anything because people their are there to understand your sins, and help you overcome the hard times or hard losses in your life. It's truly amazing and has totally changed the feeling I have for God.

Personal Question; Reading Times; Short Story Times

My Question: How do people know what love is or feels like?

Reading:

I Am Number Four (different from the other because the other was just about the kids legacies, this is the actual story)

10-8-13  (30 min)
10-10-13 (20 min)
10-11-13 (25 min)
10-12-13 (30 min)

= 105 min


Short Stories:

10-8-13 (30 min of rough drafting)
10-10-13 (20 min of organizing)

=50 min

Edited Literacy Based On Final Draft Comments

Brooke Dillon

Dr. degravelles

Block4

September 10, 2013

Emailing Grannie

            This morning I woke up to the sound of chirping birds, and a burning sensation on my eyelids from the sun. I got out of bed, walked over to my phone, and I could immediately smell fresh bacon cooking from downstairs. After descending the stairs, I was greeted by my cheerful mother, “Good morning Brookie, how’d you sleep?” I ignored the question and answered aggravated, “I’m hungry mom.” I sat at the kitchen table for about ten minutes before I realized how rudely I had spoken to her. Trying again, my mom informed me that my grandma sent me an early birthday card. I suddenly felt a lump inside my throat. Inside the card was a corny happy birthday saying with her signature at the bottom. I felt extremely frustrated, not understanding why my grandma did not have the decency to call me. Suddenly, I had an idea, and I made up my mind. Ten years had gone by, and I had yet to receive a phone call from her; all I had received was a “mandatory” birthday card.

I opened up my laptop and went into Gmail. My inbox exploded with emails; however, none from grandma. I clicked new message and began typing, “Dear Grandma, I am particularly disappointed that you never call to wish me a happy birthday. I don’t want to bother you; I just wanted to know the reason you don’t attempt to talk to me. If it’s something I did please tell me, because I want you in my life.” After ten minutes of repeatedly re-reading the sentences, I signed my name and clicked send. The next forty-five minutes felt like days.  I refreshed my feed over and over again; each time growing more frustrated I had not received a response. I felt accomplished because that was the first time I wrote for pleasure. Finally I got a reply. Eagerly, I opened the message and began to read it. “Hi Brooke, sorry I have been busy lately. I hope your birthday was a worthy one. Tell the family hey for me.” After the seventh time evaluating it, I started to cry.  That’s it? “I’m busy?” I told my mom, but she was not astonished like I thought she would be; instead, she acted like that response was predictable. I desperately wanted a relationship with my grandma, and it upset me I was never invited to go to Florida where she lives. It felt like she did not want anything to do with me. I decided that I did not care how much I annoyed her.  I was determined to construct a relationship of some kind, no matter how hard that meant I had to try.

I began to compose a new email. I thought I only had a few things to say; however, by the end of the message I realized my full page was filled.  The funny thing is, I didn’t dread the fact that I was writing. Writing had always been a “requirement” and waste of time in my eyes. In that moment of time, I looked forward to typing and receiving emails. Writing to my grandma might be lousy, but it was the first time I ever felt involved with her.

After a year of solid back and forth emailing, my grandma finally invited me to her house. I immediately began packing because I was so thrilled to spend alone time with her and see her personality. I arrived in Florida around noon Monday morning. The first thing I remember is that her house had a distinct scent, one of peppermint citronella candles.  She politely greeted me, “Hey Brooke so great to see you.” I eagerly leaped into her arms and squeezed her tiny waist with great might. After talking for a few minutes, she decided to show me some of her favorite poems. I grew bored because I didn’t know how to tell her that reading or writing is not a hobby of mine. Two hours later, I was still sitting there reading poems, but I had actually become interested to my surprise. I thought to myself, maybe reading is not so bad.

By dinner I was starving, and I would have eaten just about anything. She opened the pantry and said, “Enjoy.” I gave her a confused look because I expected to have fresh cookies or a home cooked meal like my other grandma gives me. I did not complain, only because I was desperate to get along with her. She drifted into her bedroom and said goodnight as I finished my bowl of cereal. I dragged my body into my bedroom. It was 8:00 by now, and I was lying in bed bored. I decided to Google some poems to entertain myself, and Robert Frost had written the first one that appeared on the screen. I continued to read a few of his poems and suddenly found myself in a deep trance until I eventually fell asleep.

