Personality Traits:
If nice describes you, you might also try: accurate, agreeable, appealing, charming, choosy, considerate, cordial, correct, courteous, dainty, decent, decorous, delicate, delightful, demure, difficult, discerning, discriminating, elegant, enjoyable, exact, exacting, exquisite, fastidious, finished, friendly, fussy, genteel, gentle, good, gratifying, helpful, likable, lovely, neat, particular, peachy, picky, pleasant, pleasing, polite, precious, precise, profligate, proper, punctilious, queasy, refined, respectable, scrupulous, skillful, squeamish, subtle, swell, wanton, warmhearted.
If smart describes you, you might also try: alert, apt, astute, bright, brilliant, clever, cognizant, discerning, exceptional, ingenious, knowing, logical, quick, sensible, wise.
If generous describes you, you might also try: abundant, altruistic, ample, beneficent, benevolent, bighearted, bounteous, bountiful, charitable, chivalrous, considerate, copious, fertile, freehanded, gracious, helpful, humanitarian, indulgent, ingenuous, kindhearted, lavish, liberal, magnanimous, munificent, noble, open-hearted, openhanded, overflowing, philanthropic, plenteous, plentiful, prodigal, profuse, spirited, thoughtful, ungrudging, unselfish, warmhearted.
If open-minded describes you, you might also try: fair, flexible, just, liberal, objective, tolerant, unbiased.
If loyal describes you, you might also try: abiding, adhering, allegiant, constant, dependable, devoted, dutiful, faithful, firm, liege, obedient, patriotic, reliable, slavish, stanch, staunch, steadfast, tenacious, true, true blue, trustworthy, unswerving, unwavering.
If trustworthy describes you, you might also try: authentic, believable, confidential, credible, dependable, ethical, faithful, honest, loyal, reliable, responsible, safe, solid, sound, straight, tried, true, trusty, upright
If bold describes you, you might also try: abrupt, acclivitous, adventuresome, adventurous, arrogant, assured, audacious, bardy, bodacious, brash, brassy, brave, brazen, bright, cheeky, chivalrous, colorful, confident, conspicuous, courageous, daring, dashing, dauntless, defiant, doughty, enterprising, fearless, fierce, forward, fresh, hardy, haughty, heroic, immodest, imprudent, impudent, insolent, intrepid, jagged, large, malapert, manly, massive, pert, powerful, precipitous, presumptuous, prominent, resolute, salient, saucy, shameless, spunky, steep, stout, striking, strong, unabashed, unafraid, undaunted, vainglorious, valiant, wise.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Objectives:
After this class, students will be able to:
1. reflect on future career plans.
2. perform a peer critique on another student's writing.
3. share their thoughts in front of a group.
Agenda:
1. Warm-up: In their notebooks, students should answer the following: What do you want to be when you grow up? Why? 4 sentences
2. Students were to complete the rough draft of their missions statements for homework. Students will perform a peer critique and read at least three other mission statements of their classmates. In their peer critique, they should: make a positive comment, make a criticism, correct the spelling of two words, fix one punctuation mark, initial the essay.
3. Ms. Kingsbury will solicit volunteers to read their mission statements in front of the class for 30 points extra credit.
Homework: Students are required to have an email account with which to communicate with Ms. Kingsbury. Please visit http://www.gmail.com and sign up for one. Your Gmail address should be: firstname.lastname@gmail.com. NO NICKNAMES, PLEASE! Yahoo email accounts ARE NOT ACCEPTABLE! Once you have signed up for a Gmail account, send a message to ms.kingsbury@verizon.net. You will receive 50 points for setting up your Gmail account.
After this class, students will be able to:
1. reflect on future career plans.
2. perform a peer critique on another student's writing.
3. share their thoughts in front of a group.
Agenda:
1. Warm-up: In their notebooks, students should answer the following: What do you want to be when you grow up? Why? 4 sentences
2. Students were to complete the rough draft of their missions statements for homework. Students will perform a peer critique and read at least three other mission statements of their classmates. In their peer critique, they should: make a positive comment, make a criticism, correct the spelling of two words, fix one punctuation mark, initial the essay.
3. Ms. Kingsbury will solicit volunteers to read their mission statements in front of the class for 30 points extra credit.
Homework: Students are required to have an email account with which to communicate with Ms. Kingsbury. Please visit http://www.gmail.com and sign up for one. Your Gmail address should be: firstname.lastname@gmail.com. NO NICKNAMES, PLEASE! Yahoo email accounts ARE NOT ACCEPTABLE! Once you have signed up for a Gmail account, send a message to ms.kingsbury@verizon.net. You will receive 50 points for setting up your Gmail account.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Objectives:
After this class, students will be able to:
1. reflect on their personal qualities and synthesize that information into a personal mission statement.
