On your blogs, I would like you to write for twenty minutes without stopping. The subject: a family member. You can write about any family member, on any subject pertaining to him/her. Describe what he or she looks like; think about the characteristics he or she possesses that defines who he or she is; or think about some conflict that you've had with him or her (possibly a conflict you've witnessed him or her deal with). What ever you decide to write about, make sure to write nonstop for twenty minutes (or longer, if you'd like). This information could be used to draft an essay for our personal narrative unit.
For homework, you will need to complete the first draft of a personal essay. You can turn one of your in-class writing prompts into an essay, or you can choose to write about something else. Whatever the case, make sure that you are a part of the story and that it has conflict. You will need to post an electronic copy of this draft to the discussion board (titled "First Draft Peer Review") by next Thursday (March 1st). We will workshop them in class.
In addition to the rough drafts, there are two reading assignments due for next week. Under the Content section of D2L, you will find two personal essays--"Graduation," by Maya Angelou, and "Me Talk Pretty One Day," by David Sedaris. Have these read before and be prepared to discuss them during class next week. We may have another quiz on one of the pieces.
