English 8 Strategies returned to writing as it’s Tuesday: we worked on a new Schaffer paragraph with the topic “The best part of the day is ______,” taking time only to write the first chunk and plan as a class potential second (and third and fourth). Afterward, we worked on the Schaffer paragraph that we began last week. We switched to individual work for the final chunk.

English I Honors read O’Henry’s “Gift of the Magi” and worked in groups to prepare for the last paragraph of the short story/writing about literature unit. As the scaffolding continues, I have removed even more guidance in preparation for the final project: with this writing piece, students received only the instructions that it has to be about either “The Necklace” or “Gift of the Magi” and must deal with the role of symbolism or irony in the story.

Creative writing students evaluated their first finished piece of writing and did some more writing. Starting tomorrow we’ll be meeting in a computer lab for class and incorporating work for the Hughes web site into the curriculum.

Homework

• English I Honors: continue planning for tomorrow the final paragraph on “Magi” or “Necklace.”