2. demonstrate time management skills.
Agenda:
1. Warm-up: In their notebooks, students should answer the following questions: What do you know about the Senior Project? What have you heard from other students? Ms. Kingsbury will solicit answers from the class.
2. Senior Project FAQs:
a. What is the Senior Project? It is a state-mandated requirement that all seniors demonstrate knowledge of research and writing. In English class, you will be guided through the Senior Project and receive assistance and support from your teachers and academy coordinator. It is Ms. Kingsbury's job to make sure you complete the Senior Project and meet the requirements for graduation.
b. Is the Senior Project easy? In a word, NO. It is meant to take 60 hours of work. Some of this work will be done in class. Much of it will be done outside of school. Your entire project MUST be typed. Please make sure you have regular access to a computer. See your Academy Coordinator ASAP if this is a problem for you.
c. When are the due dates for each part of the Senior Project? The due dates are:
9/26 mission statements
10/3 career goals essays
10/10 research proposals
10/17 research paper outline
10/24 job search materials
11/7 first rough draft of the research paper due
11/28 second rough draft due
12/19 third rough draft due
1/9 set up portfolio
1/16 portfolios due!
There are other components as well which we will complete along the way. It is your responsibility to make sure you meet each deadline. Failure to complete each component of the Senior Project may jeopardize your graduation!
d. What about the PowerPoint presentation? After your portfolio is graded in January, we will begin to work on your PowerPoint presentations. The presentation is a synthesis of your research paper, so if your research stinks, then your PowerPoint is going to stink. You may begin working on your presentation at anytime, but be mindful that there are certain requirements that must be met for a passing PowerPoint presentation.
e. So really, how do I pass the Senior Project? Based on Ms. Kingsbury's grading system for the Senior Project, you must score at least 75% in your entire portfolio. You will receive the rubric when we set our portfolios up in January.
f. Can we get started now? YES! We are getting started today!
3. Personal Mission Statement: This is the first component of your Senior Project. It is due, typed, on Friday, September 26, 2008. In your mission statement, you are describing the kind of person that you are and the kind of person that you would like to become. You analyze how you will develop into that person. This essay requires you to reflect on your personal attributes. DO NOT TALK ABOUT YOUR CAREER PLANS OR WHAT YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW UP! THAT IS FOR ANOTHER ESSAY. You essay should be 1/2 page typed. We will write the rough draft in our notebooks during class today.
NOTE: If you waste any class time given to work on your Senior Project, all future work will be done outside of class!
Sample Mission Statement:
My name is Madelaine Kingsbury, and if you asked me to describe that kind of person that I am, I could tell you, without doubt, that I am a dedicated, compassionate, and fun-loving individual. I am a devoted mother to a charming but hot-headed three year old; despite her challenging behavior, I would do anything for her. I am also devoted to the students that I teach at Overbrook High School; their behavior is challenging sometimes too, but there isn't anything that I wouldn't do to help them be successful. I care for everyone that I know - my family, my friends, my boyfriend, my pets, my students, my coworkers - sometimes to a fault, but I can't be any other way. I show my compassion for others through my humor and light-heartedness. I do whatever I can to make a person smile. Even though I think I am pretty awesome, I would still love to become a better person, more patient and more calm. With the guidance and support of my friends and family, I know I will become the best person that I can be.
Now it's your turn! In your notebooks, write the rough draft of your own personal mission statement. It should be at least two handwritten pages (or one page front and back). I will monitor your progress in class.
Today's Vocabulary: time management, components, attributes, personal mission statement
Homework:
a. Complete your handwritten mission statement for homework. Be prepared to share it with a partner tomorrow.
After this class, students will be able to:
1. reflect on their personal qualities and synthesize that information into a personal mission statement.
2. demonstrate time management skills.
Agenda:
1. Warm-up: In their notebooks, students should answer the following questions: What do you know about the Senior Project? What have you heard from other students? Ms. Kingsbury will solicit answers from the class.
2. Senior Project FAQs:
a. What is the Senior Project? It is a state-mandated requirement that all seniors demonstrate knowledge of research and writing. In English class, you will be guided through the Senior Project and receive assistance and support from your teachers and academy coordinator. It is Ms. Kingsbury's job to make sure you complete the Senior Project and meet the requirements for graduation.
b. Is the Senior Project easy? In a word, NO. It is meant to take 60 hours of work. Some of this work will be done in class. Much of it will be done outside of school. Your entire project MUST be typed. Please make sure you have regular access to a computer. See your Academy Coordinator ASAP if this is a problem for you.
c. When are the due dates for each part of the Senior Project? The due dates are:
9/26 mission statements
10/3 career goals essays
10/10 research proposals
10/17 research paper outline
10/24 job search materials
11/7 first rough draft of the research paper due
11/28 second rough draft due
12/19 third rough draft due
1/9 set up portfolio
1/16 portfolios due!
