My 9th graders just finished Of Mice and Men and will be reading A Midsummer Night's Dream in class starting next week. I had the students sign up for parts they can perform. I was surprised at how excited the were when I told them we could act out the play in class! Also, if anyone wants some materials for OM&M, I have some great worksheets.

My 10th graders are also reading LOTF and they really like it--Lisa, could I take a look at the psychological analysis stuff/quiz that you have? We are also thinking about what we are thankful for and writing about that.

THe 12th graders just finished TTTC, which they really liked, although many of them had trouble grasping the idea of truth in the novel. They are now starting Animal Farm, which they already really like. Also, for a couple weeks in December, each student will give a presentation about a song that has some kind of historical/societal message. They will research the song, explain the message and how the songwriter/singer achieves this through the style of music, the words, the rhythm, mood, tone, etc. If you are interested in seeing any of the presentations, feel free to stop by 7th period starting on Dec. 8th!

My 9th graders are finishing up Antigone. When we are done with that, we NEED to do some more grammar. After that, we will start the Odyssey.

My 10th graders are in the middle of Lord of the Flies. Most of the students are really into it. This week, I am going to do a brief psychology overview and have them take personality quizzes to match up with characters from the novel.

My 12th graders are finishing up Anthem. After that, we will do short stories and poetry.

:-D

Teaching The Crucible

Hi all,

I am currently teaching The Crucible to my Junior classes. We have discussed the history of the Salem Witch Trials, McCarthyism, and some interesting facts about the life of Arthur Miller. My plan is to try in incorporate some creative writing assignments using the 6 + 1 approach, preferably getting students to capture the "voice" of the characters. Any ideas, suggestions, fun activities, etc. are welcome! I'm always looking for different perspectives! :)

Teaching The Great Gatsby

This November, my 11th graders are reading The Great Gatsby. If you have a successful activity you want to share, please feel free to do so here. I haven't taught GG in a few years and would love to hear some new ideas.

Welcome to Wildcat English!  This is a blog for all English department members to discuss, among other things, the positive things that are going on in their classrooms.  Hopefully, we will all learn a little about what is happening on our own campus and others.  Feel free to post teaching ideas, ask questions, convey information, and much more.