Outsiders And Outcasts

Freestyle Tuesday:  What does it mean to be an outsider? What do you think of when you hear the term, "outsider."

Alienation-the state of being an outsider or the feeling of being isolated, as from society.

We will be starting a short story unit that explores the "outsider"/ social "outcast" character. We will be reading works from Chinese American, African American, Indian American, Mexican American, and Native American authors, all of which have had personal and profound experiences of alienation.

The goal of this unit is for you, the scholar, to explore the outsider character and give us your understanding of what it means to be an outsider.

How to explore the outsider character:

1. Ask yourself, what does it mean to be an outsider?

2. Why is she/he an outsider? As in, what makes them an outsider in the first place?

3. Besides external conflicts, like racism or violence, what internal conflicts do the characters have?

4. How do the outsiders view their own culture/traditions/identity?

5. How do characters try to fit in or cope with being an outsider?

6. How do characters deal with suffering?

*Remember, although there may be overlapping themes, every outsider’s experience is different.

Important concepts: alienation, identity, culture, suffering, assimilation, artificial values

Formatting for the essay

Many of you have been asking formatting questions. Make sure you have the following for your papers:

-page numbers (Bodensteiner 1)-go to INSERT---page number---top right.

-Times New Roman, 12 pt. font double-spaced

-MLA heading. Click here for an example. (File name: Formatting and Heading)

-A title that reflects your paper's topic. There should be an attempt at creativity here, but do your best.

-A work cited page--check old blog posts or your notebook for examples.

-All quotes must be properly cited with the page number in parentheses followed by a period: "This is a properly cited quote" (Bodensteiner 1). After you write the author ( for you, it will be Wiesel) the first time, it is not necessary to include his name for the rest of your citations: "I'm quoting once more" (2). Note, the period appears AFTER the citation.

Please, NO cover page. Do not start your paper halfway down the page. While they should be double-spaced like the rest of your paper, do not add extra space between your heading and title or your title and the first line of your introductory paragraph.

There's no word/page requirement, but, as I indicated in a previous blogpost, 2.5-3.5 pages is usually an indication of a well-developed paper (as long as you're not just summarizing the plot of the story!)

Fragments

A sentence fragment is an incomplete thought. Typically, you have a fragment if:

1. You have a subordinate clause (dependent clause) acting as its own sentence:

      Though the elephant needed discipline.

2. The sentence is without a subject:

       Goes to the mall.

3. The sentence doesn't have a predicate (you know, what the subject's actually doing)

     Students, like you and me.

Run-ons

A run-on sentence is a sentence that contains two parts, either which can stand alone, but have been criminally SMOOSHED together instead of being properly connected.

Contrary to popular belief, the length of a sentence really has nothing to do with whether a sentence is a run-on or not. A run-on is a structural flaw--a "disease" that even very short sentences can contract.

The sun is high, put on some sunblock.

An extremely long sentence, on the other hand, might be a "run-off-at-the-mouth" sentence, but it can be otherwise sound, structurally. Click here to see a 239 word sentence that is fine, structurally speaking.


There are two types main types of run-ons:

1. When two independent clauses are connected by only a comma, they constitute a run-on sentence that is called a comma-splice. The example just above (about the sunscreen) is a comma-splice.

2. When two independent clauses have no punctuation separating them: Meteorology is fascinating to me I watch the Weather Channel everyday.

Two typical situations when run-ons strike:

1. When an independent clause gives an order based on what was said in the prior independent clause:

This next chapter has a lot of difficult information in it, you should start studying right away.

2. When the second of two independent clauses contains a pronoun that connects it to the first independent clause.

This computer doesn't make sense to me, it came without a manual.

(Although these two clauses are quite brief, and the ideas are closely related, this is a run-on sentence. We need a period where that comma now stands.)

Thanks to CCC Grammar.net for most of the info on run-ons!

HOMEWORK:
Please TYPE  an EXTREMELY SHORT (more like a part of a) story (100 words) based off one of my prompts, or one of your own creation.
-Write your story as one long run-on sentence. You may indicate a close relationship between   two clauses by using a comma splice, but that is the only punctuation you are allowed to use.
 -Please include the premise above the text of your story.
 -Please use only SIMPLE sentences (independent clauses).
 -For the sake of this assignment's purpose, NO DIALOGUE, please.


ACTIVITY:

Please take out your run-on story. Those who did not complete the assignment will be required to write a run-on story in class. You will lose 2 points (out of 10), and additional points will be taken for any direction that isn't followed.

1. First, place a period where sentences should end. (omit those illegal comma splices)
2. Because  it should be fairly choppy, rewrite the piece (on the same page) using the other two ways to correct run-ons, or simply leaving the period. Try to get the story flowing more naturally.

The Clause--no, not Santa.

Recognize a clause when you see one.

