Not sure if any of you are checking this, but it doesn't matter. Happy summer to all of you! My apologies for not being there on the last two days. I was over in Monterey Bay, California for an AP workshop. Now, I'm back and about to go catch the first of four The Bouncing Souls shows in NYC. I'm so psyched about this. It's going to be fun.
Make sure you do your AP Literature or Senior English summer assignment!
Brolic is as what brolic does.
Benitez
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Friday, June 10, 2011
The Great Gatsby Video Game!
Hey guys,
I challenge all the BROLIC students or those that aspire to be BROLIC (because it's never too late to be BROLIC) to go on and play The Great Gatsby video game that is designed to look like an original Nintendo 8 bit video game.
It is most enjoyable.
Extra credit to those who can beat the entire game!
I challenge all the BROLIC students or those that aspire to be BROLIC (because it's never too late to be BROLIC) to go on and play The Great Gatsby video game that is designed to look like an original Nintendo 8 bit video game.
It is most enjoyable.
Extra credit to those who can beat the entire game!
The Most BROLIC Engineer Ever?
Is Shane Carwin, a UFC Heavyweight Fighter, with degrees in mechanical engineering and environmental technology the most BROLIC engineer of all time?
He has my vote. Read the article and decide for yourself. By the way, in the 12 matches, Mr. Carwin has 7 wins by knockout, 5 wins via submission and only one loss.
BROLIC.
~ Benitez
He has my vote. Read the article and decide for yourself. By the way, in the 12 matches, Mr. Carwin has 7 wins by knockout, 5 wins via submission and only one loss.
BROLIC.
~ Benitez
Friday, May 13, 2011
Survival by Any Means Necessary.
Here's another report about creative survival: Right here!
While on the topic of surviving by any means necessary, here is a campy, cheesey song about doing things by any means necessary.
Benitez
While on the topic of surviving by any means necessary, here is a campy, cheesey song about doing things by any means necessary.
Benitez
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
College Essay Brainstorming Assignment #1 (All Sections)
Good evening to all,
My apologies for not posting yesterday. As I told some of you, I went out to see a Korean film at the TriBeca Cinemas called Encounter. It's a very cool, mystery type noir about two people.
As I'm sure you all read the title, we are beginning the college essay writing process. I will provide more information about this in class next week, but in the meantime I am asking all of you guys to prepare a list of your individual qualities and traits that make you stand out from the crowds of sheep out there. The college application process is reflective in the sense that you have to look at yourself and see what helps you to be more qualified for college than the rest of your competition.
That being said. please follow the following steps I am listing:
That's all.
Remember to also read chapter 3 in The Great Gatsby for Monday (May 16th, 2011). Expect some sort of writing assessment covering chapters 1, 2 and 3 of the book on Monday.
Best,
Benitez
My apologies for not posting yesterday. As I told some of you, I went out to see a Korean film at the TriBeca Cinemas called Encounter. It's a very cool, mystery type noir about two people.
As I'm sure you all read the title, we are beginning the college essay writing process. I will provide more information about this in class next week, but in the meantime I am asking all of you guys to prepare a list of your individual qualities and traits that make you stand out from the crowds of sheep out there. The college application process is reflective in the sense that you have to look at yourself and see what helps you to be more qualified for college than the rest of your competition.
That being said. please follow the following steps I am listing:
- Sit down at your desk in your homes and open a note a book
- Using a pen begin to make a list of your qualities and traits
- Think about what helps you be a better student
- Ask yourselves to think about the following: What aspects/qualities of your life have helped you find success in school and any other ventures (activities, clubs, jobs, responsibility roles, athletics, etc) that have had a positive role in school, in your development as an individual and have prepared you for success in college.
- Write down everything that comes to mind.
- Save that paper and bring it to class next Wednesday (May 17th, 2011).
That's all.
Remember to also read chapter 3 in The Great Gatsby for Monday (May 16th, 2011). Expect some sort of writing assessment covering chapters 1, 2 and 3 of the book on Monday.
Best,
Benitez
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
What happens when you need medical assistance at a restaurant?
Think about it and while you think, here is an article of what not to do when you need medical assistance at a restaurant.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Long term effects
Hello all,
For those of you still interested in some of the ideas, issues and motifs raised in Slaughterhouse-Five here's a sombering news article.
For those of you still interested in some of the ideas, issues and motifs raised in Slaughterhouse-Five here's a sombering news article.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
The Role of Gender in Othello (All Sections)
Hello All,
This is the post that explains your Spring Break assignment.
- Refer to MLA formatting for all citations and proper quoting.
This is the post that explains your Spring Break assignment.
The Role of Gender in Othello
Overview:
In the play Othello we as readers see numerous motifs and issues arise through the interaction of several characters. Some of those motifs and issues include love (how it is perceived and how it is actually), betrayal, lies, deceit, race, etc. Each of these motifs and issues are still relevant today and in Othello each of these can be traced back to the role and position of gender. Think about what is expected of the male characters (Othello, Cassio, Iago, Roderigo) and what is expected of the female characters (Desdemona, Emilia, Bianca). Do these characters fulfil their expectations according to their gender? Or do they deconstruct what is assumed and expected of them because of their gender (in other words, do the male characters exude or posses traits and behavior that would be associated with female characters and vice versa)?
Assignment Guidelines:
- Select 3 or 4 excerpts from Othello and analyze and discuss each excerpt at it relates to your thesis and the role of gender in the play.