In the morning I woke up to a dark, quiet bedroom. I sauntered into the kitchen and did not see my grandma, but I did not want to walk into her room and intrude on her privacy. I opted to wait at the kitchen table for a few minutes. I had an urge to call my mom; however, I wanted to use my new email skills to talk to her. An hour later the back door quickly swung open. My grandma had shopping bags in her hand as she motioned a wave to her friend that dropped her off. She swiftly walked in and said, “We need to talk.” I swallowed slowly. She sat her bags down and stood over my left shoulder. She asked seriously, “How many pieces of toilet paper do you use?” I had no idea what kind of question that was so I simply said, “Come again?” A fire lit in her eyes, and she started yelling, “I asked how many toilet paper squares do you use?” I had absolutely no idea the answer to this. How would I know that answer, considering I had never counted things like this?

I emailed my mom and begged her to come get me. I told her how miserable and lonely I was so she immediately started driving. I told my grandma that my mom was on her way to come get me. Shockingly, she seemed happy. Hours later my mom rang the doorbell and appeared in the doorway; I was never so excited to see her in my life.

During the car ride home I began to think and see myself as a new girl. I saw a new side of me that was willing to do anything to connect with my grandma such as writing a simple email. Writing to her was my only hope. Not only did the email affect me, it affected my grandma as well. It showed her that I was still making a continuous effect to be in her life. After my miserable trip to her house, I had now come to conclusions that the best way to communicate with her was strictly through email. I decided I had been thinking long enough, so I closed my eyes to take a nap.

When I woke up I was already in my bed back at home.  I immediately ran to my computer and opened my Gmail, quickly refreshing my feed. I almost passed out when I saw an email from my grandma. I opened the message and began reading. “Dear Brooke, I am so sorry about the ways things went while you were at my house. I do love you; however, I like emailing better than interacting in person.” I was speechless.  

Reading Times

SHORT STORY TIMES AND DATES

10-5-13 (20 min)


total 20 min

BOOK DATES AND TIMES

I am Number Four

10-3-13 (30 min)
10-4-13 (25 min)
10-5-13 (40 min)


total 95 min


BLOG PLOT WORK

10-6-13 (45 min)

total 45 min



My short story is getting difficult because the topic I chose is very hard to stick with. I can't come up with a story that in't boring or complicated. My book however is amazing an always. I plan to read the entire series. I can never find a good book; however, this book gets better and better each time I read it. Its the type of book that your don't want to ever put down. I think getting short story advice would help.

Short Story Draft

I CAN"T DECIDE WHICH STORY IS BETTER SO THIS IS A SAMPLE OF BOTH

PLEASE COMMENT AND HELP ME CHOOSE. 

Hey my name is Agatha Jane Leonard's and I am a twenty eight year old woman. My hobbies include eating, listening to music, watching TV, and meeting people. (especially boys) I have one sister and 2 brothers who drive me crazy. Their names are Jean, Maxwell, and Bernard. I have no educational background, because I quit school at the age of six. My parents said I never paid attention, so there was no point. My boyfriend and I just broke up so I am really upset. I am so anxious to meet a new, better, and cuter guy just to aggravate Jason. My sister and brothers are already married. I just can't seem to settle down. It could be because of my height. I am 6''2. I think my height is unique; however, boys tend to run away from me. I can't  figure out why. Is it because of my personality? Or my hair? Or my teeth? I try to figure it out everyday. I have no friends, which is fine because I keep myself great company. Recently I made a "friend'' at the grocery store. I was this little white puppy that was sick. I fed it and it ''smiled' at me. 

