Author Archives: thorburn

3rd 6 Weeks Blog

For this grading period, as we continue/finish Just Mercy, consider the topic of truth.

Even more questions to consider: What is truth? Do truth and reality always coincide? Why does truth differ among people? If there are multiple sides to be examined, can the outcome be considered truth? Are there degrees of truth? What is opposite of truth – a lie? illusion? Can truth be taken away from us? Does an author have a moral duty to be 100% truthful? How does our interpretation of language influence the truth of a text? What should we think of an author leaves something significant out of a non-fiction text?

Your name should show up here 5 times before the end of the semester – either post twice and respond thrice, or vice-versa, your choice.  **WHEN YOU POST – you should have an article, video – SOMETHING that you are talking about. Include the link!!**

You guys are awesome; I love having you in class and I love your blogs.

sct

2nd Grading Period – Post and Respond Here :)

To my dear 3rd period class!

I LOVED your blogs last grading period… You people are so thoughtful. I learned a lot from what you posted. A couple of reminders: when you post – don’t forget a link to an article (or some type of text – it can be auditory or visual as well) that inspired your comments. Also, when you respond to a peer, respond to their ideas (you can agree or disagree) – but don’t critique their presentation. Everyone is doing their best, I firmly believe that!

This grading period, the topic is going to be “identity.” I feel like this really connects to Unbroken, Wes Moore, and most YA books. So, I’m hoping you find you have a lot of texts for jumping off points. Can’t wait to read your thoughts!

sct

1st 6 Weeks – Post 1

Welcome, Posters & Responders. I’m glad to have you on board the blog.

Welcome to your senior year. I can’t believe it, as I’m sure your parents can’t either… because it seems like just yesterday you were cute, little freshmen scampering about. Goodness. As Dr. Seuss said, “How did it get so late so soon?”

We already talked about the ‘hows’ and ‘whats’ of the blog, and this is where you will post or respond for the first week of the 1st grading period.

Remember: the topic for the 1st six weeks is coping. I hope you enjoy it, at lest somewhat. Hint: Don’t let it get repetitive. There are so many ways this topic could go – explore it!

As a teacher, I never ever feel like I do enough, teach enough, think enough, make you guys learn enough, read enough, or write enough. So this blog has always helped me assuage my guilt, just a tad. Plus, I always love the smart things my students write on the blogs. Plus (plus), I can guarantee you 1000%, at some point in college, you will have to do an online discussion board of some sort.

So…. Have fun! I’m looking forward to this journey.

I hope you have a great senior year! Sct