- Obviously, your essay needs a strong thesis. Your thesis should be built around how you perceive Othello portrays gender. The following are two examples of thesis statements. One of them is acceptable and the other is very weak.
A) The play Othello deals with an interesting view of gender.
B) In the play Othello, the roles of both genders are dismantled and reconstructed to demonstrate that gender roles are nothing more than social constructs that attempt to catagorize certain traits and characteristics with a specific gender, while in reality, both genders share traits and characteristics without devaluing males or females.
(Which of these two do you think I would prefer?)
- 2 to 4 pages typed, double-spaced and in size 12 Times New Roman font. The page length is NOT up for debate. I will not accept or grade any paper that is not 2 full pages at the minimum or exceeds 4 pages.
- Refer to MLA formatting for all citations and proper quoting.
Due Date:
This essay is due the first day I see your class upon returning from Spring Break. Please bring a hard copy to class. You have 10 days off from school so I think it's perfectly fair to request a hard copy after 10 days in which you can find a functioning printer in your, a friend's home, an internet cafe or *gasp* the public library.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Essays Addressing Gender Roles (All Sections)
Hello all,
The following links take you to essays that you are required to read in preparation for your upcoming essay on Othello and the play's portrayal of gender roles. You will not be required to use all the essays, but they do provide some strong insight into gender roles and how are they portrayed, maintained, shattered and exposed.
"The Myth of the Latin Woman:Just Met a Girl Named Maria," Judith Ortiz Cofer
"Being a Man," Paul Theroux
"There is No Unmarked Woman," Deborah Tannen
"Mind Over Muscle," Davide Brooks
In addition to these essays you should also review your precis' on Stephen Jay Gould's "Women's Brains" and Gretel Ehrlich's "About Men."
Best,
Benitez
The following links take you to essays that you are required to read in preparation for your upcoming essay on Othello and the play's portrayal of gender roles. You will not be required to use all the essays, but they do provide some strong insight into gender roles and how are they portrayed, maintained, shattered and exposed.
"The Myth of the Latin Woman:Just Met a Girl Named Maria," Judith Ortiz Cofer
"Being a Man," Paul Theroux
"There is No Unmarked Woman," Deborah Tannen
"Mind Over Muscle," Davide Brooks
In addition to these essays you should also review your precis' on Stephen Jay Gould's "Women's Brains" and Gretel Ehrlich's "About Men."
Best,
Benitez
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
The Origin of Othello's Insecurity (Section 09)
Hello all,
In Act 3 of Othello, we see Iago "pouring pestilence" into Othello's ear by initially hinting at the possibility that Desdemona has been carrying on an affair with Cassio, Othello's former officer. Othello's soliloquy at roughly the midpoint of Act 3, scene 3 reveals that Othello himself sees his skin color, his lack of a Venetian education and his age (he's older than Desdemona by a significant number of years) are factors that would cause Desdemona to cheat on him. It's been established through class discussion that Othello is insecure.
Your assignment is to think about the origin of Othello's insecurity. The following are suggestions that could be the origin of Othello's insecurity. Select one of the suggestions and post a comment in which you discuss why this selected suggestion could be the origin of Othello's insecurity. Please refer to one SPECIFIC example from the play to support your response. Feel free to also refer to examples outside of the text but you must refer and discuss at least one example from the play.
The suggestions are:
A) Othello's relationship with Desdemona is his first relationship, which means his experience and interaction with women is very limited.
B) Othello is aware that Desdemona is very beautiful and questions why she chose him when there have been previous suitors and marriage proposals from other men who are more "appropriate" and proper.
C) Another suggestions of your choice.
Responses are due Sunday, April 10th by 7:00 PM.
Best,
Benitez
PS: Please "sign" your name at the bottom of your responses so I can easily credit who posted and who didn't (This because some of you chose creative user names that do not directly identify who you are). Thank you.
In Act 3 of Othello, we see Iago "pouring pestilence" into Othello's ear by initially hinting at the possibility that Desdemona has been carrying on an affair with Cassio, Othello's former officer. Othello's soliloquy at roughly the midpoint of Act 3, scene 3 reveals that Othello himself sees his skin color, his lack of a Venetian education and his age (he's older than Desdemona by a significant number of years) are factors that would cause Desdemona to cheat on him. It's been established through class discussion that Othello is insecure.
Your assignment is to think about the origin of Othello's insecurity. The following are suggestions that could be the origin of Othello's insecurity. Select one of the suggestions and post a comment in which you discuss why this selected suggestion could be the origin of Othello's insecurity. Please refer to one SPECIFIC example from the play to support your response. Feel free to also refer to examples outside of the text but you must refer and discuss at least one example from the play.
The suggestions are:
A) Othello's relationship with Desdemona is his first relationship, which means his experience and interaction with women is very limited.
B) Othello is aware that Desdemona is very beautiful and questions why she chose him when there have been previous suitors and marriage proposals from other men who are more "appropriate" and proper.
C) Another suggestions of your choice.
Responses are due Sunday, April 10th by 7:00 PM.
Best,
Benitez
PS: Please "sign" your name at the bottom of your responses so I can easily credit who posted and who didn't (This because some of you chose creative user names that do not directly identify who you are). Thank you.