There are other components as well which we will complete along the way. It is your responsibility to make sure you meet each deadline. Failure to complete each component of the Senior Project may jeopardize your graduation!
d. What about the PowerPoint presentation? After your portfolio is graded in January, we will begin to work on your PowerPoint presentations. The presentation is a synthesis of your research paper, so if your research stinks, then your PowerPoint is going to stink. You may begin working on your presentation at anytime, but be mindful that there are certain requirements that must be met for a passing PowerPoint presentation.
e. So really, how do I pass the Senior Project? Based on Ms. Kingsbury's grading system for the Senior Project, you must score at least 75% in your entire portfolio. You will receive the rubric when we set our portfolios up in January.
f. Can we get started now? YES! We are getting started today!
3. Personal Mission Statement: This is the first component of your Senior Project. It is due, typed, on Friday, September 26, 2008. In your mission statement, you are describing the kind of person that you are and the kind of person that you would like to become. You analyze how you will develop into that person. This essay requires you to reflect on your personal attributes. DO NOT TALK ABOUT YOUR CAREER PLANS OR WHAT YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW UP! THAT IS FOR ANOTHER ESSAY. You essay should be 1/2 page typed. We will write the rough draft in our notebooks during class today.
NOTE: If you waste any class time given to work on your Senior Project, all future work will be done outside of class!
Sample Mission Statement:
My name is Madelaine Kingsbury, and if you asked me to describe that kind of person that I am, I could tell you, without doubt, that I am a dedicated, compassionate, and fun-loving individual. I am a devoted mother to a charming but hot-headed three year old; despite her challenging behavior, I would do anything for her. I am also devoted to the students that I teach at Overbrook High School; their behavior is challenging sometimes too, but there isn't anything that I wouldn't do to help them be successful. I care for everyone that I know - my family, my friends, my boyfriend, my pets, my students, my coworkers - sometimes to a fault, but I can't be any other way. I show my compassion for others through my humor and light-heartedness. I do whatever I can to make a person smile. Even though I think I am pretty awesome, I would still love to become a better person, more patient and more calm. With the guidance and support of my friends and family, I know I will become the best person that I can be.
Now it's your turn! In your notebooks, write the rough draft of your own personal mission statement. It should be at least two handwritten pages (or one page front and back). I will monitor your progress in class.
Today's Vocabulary: time management, components, attributes, personal mission statement
Homework:
a. Complete your handwritten mission statement for homework. Be prepared to share it with a partner tomorrow.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Objectives:
After this class, students will be able to:
1. provide a writing sample.
2. draw on previous grammar and punctuation knowledge.
3. create a set of personal and academic goals for this school year.
Agenda:
1. Warm-Up: In their notebooks, students should write their answer to the following questions: On a scale of 1 to 10, 10 being the highest, rate your writing skills. Why do you give yourself this rating? What are your strengths in writing? What are your weaknesses?
Homework: There is no homework assigned for this class today.
After this class, students will be able to:
1. provide a writing sample.
2. draw on previous grammar and punctuation knowledge.
3. create a set of personal and academic goals for this school year.
Agenda:
1. Warm-Up: In their notebooks, students should write their answer to the following questions: On a scale of 1 to 10, 10 being the highest, rate your writing skills. Why do you give yourself this rating? What are your strengths in writing? What are your weaknesses?
2. Writing Inventory: In order for Ms. K to figure out what writing skills she needs to teach this year, students will complete the following inventory. Worth 100 points and due at the end of class. IF YOU ARE ABSENT, YOU MUST COMPLETE THIS ASSIGNMENT FOR HOMEWORK AND EMAIL IT TO ms.kingsbury@verizon.net BY WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2007.
- Write a two-page essay (5 short paragraphs) describing three things that you learned this summer.
- Make a list of all the punctuation that you know and explain what it is used for. Try for 8.
- Make a list of all the parts of speech that you know and give three examples for each one. Try for 7.
Homework: There is no homework assigned for this class today.
Ms. Kingsbury's English 4 Syllabus for 2008-2009
Syllabus for English 4
Overbrook High School
Ms. Kingsbury
School Year 2008-2009
Introduction
Welcome to your final year of English class at Overbrook High School! This year should prove to be your most challenging one, yet it will be rewarding, productive, and, hopefully, tons of fun. My goal as your English teacher is to make sure you successfully complete English 4 this year in order to meet the requirements for graduation in June. This document will outline my expectations for your behavior and performance, the literature we will read, and the projects we will complete.
