Create a Food Journal!

Create a food log in your Writers' Sourcebook.  Fold the paper in half lengthwise.  On one side, list everything you eat for the entire day (Thursday) in as much detail as possible.  For example, include type of food, brand, flavor, etc.  On the other side, explain each food choice.  Choices can be made for a variety of reasons, including availability, cost, health, religious or traditional reasons, etc.  Due in class Friday.

Don't forget your final drafts of your Public Space essay due Friday, as well.

Happy eating!

Ms. D

Reminders

Hi students,

Hope you are enjoying your weekend!  Remember, the first draft of your essays are due Tuesday at the beginning of class for peer review.  Please feel free to e-mail me if you are stuck! 

Also, just a reminder that we will beginning The Omnivore's Dilemma, by Michael Pollen on October 4.  Please be sure to either purchase the book or reserve it from your library by that date.  If you anticipate having difficulty procuring the book, please let me know as soon as possible. 

Ms. D

"Altering Public Space" Essay Assignment

The concept of "altering public space" was described by Brent Staples in his essay, "Black Men and Public Space."  Staples set out to prove that wherever he went, people misjudged him as a "mugger, rapist or worse" based on his appearance.  He proved his idea that African American men often alter public space by offering multiple EXAMPLES and ANECDOTES (little stories).

Write about how you alter public space (or how you've watched someone else alter public space).  What assumptions do people make about you?  What changes do you observe in people's behavior when you are around?  How does that affect your own behavior?  How does it make you feel?  What do you wish would happen?

Be sure to follow these guidelines for success:
*    Essay should be in NARRATIVE form (a story told from first person point of view--yours!)
*    Essay should include a MINIMUM of four examples or anecdotes to illustrate your point (thesis).
*    Each example or anecdote must be engaging in its own right.  The writing should be fresh and full of sensory detail.
*    Essay should be 3-4 pages in length minimum, typed, titled, double spaced, 12 point font, Times New Roman
*    First draft due in class Tuesday, September 28 for peer review.  First draft MUST make the page requirement.  Failure to bring the first draft to class the day it is due with result in an alternate assignment--writing a letter to your parent or guardian explaining why you are unprepared for class.
*    Final draft is due in class Friday, October 1.  Please include with the final draft any prewriting materials, the first draft and any subsequent drafts, and the rubric. 
*    THE LINK TO YOUR FINAL DRAFT MUST BE ATTACHED TO THIS BLOG IN THE FORM OF A COMMENT.
*    FINAL DRAFTS MUST ALSO BE UPLOADED E-PORTFOLIO IN ORDER TO RECEIVE  A GRADE.

Welcome to AP Language and Composition

Welcome to AP Language and Composition!

“In the largest study ever of the impact of AP on college success…the researchers said they found ‘strong evidence of benefits to students who participate in both AP courses and exams in terms of higher GPAs, credit hours earned and four-year graduation rates’” (Washington Post 1/30/2007)  Furthermore, since AP students experience the rigors of a college course, they generally fare better in higher education than non-AP students, even if they fail to pass the AP exam. 

This class is equivalent to a college-level freshman composition course, not only in academic rigor, but also in class expectations and structure.  When noting an acceptable grade for an AP class on a student’s transcript, college admissions officers should have a reasonable expectation that the student applicant has experienced a college-level curriculum. 

Consequently, you must make a commitment to prioritize this class by devoting your full attention and best efforts.  In order to meet your commitment, you must practice quality work habits, including:

·         Prepare for class by completing assigned readings, writing and research processes

·         Submit all assignments on time

·         Pay strict attention in class, and participate in class discussions whenever possible

·         Always do your best!