I should probably let you all know that my name is Alison. Alison Casey. I am a fourteen year old girl who attends Bradley Hight School. So far this year has been rough.  I was dating this guy named John. He was so great. He had the perfect smile, prettiest eyes, and cutest laugh. He always was a gentleman to me. He first asked me out November 14, 2010. That was a really good day for me. About six months passed and we were so happy together. My cousin told me that John didn't like me anymore. I was devastated. I didn't understand why. I tried to do everything right. I always was nice to him and made him laugh...etc. As my immature self I called John and broke up with him before he did it to me. Soon after the break up I realized that I regretted my choice majorly. I really liked John, in fact I might even have loved him. In a panic I called back, but he didn't answer. I was clueless. Maybe my cousin was right. Maybe John found a better girl, that was prettier and nicer. I decided to wait it out. I thought for sure he would call me back and forgive my stupidity. Two days later, no calls or texts. Those days felt likes years. It was 8:00 and I was bored so I decided to give him a call. A ''friendly'' call. Just before I click call, I received a message. The message was from my best friend. She was telling me that John has a new girlfriend. Already? I was furious. I immediately called my friend. "Hey omg who is john dating?", I asked in a panic. "Alison I don't know how else to say this, but he is dating your cousin."

Short Story Plot

Climax-
Rising action-
falling action-
resolution-


I was thinking my girl live in a semi large city. She will tell the story of how she had a boyfriend and he broke her heart. Then she will meet a new guy and really fall for him. I really want my character to try online dating because I could make her have really funny and interesting times. The climax will be when she finally gets the guy she likes. The rising action is when she starts talking and online dating. Falling action is when she gets dumped.

Response To Harrison Bergeron

When I recently read Harrison Bergeron a ton of questions came into mind. I realized how imaginative the author has to be to come up with that type of insane description. Harrison is a very important yet ''dangerous'' character. I am slightly confused on the message the author is trying to give. I understand the part about wanting everyone to be treated equally; however, handicapping everyone didn't make sense. When we read "Da-duh'' I was so confused on why the grandmother was such a show off about sugar cane. She made a huge deal about living in St. Thomas. They had a very competitive relationship and it reminded me of me and my family. So far reading these short stories had helped me understand recognize plot, setting, and character. It also gives me good ideas for what I should write for my story. I really think reading these has helped me insert each specific aspect of writing into my writing.


i read short stories on
A&P 9-23 for 20 minutes
A very old man with enormous wings 9-25 for 25 minutes
Dry September 9-27 for 25 minutes


I Am Number Four
9-23 30 min
9-25 20 min
9-27 45 min
9-28 30 min

writing in the voice of my short story character

Dear Journal,

Today was such a miserable day. I had to dog sit for six whole hours. I smell like squirrel poop and rat feces. I really need to take a shower; however, going to bed sounds much better. First I must take off my makeup that somehow got smeared and smudged during my dog siting hours. I have had a few thoughts tonight regarding who I am as a person. To be honest I am single and so sick of it. I want a man! A man who will take care of me and treat me with respect. What is it about me? Am I not pretty? Is it my height? Weight? Hair? I just don't get why no guy wants to date. It could be the fact that I proposed to Eddie on our second date. Forget Eddie. I am on the market, but nobody is checking me out. I really thought I saw a cute guy today. He was tall, like me and had a great tan. Turns out he has a wife. Of course... I think a new approach to the whole dating thing would help me find a man. I want to get up and grab my laptop but my burned out legs wont allow me to put pressure on them. I sit in bed in complete darkness and loneliness.

I get just enough energy to get up and grab my computer. Once I get back in bed I immediately grow anxious. I know what I need to do. Its obvious now. ONLINE DATING. It's perfect because the guy I find can't see me right away and therefor I have time to form a constructive conversation that isn't weird or quirky. In exhaustion of thinking I decide to shut my laptop and close my eyes, hoping when I wake up a cute guy is on one knee beside my bed. :)

Reading Response - short story

In class were are beginning a new writing assignment. We are going to write short stories. I am very excited about this topic because I have come up with many different ideas for a interesting, yet important main character. I am struggling to come up with a good plot of situation the main character can be involved in. I have so far come up with Agatha Jane Leonard. That is the first, middle, and last name of my character. She is completely made up. Agatha is afraid of the most bizarre things, such as dinosaurs. I like people who are awkward and clumsy. My best friend would be the best fit; however, I am looking forward to creating a made up story that is different from everyone else's. My details seem to fall into place as I brainstorm and jot down ideas. I am very excited and can't wait to get started writing the actual story.