The Origin of Othello's Insecurity (Section 08)
Hello all,
In Act 3 of Othello, we see Iago "pouring pestilence" into Othello's ear by initially hinting at the possibility that Desdemona has been carrying on an affair with Cassio, Othello's former officer. Othello's soliloquy at roughly the midpoint of Act 3, scene 3 reveals that Othello himself sees his skin color, his lack of a Venetian education and his age (he's older than Desdemona by a significant number of years) are factors that would cause Desdemona to cheat on him. It's been established through class discussion that Othello is insecure.
Your assignment is to think about the origin of Othello's insecurity. The following are suggestions that could be the origin of Othello's insecurity. Select one of the suggestions and post a comment in which you discuss why this selected suggestion could be the origin of Othello's insecurity. Please refer to one SPECIFIC example from the play to support your response. Feel free to also refer to examples outside of the text but you must refer and discuss at least one example from the play.
The suggestions are:
A) Othello's relationship with Desdemona is his first relationship, which means his experience and interaction with women is very limited.
B) Othello is aware that Desdemona is very beautiful and questions why she chose him when there have been previous suitors and marriage proposals from other men who are more "appropriate" and proper.
C) Another suggestions of your choice.
Responses are due Sunday, April 10th by 7:00 PM.
Best,
Benitez
PS: Please "sign" your name at the bottom of your responses so I can easily credit who posted and who didn't (This because some of you chose creative user names that do not directly identify who you are). Thank you.
In Act 3 of Othello, we see Iago "pouring pestilence" into Othello's ear by initially hinting at the possibility that Desdemona has been carrying on an affair with Cassio, Othello's former officer. Othello's soliloquy at roughly the midpoint of Act 3, scene 3 reveals that Othello himself sees his skin color, his lack of a Venetian education and his age (he's older than Desdemona by a significant number of years) are factors that would cause Desdemona to cheat on him. It's been established through class discussion that Othello is insecure.
Your assignment is to think about the origin of Othello's insecurity. The following are suggestions that could be the origin of Othello's insecurity. Select one of the suggestions and post a comment in which you discuss why this selected suggestion could be the origin of Othello's insecurity. Please refer to one SPECIFIC example from the play to support your response. Feel free to also refer to examples outside of the text but you must refer and discuss at least one example from the play.
The suggestions are:
A) Othello's relationship with Desdemona is his first relationship, which means his experience and interaction with women is very limited.
B) Othello is aware that Desdemona is very beautiful and questions why she chose him when there have been previous suitors and marriage proposals from other men who are more "appropriate" and proper.
C) Another suggestions of your choice.
Responses are due Sunday, April 10th by 7:00 PM.
Best,
Benitez
PS: Please "sign" your name at the bottom of your responses so I can easily credit who posted and who didn't (This because some of you chose creative user names that do not directly identify who you are). Thank you.
The Origin of Othello's Insecurity (Section 07)
Hello all,
In Act 3 of Othello, we see Iago "pouring pestilence" into Othello's ear by initially hinting at the possibility that Desdemona has been carrying on an affair with Cassio, Othello's former officer. Othello's soliloquy at roughly the midpoint of Act 3, scene 3 reveals that Othello himself sees his skin color, his lack of a Venetian education and his age (he's older than Desdemona by a significant number of years) are factors that would cause Desdemona to cheat on him. It's been established through class discussion that Othello is insecure.
Your assignment is to think about the origin of Othello's insecurity. The following are suggestions that could be the origin of Othello's insecurity. Select one of the suggestions and post a comment in which you discuss why this selected suggestion could be the origin of Othello's insecurity. Please refer to one SPECIFIC example from the play to support your response. Feel free to also refer to examples outside of the text but you must refer and discuss at least one example from the play.
The suggestions are:
A) Othello's relationship with Desdemona is his first relationship, which means his experience and interaction with women is very limited.
B) Othello is aware that Desdemona is very beautiful and questions why she chose him when there have been previous suitors and marriage proposals from other men who are more "appropriate" and proper.
C) Another suggestions of your choice.
Responses are due Sunday, April 10th by 7:00 PM.
Best,
Benitez
PS: Please "sign" your name at the bottom of your responses so I can easily credit who posted and who didn't (This because some of you chose creative user names that do not directly identify who you are). Thank you.
In Act 3 of Othello, we see Iago "pouring pestilence" into Othello's ear by initially hinting at the possibility that Desdemona has been carrying on an affair with Cassio, Othello's former officer. Othello's soliloquy at roughly the midpoint of Act 3, scene 3 reveals that Othello himself sees his skin color, his lack of a Venetian education and his age (he's older than Desdemona by a significant number of years) are factors that would cause Desdemona to cheat on him. It's been established through class discussion that Othello is insecure.
Your assignment is to think about the origin of Othello's insecurity. The following are suggestions that could be the origin of Othello's insecurity. Select one of the suggestions and post a comment in which you discuss why this selected suggestion could be the origin of Othello's insecurity. Please refer to one SPECIFIC example from the play to support your response. Feel free to also refer to examples outside of the text but you must refer and discuss at least one example from the play.
The suggestions are:
A) Othello's relationship with Desdemona is his first relationship, which means his experience and interaction with women is very limited.
B) Othello is aware that Desdemona is very beautiful and questions why she chose him when there have been previous suitors and marriage proposals from other men who are more "appropriate" and proper.
C) Another suggestions of your choice.
Responses are due Sunday, April 10th by 7:00 PM.