Clauses come in four types. We're only going to look at two: main [or independent], subordinate [or dependent], . Every clause has at least a subject and a verb. Other characteristics will help you distinguish one type of clause from another.

Main Clauses

Every main clause will follow this pattern:

subject + verb = complete thought.

Here are some examples:

Lazy students whine.

Students = subject; whine = verb.

Cola spilled over the glass and splashed onto the counter.

Cola = subject; spilled, splashed = verbs.

My dog loves pizza crusts.

Dog = subject; loves = verb.

The important point to remember is that every sentence must have at least one main clause. Otherwise, you have a fragment, a major error.

Subordinate Clauses

A subordinate clause will follow this pattern:

subordinate conjunction + subject + verb = incomplete thought.

Here are some examples:

Whenever lazy students whine

Whenever = subordinate conjunction; students = subject; whine = verb.

As cola spilled over the glass and splashed onto the counter

As = subordinate conjunction; cola = subject; spilled, splashed = verbs.

Because my dog loves pizza crusts

Because = subordinate conjunction; dog = subject; loves = verb.

The important point to remember about subordinate clauses is that they can never stand alone as complete sentences. To complete the thought, you must attach each subordinate clause to a main clause. Generally, the punctuation looks like this:

main clause + Ø + subordinate clause.

subordinate clause + , + main clause.

Check out these revisions to the subordinate clauses above:

Whenever lazy students whine, Mrs. Russell throws chalk erasers at their heads.

Anthony ran for the paper towels as cola spilled over the glass and splashed onto the counter.

Because my dog loves pizza crusts, he never barks at the deliveryman.

Computer Lab- Day 2

Now that you've begun the actual writing for this paper, begin to reflect:

Do I clearly introduce the topic in a vivid, engaging way before diving into my thesis statement? Your first sentence should NOT mention the novel or even the author, Elie Wiesel.
Is my background information relevant?
Is the introductory paragraph engaging and thought-provoking?
Does everything flow the way I want it to?

Are my body paragraphs relating to my thesis?
Am I introducing the quotes? If not, remind yourself of the patterns we discussed by clicking here.
Am I using the quotes to develop an argument-- to "prove" my point--or am I just retelling the story or providing basic facts?
******In my explanations of my evidence, do I make sure I am showing how it proves my point, rather than just stating that it does prove my point? Here's an example of a POORLY DEVELOPED EXPLANATION:  (pretend I just offered a legitimate quote on the Jews showing the effects of their dehumanization)This instance shows that the Jews were dehumanized.
If you write something along those lines after you present your evidence, expect me to write in the margins of your paper: HOW?
Keep asking yourself: Am I am explaining how this relates to my argument, or am I just stating that it simply does relate to my thesis? There is a big difference!

When it's all said and done, a well-developed paper is around 2.5-3.5 pages. If you're below that, it's probably an indication of undeveloped body paragraphs, where you don't explain how your evidence relates to the your argument.

Please continue your solid work ethic from yesterday, and remember the final essay is due on Tuesday, April 30 (a week from today).

Computer Lab-Day 1

Hello writers! Today and tomorrow will be spent writing your essay in the computer lab. This privilege, however, lasts only as long as your focus. Between today and tomorrow, you have three strikes. Your class will have to work together as a team to be successful. Monitor yourselves and remind others around you to stay on task, for one person's strike is a strike for the entire team. Three srikes, and you're out (of the computer lab, that is)--the whole team.

***Please take note that talking excessively (and loudly), surfing the web, and walking around and distracting others will earn you a strike.

***If you need my assistance and I'm working with another student, please write your name on the whiteboard. I will come to you as soon as I get a chance.

Please remember the following points for successful writing:

1. An Introductory paragraph is more than just a thesis statement. You must include an engaging opening statement that introduces your topic. Any background information that is relevant to your topic should be shared. Your introduction paragraph should hook the reader in.

2. Body paragraphs must be written in IREEC format. Examples must be related back to your main idea for that paragraph. Remember to address the argument in your thesis statement during your explanations. Here's a link to an older blog post that explains IREEC. Click here.

3.  A conclusion needs to emphasize your argument, but it should also address why what you're arguing even matters in the first place. Leave a lasting impression!

Please begin writing your essay. Do not concern yourself with the heading at this time.

Have fun.

Homework Updates

Just so you have a digital version of the homework assignments due in your near future:

DUE MONDAY, APRIL 22: A typed outline of body paragraphs and a revised thesis. Please follow this template:

In body paragraph 1, I will focus on__________. This relates to my thesis because___________

Quote #1 (include page number):
Quote #2 (include page number):


In body paragraph 2, I will focus on___________. This relates to my thesis because____________
Quote #1 (include page number):
Quote #2 (include page number):


In body paragraph 3, I will focus on___________. This relates to my thesis because____________
Quote #1 (include page number):
Quote #2 (include page number):

----OR----  For those of you that like to work at a faster pace, draft your essay for my review. This would include an introduction, 3 body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

DUE TUESDAY, APRIL 30: Final Essay with all requirements noted on the assignment sheet.