My Expectations for Your Behavior and Performance
You will come to class prepared every day with a notebook and pen/pencil.
You will always be on your best behavior.
You will show respect to your teacher and classmates.
You will see me before or after school only to discuss make-up work and personal issues.
You will always produce your own, best work, with serious penalty for cheating or plagiarism.
The Senior Project
The culminating activity of your high school experience will be the Senior Project (SP). The SP requires you to write a formal research paper and make a PowerPoint presentation. The SP portfolio will be due on or around January 16, 2009. This date is far off in the future, but we will begin working on it by mid-September. Each senior in the state of Pennsylvania must complete an SP, and this work is taken very seriously and counts heavily in your grade for English this year.
Required Reading
English 4 has a core curriculum which we are required to complete. This year, students should expect to read the following literature; this list is not exhaustive and is subject to change:
Selections from Elements of Literature (primary textbook)
1984 by George Orwell
Hamlet by William Shakespeare
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
English 4 is a writing-intensive class, and so the reading required will be less than previous years. Students should expect to be tested on any reading done in and outside of class.
Notebooks
You will be required to maintain a notebook during this year. If you think you might lose your notebook, you may request to have it stored in our classroom for your daily use. Your notebook will be your life-line; most quizzes and tests will allow you to use your notebook as an answer resource. I will perform periodic notebook checks which will count towards your grade as well. It will be clear when you will need to take notes and do classwork in your notebook. Either a spiral-bound notebook or three-ring binder will be sufficient.
Our Class Website
In order to facilitate the development of students’ technology skills, I have set up a website for each academy. On the site, you will find information and assignments which you will be asked to read and complete. My goal this year is to limit the amount of paper I collect from you. Therefore, most of your classwork and homework assignments will be completed on-line. If you do not have a computer at home, there are many computers throughout the high school which you may use. On a first-come-first-served basis, you may use my laptop as well during your lunch period and/or before school.
The addresses for the class websites are:
Health Academy
http://english4healthacademy.blogspot.com
Finance Academy
http://english4financeacademy.blogspot.com
It is highly recommended you visit our class website once a day for information and assignments.
Grading
I calculate grades on a point system. The more points you earn for successfully completing your work, the higher your grade. Daily classwork is worth approximately 10-20 points; quizzes are worth 30-40 points; tests are worth 100 - 200 points; and larger projects are worth 200+ points. Cumulative grades are calculated on a weekly basis, and you will always have access to your grade in this class; please ask to see it anytime. I use the following formula to determine your grade:
Total Points Earned by Student / Total Possible Points x 100% = Student’s % Grade
Contact Information
I encourage you and your parents to speak with me at any time throughout the year about your performance and behavior, as well as ask questions about our reading and projects. I am available every day before school at 7:30 a.m., after school until 3:15 p.m., by phone at (215) 581-5507, and by email at ms.kingsbury@verizon.net.
Overbrook High School
Ms. Kingsbury
School Year 2008-2009
Introduction
Welcome to your final year of English class at Overbrook High School! This year should prove to be your most challenging one, yet it will be rewarding, productive, and, hopefully, tons of fun. My goal as your English teacher is to make sure you successfully complete English 4 this year in order to meet the requirements for graduation in June. This document will outline my expectations for your behavior and performance, the literature we will read, and the projects we will complete.
My Expectations for Your Behavior and Performance
You will come to class prepared every day with a notebook and pen/pencil.
You will always be on your best behavior.
You will show respect to your teacher and classmates.
You will see me before or after school only to discuss make-up work and personal issues.
You will always produce your own, best work, with serious penalty for cheating or plagiarism.
The Senior Project
The culminating activity of your high school experience will be the Senior Project (SP). The SP requires you to write a formal research paper and make a PowerPoint presentation. The SP portfolio will be due on or around January 16, 2009. This date is far off in the future, but we will begin working on it by mid-September. Each senior in the state of Pennsylvania must complete an SP, and this work is taken very seriously and counts heavily in your grade for English this year.
Required Reading
English 4 has a core curriculum which we are required to complete. This year, students should expect to read the following literature; this list is not exhaustive and is subject to change:
Selections from Elements of Literature (primary textbook)
1984 by George Orwell
Hamlet by William Shakespeare
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
English 4 is a writing-intensive class, and so the reading required will be less than previous years. Students should expect to be tested on any reading done in and outside of class.
Notebooks
You will be required to maintain a notebook during this year. If you think you might lose your notebook, you may request to have it stored in our classroom for your daily use. Your notebook will be your life-line; most quizzes and tests will allow you to use your notebook as an answer resource. I will perform periodic notebook checks which will count towards your grade as well. It will be clear when you will need to take notes and do classwork in your notebook. Either a spiral-bound notebook or three-ring binder will be sufficient.