Best,
Benitez
PS: Please "sign" your name at the bottom of your responses so I can easily credit who posted and who didn't (This because some of you chose creative user names that do not directly identify who you are). Thank you.
The Origin of Othello's Insecurity (Section 06)
Hello all,
In Act 3 of Othello, we see Iago "pouring pestilence" into Othello's ear by initially hinting at the possibility that Desdemona has been carrying on an affair with Cassio, Othello's former officer. Othello's soliloquy at roughly the midpoint of Act 3, scene 3 reveals that Othello himself sees his skin color, his lack of a Venetian education and his age (he's older than Desdemona by a significant number of years) are factors that would cause Desdemona to cheat on him. It's been established through class discussion that Othello is insecure.
Your assignment is to think about the origin of Othello's insecurity. The following are suggestions that could be the origin of Othello's insecurity. Select one of the suggestions and post a comment in which you discuss why this selected suggestion could be the origin of Othello's insecurity. Please refer to one SPECIFIC example from the play to support your response. Feel free to also refer to examples outside of the text but you must refer and discuss at least one example from the play.
The suggestions are:
A) Othello's relationship with Desdemona is his first relationship, which means his experience and interaction with women is very limited.
B) Othello is aware that Desdemona is very beautiful and questions why she chose him when there have been previous suitors and marriage proposals from other men who are more "appropriate" and proper.
C) Another suggestions of your choice.
Responses are due Sunday, April 10th by 7:00 PM.
Best,
Benitez
PS: Please "sign" your name at the bottom of your responses so I can easily credit who posted and who didn't (This because some of you chose creative user names that do not directly identify who you are). Thank you.
In Act 3 of Othello, we see Iago "pouring pestilence" into Othello's ear by initially hinting at the possibility that Desdemona has been carrying on an affair with Cassio, Othello's former officer. Othello's soliloquy at roughly the midpoint of Act 3, scene 3 reveals that Othello himself sees his skin color, his lack of a Venetian education and his age (he's older than Desdemona by a significant number of years) are factors that would cause Desdemona to cheat on him. It's been established through class discussion that Othello is insecure.
Your assignment is to think about the origin of Othello's insecurity. The following are suggestions that could be the origin of Othello's insecurity. Select one of the suggestions and post a comment in which you discuss why this selected suggestion could be the origin of Othello's insecurity. Please refer to one SPECIFIC example from the play to support your response. Feel free to also refer to examples outside of the text but you must refer and discuss at least one example from the play.
The suggestions are:
A) Othello's relationship with Desdemona is his first relationship, which means his experience and interaction with women is very limited.
B) Othello is aware that Desdemona is very beautiful and questions why she chose him when there have been previous suitors and marriage proposals from other men who are more "appropriate" and proper.
C) Another suggestions of your choice.
Responses are due Sunday, April 10th by 7:00 PM.
Best,
Benitez
PS: Please "sign" your name at the bottom of your responses so I can easily credit who posted and who didn't (This because some of you chose creative user names that do not directly identify who you are). Thank you.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
"About Men" Essay (Sections 08 and 09)
Hello all,
Here is the link for the essay by Gretel Ehrlich, which was read in class. It's brief but very insightful. Please read it and then write a precis that summarizes the essay and, also, demonstrates your understanding of what Ehrlich is saying about male gender roles as portrayed through her experience interacting with real cowboys and ranchers and how they match up to the more traditional rugged Marlboro Man cowboy image. Furthermore, synthesize how perceived gender roles match up the actual gender roles. Begin to think of gender roles in terms of the characters in Othello. Your hint is the following prompt: How is Othello perceived to be and how does that match up to who Othello really is?
Again, here is the link for Gretel Ehrlich's "About Men".
This is due tomorrow for sections 08 and 09. No excuses. The trip some of you went on is not excuse to not hand in this assignment tomorrow (April 1st, 2011).
Regards,
Benitez
Here is the link for the essay by Gretel Ehrlich, which was read in class. It's brief but very insightful. Please read it and then write a precis that summarizes the essay and, also, demonstrates your understanding of what Ehrlich is saying about male gender roles as portrayed through her experience interacting with real cowboys and ranchers and how they match up to the more traditional rugged Marlboro Man cowboy image. Furthermore, synthesize how perceived gender roles match up the actual gender roles. Begin to think of gender roles in terms of the characters in Othello. Your hint is the following prompt: How is Othello perceived to be and how does that match up to who Othello really is?
Again, here is the link for Gretel Ehrlich's "About Men".
This is due tomorrow for sections 08 and 09. No excuses. The trip some of you went on is not excuse to not hand in this assignment tomorrow (April 1st, 2011).
Regards,
Benitez
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Immigrant Rights Petition
Hey all,
This is a link to an online petition that calls for the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to revise their stance on the deportation of U.S. veterans who serve in the military and then are denied permanent residency which can lead to applying for citizenship. The link is embedded in the word link.
Feel free to sign the petition but you are not mandated to do so.
Regards,
Benitez
This is a link to an online petition that calls for the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to revise their stance on the deportation of U.S. veterans who serve in the military and then are denied permanent residency which can lead to applying for citizenship. The link is embedded in the word link.
Feel free to sign the petition but you are not mandated to do so.
