Wow, what a week. We had an incredible virtual visit with Chicago SunTimes editor, Paul Saltzman. Students participated in a newsroom simulation determining the stories that would hit the frontpage. Mr. Saltzman gave us 7 great tips for "Writing Better" and answered many student questions during the Q&A. We also had a visit with 6 Coonley Alumni (representing Amundsen, Lane, Northside, Payton, Jones). The students shared their experience from commuting, to clubs, homework, class schedules and advice they wish they had known. It is always great to see our Alumni and thank them for sharing their time and experience. Film Fest Friday - what a treat! Nothing better than a great movie, popcorn and pjs.
I was very excited to meet many parents at our Virtual Conferences. Thank you for your patience in the waiting room. It is always so great to see your faces and connect them with your children.
ELA - Students read Poe's, The Raven. They used a graphic organizer to document the elements of suspense with this creepy and beautiful poem. We will continue exploring suspense in a variety of short stories. Students have been introduced to Shakespeare's comedy, As You Like It. Students will be looking at character types this coming week in a new game-like site called Class Quest.
Writing - Students are continuing to draft their application essay/letter. This assignment will be due on 11/30/20. We are also gearing up for History Fair, beginning our research. We will be working on the paper in December. Next week, we will start our annotated bibliographies which will be a work in progress. Students will add to them as they find resources.
Civics - Students will finish weighing in on the limits to First Amendment Rights with some specific court decisions. At this point, all students should have found history fair topics and next week we will begin putting together thesis statements toward an historical argument.