To Start:

• Open the document with you introduction and selection.
• Do a word count. Divide it by 130. Type that number in the upper right corner.
• Remove all headings. Skip a few lines between the introduction and the excerpt.
• Change the text size to 16. If possible, make it all fits on one page.
• Print out three copies. 
• Mark one copy as a reading script.
  • Underline for emphasis.
  • Double underline for more emphasis.
  • Forward slash for a pause.
  • Vertical line for a longer pause.

In Class: 
Then, we're going over expectations for exhibition, using yet another awesome rubric.

We'll use the rest of class to practice reading aloud in groups of four. The roles are:

1. Reader. Stands up, faces the group, and practices reading exhibition-style.
2. Supportive audience member. Smiles and nods at the reader. Makes sure other audience members are quiet and attentive.
3. Time keeper. Times reading and keeps the group on task between readers.
4. Feedback facilitator. Makes sure that the reader gets both warm and constructive feedback, and that everyone in the group is participating in the critique.

Coming Up:
Exhibition is tomorrow from 6 to 8pm at the Steaming Bean! GET STOKED AND GET PREPARED!
Do at least two practice readings tonight:

• One in front of a mirror,
• One recorded on your cell phone.
• (Bonus) One in front of a friend or family member.

To Start:
Get out a sheet of paper and put a heading on the top. Under the heading "Starter," write a two-sentence (total) reflection on:

• What aspect of your story are you most proud of?
• What are you most excited to show at exhibition? 

​
In Class:

• First, we're going to watch two author's reading Tim O' Brien's book, "The Things They Carried," which we will be reading in our next project. As we watch, take notes under the heading "Author's Reading" on what you notice about how these two men read the books, and what in their performances you want to imitate.
  • In the first reading the excerpt is about a solider who does drugs to cope with war.
  • In the second reading the excerpt describes the physical objects the soldiers carry.
• Then, we're going to do an initial practice reading of our excerpts aloud in small groups.
• Then, we're going to brainstorm introductions to our stories under the heading "Introduction."
  • What is your name? What is your story's title? AND,
  • What will your audience need to know about your story to understand your excerpt? AND,
  • What theme is your story trying to communicate? OR,
  • What is one interesting thing about your story, your research, or the writing process.
• Finally, we'll type up 60 to 95 word introductions to our stories.
• If we have time, we'll end with a practice reading of our selections and introductions.

Coming Up:

• Exhibition is on Wednesday from 6 to 8pm at the Steaming Bean!

To Start:
Read "An Ethic of Excellence" by Ron Berger.

Consider the following questions. You do not need to write your answers down.

• What does Berger mean by an "Ethic of Excellence?"
• Do you agree with the importance Berger places on an "Ethic of Excellence?" Why or why not?
• When do you feel like a "craftsperson" at school? 
• What can we do to create a stronger culture of excellence in our school?
  
• How can you make your own work more beautiful?

In Class:
Embody the "Ethic of Excellence as you continue refining your story. If you need ideas on how to proceed, ask a Ally or a peer to conference with you.

If you'd like to help curate a beautiful exhibition, you can sign up for one of the challenge extension roles in this Google Document.

Coming Up:

• SLCs are on Wednesday, from 4 to 5:10, and 5:20 to 6:30 . We'll be preparing for them in class.
• The final draft of your story is due in GoogleClassroom by the end of the day on Friday.
• The final draft of your book cover is due in GoogleClassroom or hard copy by the beginning of class on Monday.

To Start:
Write a one paragraph summary of your short story, 

In Class:
First, we'll be doing a gallery walk of your book cover drafts. As you give feedback, consider:

• Connection to the Story
• Creativity
  
• Design
  
• Typography

Then we will have independent work time to revise our story and cover drafts. I will be coming around to conference with you, but don't wait for me to work on things that you know need fixing.

Coming Up:

• SLCs are on Wednesday, from 4 to 5:10, and 5:20 to 6:30 . We'll be preparing for them in class.
• The final draft of your story is due in GoogleClassroom by the end of the day on Friday.
  
• The final draft of your book cover is due in GoogleClassroom or hard copy by the beginning of class on Monday.