Regards,
Benitez
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Parent-Teacher Conferences
It's that wonderful time of the year when I get to meet your parents! As usual, I will be in room 430 in tomorrow evening (03/17) and Friday afternoon (03/18). For those who prefer, I can speak Spanish during the conference. And, before I forget, let's try and keep the conferences to a max of 3 minutes and please be outside my room when I call your son or daughter's name. If I call for you and you are not there I will move along down the list and you will have to sign again. Too many parent's missed out on conferencing during the fall semester.
Hope to see you guys!
Regards,
Benitez
PS: Check out this Othello movie preview project done by students:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_7C0pR2CDEw
Hope to see you guys!
Regards,
Benitez
PS: Check out this Othello movie preview project done by students:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_7C0pR2CDEw
The Impact of Gender Roles (Section 09)
Hey guys,
In this post is the discussion questions. Please answer it before 7:00 PM on Sunday (March 20th, 2011).
How do gender roles and presumed gender behavior affect the school environment that we learn in? Please explain your position on this topic and support it with one specific example. It can be a personal example but please do not mention names of teachers or students. Keep it as mature and appropriate as possible or your comment will be deleted.
- Benitez!
The Impact of Gender Roles (Section 08)
Hey guys,
In this post is the discussion questions. Please answer it before 7:00 PM on Sunday (March 20th, 2011).
How do gender roles and presumed gender behavior affect the school environment that we learn in? Please explain your position on this topic and support it with one specific example. It can be a personal example but please do not mention names of teachers or students. Keep it as mature and appropriate as possible or your comment will be deleted.
In this post is the discussion questions. Please answer it before 7:00 PM on Sunday (March 20th, 2011).
How do gender roles and presumed gender behavior affect the school environment that we learn in? Please explain your position on this topic and support it with one specific example. It can be a personal example but please do not mention names of teachers or students. Keep it as mature and appropriate as possible or your comment will be deleted.
Monday, March 7, 2011
Salughterhouse-Five Criticism (ALL SECTIONS)
Hey guys, here are the links for the two articles I want you to print out. The first article is for tomorrow and the second is for Wednesday/Thursday.
This first link is for the article due tomorrow (Tuesday). It's only four pages in legth.
http://musingsofaliterarydilettante.wordpress.com/2010/02/22/slaughterhouse-five-by-kurt-vonnegut/
This link is for the article that will be discussed in class on Wednesday/Thursday:
http://theocrit.sfasu.edu/docs/spring2009/Mixing%20Fantasy%20with%20Fact.pdf
This article is 8 pages in length, but, still readable.
For each article, please, bring in 2 questions that come to mind while reading to ask during the in class discussions.
This first link is for the article due tomorrow (Tuesday). It's only four pages in legth.
http://musingsofaliterarydilettante.wordpress.com/2010/02/22/slaughterhouse-five-by-kurt-vonnegut/
This link is for the article that will be discussed in class on Wednesday/Thursday:
http://theocrit.sfasu.edu/docs/spring2009/Mixing%20Fantasy%20with%20Fact.pdf
This article is 8 pages in length, but, still readable.
For each article, please, bring in 2 questions that come to mind while reading to ask during the in class discussions.
Friday, March 4, 2011
Slaughterhouse-Five Quiz Questions (Section 08)
Hello all,
Based on our discussion of Vonnegut's novel as well as the topics, themes, and issues (free will, control over our decisions, fatalism) Slaughterhouse-Five brings up, I want you to post (as a comment) a question you may have or wanted to ask. The question must relate to one of the topics, themes and issues or a specific scene or character from the novel.
An example of the type of questions I am looking to see from you guys is as follows:
How does Vonnegut convey his view of free will through character development/characterization? Select one character from Slaughterhouse-Five to analyze and discuss how that character is an example that free will exists or does not exist.
The best 5 questions will be selected for Monday's quiz. From those five you'll have to answer 3.
All students must post their questions by noon on Sunday (3/6/11). No excuses.
Based on our discussion of Vonnegut's novel as well as the topics, themes, and issues (free will, control over our decisions, fatalism) Slaughterhouse-Five brings up, I want you to post (as a comment) a question you may have or wanted to ask. The question must relate to one of the topics, themes and issues or a specific scene or character from the novel.
An example of the type of questions I am looking to see from you guys is as follows:
How does Vonnegut convey his view of free will through character development/characterization? Select one character from Slaughterhouse-Five to analyze and discuss how that character is an example that free will exists or does not exist.
The best 5 questions will be selected for Monday's quiz. From those five you'll have to answer 3.
All students must post their questions by noon on Sunday (3/6/11). No excuses.
Slaughterhouse-Five Quiz Questions (Section 09)
Hello all,
Based on our discussion of Vonnegut's novel as well as the topics, themes, and issues (free will, control over our decisions, fatalism) Slaughterhouse-Five brings up, I want you to post (as a comment) a question you may have or wanted to ask. The question must relate to one of the topics, themes and issues or a specific scene or character from the novel.
An example of the type of questions I am looking to see from you guys is as follows:
How does Vonnegut convey his view of free will through character development/characterization? Select one character from Slaughterhouse-Five to analyze and discuss how that character is an example that free will exists or does not exist.
The best 5 questions will be selected for Monday's quiz. From those five you'll have to answer 3.
All students must post their questions by noon on Sunday (3/6/11). No excuses.
Based on our discussion of Vonnegut's novel as well as the topics, themes, and issues (free will, control over our decisions, fatalism) Slaughterhouse-Five brings up, I want you to post (as a comment) a question you may have or wanted to ask. The question must relate to one of the topics, themes and issues or a specific scene or character from the novel.
