Day Eighty-Six / 01.31.11

Today we started with a quote from Steinbeck: "For it is said that humans are never satisfied, that you give them one thing and they want more. And this is said in disparagement, whereas it is one of the greatest talents the species has and one that has made it superior to animals that are satisfied with what they have." We discussed whether we agree or disagree, and whether it is "superior" to be satisfied or unsatisfied.

Next, we read Chapter three. Then we worked out the "Your Pearl" project.

Day Eighty-Five / 01.28.10

Today we started by taking the Master Puppeteer quiz. Then, we watched the following video:

We discussed how a phone could be a "pearl" for junior high-ers, how the ad itself is incredibly ironic, and how a "pearl" can be generalized to something all people are seeking after.

Next, we began a slideshow of "pearls" in society. Then, when we were too unruly, we worked independently on reading Chapter 3 and filling out the worksheet. Note: this was not the high point of the day.

Day Eighty-Four / 01.27.10

Today we started with a question: Does Steinbeck give greater value to traditional behaviors and even primitivism or to modern conveniences and, in particular, those who have luxuries?

Then we discussed our discussions from yesterday, and reviewed the Chapter 2 Reflection. Then we read silently, then went over the Master Puppeteer review guide.

Day Eighty-Three / 01.26.10

Today we started with a POTD:

We discussed whether or not our culture was as greedy as the doctor, albeit in a different way. We then took our vocabulary quiz. Finally, we had group discussions on different topics from Chapters 1 and 2.

Day Eighty-Two / 01.25.10

Today we started with a quote from Chapter 2 of The Pearl: "The minds of people are as unsubstantial as [a] mirage" (15). We journaled on whether or not the use of our imaginations was a good or a bad thing, and whether they were truly mirage-like, or visionary...

Then we read Chapter 2. We then read silently, then worked on 1 of 4 projects: 1. Our vocabulary words; 2. Our Character Chart and Picture; 3. Our Chapter 2 Response Sheet; 4. Our extra credit assignments.

Day Eighty-One / 01.24.10

Today we started with a journal writing activity. Then we discussed our responses. Next, we read silently, then we had a group discussion about Chapter 1, based on your questions and reflections.

Day Eighty / 01.21.10

Today we started with a quote from Steinbeck: "As with all retold tales that are in people's hearts, there are only good and bad things and black and white things and good and evil things and no inbetween anywhere."

We wrote on why our stories become "black and white," and whether that is a good or a bad thing.

Next, we read chapter 1, while Caitlin drew our village for us on the board. We read silently for a while, then discussed the extra credit opportunity. See below:

Creative Collection Book