I'm just saying...there will be a notebook quiz tomorrow over the difference between precise and concise. I'll give you the words; you give me the definitions. Do yourself a favor and review the meanings.
Book group discussions are finished in periods five and six. Period one has two remaining. We'll wrap them up tomorrow. As we near the end, I'll have to admit that I'm surprised and a little disappointed with the overall quality of the presentations, especially the later ones. Going first is never easy; however, when you have the luxury of seeing a few presentations and having time to adjust your own based on our insightful discussions, it's fair to assume that the presentations will improve. That just didn't happen. Going forward, here are a few tips, let's call them the 3 Ps, that I hope you will take to heart.
*Prepare. Do your homework. Do your research. Don't settle for one source. Examine a few sources. Don't just find any quote. Search for the right quote. Don't just settle for a decent idea. Find the idea that demonstrates thought and insight. That usually means avoiding the first thing that jumps into your head. Think on your topic a little longer than your peers and your assessment will be a little higher.
*Practice. Studies show that to become comfortable with your presentation, it's a good idea to practice at least six times. It's not until then that the information starts to flow naturally. You have to practice anything to become better at it. Speaking in front of the class is no different. On top of that, practicing in front of the mirror, your little brother, any willing siblings, parents, friends, or clerks at Krispy Kreme will help make a good presentation great.
* Passion. This can take you soooooo far! I've seen solid presentations torpedoed by monotoned, apathetic, tired voices. If you sound disinterested, your audience will be disinterested. Care. Offer some life, some energy, some pizzaz, some chutzpah, some inflection, some fire. EVERY ONE OF YOU CAN DO THIS! The only person stopping you is you. A person with passion will get the grade, the interview, the job, the scholarship, the boundless, unlimited future!
We'll get into "Flowers for Algernon" in each class tomorrow. Lots to talk about there. Here is a taste of what you'll be thinking about and responding to.
1) What is the significance of the Robinson Crusoe section?
2) Discuss Charlie's "friends" at work and the role they play in the story.
3) Who is right about seeking knowledge, Fanny or Charlie?
4) Why does Keyes use the allusion to Paradise Lost?
5) Is Charlie better off before or after the operation?
6) What do you think Keyes' thoughts are on the medical profession? our treatment of the disabled?
7) What is Algernon's role in the story?
8) Is Charlie a hero?
9) Is the first person narrative an effective technique?
10) Compare this story to "Harrison Bergeron".
See what I mean? I could go on, but that's enough for now.
Remind me to talk about an opportunity for a few more points on the agreement quiz tomorrow.
Don't forget to have a nonfiction book in class by Wednesday. No excuses.
See you tomorrow.
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