Our Class Website
In order to facilitate the development of students’ technology skills, I have set up a website for each academy. On the site, you will find information and assignments which you will be asked to read and complete. My goal this year is to limit the amount of paper I collect from you. Therefore, most of your classwork and homework assignments will be completed on-line. If you do not have a computer at home, there are many computers throughout the high school which you may use. On a first-come-first-served basis, you may use my laptop as well during your lunch period and/or before school.
The addresses for the class websites are:
Health Academy
http://english4healthacademy.blogspot.com
Finance Academy
http://english4financeacademy.blogspot.com
It is highly recommended you visit our class website once a day for information and assignments.
Grading
I calculate grades on a point system. The more points you earn for successfully completing your work, the higher your grade. Daily classwork is worth approximately 10-20 points; quizzes are worth 30-40 points; tests are worth 100 - 200 points; and larger projects are worth 200+ points. Cumulative grades are calculated on a weekly basis, and you will always have access to your grade in this class; please ask to see it anytime. I use the following formula to determine your grade:
Total Points Earned by Student / Total Possible Points x 100% = Student’s % Grade
Contact Information
I encourage you and your parents to speak with me at any time throughout the year about your performance and behavior, as well as ask questions about our reading and projects. I am available every day before school at 7:30 a.m., after school until 3:15 p.m., by phone at (215) 581-5507, and by email at ms.kingsbury@verizon.net.
Friday, September 5, 2008
Objectives:
After this class, students will be able to:
1. follow classroom procedures to complete daily objectives and activities.
2. listen to others and share their own thoughts.
3. reflect on prior knowledge and communicate what they know.
Agenda:
1. Warm-Up: Students will answer the following question in their notebooks: Did you do your homework last night? If yes, how long did it take you to complete? If not, why not? How does doing your homework on the first day of school (or not doing it) set the tone for the rest of the school year? Ms. Kingsbury will solicit answers from students to the warm-up and to the homework assignment.
2. Ms. Kingsbury will review this year's syllabus with the class.
3. Today's Classwork: 30 points - Ms. Kingsbury will continue to collect personal information related to skills and scholarship from the students. Students will answer the following questions on a separate sheet of paper and turn in at the end of class:
a. When it come to technology, I know...5+ things. This year, I would like to learn...3+ things.
b. When it comes to research and writing, I know...3+ things. This year, I would like to learn...3+ things.
c. When it comes to work in groups, I feel...3 sentences. This year, I would like to work with...list 3 people. I definitely do not want to work with...
Homework: Students will get their syllabi signed b their parents or guardian and return on Monday for 30 points. THIS IS MANDATORY.
After this class, students will be able to:
1. follow classroom procedures to complete daily objectives and activities.
2. listen to others and share their own thoughts.
3. reflect on prior knowledge and communicate what they know.
Agenda:
1. Warm-Up: Students will answer the following question in their notebooks: Did you do your homework last night? If yes, how long did it take you to complete? If not, why not? How does doing your homework on the first day of school (or not doing it) set the tone for the rest of the school year? Ms. Kingsbury will solicit answers from students to the warm-up and to the homework assignment.
2. Ms. Kingsbury will review this year's syllabus with the class.
3. Today's Classwork: 30 points - Ms. Kingsbury will continue to collect personal information related to skills and scholarship from the students. Students will answer the following questions on a separate sheet of paper and turn in at the end of class:
a. When it come to technology, I know...5+ things. This year, I would like to learn...3+ things.
b. When it comes to research and writing, I know...3+ things. This year, I would like to learn...3+ things.
c. When it comes to work in groups, I feel...3 sentences. This year, I would like to work with...list 3 people. I definitely do not want to work with...
Homework: Students will get their syllabi signed b their parents or guardian and return on Monday for 30 points. THIS IS MANDATORY.
Contest Alert - "A Teen Girl's Guide to Managing Wealth"
If you are interested in receiving a free copy of this book, please click on the title of this post for instructions to enter.
From the article:
"Every month I randomly select readers to receive the recommended book, donated by the publisher. This month I want to do something a little different. I'd like to limit the giveaway to teen girls who submit a brief essay -- 200 words or less -- on why it's important to save. If you're an educator or community leader who works with girls, this would be a great project. The entries for a free copy of "The Teen Girl's Gotta-Have-It Guide to Money" should be sent to colorofmoney@washpost.com. All e-mails should include the teen's name, age and mailing address. With a parent's permission, I may also print some of the answers."
Good Luck! Please let me know if you enter!