An example of the type of questions I am looking to see from you guys is as follows:
How does Vonnegut convey his view of free will through character development/characterization? Select one character from Slaughterhouse-Five to analyze and discuss how that character is an example that free will exists or does not exist.
The best 5 questions will be selected for Monday's quiz. From those five you'll have to answer 3.
All students must post their questions by noon on Sunday (3/6/11). No excuses.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Reminder (ALL SECTIONS)
Hey guys,
Please remember that the final draft of the essay on education reform is due on 3/4/11, this Friday, for sections 08 and 09. For sections 06 and 07 the final draft is due on Monday, 3/7/11.
Regards,
Benitez
Please remember that the final draft of the essay on education reform is due on 3/4/11, this Friday, for sections 08 and 09. For sections 06 and 07 the final draft is due on Monday, 3/7/11.
Regards,
Benitez
Sunday, February 27, 2011
TUTORING CHANGE for 2/28/11
If anyone is coming to tutoring tomorrow, 2/28/11, please take note I will hold tutoring in the morning. I will not be able to stay during the afternoon because of follow-up appointment I have with a doctor. My apologies for the inconvenience this might cause. It's a one time change though. After tomorrow tutoring times will continue during Monday afternoon and Wednesday and Thursday mornings.
Benitez
Benitez
Harrison Bergeron
Good afternoon again!
There is a short movie called 2081, which is based on Kurt Vonnegut's "Harrison Bergeron." I watched it and it's incredible for the 26-28 minutes. Apparently, it's the only film version of the short story that Vonnegut clearly enjoyed. If anyone is interested in watching it after school on Monday or Tuesday afternoon then let's something up.
We could even do a mutual showing during a Golden Compass and Hammer class since some of you guys are part of it.
Anyone interested please leave a comment so we can set something up.
Benitez
There is a short movie called 2081, which is based on Kurt Vonnegut's "Harrison Bergeron." I watched it and it's incredible for the 26-28 minutes. Apparently, it's the only film version of the short story that Vonnegut clearly enjoyed. If anyone is interested in watching it after school on Monday or Tuesday afternoon then let's something up.
We could even do a mutual showing during a Golden Compass and Hammer class since some of you guys are part of it.
Anyone interested please leave a comment so we can set something up.
Benitez
ATTENTION ALL ENGLISH CLASSES!
Hey all,
Hope the week off went well for everyone.
The schedule for this coming week (2/28/11 - 3/4/11) is as follows:
Day 1 (Monday) - Essay rough drafts due. Peer revision. Quiz for sections 08 and 09.
Day 2 (Tuesday) - Discussion on Slaughterhouse-Five. Every student should bring one discussion question addressed anything from page 114 through the end of the book.
Day 3 (Wednesday/Thursday) - Second rough draft due. Peer revision. Final draft due on Friday, 3/4/11.
Day 4 (Thursday/Friday) - Final draft due today before 2:40 PM. Discussion to conclude Slaughterhouse-Five.
So it goes.
Regards,
Benitez
"Insert a random quote here"
Hope the week off went well for everyone.
The schedule for this coming week (2/28/11 - 3/4/11) is as follows:
Day 1 (Monday) - Essay rough drafts due. Peer revision. Quiz for sections 08 and 09.
Day 2 (Tuesday) - Discussion on Slaughterhouse-Five. Every student should bring one discussion question addressed anything from page 114 through the end of the book.
Day 3 (Wednesday/Thursday) - Second rough draft due. Peer revision. Final draft due on Friday, 3/4/11.
Day 4 (Thursday/Friday) - Final draft due today before 2:40 PM. Discussion to conclude Slaughterhouse-Five.
So it goes.
Regards,
Benitez
"Insert a random quote here"
Saturday, February 26, 2011
The Scarlet Letter in Today's World.
Look! A sports' article that mentions The Scarlet Letter!
Here's the link:
http://espn.go.com/blog/nfcnorth/post/_/id/24585/combine11-minnesotas-unenviable-task
Here's the link:
http://espn.go.com/blog/nfcnorth/post/_/id/24585/combine11-minnesotas-unenviable-task
Monday, February 21, 2011
Slaughterhouse Five/More "Office Hours" (ALL SECTIONS)
Hey all,
Two things.
There will be no thread for Slaughterhouse Five. The discussions in class have been great so we'll just keep discussing the book in class.
Big shout out to all who posted questions this morning/afternoon. If you have further questions then please leave a comment.
Second, I will hold another session of "office hours" or tutoring if the demand arises. I can hold "office hours" again on Thursday morning. I will do this if the demand is heard. So, if you think you'll have questions to ask then please leave comments here telling me to have the "office hours"/tutoring or not.
Thanks.
Benitez
Two things.
There will be no thread for Slaughterhouse Five. The discussions in class have been great so we'll just keep discussing the book in class.
Big shout out to all who posted questions this morning/afternoon. If you have further questions then please leave a comment.
Second, I will hold another session of "office hours" or tutoring if the demand arises. I can hold "office hours" again on Thursday morning. I will do this if the demand is heard. So, if you think you'll have questions to ask then please leave comments here telling me to have the "office hours"/tutoring or not.
Thanks.
Benitez
Saturday, February 19, 2011
"Office Hours"
Hey all,
I will be holding "office hours" on Monday morning from 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM. If you have questions leave a comment in this post. I will hold another session if it is requested or needed.
