Discussion Director

Tenasia Brown led an excellent Literature Circle discussion in the 3rd period writing class. This was no small feat for Tenasis, who admits that she does not like to speak out in class or participate. "Honestly, I'm shy most of the time," she wrote in her final reflection on the discussion. "For me to even lead it was a big step for me." Her questions were pointed and elicited a lot of discussion. For example, "Has your book had an impact on you? Why or why not?" She also asked us what we concluded about our authors from reading our books. Bianca said she was drained out today, but that said, Tenasia's questions nevertheless were very good and she enjoyed the discussion a lot.
Things did not go as well in the 7th period class. Too bad because I am very anxious to hear more about what students think about The Bluest Eye.
Here's a photo of Tenasia deep in thought writing her final reflection:

Finally, we are creating a Poetry Page here for student poetry. Email if you would like one of your poems or raps posted on it. Meanwhile, the offer still stands: The first five students to comment on this blog will receive two extra credit classwork points. 

Student teachers

Regina Whitely and Olivia West assumed the duties of teachers today during the 3rd period writing class. The lesson was about drafting our persuasive essays on truancy. They did an awesome job. The journal prompt asked students to write about three things they could do to encourage their peers to come to school. They then explained five different types of text structures for expository writing, giving a handout. With some gentle coaxing, Tenasia actually shared her journal prompt with the class for the first time all semester! Judging by their exit slips, the other students were equally impressed. Dominique said they actually taught "a lot more thoroughly than Ms. Becker does." Cherise said they were "the best teachers I ever had and it made the class fun and not boring. I look forward to doing my essay tonight."
Really, Cherise??? I guess I should start looking for a new job! Just kidding! Seriously, I personally learned a lot from this experience and incorporated some of the techniques into my classes that followed, such as Regina's suggestion to Dominique on how to begin his essay. (Brainstorm ideas on paper or draw a mind map.)
Here are some photos.

Bianca hard at work on her persuasive writing essay.

The teachers grading handouts and reading exit slips.

By the way, the first five students who leave a comment here will earn two extra credit classwork points.

New and final marking period

Today was the first day of the new and final marking period for the school year. It is hard to believe. The writing students are working on persuasive essays evaluating the issue of truancy. It is a topic that has produced many strong and thoughtful opinions. Students differ on whether it is a problem that affects them personally. I am very proud of all of them. Hopefully, we will post some of the essays here when they are finished.
Along the same lines, the literature class interpreted a poem today called "Refugee Blues" by WH Auden. They did an amazing job of deconstructing it, especially Kyla. The lesson plan for the day was posted yesterday.
Please email me your photos, poems, writings, etc for this blog. You can contact me by posting a comment. We are all learning this together. The first five people who leave a comment will earn 2 extra credit points.

Holocaust Poetry - Lesson Plans - Education & E-Learning - Yad Vashem

Holocaust Poetry - Lesson Plans - Education & E-Learning - Yad Vashem

Opening Day

This is the blog for and about students at Crotona Academy, especially ELA students. It is a work in progress, but hopefully it will become a forum for students to publish their work, engage in discussion and share experiences.
We are looking for prose, poetry, photos, video--whatever creative endeavors you would like to display. If you would like to register as an author to this blog, please let me know.
Comments and questions are always welcome.
Please friend me on Facebook: mscbecker (msbecker4@gmail.com)