Contest Alert - "A Teen Girl's Guide to Managing Wealth"
If you are interested in receiving a free copy of this book, please click on the title of this post for instructions to enter.
From the article:
"Every month I randomly select readers to receive the recommended book, donated by the publisher. This month I want to do something a little different. I'd like to limit the giveaway to teen girls who submit a brief essay -- 200 words or less -- on why it's important to save. If you're an educator or community leader who works with girls, this would be a great project. The entries for a free copy of "The Teen Girl's Gotta-Have-It Guide to Money" should be sent to colorofmoney@washpost.com. All e-mails should include the teen's name, age and mailing address. With a parent's permission, I may also print some of the answers."
Good Luck! Please let me know if you enter!
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Scholarship Alert: National Education Association
Click on the title of this post to learn more about scholarship opportunities for African-American and minority students. It's never too soon to be planning for college!
http://www.nea.org/grants/minorscholar.html
http://www.nea.org/grants/minorscholar.html
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Scholarship Alert!
http://www.apt.org/BB-changed-my-life/
From the site:
"The goal of the Alliance for Public Technology's national Broadband Changed My Life! campaign is to raise awareness of the benefits of advanced broadband and encourage its universal deployment and adoption.
The initial Broadband Changed My Life! Contest generated overwhelming interest with over 400 contestants. Winners received awards of $1,000, $500, and $250.
From the site:
"The goal of the Alliance for Public Technology's national Broadband Changed My Life! campaign is to raise awareness of the benefits of advanced broadband and encourage its universal deployment and adoption.
 |
| Sorraine Hot, 2007 Winner |
Now you can enter the new Tell the Next President Contest! Stories should be 50-300 words ideally, although they can be longer. The focus is to share the story of how high-speed internet access has changed your life and your family members' lives, or how you would like to see broadband used to change the lives of others.
The deadline for entries is October 1, 2008. Three winners will be announced in late October and the prizes will be $1,000 for first place, $500 for second place and $250 for third place. A panel of APT Board members and staff will judge the entries. Early next year, a memorandum with the best contest entries will be sent to the new President and the first place winner will receive a trip to Washington and a ticket to an Inaugural ball.
In addition to the nationwide contest, the campaign's initiatives include briefings for Members of Congress and their staffs, a series of brown bag lunches devoted to the life-changing impact of broadband access for various constituencies and other educational outreach efforts."
Click on the title of this post for a direct link to enter. Good luck!
Thursday, September 4, 2008 - WELCOME TO THE FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL!
Objectives:
After this class, students will be able to:
1. submit an inventory of personal and professional data.
2. share their thoughts in front of a group.
3. create a list of questions about Senior English.
Agenda:
1. Personal Introduction: My name is Ms. Kingsbury, and this is my fifth year teaching at Overbrook High School. I specialize in teaching seniors and guiding them through the requirements of their senior projects. At OHS, I'm a member of the Distributed Leadership team sponsored by a grant from the University of Pennsylvania. I am also a new teacher mentor. I received my BA from UPenn as well in December 2000 and my teaching license in 2003 from West Chester University. I will soon be attending Drexel University for my MS in Learning Technologies. Personally, I love to read, write, and take pictures. I have a personal website for my writing, one for my photography, as well as a MySpace page. I live with my 4 year old daughter, my boyfriend, and my 4 cats. This is a very big year for me, because I will be attempting to achieve National Board Certification as an English teacher. You will learn more about this project soon.
2. Students' turn! Students will complete a personal inventory as part of the data collection and information-gathering required by the NBPTS. Students will receive 50 points for their effort. This inventory includes the following questions and is completely confidential:
Ms. Kingsbury
Getting To Know You! Survey
School Year 2008-2009
The Basics:
Your Full Name:
Preferred to be called:
Parents’ Names:
Home Address:
Your Parents’ Phone #:
Your Cell Phone #:
Your Email Address:
Your Website:
Your Birthday:
Your Home/Work Life:
Who do you live with?
What is your annual household income?
What is your ethnic heritage and/or culture?
How do you get to school?
Do you have a mentor? If so, who?
Do you have a job? If so, where? If not, why not?
Your Educational Background:
What has been your favorite class in the past and why?
What has been your worst class in the past and why?
Do you consider yourself an excellent student, average student, and poor student? Explain your choice.
Describe your thoughts and concerns about English class with Ms. Kingsbury this year:
Your Future Goals:
Are you planning to go to college? If so, where? If not, what are your plans?
What do you want to be when you grow up?
Has anyone else in your family been to college before?
Where do you plan to live when you grow up?
Do you have any dream goals?
Your Interests:
What are your 5 favorite things in the world?
Who do you most admire and why?
What 5 things drive you crazy?