Time Spent Reading Short Stories and annotating them:

9/18/13 "Harrison Bergeron" pages 125-130
time for the annotating was 20 minutes

9/19/13 "Da-Duh" pages 57-65
time for annotating was 15 minutes

9/20/13 "A&P" pages 119-123
time for annotating was 15 minutes

total 50 min


Reading times (I Am Number Four The Lost Files The Legacies)

9/17/13
9/18/13
9/19/13

total time 130 min.

E-Book thoughts

I am very proud of my literacy narrative; however, I do indeed have a few concerns. I am a little uneasy about the entire grade being able to see the major issues me and my family have. I feel like people may think that is completely ridiculous and embarrassing. I just would like other people such as my teachers and friends to give me their opinion if they were me. I understand families have problems; however, my issue with my grannie is a rare and shocking one. I don't want to change any names or people. I just had a few doubts.

On the other hand, I am really excited for the e-book and to see how it will turn out. I love e-books because they are cool and collective. It's something you can always look back on. I have a few ideas for the e-book. I think it would be very interesting to allow everyone to choose their own font and text size. I think if everyone had a image that wasn't obvious but yet is able to tell how it relates to the writing, that would be great. Dell is very artistic so I think the cover page will be amazing. The formatting could be similar to a scrapbook.

Those are my ideas and thoughts!!!

Reading Response and times I worked on my paper

This week I have not read as much because I was busy improving things in my paper. As I mentioned in my last reading response I told about how amazing the book I Am Number Four is. I am still fitting in time to read and reflect on this book.
The book is continuing to impress me by the amount of interesting and impressive events. I mostly enjoy the suspense in each chapter; not knowing what will happen next.

I Am Number Four

I read
9/10
9/11
9/12

total of 130 min.


Time worked on literacy narrative
9/13 for about an hour
I checked several times for grammar mistakes and sentence fluency errors.'

9/14 for about 20 minutes
I re-read it aloud and tried to use larger vocabulary words that still made sense.

This past weeks reading response

Title: I Am Number Four The Lost Files The Legacies

Author: Pittacus Lore
dates read
9/8/13
9/9/13
9/10/13

time per date: 9/8/13 (pages 1-41) (45 min)
9/9/13 part 1 (pages 41-77) (40 min)
9/10/13 part 1 (pages77-91) part 2 (pages 95-124) (33 min)

total so far: 118 min.


REFLECTION:
This book is absolutely amazing. My close friend Katherine Ann recommended it to me and I can not stop reading it. The book full of suspense and mystery makes you encouraged to continue reading. Each chapter has a "cliff hanger" that makes you almost forced to find out what happens.

Dialogue

Sleep Over Idea Conflicts

Kim and Sasha have been friends for years. Sasha invited Kim over and they plan to have an awesome sleep over. The two friends cannot seem to agree on any of the details, so an argument arises. 

"Hey Kim I'm so excited for our sleep over tonight, it's going to be great," exclaims Sasha excitedly!

Kim happily replies, "Me too, I came up with some fun activities we could do!" 

"Oh, that's the bell see you after class," declares Sasha. She adds, "Meet me at my car."

*Bell Rings*

Kim sees Sasha in the hall and asks, "Hey Sasha how was class?"

"Fine," Sasha grudges unhappily. 

Kim questions, "Uhh, whats the matter?" 

"Nothing, just get in the car," grumbles Sasha.

*The girls arrive at Sasha's house*

"Hey so I was thinking we could do manicures and pedicures," Kim suggests.  "What do you think?"

Sasha disagrees, "No, thats so boring and takes forever."

"Oh true," agrees Kim.  She then suggests, "What about swimming?''

"No then we need to shower," moans Sasha.

Kim desperately trying to come up with an idea Sasha will like asks, ''How about a movie?"

Sasha rejects Kim's idea and explains, "I'll fall asleep."

