Philosophical Chair: Blame the Teachers

Teachers are to be blamed for kids not getting an Education



Remember to:

~Make sure you understand the topic and stick to it in your discussion

~Take a side FOR or AGAINST the statement

~Write down your strongest ideas that you will use to make your point

~DO NOT dominate the discussion and DON'T cut anyone off as they are making their point: Be respective and open-minded to changing your side as you see fit and as you are convinced

~ Wait to speak again after at LEAST THREE PERSONS have spoken BEFORE you.

~If you remain neutral until the end of the discussion, YOU MUST speak in defending your neutrality.

~Have fun and use the opportunity to learn new information and tolerant others' differing position on the topic at hand.

Music Light moments during independent work

Music Caribbean Reggae and More

The American Dream is Dead Philosophical Chair

Topic: The American Dream is dead

Look at the video to gain some info on the topic

1. Make sure you understand the topic

2.Take a side (for or against)

3. If you are undecided, take the middle ground

4. Write down your strongest reason for your position taken

5. Participate in the discussion using the guidelines given


Philosophical Chair on The American Dream

Poetry Analysis: Structure and Content using ART WARS

Use these resources below to help you to become more comfortable with the ability to analyze a poem. The first is a video that introduces the ART WARS as a strategy to help you to cover important aspects of poetry analysis. The second is a sample poem being annotated and analyzed. This provides a great framework for you to follow as you strengthen your skills.



Poetry Analysis Using ART WARS StrategyPoetry using ART Wary


Sample Analysis Using "Chimney Sweeper" by William Blake

Annotation Videos-How to Annotate

Annotation Lesson


Annotation-The Way to GO!

How to Annotate



Sample Annotated Passage: Four Skinny Trees by Sandra Cisneros

Examine the sample annotated passage to help you do better! 

Evaluating SMART Goals for the year 2015-2016-Period 6

Revisit your smart goal by clicking on the following link:

Reviewing SMART Goals


Write a blog response in which you respond to the question:

To what extent have you met your goals? Specify which part/aspect of the goal you have met.
What are your next steps going forward academically?

If you have not met your goal, what else needs to be done? What is your plan of action? Explain.

Claims, Counterclaims, Arguments in Essays

Counter claim