What do you think of politics?
Do you like to read? To write? Why or why not?
What else should I know about you?
3. Group Share: In order for Ms. Kingsbury to quickly learn students' names and interests, we will have an inventory group share. Students will each introduce themselves and give one piece of information from their inventories.
4. Questions About Senior English: Students will receive their syllabus for Senior English tomorrow. They will take 5 minutes to generate as many questions as possible that they have about Senior English, both general questions and specific. Ms. Kingsbury will answer these questions on the class website.
5. Blast from the Past: Reading the thoughts of previous Senior English student: Students will have an opportunity to read letters written especially for them from Ms. Kingsbury's past Senior English students.
HOMEWORK: You didn't think you'd get away without homework on the first day of class, did you? Tonight, students should:
After this class, students will be able to:
1. submit an inventory of personal and professional data.
2. share their thoughts in front of a group.
3. create a list of questions about Senior English.
Agenda:
1. Personal Introduction: My name is Ms. Kingsbury, and this is my fifth year teaching at Overbrook High School. I specialize in teaching seniors and guiding them through the requirements of their senior projects. At OHS, I'm a member of the Distributed Leadership team sponsored by a grant from the University of Pennsylvania. I am also a new teacher mentor. I received my BA from UPenn as well in December 2000 and my teaching license in 2003 from West Chester University. I will soon be attending Drexel University for my MS in Learning Technologies. Personally, I love to read, write, and take pictures. I have a personal website for my writing, one for my photography, as well as a MySpace page. I live with my 4 year old daughter, my boyfriend, and my 4 cats. This is a very big year for me, because I will be attempting to achieve National Board Certification as an English teacher. You will learn more about this project soon.
2. Students' turn! Students will complete a personal inventory as part of the data collection and information-gathering required by the NBPTS. Students will receive 50 points for their effort. This inventory includes the following questions and is completely confidential:
Ms. Kingsbury
Getting To Know You! Survey
School Year 2008-2009
The Basics:
Your Full Name:
Preferred to be called:
Parents’ Names:
Home Address:
Your Parents’ Phone #:
Your Cell Phone #:
Your Email Address:
Your Website:
Your Birthday:
Your Home/Work Life:
Who do you live with?
What is your annual household income?
What is your ethnic heritage and/or culture?
How do you get to school?
Do you have a mentor? If so, who?
Do you have a job? If so, where? If not, why not?
Your Educational Background:
What has been your favorite class in the past and why?
What has been your worst class in the past and why?
Do you consider yourself an excellent student, average student, and poor student? Explain your choice.
Describe your thoughts and concerns about English class with Ms. Kingsbury this year:
Your Future Goals:
Are you planning to go to college? If so, where? If not, what are your plans?
What do you want to be when you grow up?
Has anyone else in your family been to college before?
Where do you plan to live when you grow up?
Do you have any dream goals?
Your Interests:
What are your 5 favorite things in the world?
Who do you most admire and why?
What 5 things drive you crazy?
What do you think of politics?
Do you like to read? To write? Why or why not?
What else should I know about you?
3. Group Share: In order for Ms. Kingsbury to quickly learn students' names and interests, we will have an inventory group share. Students will each introduce themselves and give one piece of information from their inventories.
4. Questions About Senior English: Students will receive their syllabus for Senior English tomorrow. They will take 5 minutes to generate as many questions as possible that they have about Senior English, both general questions and specific. Ms. Kingsbury will answer these questions on the class website.
5. Blast from the Past: Reading the thoughts of previous Senior English student: Students will have an opportunity to read letters written especially for them from Ms. Kingsbury's past Senior English students.
HOMEWORK: You didn't think you'd get away without homework on the first day of class, did you? Tonight, students should:
- get a notebook.
- On the first page of that notebook, write a one-page entry about your initial thoughts on the first day of school. Which classes are you excited about? Which classes seem intimidating to you? Was there anyone you were happy to see? What are your personal goals for this school year? What are your fears? How can Ms. Kingsbury help you be successful this year?
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Objectives:
After this class, students will be able to:
a. reflect on personal experiences.
b. write coherently and appropriately for an identified audience.
Today's Classwork: 100 points - Length: Student Choice
Today students will write a letter to their future selves. The choice of content and length is theirs. Ideas for content include:
-what life is like in 2008
-what their dreams for the future are
-what they hope life will be like for them
-goals for the future
Students will seal their letters into self-addressed envelopes and write the date they want Ms. Kingsbury to mail their letters.
Homework: There is no homework assignmend for this class tonight.
After this class, students will be able to:
a. reflect on personal experiences.
b. write coherently and appropriately for an identified audience.