Finally Kim decides to ask for Sasha's ideas and questions, "Well what do you want to do?''

"I want to just lay down," Sasha boringly mumbles.

Concerned about her friend, Kim asks, "Sasha, are you ok?"

In reply, Sasha snaps, "I'm fine ok?"

Being a good friend, Kim asks in a concerned tone, "Anything I can do?"

"Nope," grunts Sasha as she remains in a bad mood.

In total confusion, Kim just sits there, and eventually Sasha falls asleep. After this bad sleepover experience, Kim decides to call her mom and leave.

Reading Record

Title: Water For Elephants 
Author: Sara Gruen
Dates Read: 
9/3/13
9/4/13
9/6/13
9/7/13
Pages Per day:
9/3/13 (260-290)  (35 min)
9/4/13 (290-312) (25 min)
9/6/13 (312-331) (23 min)
Total time for this book: 83 min

Title: 7 Days In Utopia 
Author: David L. Cook
Date Read: 9/7/13
Page per day: 100-150 (55 min)
total time:55 min


BOOKS COMBINED TIME= 138 min 


REFLECTION:
In Water For Elephants August realized how much Jacob loved Marlena. After embarrassing both Jacob and Marlena he beat both of them. In fury Jacob tried to fight August but he ended up getting himself kicked of the train. He convinced Marlena to jump with him. He was so happy to be with her until August sent his guards to hurt Jacob and steal Marlena the star of August's circus back. When Jacob regained conciseness he bravely returned to the train to re-steal Marlena. Lots of commotion occurred. I really advise anyone to read this book. It's always interesting. 7 Days Of Utopia has really got me in a trance. I find myself stopping and agreeing with each scene and comparing the events to myself. This book is probably the most special book to me because I truly understand how the character feels. I usually try to relate to other book; however, this book really grabs my attention.  

Literacy Narrative Questions and Concerns

So far in my literacy narrative I am really excited for my teacher to read of the the vivid detail included in my writing. I find this topic fairly simple; however, I struggle to include the topic "writing and reading" in my narrative. At times I get caught up in the story and forget to base my story off of myself as a reader or writer. I am excited to read my classmates vivid narratives. I think it's going to be interesting how many different stories are told. My closest friends and I know lots about each other but I feel like I am going to learn way more about them through their narrative stories.  I have a few questions that maybe my classmates can answer. I ask myself "why I dread writing in school, but love emailing my grannie?' I haven't yet found the answer to my question. I'm hoping some of my classmates can relate to the issue I have about myself and help me find the answer. Aside from my question/ doubt I am very excited and motivated to make my paper the best I can.

Literacy Narrative response

I read the narrative in Norton on pages 23-27. This narrative for those that didn't read it was about a young girl who was asked to name the talents that God gave her. She immediately responded by saying "I am a writer." After the quick response she thought about it. She wondered if she really was a "writer" or was she lying. She has flashbacks about her kindergarden and first grade teacher who were the initial people to tell her that she could really have a future in writing. She always doubted if she was good enough. She was insecure about the fact how slow she wrote and if other kids were better than her. She talked to her mother and was surprised that she actually had written over 30 books by herself. Her mother informed her that she actually began writing when she was only 3 years old. She feels like she should be confident; however, too many doubts fill her wondering mind.

I really liked this because the author did a fantastic job of pulling in the read by quoting the character and letting you actually see the exact doubts she was having. I like to see the actual dialog or quotations of what the girl was wondering or saying. It was also very interesting because it did a great job of breaking down all of the qualities that a literacy narrative contains. The information we learned about literacy narratives were nicely addressed in this story. I feel much more knowledge on the topic of literacy narratives and I am anxious to write one of my own.

3rd Response To My books and Reading Record/Log

Reading Response and Connections:  In 7 Days In Utopia, I have many relations and connections with the main character. He is a golfer who struggles with his mental state during a golf round. I can relate to this because I used to get frustrated every time I hit a bad shot. After loosing my temper, I would then continue to do poorly afterwards. In this book a old man is trying to get the young athlete to understand he is a great golfer and he only struggles because his temper is a distraction. My dad, being the "old man" used to teach me that I can finish a round strongly as long as I don't get upset about the few bad shots I hit. In Water For Elephants I see August having a terrible temper which reminds me of John Mcenrose who was a famous tennis player who would always yell and scream at the referees. He and August, the book character both get upset easily and aggravated about the simplest things. August doesn't treat his circus employes well, just like John doesn't treat the tennis referees with respect.