I will not be around Tuesday night, Wednesday morning and Thursday night because I'll be running errands or sitting in class.
That's all for now. More later.
Benitez
I will be holding "office hours" on Monday morning from 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM. If you have questions leave a comment in this post. I will hold another session if it is requested or needed.
I will not be around Tuesday night, Wednesday morning and Thursday night because I'll be running errands or sitting in class.
That's all for now. More later.
Benitez
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Attention All Classes!
Is anyone interested in creating a poster/poem/skit/what you will for Friday's assembly in which the school will be celebrating Respect for All Week and Engineering Week, respectively. If interested, please, let me know by leaving a comment telling me what you'll be doing. Extra credit will be awarded to those who participate.
Regards,
Benitez
EDIT
The assembly will be celebrating two things.
The first is Respect for All, which would require a poster, poem, skit, etc. encouraging respect for everyone regardless of what sets them apart or makes them different from others.
The second is Engineering Week, which, again, requires a poster, poem, skit, etc. that showcases Engineering.
You guys pretty much have free reign in what you create. The only requirement is that it relates/showcases the two topics being celebrated.
Again, regards,
Benitez
Regards,
Benitez
EDIT
The assembly will be celebrating two things.
The first is Respect for All, which would require a poster, poem, skit, etc. encouraging respect for everyone regardless of what sets them apart or makes them different from others.
The second is Engineering Week, which, again, requires a poster, poem, skit, etc. that showcases Engineering.
You guys pretty much have free reign in what you create. The only requirement is that it relates/showcases the two topics being celebrated.
Again, regards,
Benitez
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
What will high schools look like for the next generation? (Section 07)
In class today we discussed if the current education system is in need of some sort of reform. Your intitial answer was, of course, based on your personal experience. Whether or not you believe some sort of reform is needed or not a new question that arises is that of what will high school be like for the next generation? Will high school and the education system remain the same or will they both be vastly different from what we experienced?
In writing your response please refer to any of the selected readings (the education essays), Ken Robinson's "Do Schools Kill Creativity?" speech/video personal experience. Be sure that you fully explain your position. You may refer to the essay that we are currently writing in class, as well.
All responses are due by 7:30 AM on 2/17/11.
In writing your response please refer to any of the selected readings (the education essays), Ken Robinson's "Do Schools Kill Creativity?" speech/video personal experience. Be sure that you fully explain your position. You may refer to the essay that we are currently writing in class, as well.
All responses are due by 7:30 AM on 2/17/11.
What will high schools look like for the next generation? (Section 06)
In class today we discussed if the current education system is in need of some sort of reform. Your intitial answer was, of course, based on your personal experience. Whether or not you believe some sort of reform is needed or not a new question that arises is that of what will high school be like for the next generation? Will high school and the education system remain the same or will they both be vastly different from what we experienced?
In writing your response please refer to any of the selected readings (the education essays), Ken Robinson's "Do Schools Kill Creativity?" speech/video personal experience. Be sure that you fully explain your position. You may refer to the essay that we are currently writing in class, as well.
All responses are due by 7:30 AM on 2/17/11.
In writing your response please refer to any of the selected readings (the education essays), Ken Robinson's "Do Schools Kill Creativity?" speech/video personal experience. Be sure that you fully explain your position. You may refer to the essay that we are currently writing in class, as well.
All responses are due by 7:30 AM on 2/17/11.
Monday, February 14, 2011
What will high school be like for the next generation? (Section 09)
In class today we discussed if the current education system is in need of some sort of reform. Your intitial answer was, of course, based on your personal experience. Whether or not you believe some sort of reform is needed or not a new question that arises is that of what will high school be like for the next generation? Will high school and the education system remain the same or will they both be vastly different from what we experienced?
In writing your response please refer to any of the selected readings (the education essays), Ken Robinson's "Do Schools Kill Creativity?" speech/video personal experience. Be sure that you fully explain your position. You may refer to the essay that we are currently writing in class, as well.
All responses are due by 7:30 AM on 2/16/11.
In writing your response please refer to any of the selected readings (the education essays), Ken Robinson's "Do Schools Kill Creativity?" speech/video personal experience. Be sure that you fully explain your position. You may refer to the essay that we are currently writing in class, as well.
All responses are due by 7:30 AM on 2/16/11.
What will high school be like for the next generation? (Section 08)
In class today we discussed if the current education system is in need of some sort of reform. Your intitial answer was, of course, based on your personal experience. Whether or not you believe some sort of reform is needed or not a new question that arises is that of what will high school be like for the next generation? Will high school and the education system remain the same or will they both be vastly different from what we experienced?
In writing your response please refer to any of the selected readings (the education essays), Ken Robinson's "Do Schools Kill Creativity?" speech/video personal experience. Be sure that you fully explain your position. You may refer to the essay that we are currently writing in class, as well.
All responses are due by 7:30 AM on 2/16/11.
In writing your response please refer to any of the selected readings (the education essays), Ken Robinson's "Do Schools Kill Creativity?" speech/video personal experience. Be sure that you fully explain your position. You may refer to the essay that we are currently writing in class, as well.
All responses are due by 7:30 AM on 2/16/11.
"Do Schools Kill Creativity?" Response (Section 07)
After watching the video of Ken Robinson's speech, entitled "Do Schools Kill Creativity?" I want you to think about the question his speech asks us all. Do schools kill creativty? Does Ken Robinson pose a valid argument? Do you think that your knowledge and role as a student would improve if your being educated incorporated more creativity and freedom?