Today's Classwork: 100 points - Length: Student Choice
Today students will write a letter to their future selves. The choice of content and length is theirs. Ideas for content include:
-what life is like in 2008
-what their dreams for the future are
-what they hope life will be like for them
-goals for the future
Students will seal their letters into self-addressed envelopes and write the date they want Ms. Kingsbury to mail their letters.
Homework: There is no homework assignmend for this class tonight.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Objectives:
After this class, students will be able to:
a. reflect on personal experiences.
b. write coherently and appropriately for an identified audience.
Today’s Classwork: 100 points Length: 1 page
Write a letter of appreciation to the teacher you most appreciate. What has this person done for you? What have you learned from this person? What qualities do you most admire in this person? How has being with this person helped you grow? What one wish, related to school, do you have for this person?
50 points for each additional letter.
Ms. Kingsbury will deliver these today!
Homework: There is no homework assigned for this class tonight.
After this class, students will be able to:
a. reflect on personal experiences.
b. write coherently and appropriately for an identified audience.
Today’s Classwork: 100 points Length: 1 page
Write a letter of appreciation to the teacher you most appreciate. What has this person done for you? What have you learned from this person? What qualities do you most admire in this person? How has being with this person helped you grow? What one wish, related to school, do you have for this person?
50 points for each additional letter.
Ms. Kingsbury will deliver these today!
Homework: There is no homework assigned for this class tonight.
Monday, May 26, 2008
Monday, May 19, 2008
Objectives:
After this class, students will be able to:
a. reflect on personal experiences.
b. write coherently and appropriately for an identified audience.
Today's Letter Writing Activity:
Write a letter to Ms. Young. You should include one paragraph on each topic:
a. how she has done as a principal over the last four years
b. the three best things about OHS
c. the one thing that needs to be improved at OHS
d. the one key to help all seniors graduate
e. the one thing that you will always remember about OHS
f. your plans after graduation
Ms. Kingsbury will give your letters to Ms. Young after class ends for the year, so don’t censor yourself!
Homework: There is no homework assigned for this class tonight.
After this class, students will be able to:
a. reflect on personal experiences.
b. write coherently and appropriately for an identified audience.
Today's Letter Writing Activity:
Write a letter to Ms. Young. You should include one paragraph on each topic:
a. how she has done as a principal over the last four years
b. the three best things about OHS
c. the one thing that needs to be improved at OHS
d. the one key to help all seniors graduate
e. the one thing that you will always remember about OHS
f. your plans after graduation
Ms. Kingsbury will give your letters to Ms. Young after class ends for the year, so don’t censor yourself!
Homework: There is no homework assigned for this class tonight.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Monday, May 12, 2008
THURSDAY, MAY 15, 2008 - IT'S THE PROM!!!
Enjoy your night!!!! Only two more weeks of class to go!!!
Monday, May 12 - Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Students will finish up their PowerPoint Presentations in class. No presentations will be accepted by Ms. Kingsbury after this date. Students will be required to present to their Academy Leader after this date.
Monday's Class Work and Discussion (8th period): Has anyone close to you, under the age of 18, passed away? What were the circumstances - accident, illness, homicide? How did this effect you? When a student passes away, how can the school community be a source of support? What do you think is the philosophical reason that people die young (i.e., it's God's work, karma, bad luck, etc.)? Write 1/2 page.
Monday's Class Work and Discussion (8th period): Has anyone close to you, under the age of 18, passed away? What were the circumstances - accident, illness, homicide? How did this effect you? When a student passes away, how can the school community be a source of support? What do you think is the philosophical reason that people die young (i.e., it's God's work, karma, bad luck, etc.)? Write 1/2 page.
Friday, May 9, 2008
Monday, May 5 - Friday, May 9, 2008
Students will continue their practice PowerPoint presentations. See entry on Thursday, April 17, 2008, for scoring rubric. Ms. Ellis' English class will join our class as well to view and practice presentations. Extra points given for an extra-large audience!
The final day for presentations is Thursday, MAY 15, 2008!!!
The final day for presentations is Thursday, MAY 15, 2008!!!
Monday, April 28, 2008
Should teachers be banned from being on MySpace?
Click on the title of this post to read an article from the Washington Post about controversy surrounding teachers with public MySpace and Facebook profiles. What do you think? Should teachers be punished for having racy or offensive profiles on MySpace? 20 points extra credit for your well thought-out opinion of 5 sentences - post it here in the comments section or email to ms.kingsbury@verizon.net.
Monday, April 28 - Friday, May 2, 2008
Students will continue their practice PowerPoint presentations. See entry on Thursday, April 17, 2008, for scoring rubric. Ms. Ellis' English class will join our class as well to view and practice presentations. Extra points given for an extra-large audience!
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