Title: Water For Elephants 
Author: Sara Gruen
Days Read: 
 8/27/13
 8/28/13
Amount of Time  and page numbers each day: 
8/27/13 (180-240) (60 min)
8/28/13 (240-261) (25 min)

total time for this book: 85 min


Title: 7 Days In Utopia 
Author: David L. Cook
Days Read: 
 8/29/13

 9/1/13
Amount of Time and page numbers each day:
8/29/13 (50-80) (35 min)
9/1/13 (80-100) (25 min)

total time for this book 60 min

TOTAL = 145 min

REFLECTION:
In 7 Days In utopia, the old man is starting to get through to the athlete. He is starting to calm down during golf matches. He soon realizes that he is playing much better and winning more often. He feels like he is finally a good golfer and gains confidence. My dad and I discussed how much controlling your nerves and temper can affect your golf game in a positive or negative way. The old man has such a great impact on the athletes life it's unbelievable. In Water For Elephants a new elephant is finally becoming a high success in the shows. Jacob has such a huge crush on Marlena it's adorable. He is always willing to help her and tries to talk to her all the time. Jacob wants Marlena to run away wit him considering how poor August treats Marlena. She has her doubts because August in fact has saved her and make her a major star in his circus. The amount of alcohol August drinks really has a bad affect on him.

My Exciting Story

Today Sophie and I went to Red Nails to get polished manicures and pedicures. When we walked in the people were friendly as always. Once we picked our different colors, I went to the back pedicure section while Sophie went to the front manicure section. I sat down in the blue, comfortable massage chair in between two older women. One of them was reading a gossip magazine and the other was on her white iPhone 5 protected by a pink case. From my view, it looked liked she was playing a word game. After a couple relaxing minutes went by, one of the Vietnamese salon ladies asked her if the bold, red color looked acceptable. When she went to sit up, she suddenly dropped her phone in the warm water drawn in the pedicure bath. Immediately, she started yelling ''oh no" loudly and abruptly. She picked up her soaking wet phone and tried to see if it would still work. The phone was not working, and she started crying obnoxiously. Personally, I felt bad for her and the helpful salon lady because she was blaming it on the worker for asking her to sit up. Meanwhile, Sophie didn't hear anything that happened and was extremely surprised when the lady left in sobbing tears. I don't think it was anyone's fault, but Sophie and I are extra careful with our phones at the salon and won't forget that poor lady's dismayed reaction.

Reading Response In Relation To My Personal Question

I chose Water For Elephants before choosing my personal question; however, I am going to try to choose my next book to go with the question. My personal question is: what is it like to live in an unfair society? I chose this because I realized how interested I was in Divergent and The Hunger Games, which both address the unfair society issue. I like books that are fiction and mysterious. I loved Divergent because I have never heard of society being narrowed down into factions, and it really interested me. Once I finish my current book,  I plan to research books that have unusual societies and seem intriguing. In Water For Elephants, I love how much tension each character has with everybody else. It's interesting how terribly Augustus runs his circus. I really feel bad for the animals and how poorly they get treated and fed. I want to keep reading this book mainly to see how Rosie, the new elephant, behaves and to see if the sick animals are taken care of.  Jacob, the main character is very wise and smart. I really love his care and acknowledgment of each animal's health and happiness.

