The Master...

You have read two excerpts from Franklin's Autobiography, which is considered to the be masterpiece of the Colonial Literature period. From your readings, why do you think this is considered the prime writing of the time? What is its theme? What is Franklin's purpose? How can it relate to us today? (The deadline to post a response to this question is midnight Tuesday, August 30, 2011.)

And it shall come down...

In "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God," Jonathan Edwards creates via great imagery the wrath of God upon sinners. Which image, metaphor, simile, personification, etc., did you find to be most effective in conveying Edwards' message? Explain how it made you feel and how you think the members of the congregation must have felt hearing this. (The deadline to post a response to this blog is midnight, Saturday, August 27, 2011.)

The Heart Speaks

"Each stroke of the pen echoes the beat of the poet's heart." We read three Puritan poems, all a message from their poet's heart. Which poem, "Upon the Burning of Our House," "To My Dear and Loving Husband," or "Huswifery," did you find most appealing? Why? (The deadline to respond to this post is midnight, Friday, August 26, 2011.)

The Creation of a Dream

Which of the aspects of the American Dream (abundant land, veritable wealth, religious fortitude, open hospitality, laborious work ethic, etc. ), established by the early American writers and explorers, do you feel was best conveyed in the writings of Columbus, Smith, and Bradford? Give specifics from the selections to support your claim. (The deadline to post a response to this blog is midnight, Wednesday, Aug. 24, 2011.)

Books Needed

You will need to purchase your own copy of Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury. Here is a link to the book that I will be using. Please have your copy by September 13, 2011.
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/fahrenheit-451-ray-bradbury/1100383286?ean=9780345342966&itm=1&usri=fahrenheit%2b451

Welcome 2011-2012

Another school year has come to the Hancock High campus. You are a student in my 31st year of teaching, so I will bring all my experience to helping you learn new and exciting things about literature, writing, and research. I look forward to getting to know each and everyone of you and the unique aspects of your personality. Next to this post, you will see a picture of a butterfly. As the year progresses, you will get accustomed to seeing lots of butterflies in my room and in my jewelry. The butterfly is a special symbol to me. It means change, rebirth, joy, and self-discovery. It is a beautiful gift that comes from a difficult challenge. At times, my class may seem challenging and difficult, but I promise you that if you apply yourself, you will emerge at the end of the course with wonderful knowledge. This is going to be a great year!