Here is the link for the video if you wish to rewatch it:
http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/ken_robinson_says_schools_kill_creativity.html
All responses are due by 7:30 AM on 2/16/11.
Here is the link for the video if you wish to rewatch it:
http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/ken_robinson_says_schools_kill_creativity.html
All responses are due by 7:30 AM on 2/16/11.
"Do Schools Kill Creativity?" Response (Section 06)
After watching the video of Ken Robinson's speech, entitled "Do Schools Kill Creativity?" I want you to think about the question his speech asks us all. Do schools kill creativty? Does Ken Robinson pose a valid argument? Do you think that your knowledge and role as a student would improve if your being educated incorporated more creativity and freedom?
Here is the link for the video if you wish to rewatch it:
http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/ken_robinson_says_schools_kill_creativity.html
All responses are due by 7:30 AM on 2/16/11.
Here is the link for the video if you wish to rewatch it:
http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/ken_robinson_says_schools_kill_creativity.html
All responses are due by 7:30 AM on 2/16/11.
Friday, February 11, 2011
The Merit of "Classic" Literary Works (Section 09)
As we continue our discussion on education and whether or not schools kill creativity or suffocate your ability to learn/desire to learn, I want you to think about the books and the short stories we have read in class and are currently reading (A View from the Bridge, The Crucible, "The Minister's Black Veil," The Scarlet Letter "Harrison Bergeron" and Slaughterhouse Five). Are you a better student, thinker and human being for reading these literary works that are considered classics and a part of the literary canon? Take a moment what it means to be a student, thinker and human being (in the sense of how you contribute to society) and then post a response. In other words, do you think these books have appropriately educated you? Length does not matter but I recommend you devote about 5 minutes of writing/typing.
Responses are due before 7:30 AM on February 14th, 2011.
Responses are due before 7:30 AM on February 14th, 2011.
The Merit of "Classic" Literary Works (Section 08)
As we continue our discussion on education and whether or not schools kill creativity or suffocate your ability to learn/desire to learn, I want you to think about the books and the short stories we have read in class and are currently reading (A View from the Bridge, The Crucible, "The Minister's Black Veil," The Scarlet Letter "Harrison Bergeron" and Slaughterhouse Five). Are you a better student, thinker and human being for reading these literary works that are considered classics and a part of the literary canon? Take a moment what it means to be a student, thinker and human being (in the sense of how you contribute to society) and then post a response. In other words, do you think these books have appropriately educated you? Length does not matter but I recommend you devote about 5 minutes of writing/typing.
Responses are due by 7:30 AM on February 14th, 2011.
Responses are due by 7:30 AM on February 14th, 2011.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
English 6, Section 09
Please "check in" by leaving a comment indentifying yourself. Remember that you must "check in" before 7 PM February 11th, 2011. There will be a penalty for those who fail to "check in" before the established deadline.
Regards,
Benitez
Regards,
Benitez
English 6, Section 08
Please "check in" by leaving a comment indentifying yourself. Remember that you must "check in" before 7 PM February 11th, 2011. There will be a penalty for those who fail to "check in" before the established deadline.
Regards,
Benitez
Regards,
Benitez
English 6, Section 7
Please "check in" by leaving a comment indentifying yourself. Remember that you must "check in" before 7 PM February 11th, 2011. There will be a penalty for those who fail to "check in" before the established deadline.
Regards,
Benitez
Regards,
Benitez
English 6, Section 06
Please "check in" by leaving a comment indentifying yourself. Remember that you must "check in" before 7 PM February 11th, 2011. There will be a penalty for those who fail to "check in" before the established deadline.
Regards,
Benitez
Regards,
Benitez
Greetings
To all my students,
Greetings to all.
The purpose of this blog is to provide a forum for our class discussions when we run out of time during class sessions. You will also be required to post responses to certain questions and prompts I will be posting here on this blog. Furthermore, you will be required to check this blog for any updates or modifications to any classwork or assignments. It is your responsibility to visit this blog since you're all highly responsible young adults that care about your education.
The first homework assignment is to "stop by and check in" via this blog. Please look for your class section's posting, which will be stated in title. Please post a comment in which you identify who you are. Once you do this, I will know who has checked in and who has not. This "check in" assignment is due at 7 PM on Friday, February 11th. Remember that your comment will reveal the time and date that you "check in." If you check in after 7 PM on Friday evening then you will only receive partial credit or may risk receiving no credit at all.
I look forward to working with all of you via this blog to continue our learning.
Greetings to all.
The purpose of this blog is to provide a forum for our class discussions when we run out of time during class sessions. You will also be required to post responses to certain questions and prompts I will be posting here on this blog. Furthermore, you will be required to check this blog for any updates or modifications to any classwork or assignments. It is your responsibility to visit this blog since you're all highly responsible young adults that care about your education.
The first homework assignment is to "stop by and check in" via this blog. Please look for your class section's posting, which will be stated in title. Please post a comment in which you identify who you are. Once you do this, I will know who has checked in and who has not. This "check in" assignment is due at 7 PM on Friday, February 11th. Remember that your comment will reveal the time and date that you "check in." If you check in after 7 PM on Friday evening then you will only receive partial credit or may risk receiving no credit at all.
I look forward to working with all of you via this blog to continue our learning.
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