Weekly Reading Log #2

title: Water For Elephants 

author: Sara Gruen 

page left off on: 105

page ended on: 180

title: Seven Days In Utopia

author: David L. Cook 

stated on page: 1

finished on page: 50 

total time: 130 min

8/19/13 read from 5:00 to 5:30 (pages 105-128)

8/20/13 read from 5:30 to 6:00 (pages 128-152)

8/22/13 read from 6:00 to 6:30 (pages 152-180)

8/23/13 read from 6:00 to 6:40) (pages 1-50) 

Reflection: In Water For Elephants, you realize how aggressive and hostile Augustus truly is. Jacob falls for Marlena, Augustus "girl." A few more members were added to the circus even though there isn't enough money to pay them. Jacob doesn't usually get his pay check, but he never complains. A new elephant was added to the circus and Jacob was so excited. The elephant is 56 years old and named Rosie. Augustus is so hard on Rosie when she doesn't always behave. Jacob has a soft heart for animals so seeing Rosie get punished is hard for him to watch. The owners of the circus are showing major aggressive and unfair behavior. Lots of the crew drink and party at night. So far I really like this book because I am interested to see how Rosie's behavior adjusts to Augustus's strict commands.

Reflection: I was inspired to read Seven Days In Utopia because I golf and my dad recommended it. So far it's about this golfer that has lots of talent but has trouble with his mental golf game. He leads almost every tournament he plays; however, when one thing goes wrong, things fall to pieces. A old man who is very wise is using unique techniques to prove to the man he needs to work on his mental game. The man believes he doesn't win because he isn't good enough, when really he psyches himself out. I feel like this book will be a major inspiration on me because I can relate to the golf issues the man is having. 

120 min of reading week 1

date:         Time started      Page number started         page ended       time ended    elapsed time 

8/12             5:00                          1                                    15                5:15              20 min

8/14             6:00                          15                                  50                 6:40             40 min

8/15             5:00                         50                                104                 6:00              60 min 

Title: Water For Elephants

Author: Sara Gruen 

Summary:  At this point in my book the main characters name is Jacob and he has hoped on a moving train. On the train he is rudely introduced to a couple of mangey men. The men are part of a circus crew. Jacob used to be involved with Vet school, so he volunteered to help. Of course, the new comers always get bad jobs. Jacob began shoveling poop, then he got to direct customers, then watch a interesting lady perform and keep the crowd calm, and lastly he now examines the animals. Jacob immediately had to put a star performing horse out of its misery due to a hoof injury. He has noticed some of the people in the circus business don't care about the animals health and are selfish. Jacob has a couple of friends he sleeps by on the smelly train. He is constantly wondering why aren't elephants in this circus. 

reflection:  So far this book is very interesting and I am always anxious to see his next task. I look forward to seeing how Jacob sprouts and enjoys the circus for his second time. He seems like a smart man, even though he is poor.  

Free Blog Choice - Spain

     This coming September a spanish girl my age will be coming to the United States to live in my house for two weeks. I haven't found out her name or interests; however, I am very excited to get in touch with her. After two weeks pass, I will go back to her house and live with her and her family. My goal from this trip is to come back almost fluent in Spanish. I really love studying the culture and language, and I have been working on my speaking skills so I can better communicate with my exchange student. There is a high possibility that I will share an exchange student with my friend Katherine Ann. I have talked to her about our feelings for leaving the United States, and we are both excited and nervous. I think this program Mrs. Alvarez created is going to be a great opportunity to advance my knowledge of the Spanish language.  Most importantly, it will give me the chance to live with a host family, meaning I will be fully immersed in the culture and lifestyle for a couple weeks.  I really think this is something that I will both learn from and enjoy a great deal, and I feel it will be an experience I benefit from and always remember.

Reading Response to Somebody Everybody Listens To.

The thing I most enjoyed in Somebody Everybody Listens To was how courageous and brave Retta, the main character is. She had a passion for singing and a set goal to land a record deal. Her parents we not emotionally and financially stable to travel with her. I was amazed how she moved to Tennessee all by herself. Her best friend was always calling her and encouraging her that she can do it. Her actions make me realize how many people just give up, when really they should pursue what they love. Although she encountered many issues such as lack of money, no place to stay, and no clothes that are presentable; Retta Lee felt like she should push through the difficulties and make the best of it. Her originally timid and frantic attitude soon transformed into the confident and motivated girl she needed to be. I really hope a sequel to this boo will be published. I highly recommend this to girls, especially ones with a talent that they love.