Lesson on Using Quotes

http://prezi.com/n8-e-exgy7uu/untitled-prezi/ Click the jumble of words to the left for the prezi I used in class to present the lesson.

A few tips.

I noticed many of you decided to write on the dehumanization topics. Furthermore, many of you decided to write how the Nazi's dehumanized the Jews. While I think this is a fine topic, also consider that your essay can be on the different effects that dehumanization had on the Jewish people.

Do what's comfortable, but many who chose this topic were very vague in their intentions. Those are some options for you.

If you chose topic #1 (on loyalty), the thesis statement is already in the question.

If you chose topic #2, a solid thesis statement elaborates on how Elie is able to escape or not escape the fate of becoming a brute, an animal-like being, like many of his fellow Jews.

Brainstorming Your Body Paragraphs

Hello all! Today we'll look at your thesis statements and then you'll begin brainstorming for the body paragraphs.

When reviewing a thesis statement, look for the following:

1. Does the thesis contain an argument or claim about the novel, Night?

2. Is the thesis statement descriptive?

Tony Perkis is a big jerk in the film Heavyweights.

-versus-

In the film Heavyweights, Tony Perkis appears to be a big jerk because he's self-obsessed, abusive, and only commercially motivated.

3. Is the author and title included?

Please use complete sentences to respond to all 3 items directly on your peer’s sheet.


IN YOUR NOTEBOOKS:
Body paragraphs: How will each body paragraph relate to your thesis?

EXAMPLE:In body paragraph 1, I will focus on how Tony Perkis is self-obsessed. This relates to my thesis because his vanity and pridefulness develop him as an unsympathetic jerk.

In body paragraph 1, I will focus on__________. This relates to my thesis because___________

In body paragraph 2, I will focus on___________. This relates to my thesis because____________

In body paragraph 3, I will focus on___________. This relates to my thesis because____________
                         

Find quotes to support each of the main ideas of your body paragraphs.

Remember: you must include 2 examples per body paragraph

Thesis statement help

Here is an excerpt from an old blog post on thesis statements:

A thesis statement is an argument or claim that you make about something, in this case, literature (Night).

If you're stuck, look at the the topic. Identify the main question in that topic. The answer to that question will become your thesis statement, but make sure it's descriptive.

For example, if the question is: Does Ellie change throughout the novel?

A bland, uninventive thesis statement would look like this: In Night, by Elie Wiesel, Elie changes throughout the novel.

What's missing here? How could we make this better?

And, WE'RE BACK!!! (Night Essay)

Here's the Night essay requirements in case you misplaced the handout given in class:

Your task is to write a 5 paragraph essay on one of the following topics. Please note the following requirements:

-The paper must be typed, 12-pt. font, Times New Roman.

-The paper must include an MLA heading

-The paper must include page numbers

-The body paragraphs should be written in IREEC format

-The paper must include in-text citations and a work cited page

-You must have an introduction with a thesis statement

-You must have at least 3 body paragraphs

-You must write an engaging conclusion that pushes your thoughts in a new, exciting direction.

-You must thoroughly enjoy yourself while writing your masterpiece!

*Lucky for you, most of this assignment will be done in class.

Please Note: After each topic, I’ve included the type of writing you would be doing.

Expository is a type of writing where the purpose is to inform, explain, or describe.

Persuasive is a type of writing where the purpose is to convince your reader of a point of view.

Analytical is a type of writing where the purpose is to look closely at smaller parts of a text (symbols, theme, character interactions, irony, etc.) and explain how they contribute to the text’s meaning or message as a whole.

1.     Loyalty in the midst of suffering: Analyze how loyalty to family and loved ones, to one’s faith and culture, and to oneself (optimism; hope for the future) are challenged in horrific and life-threatening situations. What does this reveal about human nature? Use specific events from the text to develop your analysis of loyalty. (Analytical)

2.     One of the most tragic themes in Night is Eliezer's discovery of the way that atrocities and cruel treatment can make decent people into brutes.  Does Elie himself escape this fate? Use specific events to convey your opinion (Persuasive)

3.     Dehumanization is the process by which the Nazis reduced the Jews to little more than "things" which were a nuisance to them.  Discuss how dehumanization occurred in Night (you can include events that occurred that dehumanized Eliezer, his father, or his fellow Jews) and how this helped Hitler achieve his ends. (Expository)

4.     What does Elie’s use of symbolism in his memoir, Night, reveal about the Holocaust, his experiences during this period, or his experience of writing his story? Discuss symbolic representations of ‘night’ and “fire” providing examples from the text to support your arguments. Are there other symbols you see? What message, morals, or lessons about the Holocaust or human nature are demonstrated by Wiesel’s use of symbolism? (Analytical)