Format for discussion can be a didactic speech, multi-media presentation, Socratic seminar, or any other effective format. Independent Novel Analysis - Application of terms utilized in fiction and novel unit to an independent novel of student choice. Synthesis between concepts discussed in class and entertainment in literature outside of class. Students read The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare. Assessment - Includes verbal and written.
Students recite a poem from memory each month to increase cultural literacy.
The poems enhance a current theme, unit, person, or concept. Students collect ten samples of writing throughout their ninth grade year. These compositions can be from English, Social Studies, Science, Math, or any curricular course. The writings are kept in a student-generated folder in the classroom in which the students have full access to add, remove, or improve existing work. At the end of each year, students select three of their best pieces to take with them to the tenth grade.